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MOD's for Acura MDX 2007-2013 (updated)

97K views 110 replies 27 participants last post by  Mrselfdestruct 
#1 ·
originally posted this in another thread, some useful information for those with an '07-'13 MDX looking to engage in some weekend projects and/or just make their X more unique/functional etc...feel free to add to this list as I've certainly missed a mod or two or more inadvertently :29:

Painted bumpers MOD (to match ugly gray plastic front & rear bumpers to body color- one of the most dramatic/beneficial EXTERIOR mods for the MDX imo!)
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-200...-finally-got-plastic-bumper-trim-painted.html

Interior LED/SMT lights MOD
(who can forget Mr. (missing in action) Lionspeeds LED'd up interior MDX from several years ago taken with his high resolution camera)...if you do all the lighs in the interior be prepared to get that wallet ready for some action...
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/35715-diy-2nd-gen-interior-led-smt-mod.html

Audi LED lights MOD (challenging and somewhat contraversial mod only undertaken by a select few who have the creativity and/or bling bling!)
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-200...-2007-2009-mdx-audi-q7-led-mod-challenge.html

Plasti Dip MOD (quick, easy, inexpensive mod)
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/58026-plasti-dip-mdx.html

Paint your calipers, debadge your ACURA MDX logos MOD
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/36310-stage-1-my-08-mdx.html

Rear Camera Mod (perhaps the most ingenious mod ever created for the 2nd gen MDX by the great Mr. (missing in action) KingMDX)...prolly unlikely that you'll be able to implement this mod that will allow you to use the MDX's rear backup camera whenever you want (without KingMDX's assistance- unless you're a brainchild like him)
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/37845-rear-camera-mod-official-thread.html

HID Fog Lights MOD -another great (KingMDX related) MDX mod that get's rid of those ugly yellow bulbs (Mr. Acura calls fog lights) and turns them into high performance FOG HID's to compliment the modern, attractive Xenon's:
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/32634-hid-fog-install-idea-guide-pics.html

Aftermarket wheels MOD (don't know if you can really classify this as a mod?, but the MDX sure can look spiffy with a nice set of aftermarket wheels in comparison to some other car/SUV's):
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-200...pics-2nd-generation-mdx-aftermarket-rims.html

Front (& Rear) Lower Trim piece MOD (oftentimes and incorrectly referred to as 'front and rear lower garnishes')- prolly won't find these accessories available anywhere anymore for a '07-'09 MDX's
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/42088-front-lower-garnish-2.html

CHROMED Front (& Rear) Lower Trim piece MOD (too bad Acura didn't make these front and rear lower trim pieces chrome from the factory- cheap *#$%'s!, looks so much better imo...if you got the $$bling$$, then chrome those MDX trim pieces!)
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/37540-chrome-front-lower-trim.html

MDX REAR Chrome Trim pieces MOD (good inexpensive mod if you're on a budget, and can handle simple cut and paste tasks...just don't get too carried away and chrome everything in sight around MDX's rear, or your X might look like it's straight outta Compton, CA!):
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/42122-chroming-mdx-rear-2007-2009-a.html

MDX BLACK shield MOD (various MDX's owners from diff years have blacked out the MDX's front shield- some with good success like in the two associated links below, and others using something resembling cheap electrical tape that eventually cracked/peeled off over time):
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/47309-just-pic-my-x.html
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/40628-my-new-grill.html

J pipe MOD (if you got the $$ and wanna see some subtle HP gains on your MDX, then check this mod out- i'm checking it out too, just waiting for the company that manufactures this to produce a few more performance components that cumulatively can potentially allot my MDX gains of 30-50 HP if at all possible- keeping fingers crossed!!!- do you hear me Mr. Heeltoe?!!!):
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/47116-atlp-j-pipe-07-09-mdx.html

other random MDX Performance MODs (i.e. K&N Air Filter, has anyone put in a cool air intake system?)
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/41498-performance-mods-compilation.html

MILLIONAIRE MDX Mods (last but certainly not least, if you have deep pockets like the late, great PENTA...RIP, Ukrainian millionaire MDX owner who apparently passed away a few years ago- car accident? then you can just tear up the MDX inside out, add things like Chinese MDX rear tail lights, custom upholstery and a FRONT night vision camera etc!)
<img src=http://www.mdxers.org/forums/attachments/2007-2013-acura-mdx/38757d1273493459t-new-happy-mdx-owner-ukraine-2_mdx08.jpg>
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/31702-new-happy-mdx-owner-ukraine-3.html

MDX's in China (not really a mod, but more a potential mod..cany anyone fabricate a REAR FOG LIGHT to make '07-'13 MDX's look more like 2nd gen. Chinese MDX's?)
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/35943-mdx-china-2.html
<img src=http://www.mdxers.org/forums/attachments/2007-2013-acura-mdx/40037d1238823025-mdx-china-11.jpg>
 
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#2 ·
I would add:
- Clear Bra products
- Audio upgrades (head units, speakers, subs, etc...)
- Entertainment installs/upgrades (drop down screens, head rest LCDs, Blueray systems, PS3, etc..)
- alarm and/or remote start upgrades
- Dash cameras (front facing, side and/or cabin)
- upgrading 07-09 bumper to +10 models
- Towing upgrades (AT cooling, hitch/harness, brake assist, side mirrors, etc...)
 
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#3 ·
#4 ·
Good centralized post :29:

-USAspec Ipod adapter (or the other company's--can't remember name)
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/37042-new-usa-spec-ipod-adapter-2007-mdx-out-works-great.html

-Full size spare tire
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/33998-full-size-spare-installation.html

2007-2009 mods:
-Coin tray for center console (comes standard for 2010-2013)
-Change arm rests to stitched leather from 2010-2013 models
http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/40112-how-replace-upgrade-2nd-gen-center-arm-rests.html
 
#5 ·
#8 ·
3M clear bra has been a great MOD/investment on my '09 MDX. :29:

*make sure to keep your X away from rain (i think for at least a day immediately following application?~ check with your installer) to ensure that install doesn't go down the drain/has to be applied again! :headshake

*also inquire whether he/she's install includes a warranty in case any part of the install becomes defective (I had a 5 year warranty- never had to use it as of yet)

and highly recommend that you clean your clear bra with
Plexus Plastic Cleaner :29:
Plexus Plastic Cleaner for Automotive Uses
<img src=http://www.plexusplasticcleaner.com/product.jpg>

*this stuff is great on any plastic part of your car, especially 3M clear bra, and it even works better to clear up you foggy/yellowish headlights than the products that are advertised specifically for that purpose! :cool:
 
#9 ·
*again not really a mod, well sorta...if you want the inside of your X to smell like new/very clean, check out this older thread advising spraying a can of 'Wurth' when changing out your MDX's air cabin filter...very timely as the warm weather isn't too far away! :29: http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007-2013-acura-mdx/32072-changing-cabin-air-filter.html

<center><img src=http://www.mdxers.org/forums/attachments/2007-2013-acura-mdx/38782d1207687177-changing-cabin-air-filter-wurthac-002.jpg></center>
 
#10 ·
with Spring 2015 about to officially roll in on the calendar tomorrow (3/20/15) I would like to add onto another recommendation (not really a mod, but a very effective and high peforming replacement for the Acura MDX interior CABIN air filter)- this cabin air filter only costs about $15 at Amazon ( ) and should be comptible with all MDX's from 2007-2013. For the past several years I've been using this cabin air filter (always replacing it at least once a year) while also using the air conditioning lemon spray (referenced above) to keep the interior of my MDX smelling extremely clean!!!! :29:

FRAM CF10134 Fresh Breeze Cabin Air Filter
<img src=http://dadpal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/FRAM-CF10134-Fresh-Breeze-Cabin-Air-Filter-0-0.jpg><img src=http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/919PgkaTp3L._SX425_.jpg>
 
#11 ·
I would also add Wilwood Front Big Brake Kit Mod as well..
 

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#12 ·
very nice mod suggestion Mr. Shadymdx!! :29:

when time permits, can you please post specs on those tires (brand, model and specific tire size #'s?)? my cousin who has an '08 MDX recently obtained some 19 inch ZDX wheels (just like yours) with no tires, and we're looking to purchase the best/correct size tires for these particular ZDX wheels which we'll be having mounted on her MDX soon? :cool:

<img src=http://www.mdxers.org/forums/attachments/2007-2013-acura-mdx/70289d1427136286-mods-acura-mdx-2007-2013-updated-mdx-side-kohls.jpg>
 
#13 ·
When I upgraded my tires to 20" Conti DWS, I also did the HeelToe Automotive Spec brake package Stage 2 for MDX:
• Honda Genuine Brake Fluid, 2 Pints
• Carbotech 1521 Front Pad Set
• Carbotech 1521 Rear Pad Set
• RB Performance UP Front Open-Slot Rotor Set
• Replacement Rear Rotor Set (Optional)
• Fastline Performance Steel Braided Brake Lines

I was driving to Phoenix last weekend and I was following a large SUV pulling a boat at +80 mph. I was pretty much loaded down inside with gear for a track meet and even had a full cargo carrier on top (+5500lbs). Something flew out the back of the open boat about the size of large cooler. The upgraded brakes felt like I tossed an anchor out and I was able to slow down, determine which way the debris was going to bounce and avoid it. Lucky for me there wasn't a car beside me because I had to go 1/2 way into the slow lane. I was even surprised the seat belt tighten up and pulled my wife and I into the seats and released afterwards when I slammed on the brakes. I hurried up to pass the vehicle to avoid more debris flying out and the guy was on his cell phone unaware of the camping supplies left all over hwy by Prescott.:headshake

Moral of the story is: Keep your 3-5 second intervals at all times when driving and damn good brakes don't hurt either.
 
#15 ·
Thanks Amigo,

I might join you (and my cousin) on these ZDX wheels, I've been researching replacement wheels for my MDX stocks for like 5 years now- no joke (almost took the plunge on some very costly 22 inch wheels)...and just can't decide....these 19 inch (as well as the chrome ZDX 20's) look attractive, yet practical (and non-ghetto) not to mention they probably won't mess up my X's suspension/handling as much as some other wheels of varying widths/sizes could :29:
 
#49 ·
I remember seeing those a while back and I thought the same thing about being too expensive (and they didn't have the Acura logo for the ones I saw). I looked for something for my TSX because after 10yrs the calipers were getting caked up brake dust and had a few rust spots. I did the High temp brake caliper paint from Amazon for $40 and found a guy in town that painted for $20 per wheel. I did the TSX (black) and did a preemptive strike on the RDX (black) and MDX (red). I did the paint jobs in June/14 and it still looks good, zero problems spraying all purpose rim cleaner on the painted calipers and using high pressure wash bay sprayer, and the paint stays pretty clean of brake dust.

Amazon link:
 
#50 ·
Hi guys & Priscilla. Long time. Sorry for MIA. LOL. Was so busy with family & work. Never had a chance to reply some of the messages dated back in 2013. Holly cow, very sorry for that. I don't think my reply now (regards, to blue led & stuff) would do anybody anygood since it was 3 years ago. My apology.
 
#53 ·
This is a must do (IMHO) for anyone with a 2007-2013 Acura MDX)- make your MDX's AC system smell factory new again!...get rid of that nasty, moldy smell that has developed/built up over the years! :29:

Cleaning evaporator core DIY 2008 Acura MDX


*this product will likely sell out soon as it typically does around this time of year...
Lubegard 96030 Kool-It Evaporator and Heater Foam Cleaner
https://www.amazon.com/Lubegard-960...0c-20&linkId=fb983745b463881e8d7600fbed773ff3
<center><img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81edrU6TwPL._SL1500_.jpg" width="70%" height="70%"></center>
 
#56 ·
As most 2007-2013 Acura MDX's will be getting up there in mileage by now (Summer 2018), at some point it's likely that your Acura OEM engine HOOD struts will give out/fail, making it impossible to keep the engine hood up on it's own without manually standing there and holding it yourself....lots of good AFTERMARKET replacement hood struts out there such as the one's I installed last year as detailed in related thread below :29:

Inquiry Into HOW TO FIX 2nd Gen. MDX Engine Hood From Falling Down?!
https://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-se...fix-2nd-gen-mdx-engine-hood-falling-down.html

<img src="https://www.ableautoglass.com/data/images/acura_mdx_2007-2010_windshield-acoustic_interlayer-under_hood_cowl_&_wipers_removed.jpg" width="45%" height="45%"><img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51GgKZWC%2BHL.jpg" width="45%" height="45%">
 
#57 ·
Both the cabin and engine air filters (for 2007-2013 Acura MDX's) are fortunately very easy and potentially inexpensive to replace that any MEN on here who are WILLING to pay the stealerships (@$90 for OEM cabin air filter + @$140 for engine OEM air filter= approximately $220 TOTAL for the 2nd Gen. MDX STEALERSHIP Air Filter x2 special)- should have their 'man card' revoked pronto!!- both can easily be done by yourselves for less than $30 total!!!!

Ladies- we have kids to raise/watch over, + many other household tasks, so its understandable if you don't mind paying the inflated stealership rate! ;)

CABIN filter: (will fit both 2007-2013 Acura MDX as well as 2007-2011 Honda CR-V's- I know this b/c I gave the extra one to my cousin!)
2 Pack - EPAuto CP134 (CF10134) Honda & Acura Premium Cabin Air Filter includes Activated Carbon
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LYHPPYO/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
<img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91BTvpr%2BZKL._SL1500_.jpg" width="50%" height="50%">

ENGINE filter:
EPAuto GP013 (CA10013) Honda / Acura Replacement Extra Guard Rigid Panel Engine Air Filter for Odyssey (2005-2010), Pilot (2009-2015), MDX (2007-2009)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014TZDSQ4/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
<img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81gZ2rxYKfL._SL1500_.jpg" width="50%" height="50%">



Another, (related) IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATION if you want a nice, clean, new car like smell in your 2007-2013 Acura MDX's interior cabin!!
*this small can below typically costs about $16-$21 online (may be easier to find via search on google or on eBay as opposed to expensive price on Amazon listed below, but trust me, this can- if SPRAYED in area where CABIN AIR FILTER resides, BEFORE you replace with new one, can make a considerable difference/improvement concerning the air quality in your aging MDX!!!!)

I urge my fellow members when changing this filter, make sure to spray Wurth (entire can) into the area where the fan is to remove mold and bacteria that will resides there. Don't bother with that cheap stuff from your local shops cause it no good. Tim recommended this to me a year ago or so...attached are pictures of it.....it smells awesome too ! :1: :1: :1: :1: :1: :1:
6oz. Wurth A/C & Heating System Treatment
https://www.amazon.com/6oz-Wurth-Heating-System-Treatment/dp/B000GQNJX8
<center><img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41ZERMAKM7L.jpg" width="20%" height="20%"></center>
 
#58 ·
Does anyone have a recommendation for an aftermarket intake system for our second gen MDX's? I've done some searching but can't find anyone who has installed one with feedback. I've done the Injen CAI on my Honda Element (currently running it in SRI mode) and its great. Would love to hear the engine more on my 08 MDX.
 
#59 ·
Stick with the stock air box and oem-style filter.

You may get more “noise” with an aftermarket intake, but it will be at the expense of performance. Depending on the filter element employed, it may even cause increased engine wear.

The only time I’ve seen intakes help is when you’re making a TON more power than stock and need the extra breathing room (you don’t) or you’re a hyper-miler who intentionally wants to decrease power with warmer intake air charge to improve mpgs... and since this is an mdx and not a Prius, that’s not the case, either.
 
#61 ·
If you're a hyper-miler, then your options are to sell your MDX and buy a vehicle that prioritizes fuel economy.


Don't touch the intake.
 
#66 ·
<center><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0969/9128/products/6_ac16ad8e-93eb-4617-86fe-b487b9152991.jpg?v=1480497001" width="26%" height="50%"><img src="https://careforthecaregiver.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/gandi.jpg?w=750"><img src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSNeIlNWwR4PjSoZB40-0_9yeomSE91rHUbiwNph_VqAN_BW6Ar"></center>
 
#68 ·
I've seen the thread about color matching the rear bumper on the 2007-2009 model. Instead I plasti dipped the ugly grey in flat black like the 2019+ models. It came out pretty good.
That was one of the things I really didn't like the 07-09 MDX was the front/rear bumpers color was too light and didn't match the rest of the darker plastic trim and mud flaps. Everything seemed to color match a little better for the +10 MDXs.
 
#71 ·
I haven't chosen one yet. I'm having to buy some parts to finish my J32 Element swap. When I do though, i'll return here and share.
 
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#72 ·
2nd Gen. MDX (quick/temporary) CENTER CONSOLE FIX:

*I have plenty of old/cancelled CREDIT/DEBIT cards on hand- I'm going to try this temp. fix as detailed in video below- even if I have to do this once a year, that's ALOT better than potential, costlier, longer term CENTER CONSOLE LEATHER fix/replacement options! :29:

QUICK AND EASY CENTRAL CONSOLE ARMREST FIX
 
#73 ·
Priscillababy Thank you for your feedback and thanks for adding my vids into this thread!

So far two seasons seven episodes each. And the third one is coming sometime in November 2018. I hope someone finds them useful as well!

A little Season 3 sneak peak exclusively for MDXers:
Headlight bulbs replacement
OEM keyfob replacement and re-programming
Drive belt (and) tensioner replacement

And more to come!

I also post other non MDX specific vids (although I use my MDX as an example).

Once again, I'm happy to see I made it to MDXers, this is an honour to me!

If anyone has any suggestions, please PM me, I'll be definitely considering them when planning for creating future content!
 
#77 ·
A little Season 3 sneak peak exclusively for MDXers:
Headlight bulbs replacement
OEM keyfob replacement and re-programming
Drive belt (and) tensioner replacement
And more to come!

Once again, I'm happy to see I made it to MDXers, this is an honour to me!

If anyone has any suggestions, please PM me, I'll be definitely considering them when planning for creating future content!

Welcome Acura Addicted. You are most welcome here. There is a pretty good community of 2nd Gen MDXers here. I’ve used your vids many times & have found them informative and helpful. Looking forward to more. Keep on “Making Acura Great Again”, love that catchy tag line.
 
#74 ·
Welcome aboard Acura Addicted! ;)....prior to my 2009 MDX, I typically would replace new cars about every 3 years or around 75K miles- whatever came first....now with this 2nd Gen. ''09 MDX (along with the very useful info from this message board, and resourceful YouTubers like u who also drive this car!) this may the first car that I've ever kept beyond 200K miles?!!! *currently at just over 100K- major personal milestone for moi :29:
 
#75 ·
Thanks, Priscillababy!

I'm also not thinking about letting it go any time soon, if ever. Just love the car! Might get a second one sometime in the future, but leave this one as well. I myself am at 156K miles.

Since you are at 100K, have you already gotten the service code 4 for the timing belt, spark plugs and valve adjustment? That's a biggie!
 
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