2004 Acura MDX Maintenance & Specs

Everything you need to maintain your 2004 Acura MDX — oil specs, maintenance schedule, recalls, and more.

The 2004 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 10 active recalls — check the recalls section below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.

Data last verified: April 30, 2026

OEM spec: API SN

Quick DIY Tips for the 2004 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.

Oil

Viscosity
5W-20
Oil type
Synthetic Blend
Capacity (with filter)
4.5 qt
Capacity (without filter)
4.2 qt
OEM notes: API SN

Drain bolt & hardware

Socket size
17 mm
Thread size
M14x1.5
Torque spec
39 Nm
Gasket type
Crush washer
Notes: 1st gen YD1 (3.5L J35A V6)

Fluid specifications

Transmission Fluid

Buy →
Type
Honda ATF DW-1
Capacity
3.5 qt
Change interval
40,000 mi

Brake Fluid

Buy →
DOT type
DOT 4
Change interval
30,000 mi

Coolant

Buy →
Type
Type 2
Color
Blue
Capacity
6 qt
Change interval
100,000 mi

Power Steering Fluid

Buy →
Type
Honda Power Steering Fluid

Differential Fluid (rear)

Buy →
Type
75W-90 GL-5
Capacity
2 qt
Change interval
60,000 mi

Parts & specifications

Maintenance schedule

Select a mileage interval above to see scheduled maintenance items.

Estimated Current Value

Original MSRP

$55,000

Private Party Value

$3,657 – $4,042

Dealer Retail Value

$4,235 – $4,812

Trade-In Value

$3,272 – $3,657

Depreciation

93%

Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.

Source: estimated

Safety recalls10

Technical Service Bulletins53

Torque specifications

lug nut
80 ft-lbs / 108.5 Nm

Alloy wheels

spark plug
18 ft-lbs / 24.4 Nm

14mm thread, aluminum head

Save by doing it yourself

A shop typically charges $90–$210 for this service. Buy the parts yourself and save.

Shop Oil & Filters →

Shop Parts for the Acura MDX

Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2004 Acura MDX on Amazon.

Shop Parts →

Tools & supplies

Step-by-step guide

Detailed walkthrough with tips for first-timers.

Read guide →

How often to change oil

Intervals, severe service, and what your car needs.

Read guide →

Synthetic vs. conventional

Which oil type is right for your engine and budget.

Read guide →

Have info for this vehicle?

Help fellow owners — submit specs from your owner's manual.

Submit specs

As an Amazon Associate, OilChangeDIY.com earns from qualifying purchases. Product links on this page may be affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure for details.

Helpful Guides

Related Vehicles

Other 2004 Acura Models

Other Acura MDX Years