Acura MDX Transmission Rebuild Manual
The Acura MDX Transmission Rebuild Manual provides comprehensive guidance for rebuilding the automatic transmission systems used in various Acura MDX models. This manual covers disassembly, inspection, component replacement, reassembly procedures, and testing protocols for 5-speed and 6-speed automatic transmissions commonly found in MDX vehicles from 2001-2013 model years.
Transmission Specifications
Detailed specifications for Acura MDX automatic transmission systems.
| Specification | Details |
|---|
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic (B7XA/B7YA) / 6-speed automatic (B7XA/B7YA) |
| Fluid Capacity | 7.4 quarts (7.0 liters) dry fill |
| Fluid Type | Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 or equivalent |
| Torque Converter | 8-bolt pattern, lock-up type |
| Gear Ratios | 1st: 2.631, 2nd: 1.531, 3rd: 1.027, 4th: 0.710, 5th: 0.510 |
| Final Drive Ratio | 4.437:1 (2001-2006), 4.250:1 (2007-2013) |
| Weight | Approximately 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Case Material | Aluminum alloy |
Tools and Equipment Required
Essential tools for transmission rebuild procedure.
- Transmission jack and safety stands
- Torque wrench (10-150 ft-lbs capacity)
- Snap ring pliers (internal and external)
- Bearing puller set and slide hammer
- Transmission bench or work stand
- Dial indicator and magnetic base
- Feeler gauge set and micrometer
- Seal driver set and alignment tools
- Clean solvent tank and compressed air
- Transmission fluid pressure gauge
WARNING! Use proper safety equipment including gloves and eye protection.
Safety Precautions
Critical safety measures for transmission rebuild work.
- Always support vehicle with jack stands - never rely on hydraulic jack alone
- Disconnect battery negative terminal before beginning work
- Use transmission jack rated for at least 500 lbs capacity
- Wear safety glasses when using compressed air or striking components
- Handle transmission fluid with care - avoid skin contact
- Keep work area clean and free of oil spills
- Use proper lifting techniques - transmission is heavy
CAUTION! Transmission components are precision parts - handle with care to avoid damage.
Transmission Removal Procedure
- Step 1: Disconnect battery and drain transmission fluid
- Step 2: Remove driveshaft and exhaust components as needed
- Step 3: Disconnect shift linkage, cooler lines, and electrical connectors
- Step 4: Support engine with appropriate support fixture
- Step 5: Remove transmission crossmember and mount
- Step 6: Separate torque converter from flexplate
- Step 7: Lower transmission using transmission jack
- Step 8: Remove torque converter from transmission input shaft
Disassembly Process
Systematic disassembly of transmission components.
External Components: Remove bellhousing, torque converter, output flange, and external sensors.
Valve Body: Remove valve body assembly, being careful with check balls and springs.
Internal Components: Remove extension housing, output shaft, planetary gear sets, and clutch packs.
Final Disassembly: Separate case halves, remove input shaft, and disassemble remaining internal components.
Component Inspection
Thorough inspection of all transmission components.
- Inspect case for cracks, porosity, or threaded hole damage
- Check planetary gear sets for wear, pitting, or broken teeth
- Measure clutch pack clearance and inspect friction materials
- Inspect bearings and bushings for wear or scoring
- Check valve body for stuck valves or worn bores
- Inspect torque converter for damage and check stator clutch operation
- Measure input and output shafts for runout and wear
- Check all seals and gaskets for deterioration
Tip: Document all measurements and take photos during disassembly for reference during reassembly.
Replacement Parts Guide
Essential replacement components for transmission rebuild.
| Component | Part Number | Description |
|---|
| Master Rebuild Kit | MK-ACMDX-01 | Includes all gaskets, seals, and friction plates |
| Clutch Plates | CP-ACMDX-SET | Complete clutch plate set for all packs |
| Torque Converter | TC-ACMDX-01 | Remanufactured torque converter |
| Filter Kit | FK-ACMDX-01 | Transmission filter and gasket |
| Seal Kit | SK-ACMDX-01 | Complete seal and O-ring set |
| Bearing Kit | BK-ACMDX-01 | All bearings and bushings |
| Solenoid Pack | SP-ACMDX-01 | Complete shift solenoid assembly |
Reassembly Procedure
Step-by-step reassembly of transmission components.
- Clean all components thoroughly in solvent and dry with compressed air
- Install new bearings and bushings with proper tools
- Assemble clutch packs with correct plate sequence and orientation
- Install planetary gear sets and verify proper end play
- Assemble case halves with new gasket and proper sealant
- Install valve body with new gasket and torque to specification
- Install output shaft and extension housing
- Install torque converter, ensuring proper engagement with pump gears
WARNING! Use assembly lubricant on all seals and friction components during reassembly.
Transmission Installation
Proper installation of rebuilt transmission.
- Install torque converter, ensuring it is fully seated in pump
- Raise transmission into position using transmission jack
- Align torque converter with flexplate and install bolts
- Install transmission mount and crossmember
- Connect shift linkage, cooler lines, and electrical connectors
- Install driveshaft and exhaust components
- Fill with proper transmission fluid
- Reconnect battery and prepare for testing
CAUTION! Ensure torque converter is fully seated before installing transmission to avoid pump damage.
Testing and Verification
Post-installation testing procedures.
- Initial Check: Verify fluid level and check for leaks
- Shift Quality: Test all gear ranges for proper engagement
- Pressure Test: Verify line pressure in all gear ranges
- Road Test: Test shifting under various load conditions
- Final Inspection: Re-check fluid level and inspect for leaks after test drive
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|
| No forward movement | Forward clutch failure | Inspect forward clutch pack and seals |
| No reverse movement | Reverse clutch failure | Check reverse clutch and related components |
| Harsh shifting | Valve body issues | Inspect valve body and pressure control solenoid |
| Slipping in gear | Worn clutch plates | Measure clutch pack clearance and replace plates |
| Delayed engagement | Low fluid pressure | Check pump and pressure regulator |
| Overheating | Cooler restriction | Flush cooler lines and replace fluid |
Technical Support: 1-800-ACURA-TECH; www.acuratechnical.com
Acura MDX Transmission Rebuild Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025