Best Struts For Acura MDX with 5 Top Picks

When I first noticed that unsettling clunk and overly bouncy ride in my MDX, I knew the factory struts were spent. Choosing the right components is key for maintaining the luxury SUV feel, and diving into the aftermarket options can be overwhelming. After testing and comparing the functionality and installation simplicity of several top contenders, I put together this list of the best struts for Acura MDX to help you restore that smooth, confident driving experience without expensive guesswork.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with…	View on Amazon
	TRQ Front Suspension Kit Complete Strut & Coil Spring…	View on Amazon
	AUTOSAVER88 Front Complete Struts Shocks Assembly…	View on Amazon
	TRQ Front Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Set Driver &…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Quick Complete Strut…	View on Amazon

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2014-2020 Acura MDX – Set of 2

If you own a third-generation MDX and want the simplest possible installation, these quick complete assemblies from COMPLETESTRUTS are an excellent choice. They arrive fully assembled, meaning you don’t need dangerous spring compressors, making the job much faster for the average DIYer or mechanic. This pair is specifically designed for the 2014–2020 Acura MDX, aiming to restore the original factory ride height and handling performance. They offer a simple, direct bolt-on solution to eliminate old, noisy suspension components.

Key features that stand out:
– Year-specific fitment: Replacement for Acura MDX (2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020)
– Quick assembly: Includes 2x Front Complete Struts with Coil Springs (Pair)
– Warranty protection: Backed by a One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty

Pros:
– Complete assembly saves significant installation time
– Direct fit ensures OEM ride height and geometry
– Good balance of value and quality for common models

Cons:
– Only covers the front suspension, requiring a separate purchase for the rear

Best for:
DIYers and professional mechanics seeking a straightforward, quick replacement for the front suspension of a 2014-2020 MDX.

Expert Opinion: These assemblies are the gold standard for repair simplicity. Since MDX owners often notice front suspension degradation first, starting with a reliable quick-strut set like this is highly practical.

TRQ Front Suspension Kit Complete Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Sway Bar Stabilizer Link Compatible with 2014-2020 Acura MDX

The TRQ Front Suspension Kit offers outstanding value by bundling the replacement struts with other commonly worn suspension components: the sway bar stabilizer links. When upgrading your struts, it’s highly recommended to replace the sway bar links simultaneously to eliminate future suspension noise and ensure optimal handling, making this kit a truly comprehensive solution. These are designed as direct replacements, ensuring a precise fit and restoring stability to your MDX.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive kit: Includes (2) Front Strut & Spring Assemblies and (2) Front Sway Bar Links
– Ease of installation: Pre-assembled components eliminate the need for spring compressors
– Direct fit guarantee: Designed as direct replacements, matching OE specifications

Pros:
– Includes sway bar links, addressing a major source of suspension clunking
– Trusted brand with established experience in replacement parts
– Saves money compared to buying components individually

Cons:
– Slightly higher initial cost than just purchasing the basic struts alone

Best for:
MDX owners who want to perform a complete front suspension refresh, replacing all common wear items at once.

Expert Opinion: Dealing with steering and suspension noise often requires replacing more than just the struts. The inclusion of the stabilizer links makes this TRQ kit a smart, preventative maintenance purchase that enhances the lifespan of the entire front suspension system.

AUTOSAVER88 Front Complete Struts Shocks Assembly Compatible with 2007-2013 Acura MDX 2010-2013 ZDX

For owners of the second-generation MDX (2007-2013), this AUTOSAVER88 assembly provides an affordable and high-quality solution. Like the newer model kits, these are complete assemblies, simplifying the replacement process significantly. This unit is built to address common symptoms of failing struts, such as excessive dipping during braking, abnormal sounds, and poor stability, ensuring your older MDX handles safely and comfortably again.

Key features that stand out:
– Compatibility: Fits 2007-2013 Acura MDX and 2010-2013 Acura ZDX
– Up to standard: Complete package includes the strut, coil spring, mount, boot, and bumper kit
– Safe & simple installation: Features corresponding buckle holes for a direct replacement process

Pros:
– Excellent budget-friendly option for older models
– Complete assembly facilitates safe and quick replacement
– Designed to meet performance requirements of the specific generation

Cons:
– Specific fitment requires careful confirmation against the vehicle year

Best for:
Owners of the 2007-2013 MDX looking for reliable, cost-effective replacement struts to improve stability and ride comfort.

Expert Opinion: Finding quality struts for earlier models can be tricky. This AUTOSAVER88 set delivers the convenience of a quick-strut design at a very competitive price point, which is crucial for maintaining the value of an older vehicle.

TRQ Front Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Set Driver & Passenger Sides Compatible with 14-20 Acura MDX

This TRQ set is an excellent choice for those seeking reliable, OE-equivalent replacement components specifically for the popular 2014-2020 MDX. While it doesn’t include the stabilizer links like the previously reviewed TRQ kit, it focuses purely on delivering a high-quality, direct-fit strut and coil spring assembly. These components are meticulously designed to match the factory specifications, guaranteeing that your suspension performs exactly as intended by Acura engineers.

Key features that stand out:
– OE Replacement: Designed to match or exceed Original Equipment specifications
– Vehicle Specific: Confirmed fitment for 2014-2020 Acura MDX
– Direct Fit: Simplifies installation by eliminating the need for modifications

Pros:
– High reliability from a well-known replacement parts manufacturer
– Restores factory ride and handling precisely
– An ideal choice if your existing sway bar links are still in good condition

Cons:
– Does not offer the comprehensive components found in some other TRQ kits

Best for:
The buyer prioritizing OE-grade quality and reliability for the front struts without needing extra suspension components.

Expert Opinion: Sometimes, you just need a high-quality strut replacement without the extras. This set provides the peace of mind of a recognized brand ensuring performance equivalent to the original parts, making it a solid baseline for the best struts for Acura MDX.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2014-2020 Acura MDX AWD – Set of 4

For the ultimate suspension overhaul on a 2014-2020 AWD MDX, this COMPLETESTRUTS set provides four quick assemblies—two front and two rear. Replacing all four corners simultaneously ensures balanced handling and uniform ride quality across the entire vehicle. Because this kit is specific to AWD models, it accounts for the potential differences in spring rates and damping required by the drivetrain layout. This is the most efficient way to achieve a truly ‘new car’ feeling ride.

Key features that stand out:
– Full vehicle coverage: Kit includes 2x Front and 2x Rear Quick Complete Strut Assemblies (Set of 4)
– AWD specific: Designed precisely for AWD MODELS ONLY (2014-2020)
– Maximum convenience: All four components are fully assembled for instant installation

Pros:
– Provides uniform ride quality across the entire vehicle
– Reduces future maintenance needs by replacing all aging struts at once
– Specific design for AWD vehicles ensures proper performance

Cons:
– The highest initial investment due to replacing all four components

Best for:
MDX owners who want a complete, full-vehicle suspension refresh and prioritize convenience and balanced performance.

Expert Opinion: While you can replace struts in pairs, replacing all four at once on an SUV like the MDX is highly recommended for best results. This COMPLETESTRUTS 4-piece kit is the best option for achieving maximum ride quality and safety balance.

Comparison Short Insights

When selecting the best struts for Acura MDX, the biggest consideration is whether you need a quick-strut assembly or just the shock absorber cartridge. For the vast majority of homeowners and many mechanics, the quick-strut (like all products reviewed here) is superior because it saves critical labor time and eliminates the need for specialized spring compressors.

If you own a newer model (2014-2020), you have more options. The TRQ Front Suspension Kit offers the best overall comprehensive value because it includes the sway bar links, which often wear out simultaneously with the struts. However, if your budget allows for a full upgrade, the COMPLETESTRUTS Front & Rear Set of 4 provides the most uniform handling and the best overall performance renewal.

Always double-check your model year. The 2007-2013 generation utilizes different suspension parts, and the AUTOSAVER88 set is specifically tailored to those older specifications. Finally, if you have an AWD model, ensuring your chosen components are rated for AWD (like the COMPLETESTRUTS set of 4) guarantees proper handling characteristics.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right struts depends entirely on your vehicle’s generation and the scope of your replacement project.

For the Best Comprehensive Overhaul (2014-2020 AWD): If you want a full ‘new car’ suspension feel and have an AWD model, the COMPLETESTRUTS Front & Rear Quick Complete Strut Assemblies (Set of 4) is your top choice. Replacing all four corners simultaneously guarantees peak performance balance.

For the Best Front-End Value (2014-2020): If you are only addressing the front suspension and suspect other components are failing, the TRQ Front Suspension Kit is the smartest choice, offering struts and stabilizer links in one convenient package.

For Reliable Budget Replacement (2007-2013): If you have the older second-generation MDX and need to restore basic ride comfort without breaking the bank, the AUTOSAVER88 Front Complete Struts Shocks Assembly is the clear winner for cost and convenience.

Best Struts For Acura MDX FAQ

Q1: How do I know when I need to replace my struts or shock absorbers?
A: Common signs include a noticeably rough or bouncy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, the front of the vehicle dipping severely during braking (nose dive), or abnormal clunking and squeaking suspension noise, particularly when driving over bumps. If your MDX has 75,000 miles or more, it’s a good time to inspect the suspension components.

Q2: What is the difference between a conventional strut and a quick-strut assembly?
A: A conventional strut is just the shock absorber housing itself, requiring you to reuse or transfer the old coil spring, mounting plate, and other components using a dangerous spring compressor. A quick-strut (or complete strut assembly), such as those reviewed here, comes fully assembled with the new strut, coil spring, and mounting plate, making installation much safer and faster.

Q3: Are the strut assemblies for the Acura MDX AWD different from FWD models?
A: Yes, they can be significantly different. AWD vehicles have different weight distributions and may require slightly different spring rates and damping calibration to maintain optimal ride quality and handling. Always confirm that the best struts for Acura MDX you choose are compatible with your specific drivetrain.

Q4: Can I replace just one strut, or should I replace them in pairs?
A: You should always replace struts in pairs (both fronts or both rears) to ensure balanced handling and consistent damping. Replacing only one side will cause an uneven ride, leading to poor control and accelerated wear on the other side’s suspension components.

Q5: How long do new struts typically last on an Acura MDX?
A: High-quality aftermarket struts should typically last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, depending heavily on driving conditions and road quality. Frequent driving on rough roads or carrying heavy loads can significantly shorten the lifespan of your suspension components.

Q6: Is replacing the sway bar links necessary when I install new struts?
A: While not strictly mandatory, it is highly recommended, especially on high-mileage vehicles. The stabilizer links (often called sway bar links) are common sources of clunking and suspension noise, and replacing them while the struts are off saves labor later. Kits like the TRQ Front Suspension Kit already include them for convenience.