Is the Acura MDX flat towable?
The MDX is not flat-towable. Acura does not approve towing the MDX with all four wheels on the ground behind a motorhome or other tow vehicle, and the recommended method is a flatbed trailer or other non-grounded transport.
Flat towing, where all four wheels roll on the pavement with the engine off, can cause serious damage to modern automatics and drivetrains. The MDX’s SH-AWD system and 9-speed automatic are not configured for four-wheels-down towing, and Acura’s guidance generally applies across model years. If you plan to tow an MDX, verify the exact instructions for your year in the owner’s manual—and consult your dealer or Acura Roadside Assistance with any lingering questions.
Official towing guidance
Before laying out the practical implications, here is the core guidance from Acura about towing the MDX behind another vehicle.
- Not approved for flat towing: Acura does not certify the MDX for four-wheels-down towing.
- Recommended method: Use a flatbed trailer or other setup that keeps the drivetrain unpowered during transport.
- Model-year caveats: Always consult the owner’s manual for your exact MDX year and trim, as wording and details can vary slightly.
- Driveline considerations: The MDX’s SH-AWD system and automatic transmission are at risk if towed with the wheels on the ground while the engine is off.
Bottom line: plan for a flatbed-style transport when moving an MDX behind a motorhome or similar tow vehicle.
Model-year variations
Across MDX generations, Acura has consistently cautioned against flat towing with all four wheels on the ground. While the exact language may evolve slightly by year, the underlying recommendation remains: use a non-grounded transport method unless a specific, manufacturer-authorized exception exists for that model year.
If you’re unsure, contact your dealer or Acura Roadside Assistance for a definitive towing plan tailored to your vehicle’s year and configuration.
Alternatives and practical considerations
For those planning trips with an MDX and a motorhome, here are practical takeaways rooted in current guidance.
- Flatbed towing is the manufacturer-approved method, keeping the engine and transmission completely stationary during transport.
- Check insurance and service policies: Some motorhome towing plans require flatbed towing for non-owned vehicles; verify coverage to avoid surprises on the road.
- Plan ahead for year-specific instructions: If you’ve bought a used MDX or a new year, confirm there are no year-specific towing allowances before traveling.
In most cases, the safest and simplest option is to arrange flatbed transport to move an MDX behind an RV, reducing the risk of drivetrain damage and staying in line with official guidance.
Summary
The Acura MDX is not flat towable. Manufacturer guidance and owner manuals across model years recommend against four-wheels-down towing and advise using a flatbed trailer or equivalent non-grounded transport when moving the vehicle behind a motorhome. Always verify the specific instructions for your year with the manual and a dealer before attempting any towing procedure.
What year to stay away from Acura MDX?
Here's a closer look at the years you might want to avoid:
- 2001 Acura MDX: Early Model Troubles.
- 2003 Acura MDX: Transmission and Engine Concerns.
- 2007 Acura MDX: Electrical and Suspension Problems.
- 2014 Acura MDX: Issues with the Transmission and Sunroof.
- 2016 Acura MDX: Recalls and Software Glitches.
Are AWD vehicles flat towable?
A few different factors determine what vehicles can be flat towed. It all depends if they have specific features from the manufacturer, such as a transmission disconnect and steering lockout override. Generally, AWD and 4x4 vehicles are more prevalent and preferred vehicles for flat towing.
Can an Acura MDX be flat towed?
Your MDX can be towed behind a motorhome at legal highway speeds up to 65 mph (100 km/h). Do not exceed 65 mph (100 km/h). Otherwise, severe transmission damage will occur. To avoid damage to the 4WD system, it must be towed with all four wheels on the ground (flat towing).
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How to put an Acura in neutral with a dead battery?
2020 Acura MDX Won't Start: How to Shift to Neutral Safely
To shift to neutral, locate the shift lock release slot near the shifter. Insert the key or a flat tool to manually override the lock. This allows moving the gear selector to neutral for towing.
