Does the Acura MDX have hitch?
The MDX can be equipped with a factory trailer hitch through Acura’s towing package, enabling towing capability when properly configured. Availability and capacity vary by trim and drivetrain, so check your model’s specifications or ask a dealer to confirm for your vehicle year and setup.
Hitch availability and towing basics
The MDX offers a factory towing package that adds a 2-inch hitch receiver and the required wiring harness. This package is the reliable, dealership-approved route to tow with confidence, and it is not standard on every trim. If you plan to tow regularly, adding the towing package is the recommended path.
- 2-inch Class III trailer hitch receiver as part of the factory Towing Package
- Trailer wiring harness with the appropriate connector(s)
- Upgraded cooling components designed to support towing (engine/transmission cooling as applicable)
- Software and drivetrain considerations that enable stable towing performance
In short, a hitch is available on the MDX through the official towing package, and it is designed to work with the vehicle’s systems to support safe towing when properly equipped.
Towing capacity by configuration
Maximum towing capability depends on the specific configuration, drivetrain, and whether the towing package is installed. The most common setups allow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, but some hybrids or sport-focused variants may have different limits. Always verify the exact rating for your exact model and year in the owner's manual or with an Acura dealer.
- With the factory Towing Package, many MDX configurations can tow up to about 5,000 pounds when properly equipped
- Hybrid models and certain trims may have lower official ratings; confirm for your exact configuration
- Drivetrain (FWD vs all-wheel drive) and equipment choices can influence the rated capacity
- Trailer brakes, hitch type, and trailer wiring quality all affect safe towing limits
Understanding these factors helps ensure you tow within the MDX’s safe operating range and comply with warranty guidelines.
How to add a hitch to your MDX
If your MDX didn’t come with a towing package, you can still tow by adding a hitch through the dealer or an aftermarket option, though factory components are recommended for warranty and integration purposes.
- Confirm towing package availability for your exact model year and trim at a dealer.
- Purchase the factory Towing Package or an approved dealer-installed hitch and wiring kit.
- Have the installation performed by a qualified technician to ensure proper fit and electrical connections.
- Verify trailer brakes and lighting work correctly and that the vehicle’s systems recognize the trailer load.
After installation, always recheck your towing setup, ensure load limits are within spec, and consult the owner’s manual for joining instructions, safety guidance, and maintenance tips.
Safety tips and practical towing guidance
To tow safely with an MDX, follow best practices and stay within rated limits. Here are essential considerations to keep in mind.
- Know your precise towing capacity for your model year and configuration before hitching a trailer.
- Use appropriate trailer brakes and ensure the hitch, wiring, and hitch ball are correctly sized for the trailer.
- Distribute weight properly and maintain correct tongue weight to avoid instability.
- Enable any trailer-specific driving modes or stability features offered by Acura, if applicable.
- Plan for longer stopping distances and routine brake inspections when towing.
Following these guidelines helps protect your vehicle, the trailer, and other road users while towing.
Summary
Yes—the Acura MDX can have a hitch, most commonly via the factory Towing Package, which enables towing up to a substantial limit when properly equipped. Availability, capacity, and required components vary by year, trim, and drivetrain, so verify your specific configuration with a dealer or in the owner’s manual. For many owners, the MDX’s towing package offers a practical, dealer-supported path to towing with confidence, backed by proper wiring, cooling, and safety features.
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.
Does an Acura MDX have a hitch?
Many MDX models can tow when properly equipped, and the tow package typically adds a receiver hitch, trailer wiring, and cooling upgrades that protect the drivetrain under load. Check your owner information for your model year and trim, since ratings and requirements can vary. Match the hitch and wiring to the trailer.
Does the Acura MDX have a tow package?
Acura MDX Towing Accessories & Features
The Acura MDX Towing Package is a great way to get all the essential 2025 Acura MDX towing features. You will need the trailer hitch and trailer hitch ball to be able to tow. However, you may already be an experienced Acura towing pro and have one or more of said equipment.
Does Acura have a tow package?
Acura Models with Tow Package Capability
Acura MDX: The flagship three-row SUV offers up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped with the available towing package and SH-AWD®. Perfect for family getaways or towing lightweight trailers.
