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Does an Acura MDX have a spare tire?

Yes, the Acura MDX comes equipped with a spare tire as standard. The spare tire is a full-size tire that is the same size as the other tires on the vehicle, allowing it to be used as a temporary replacement if needed.

Spare Tire in the Acura MDX

The Acura MDX, a popular mid-size luxury SUV, is designed with a spare tire as a standard feature. The spare tire is typically stored underneath the rear cargo area, secured in a designated compartment. This spare tire is a full-size tire, meaning it is the same size as the other tires on the vehicle, rather than a smaller "donut" spare tire.

Having a full-size spare tire is advantageous for the Acura MDX owner, as it allows the vehicle to be driven normally, without the need to reduce speed or distance traveled, until the damaged tire can be repaired or replaced. This provides greater peace of mind and convenience in the event of a flat tire or other tire-related issue while on the road.

Accessing the Spare Tire

The spare tire is typically located underneath the rear cargo area, in a designated compartment.

To access the spare tire, the owner will need to remove any cargo or floor mats covering the access panel.

Once the access panel is removed, the spare tire can be lowered using the included jack and tools.

The owner should familiarize themselves with the location and process for accessing the spare tire before needing to use it.

By including a full-size spare tire as standard equipment, Acura ensures that MDX owners have a reliable backup option in the event of a tire-related emergency, providing added peace of mind and convenience during their travels.

What to do if I have a flat tire and no spare?

If you have a flat tire and no spare, your best options are to call for professional roadside assistance or use a tire repair kit. You can also try to temporarily inflate the tire with a portable compressor if the damage is minor, which may allow you to drive slowly to a repair shop.

Immediate actions

Pull over to a safe location. Turn on your hazard lights and, if possible, place warning triangles or cones behind your vehicle to alert other drivers.
Assess the damage. Look to see if it's a simple puncture or more severe damage, and note if there is any air left in the tire.

Options for a flat tire with no spare

Use a tire repair kit. Many newer cars come with a kit instead of a spare tire. This typically includes a can of sealant and a portable air compressor to inflate the tire.
- Follow the kit's instructions to inject sealant into the tire and then inflate it to a temporary pressure. This is a temporary fix to get you to a repair shop.
Call roadside assistance. Contact your insurance provider or a service like AAA for help. They can tow your vehicle to a nearby mechanic or provide on-site repair if possible.
Try inflating with a portable compressor. If the tire has air but is low, use a portable compressor (plugs into the car's cigarette lighter) to inflate it enough to drive to a shop. Do not drive if the tire is completely flat, as this can cause permanent damage.
Take the wheel to a shop. If you have the tools but no spare, you can remove the flat wheel, take it to a tire shop for repair or replacement, and then bring the new or repaired wheel back to your car.

What to do after the immediate fix

Visit a professional. Whether you used a repair kit or inflated the tire, your next step should be to get to a tire shop for a proper repair or new tire as soon as possible.
Inform the mechanic. If you used a sealant, let the shop know so they can be prepared when they take the tire off the rim.

Why do new cars no longer have spare tires?

New cars don't come with a spare tire to reduce weight for better fuel economy, save manufacturing costs, and create more space for other features like batteries or cargo. Many vehicles now include alternatives to a spare, such as tire repair kits or run-flat tires.

Reasons for removing spare tires

Weight and efficiency: Removing the spare tire and jack saves 30 to 50 pounds, which improves the car's fuel efficiency and helps manufacturers meet EPA guidelines.
Cost savings: Eliminating the spare tire and the components needed to mount it saves the manufacturer money on materials and production.
More space: Removing the spare tire creates extra space, which can be used for larger batteries in electric and hybrid vehicles, increased cargo room, or other features.
Alternative solutions: Many cars now come with a tire repair kit, which includes sealant and an air pump for temporary fixes. Luxury or performance models may feature run-flat tires, which can be driven for a limited distance after a puncture.

What this means for drivers

Check before you buy: Don't assume a new car has a spare. Check the vehicle's specifications to see if it includes one or a repair kit.
Be prepared: If your car has a tire repair kit instead of a spare, familiarize yourself with how to use it. It's a temporary solution meant to get you to a repair shop.
Consider roadside assistance: With the elimination of spare tires, many drivers rely on roadside assistance for flat tires.

How to access Acura MDX spare tire?

And then so you pull out this plug. And then you should have a wrench a wrench right here. With a square square socket and you actually just insert it. And just turn it counterclockwise.

What year to stay away from Acura MDX?

You should generally avoid the 2001, 2003, 2004, 2010, and 2014 Acura MDX models due to recurring issues with their transmissions and other systems. Additionally, some 2016–2020 models with the 9-speed transmission had shift issues. Years to consider for better reliability are 2007–2009 and 2017 and later.
Years to avoid

2001, 2003, 2004: These years are frequently mentioned for transmission problems.
2010: This year is cited for transmission issues and potential oil burning problems.
2014: Cited for transmission problems and user-unfriendly infotainment systems.
2016–2020: Models from this range, especially those with the 9-speed transmission, can have shifting issues.

Years to consider

2007–2009: These are noted as being among the more reliable models in the second generation.
2017 and later: These models are generally considered more reliable, with improved technology and performance.
2022 and newer: The new generation is showing positive early reliability and has an improved 10-speed transmission.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.