Acura Mdx: Timing Belt Or Chain? Get it Now

Acura MDX has been produced in four generations since 2001. All model years are equipped with timing belts rather than chains. The model years are 1st generation (2001-2006), 2nd generation (2007-2013), 3rd generation (2014-2020), and 4th generation (2022 to Present), which have belt-driven crankshaft.  

If you have an Acura MDX, you might come across this concept of engine timing drive at least once in your life. There are two timing drive systems: timing belt and chain.

So, today, I’ll discuss Acura Mdx: Timing Belt Or Chain.

Now, let’s discuss the details of the Acura MDX model years/generations, the engine specs, and the timing belt drive system.

Acura MDX: Timing Belt Or Chain? Detailed Overview

As I discussed earlier, the Acura MDX engine types of all model years are equipped with belt-driven camshafts. Now. let’s have a look at the details such as engine spec, engine type, and replacement interval of all the model years generation by generation.

Acura MDX, 1st gen (YD1) 2001-2006

Here’s the table of the first generation of the Acura MDX.

Acura MDX Models	Timing Drive System	Engine Spec	Engine Type	Replacement Interval
Acura MDX 2001	Timing belt	3.5 L J35A3 240 hpOr,3.5 L J35A5 265 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2002	Timing belt	3.5 L J35A3 240 hpOr,3.5 L J35A5 265 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2003	Timing belt	3.5 L J35A3 240 hpOr,3.5 L J35A5 265 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2004	Timing belt	3.5 L J35A3 240 hpOr,3.5 L J35A5 265 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2005	Timing belt	3.5 L J35A3 240 hpOr,3.5 L J35A5 265 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2006	Timing belt	3.5 L J35A3 240 hpOr,3.5 L J35A5 265 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles

Acura MDX, 2nd gen (YD2) 2007-2013

The table below shows the Acura MDX 2nd generation.

Acura MDX Models	Timing Drive System	Engine Spec	Engine Type	Replacement Interval
Acura MDX 2007	Timing belt	3.7 L J37A1 VTEC V6 300 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2008	Timing belt	3.7 L J37A1 VTEC V6 300 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2009	Timing belt	3.7 L J37A1 VTEC V6 300 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2010	Timing belt	3.7 L J37A1 VTEC V6 300 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2011	Timing belt	3.7 L J37A1 VTEC V6 300 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2012	Timing belt	3.7 L J37A1 VTEC V6 300 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2013	Timing belt	3.7 L J37A1 VTEC V6 300 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles

Acura MDX, 3rd gen (YD3/4) 2014-2020

The Acura MDX 3rd generation is shown in the table below.

Acura MDX Models	Timing Drive System	Engine Spec	Engine Type	Replacement Interval
Acura MDX 2014	Timing Belt	3.5 L J35Y5 V6	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2015	Timing Belt	3.5 L J35Y5 V6	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2016	Timing Belt	3.5 L J35Y5 V6	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2017	Timing Belt	3.0 L J30Y1 V6 3.0 L J30Y1 V6	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2018	Timing Belt	3.0 L J30Y1 V6 3.0 L J30Y1 V6	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2019	Timing Belt	3.5 L J35Y5 V6	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2020	Timing Belt	3.5 L J35Y5 V6	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2018	Timing Belt	3.0 L J30Y1 V6	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles

In case, you’re curious if the Lexus Rx 350 has a timing belt or a chain, you can visit the linked source anytime!

Acura MDX, 4th gen (YD8/9/YE1) 2021-2023

Last but not least, here is the Acura MDX 4th generation table.

Acura MDX Models	Timing Drive System	Engine Spec	Engine Type	Replacement Interval
Acura MDX 2022	Timing Belt	3.0 L Turbo V6, 355 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2022	Timing Belt	3.5 L V6, 290 hp	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles
Acura MDX 2023	Timing Belt	3.5 L V6 i-VTEC	Gasoline	60k to 100k Miles

Why Does Acura Use Timing Belts and Not Chains?

Acura has traditionally used timing belts in their vehicles rather than timing chains. There are a few reasons for this. 

First, timing belts are less bulky and require less space within the engine compartment than timing chains. This allows for a more compact engine design, benefiting vehicle packaging and aerodynamics.

Another reason is that timing belts are generally quieter than chains. Chains can make more noise due to the metal-on-metal contact between the chain links, whereas belts are made of rubber and make less noise when turning. However, if you notice the timing belt makes noise, there are solutions.

And the last and most important reason is the cost-effectiveness of the timing belt. As timing belts are significantly cheaper than timing chains, companies can reduce slack during production by using them instead of chains.

What Type of Timing Belts Does Acura MDX Use?

The specific type of timing belt used in the Acura MDX is a toothed belt made with durable rubber. This type of belt is made with solid and flexible reinforced rubber, and the teeth are made of a harder material. As a result, the belt can withstand high temperatures and pressure, providing reliable and consistent performance.

Newer models of Acura MDX are equipped with polyurethane and Kevlar material for durability, high-temperature resistance, and long-term performance. You can use them for up to 100,000 miles, though changing them sooner is always recommended.

FAQs

Conclusion

Thanks for your patience. Hopefully, you’ve found the answer to your query Acura MDX timing belt or chain. Always refer to the owner’s manual when replacing the timing belt on your vehicle. Get help from a technician, and he/she will ensure proper replacement.