2017–2020 Acura MDX
By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026
Save $1,045 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $1,500
Quick answer: Replace Timing Belt on a 2017–2020 Acura MDX is rated Advanced and takes about 4-6 hours. You'll need 10 tools for this job, and parts cost about $455. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timing Belt | 14400-R9P-A01 | $125.40 | |
| Water Pump | 19200-RCA-A01 | $150.00 | |
| Timing Belt Tensioner | 14510-RCA-A01 | $100.00 | |
| Idler Pulley | 14550-RCA-A01 | $50.00 | |
| Crankshaft Seal | 91212-RCA-A01 | $30.00 | |
| Engine coolant (correct type) | — | — | |
| Water pump gaskets/O-rings | — | — |
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
Work only on a cold engine and disconnect the negative battery cable. Drain the coolant if the water pump is serviced with the timing belt. This is a precision job — have the service-manual timing procedure and locking tools ready.
Remove covers, belts, and accessories as required for access. Rotate the crankshaft to TDC for cylinder 1 and install crank/cam locking tools per the procedure. Confirm all timing marks align before loosening the tensioner.
Release the timing-belt tensioner, then carefully remove the old belt without rotating the cams or crank. If marks move, stop and re-establish TDC before continuing. Inspect idlers, tensioner, and seals for leakage or play.
Replace the water pump, idlers, and tensioner if included in the kit — many failures recur if only the belt is changed. Clean sealing surfaces, install new gaskets/O-rings as specified, and torque fasteners evenly.
Install the new timing belt with correct routing and tooth engagement. Set tensioner preload per the manual, then rotate the engine by hand at least two full crank revolutions and re-check all timing marks. Refit covers, accessories, and the drive belt.
I've learned: those two hand revolutions are the cheapest insurance in this whole job. If a mark is off by one tooth, you want to find it with a wrench in your hand — not with the starter.
Refill with the correct coolant, bleed air, and reconnect the battery. Start the MDX and listen for unusual noise. Confirm stable idle, no coolant leaks, and no immediate timing-related codes before a careful road test.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
2017–2020
2017–2020
2017–2020
2001–2006
2001–2006
2001–2006
