How much can a 2017 Acura MDX tow?
The 2017 Acura MDX can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with the factory tow hitch and wiring harness. This upper limit reflects the model’s performance hardware and chassis design. This article explains what that means in practice, what equipment is required, and how to tow safely with this SUV.
Official towing capacity and equipment
Key numbers and equipment considerations for towing with the 2017 MDX are outlined below.
- Maximum towing capacity: 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg) when the MDX is properly equipped with a factory-installed trailer hitch and electrical harness.
- Required equipment: a 2-inch receiver hitch and a trailer wiring harness; for trailers near the limit, a weight-distribution hitch is recommended.
- Drivetrain and configuration: the published rating generally applies across the MDX lineup, but verify in the owner's manual for your exact trim and drivetrain (FWD or AWD).
- GVWR/GCWR considerations: do not exceed the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combined weight rating (GCWR); this includes passengers, cargo, and the trailer.
- Trailer braking: if your trailer has electric brakes, ensure a compatible brake controller is installed or available; some MDX trims may require an aftermarket solution since a factory-integrated controller isn’t universal across all models.
In short, 3,500 pounds is the official ceiling for towing with the 2017 MDX when you have the proper hitch and electrical setup, and you stay within weight limits.
Towing safely with a 2017 MDX
To tow safely and legally, these guidelines help you stay within the vehicle’s capabilities and protect occupants and other road users.
- Verify rating and equipment: use a factory tow hitch and wiring harness and consult your owner’s manual for your specific configuration.
- Hitching and weight distribution: for trailers near the limit, install a weight-distribution hitch and ensure proper tongue weight distribution.
- Brakes and lighting: confirm trailer brakes and lighting work correctly; install a brake controller if your trailer requires it and your MDX is not already equipped.
- Tire and load management: maintain correct tire pressures on both the MDX and the trailer, and balance the load to keep the tongue weight within recommended ranges.
- Driving adjustments: allow extra stopping distance, take wider turns, and use gentler acceleration and braking; consider engine braking on downhill stretches to reduce brake heat.
Following these practices helps keep towing within the MDX’s design limits and enhances safety for you and others on the road.
Summary
The 2017 Acura MDX can tow a maximum of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with a factory hitch and wiring harness. That limit serves as a ceiling for trailers and must be respected in conjunction with weight ratings (GVWR/GCWR) and trailer braking requirements. Always check your specific trim details and consult the owner's manual for tailoring your towing setup, plus practical safety steps to ensure a smooth, safe tow.
