Buy Acura MDX Engine Timing Belt Kit with Water Pumps

The engine timing belt kit with water pump-sometimes called a cam‑belt kit or engine synchronization belt set-keeps the Acura MDX's V‑6 valves and pistons moving in perfect rhythm while circulating coolant through the block. A fresh kit prevents valve‑train crashes, stops coolant leaks, and restores quiet, smooth running. MDX models from 2001‑present still use a belt (not a chain), so timely service is essential. Acura's schedule calls for replacement every 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first, because the 3.5 L and 3.7 L J‑series engines are interference designs-if the belt snaps, costly engine damage follows. A complete kit bundles the belt, water pump, tensioners, idlers, gaskets, and seals, saving labor because all wear parts are located behind the same covers. Typical shop cost ranges from about $1,200 to $1,400 including parts and labor, but DIY owners can cut that in half with careful work and the right tools.

• The timing belt is a tough, toothed rubber strap that links the crankshaft to the camshafts so valves open and close at the correct time  (Edmunds).
• Because the belt also spins the water pump on the MDX, the coolant pump must be changed with the belt; both parts age together  (cms.gates.com).
• A worn belt may slip or break, letting pistons hit valves inside this interference engine, which can bend valves and crack pistons  (Mdxers).

• All first‑, second‑, third‑, and fourth‑generation MDX models (2001‑2025) with the 3.5 L or 3.7 L V‑6 still use a timing belt, not a chain  (Mdxers).
• The kit also fits sister Honda/Acura vehicles that share the J‑series engine, but always double‑check part numbers and engine codes.

• Acura recommends changing the belt kit every 105,000 miles or 7 years under normal driving  (Mdxers).
• In very hot, very cold, or dusty places, Acura shortens that to about 60,000 miles  (Mdxers).
• The Maintenance Minder usually shows code B‑4 when it's time for the job.

A high‑quality timing‑belt‑with‑water‑pump kit generally includes  (NAPA Blog):

1. Timing (cam) belt
2. Water pump with new gasket
3. Hydraulic tensioner
4. Idler pulleys (smooth and toothed)
5. Front cam and crank seals
6. Thermostat O‑ring and accessory belts sticker

Some premium kits add a shim to stop pulley chirp, as noted by Gates  (cms.gates.com).

• Ticking noise from the front cover  (Mdxers)
• Misfires or rough idle while driving 
• Coolant drips near the crank pulley or a gurgling sound at cold start-often the water pump seal failing  (Mdxers)
• Check Engine Light with cam/crank correlation codes  (Mdxers)

Ignoring these clues can raise repair costs fast.

• Restores proper valve timing, boosting power and fuel economy  (Edmunds).
• Stops coolant leaks and overheating risk because the new pump has a fresh seal and bearing  (SKF Vehicle Aftermarket).
• Prevents catastrophic engine damage in an interference motor  (Mdxers).

• Professional shops quote $1,179 - $1,426 on average, parts and labor  (RepairPal.com).
• Doing the job at home with a service manual, torque wrench, and locking tools can save hundreds, but expect 6-8 hours the first time  (YouTube).
• A clean workspace, organized parts tray, and phone pictures before removal help avoid mix‑ups-advice echoed by AAA techs who see common mistakes  (Your AAA Network).

• Torque the idler pulley bolt to 33 ft‑lb (44 N·m)  (Mdxers)  (Mdxers).
• Follow the counter‑clockwise belt routing shown in Acura's procedure to keep timing marks aligned  (Mdxers).
• Always bleed and refill the cooling system with fresh Honda‑approved coolant after pump installation to prevent air pockets  (YouTube).

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Prices vary by region, model year, and added services like spark‑plugs or drive belts.

• Drain old coolant into a sealed container and recycle it through a local hazardous‑waste program; the EPA discourages dumping into drains  (US EPA).
• Recycle used rubber belts with automotive‑specific programs or at tire centers to reduce landfill waste.
• Wipe up spills; ethylene glycol tastes sweet to pets but is toxic.

• Replace the serpentine (drive) belt, radiator cap, and thermostat during the same visit to avoid extra labor later  (Be Car Care Aware).
• Flush the coolant every 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first  .
• Check engine‑mount torque bolts after the job because mounts must be removed for access  (Mdxers).

A fresh timing‑belt‑with‑water‑pump kit is affordable insurance against major engine failure. By following Acura's schedule, using a quality kit, and observing proper torque values, owners keep their MDX running quiet, cool, and powerful for the long haul.