Acura gives you Honda engineering with more power, more equipment, and more complexity. Auto Care Plus services the Acura lineup at our New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine locations, including the MDX, RDX, TLX, ILX, and the ZDX, along with the SH-AWD system that makes these vehicles genuinely capable in winter.
The V6 Timing Belt Is Not Optional
Acura V6 engines in the MDX, TLX, and earlier RDX and RL models use a timing belt, and it must be replaced on schedule — typically around 105,000 miles, along with the water pump, tensioner, and idler pulleys. This engine is an interference design, which means a failed belt causes severe internal engine damage rather than simply stopping the car. It is the single most important maintenance item on these vehicles.
SH-AWD Needs Fluid Service
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is one of the better systems on the market, and the rear differential unit requires its specific fluid on a real interval. Neglected fluid causes a shudder or binding in tight turns, and it is entirely preventable. We use the correct Acura specification fluid — substitutes cause problems in this unit specifically.
Transmission and VTM Considerations
Earlier MDX and TL models had documented automatic transmission concerns, and later models moved to a nine-speed and then a ten-speed automatic with different characteristics. In all cases, transmission fluid service on a sensible interval using genuine Honda and Acura fluid is what keeps them healthy. We do not use universal fluids in these transmissions.
Winter Tires Make SH-AWD Worth What You Paid
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is a genuinely sophisticated system, and it can only work with the grip the tires provide. On worn all-season tires, the smartest torque distribution in the segment is distributing torque to wheels that cannot use it. On four winter tires, an MDX or RDX with SH-AWD is one of the most confident vehicles you can drive in a New England storm. If you paid for the system, the tires are what let you collect on it. We will tell you honestly whether your current tires are adequate rather than defaulting to a recommendation.
Service Near You
NH and ME state inspections, timing belt service, SH-AWD service, brake and suspension repair, and complete diagnostics are available for every Acura at all Auto Care Plus locations.
