03 MDX transmission fluid is on garage floor

[tsreyb]

Drove into my garage yesterday and noticed a trail of transmission fluid leading down the driveway and into the garage. Looked under my MDX to find pretty much the remainder of all the fluid in a giant puddle.

I haven't had a chance to take a closer look at the problem, but I suspect whatever is wrong isn't just a simple hose or gasket replacement

Quick web search indicates MDX (esp 01-03) have a history of transmission problems.

The car is 6 years old, with 85K miles. There is one site that claimed Acura extended the warranty for 'certain affected vehicles' to 7 yrs/100K. I never received notification from Acura that my vehicle is in that category - does that mean it definitely is not affected?

Should I have the dealer go ahead and fix it and worry about arguing about the warranty aspect after the fact?

Also, I'm assuming I need to tow this vehicle and should not drive it.

Thanks for any comments,
-Bob
Andover, MA

[khooper]

My guess is that it is transmission fluid that is leaking from the hose or coupling that attaches to the transmission cooler in front of the radiator. Antifreeze (AKA radiator fluid) is either green or pink in color you can also check floor mats if it has a water type feel when you rub it between your fingers.

[rockstar143]

I would say DO NOT drive it. Unless you can fill up the tranny fluid and it'll stay in the tranny the whole way to the dealership. If there is a TSB, they will probably honor it...or at least hopefully will. If it's as simple as a hose, you can probably change it yourself. Get a flashlight and slide under the car and take a closer look. Luckily, transmission and whatever the issue is will be readily visible from the ground.

[MisterStrategy]

Check also to see if the fluid leakage is from the front hydraulic motor mount. I had fluid leaking from my '01 mount, which I mistook as from the transmission.