Where is the Acura MDX assembled?
The Acura MDX is assembled in East Liberty, Ohio, at Honda’s East Liberty Auto Plant in the United States. This article explains that location, the facility, and how it fits into Honda’s North American manufacturing network today.
Location and facility
The MDX is built at Honda of America Manufacturing’s East Liberty Auto Plant, located in East Liberty, Union County, Ohio. The plant has produced MDX since the model’s introduction and has been updated over the years to accommodate new generations and drivetrains.
Key facts about the assembly site are:
- Plant name: East Liberty Auto Plant
- Location: East Liberty, Union County, Ohio, United States
- Operator: Honda of America Manufacturing (HAM)
- Primary product: Acura MDX (current generation and previously produced generations)
- Market scope: Production at this site primarily serves U.S. and North American markets
These points illustrate how the MDX's U.S. manufacturing location supports Honda's domestic production footprint and regional market needs.
Context within Honda's U.S. manufacturing network
Honda maintains a broad U.S. manufacturing footprint, with Ohio serving as a hub for several models. The East Liberty facility is part of Honda’s strategy to produce popular Acura models close to major markets, benefiting from a skilled workforce and established supplier networks.
Background notes
In the MDX's product lineage, the model has been produced at the East Liberty plant since its debut in 2000, with successive generations and hybrid variants built there as demand required. The plant's capacity and tooling have evolved to support changes in design, technology, and performance standards.
Summary
The Acura MDX is assembled at Honda's East Liberty Auto Plant in East Liberty, Ohio, United States. This site anchors Honda’s North American production for the MDX and reinforces the brand’s domestic manufacturing footprint, backing the MDX for U.S. and North American customers.
Where are Acura MDX manufactured?
East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio is home to the production of the Acura MDX and Acura RDX, both of which are top sellers in the luxury SUV segment. Marysville Auto Plant in Ohio produces the Acura TLX, a performance-focused sedan known for its sleek styling and dynamic handling.
Is the Acura MDX made in Japan?
No, the Acura MDX is not made in Japan; most are assembled in the United States at Acura's East Liberty, Ohio plant, though some engine and drivetrain components may be sourced from Japan. The first generation was assembled in Canada, but since then, the MDX has been built in North America to serve the North American market.
This video explains where Acura MDX is made: 59sRaiti's RidesYouTube · Apr 10, 2025
- Primary manufacturing location: The Acura MDX is primarily assembled at the East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio, which is a Honda/Acura facility.
- Engine and drivetrain: Engine and drivetrain components are built at other Ohio plants in Anna and Russells Point.
- Historical note: The first generation of the MDX was built at Honda of Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario for the 2001–2006 model years.
- Reason for US production: Building vehicles in North America allows Acura to be closer to its primary customer base, reduce costs, and create jobs locally, while still leveraging Japanese engineering expertise.
You can watch this video to see the details of Acura MDX: 57sAutomotivePressYouTube · Dec 30, 2024
Which Acura MDX to stay away from?
You should generally avoid the 2001, 2003, 2010, 2014, and 2017 Acura MDX model years, as they have a higher likelihood of issues with transmissions, electrical systems, and other engine and technology problems. Specific model years have recurring complaints about transmission failure, acceleration problems, and various electrical issues, with the 2010 and 2014 models often cited as problematic.
Acura MDX model years to avoid
- 2001, 2003: These early models are frequently cited for significant transmission issues.
- 2010: This model year is often noted as having more expensive issues, particularly with transmission and engine problems.
- 2014: This model is mentioned as having recurring problems with the transmission and electrical systems.
- 2017: This model year is on some lists for potential issues, particularly with engine and technology components.
Common problems to be aware of
- Transmission failure: A recurring and costly issue, especially in the 2001, 2003, and 2004 model years.
- Electrical system issues: Problems with various electrical components have been reported in several model years, including 2014.
- Engine problems: Specific model years have been linked to engine-related issues, with the 2017 model being one example.
- Acceleration issues: Some models, including the 2016-2020 range, have been associated with acceleration defects.
Which is better, MDX or Lexus?
The MDX is the better premium performance SUV compared to the Lexus RX because the MDX offers more horsepower, max more cargo volume and versatile amenities, including 16-way Power Front Seats. The MDX clearly beats out the competition with a more exhilarating and personalized drive.
