2003 Acura MDX
Maintenance & specsVERIFIED Jun 15, 2026
The 2003 Acura MDX takes 5W-20 Synthetic Blend with a total capacity of 4.5 quarts (filter included). You’ll need a 17mm socket for the drain plug, torqued to 39 Nm. The OEM oil filter is the Acura/Honda 15400-PLM-A02, with 2 compatible alternatives listed below. Note: this vehicle has 13 active recalls — check the recalls section below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.
⚑ QUICK DIY TIPS FOR THE 2003 ACURA MDX
- Torque your drain plug to 39 Nm (29 ft-lbs) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.
- Using the OEM filter (Acura/Honda 15400-PLM-A02) is recommended for warranty compliance.
- Always use 5W-20 Synthetic Blend as specified by Acura — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
- Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.
01
Oil & Filter
OilBuy
Viscosity5W-20
Oil typeSynthetic Blend
Capacity (with filter)4.5 qt
Capacity (w/o filter)4.2 qt
OEM specAPI SN
Drain Bolt & Hardware
Socket size17 mm
ThreadM14x1.5
Torque spec39 Nm
GasketCrush washer
1st gen YD1 (3.5L J35A V6)
02
Fluid Specifications
Transmission FluidBuy
TypeHonda ATF DW-1
Capacity3.5 qt
Change interval40,000 mi
Brake FluidBuy
DOT typeDOT 4
Change interval30,000 mi
CoolantBuy
TypeType 2
ColorBlue
Capacity6 qt
Change interval100,000 mi
Power Steering FluidBuy
TypeHonda Power Steering Fluid
Differential Fluid (rear)Buy
Type75W-90 GL-5
Capacity2 qt
Change interval60,000 mi
03
Parts & Specifications
Spark Plugs
TypeIridium
Gap0.044
Quantity4
Change interval100,000 mi
Tires
Size245/60R18
Front pressure33 PSI
Rear pressure33 PSI
04
Maintenance Schedule
≈ every 6 months
- ▸Change Engine Oil & Filter
05
Torque Specifications
06
Safety Recalls
1307
Technical Service Bulletins
80Estimated Current Value
Original MSRP
$55,000
Private Party
$3,135–$3,465
Dealer Retail
$3,630–$4,125
Trade-In
$2,805–$3,135
Depreciation
94%
Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.
Source: estimated
Save by doing it yourself
A shop typically charges $90–$210 for this service. Buy the parts and save.
08
Tools & Supplies
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