[Helmstet]

Hello-

Newbie here. Been learning from this site for months and am where most of you were months or a year ago - I'm on the hunt for an X (in Florida). The advice, detail, etc. you all have offered is spectacular for the new guy on the block. And, there is no doubt that once I actually take delivery, I will keep Tim in business.

Two questions:

1. Kind of an odd question, but has anyone upgraded their wheels from the premium/touring to something else (an example I am considering would be something like the katana's posted by gto-dave in the gallery - pic attached) and found a way to exchange or sell the original wheels? I've always said wheels can make a car and with the MDX that sure holds true.

2. Did anyone compare (listen to) the Bose vs. Alpine audio systems when shopping - I have had the opportunity to only hear the Alpine. How do they compare? Is the Bose that much better. Seems like many posters replace both systems (speakers that is) indicating they both rank low.

Thanks for any feedback. And, again thanks for all the great advice and I look forward to the day when I can add that signature text to my posts.

Michael

 

[frostyra]

Many of us are interested in having a full-size spare. If you wouldn't mind boxing/shipping your original wheels, you'd likely have little trouble selling them to other members on this site. If you're getting new tires with your new wheels, you could probably sell your tire/wheel combos just as easily.

 

[jskibi]

$

Does anyone venture to put a price tag on a factory wheel/tire combo (including s/h?) Are the touring wheels more expensive? And does anyone know if it is possible to get the "exclusive" touring rim on a premium model?

 

[Pauls MDX]

upgrades

definitely seen them done on both the wheels and the stereo. if your really into alot of punch the stereo will need an upgrade. i have the 2002 tour/nav and radio needs upgraded subwoofer and amplifier. in some cases people have replaced all speakers. i have a 2000 maxima se with bose and that has alot more punch with a 200 watt amp. the sub kicks ass in the maxima as opposed to the mdx. you have to remember a suv interior is very different for sound as opposed to a sedan. wheels are a good idea but be careful on the speedometer adjustments and check to see how they will affect mileage counter or effect the navagation system. i feel the 17" michelin are great, but i seen 20" that look alot better. just be sure to keep to a high level tire as far as treadwear and traction ratings.

 

[ardvarkus]

If I were considering changing wheels, I'd opt for a 7.5 or 8 inch rim... more options on tire width.

So the factory touring wheels would be $$$, plus no advantage in tire sizing.

To get the same quality in an aftermarket rim as the OEM be prepared to spend considerably. Remember, this is an SUV...the wimpy tirerack $159 wheels will not last.

I personally cannot understand why the need for larger diameter rims...especially for an SUV. You reduce the sidewall and neuter the vehicle as an off-road/SUV. Ride quality is compromised. Handling with the lower sidewall?.... it's an SUV for cryin out loud.

Ard

 

[MaD-X]

I agree with Ard. Have thought about the upgrade but it'll be for looks only since performance upgrade would be very minimal (would make the road noise even louder). Plus, comfort is good for suv, I think. But new wheels would make your MDX stand out.

 

[Iceman]

The way a stereo sounds is a VERY subjective thing. When we test drove an MDX touring, both my wife and I were surprised and impressed with how great it sounded. I consider myself a budding audiophile, but I also realize that you're not going to get the same quality of sound in a vehicle that you can get at home. You'll need to listen for yourself, but unless you want to rock windows from blocks away I don't think you'll need to change out the stereo.

 

[Helmstet]

Thanks for all the information. Frostyra, you make a good point. I saw a damaged, single touring wheel go on E-bay for $91.00 not long ago. Ardvarkus, you are right about the expense. The wheels pictured above ar 18" and with tires sell for about $1500 a set. But they sure do look nice. Unfortunately, the extent of the off roading my X will do will be the occassional curb my wife runs over on the way to cub scouts or gymnastics. Hey - it's better than a minivan.

Thanks again for all the feedback.

M

 

[ardvarkus]

Run over a curb with those $1500 wheels and tires (375 each?) and then measure the runout.... think it will still meet spec?

1500 is still in the cheap end of the range.

IMHO

Ard

PS Yeah, it IS better than an odessy minivan (which we were looking at before stumbling on the MDX in Sept 00)

 

[Zrelaxed]

Re: $

Does anyone venture to put a price tag on a factory wheel/tire combo (including s/h?) Are the touring wheels more expensive? And does anyone know if it is possible to get the "exclusive" touring rim on a premium model?

I asked my dealer (Acura of Brookfield-Wisconsin) that question. Unfortunately, they offered no other option that buying the touring rims & wheels outright with no type of exchange or discount. I believe Tim sells the rim for $200 and I believe the Michelin wheels are ~$150. I'm considering aftermarket wheels...I'll simply use my base rims & tires as winter wheels. Green Bay winters can be rough on rims!

(With Tim, there is no difference in cost between the touring & the premium rim)

 

[jskibi]

Thanks!

I'm buying an 'X' through the same dealership and wondered, if by chance, are you financing the vehicle? Did they offer a percentage (range)? They said 5.9% now, but the actual figure will be determined at delivery.

 

[Pauls MDX]

Interest Rate on Financing

You are better off going thru a saving bank yourself. Unless the dealer can guarantee a rate of 6.00% or less, don't wait till pickup you will not have enough time to process a loan outside of dealer. I would apply at a bank and hold off giving the go ahead till you hear from dealer. Don't wait on dealer because you will have no options if wait till later

Wheels are pretty good especially if they look like this!!!
I think i should paint my lower trim like this it's pretty sweet.

 

[Zrelaxed]

Re: Thanks!

I'm buying an 'X' through the same dealership and wondered, if by chance, are you financing the vehicle? Did they offer a percentage (range)? They said 5.9% now, but the actual figure will be determined at delivery.

No, we haven't started talking about finance rates. I intend to do some homework prior and find whatever rates may be offered third party. When I told Acura of Brookfield my intentions, they asked that I give them an opportunity to match or beat whatever rates I may find...if they give me less then 6%, I'd probably take it...we'll see what happens with rates between now and May.

 

[Helmstet]

Paul123, you're not kidding about those wheels and the trim on that picture. Gave me chills, as I just placed my order for a black X about 2 hours ago. I might just print that picture and hang it over my bed 'til mid-March when I take delivery.

On the wheels, I found a site that sells what appears to be OEM touring and premium wheels. Price (sans tires) is touring $295 ea., premium $275 ea.