P0175 on the 2022 Acura MDX: What's Going On
The 2022 Acura MDX features the fourth-generation design with a 3.5L J35Y6 V6 engine producing 290 hp, or the Type S with a 3.0L V6 turbo making 355 hp. When your MDX displays P0175, the ECM has detected that bank 2 (rear cylinder bank on the transverse V6) is running too rich. The J35 engine family is known for overall reliability, but fuel system issues can develop that trigger this code.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Check engine light on the MDX's digital instrument panel
- Fuel economy drop from the typical 19/26 MPG
- Dark exhaust smoke, especially during acceleration
- Rough or unstable idle — out of character for the refined MDX
- Noticeable fuel smell from the exhaust
- Sluggish throttle response in some driving conditions
Common Causes on the 2022 MDX
1. Dirty MAF Sensor
The J35Y6 V6's MAF sensor is located between the air filter and throttle body. Honda/Acura MAF sensors use a hot-wire design that's sensitive to airborne contaminants. Dust, oil film from aftermarket filters, and environmental debris can coat the sensing element, causing it to underreport airflow. The ECM then over-fuels to compensate. Cleaning costs $10–$15 with MAF spray; Acura OEM replacement runs $150–$280.
2. Upstream O2 Sensor Degradation (Bank 2)
The 2022 MDX uses wideband air-fuel ratio sensors for precise mixture control. The rear bank (bank 2) upstream sensor can become contaminated or develop response delays, especially if the engine has been running rich for some time. This creates a feedback loop where the sensor's inaccurate reading causes even more fuel enrichment. Replacement costs $180–$350 at an Acura dealer, or $130–$260 at an independent Honda specialist.
3. Fuel Injector Issues
The J35Y6 uses port fuel injection with six individual injectors. The rear bank injectors (cylinders 1, 3, 5) can develop tip deposits or seal leaks over time. A leaking injector allows fuel to seep into the cylinder when the engine is off, creating a rich start-up condition that persists. Professional injector cleaning costs $120–$240; replacement runs $60–$110 per injector plus labor.
4. EVAP Canister Purge Solenoid
Honda/Acura vehicles have documented cases of the canister purge solenoid sticking open, allowing unmetered fuel vapor to enter the intake. The vapor enriches the air-fuel mixture beyond what the fuel trim system can correct. This is an inexpensive fix — the solenoid costs $35–$70 and labor runs $80–$150.
Diagnostic Steps
- Scan for all DTCs — look for EVAP codes (P0441, P0497) alongside P0175
- Check fuel trim data — LTFT bank 2 below -10% confirms consistent rich correction
- Inspect and clean the MAF sensor as the first troubleshooting step
- Monitor O2 sensor voltage on bank 2 — it should oscillate between 0.1V and 0.9V
- Check fuel pressure at the Schrader valve — J35 spec is 47–54 psi at idle
- Test the EVAP purge solenoid by applying 12V and listening for the click
Can You Drive With P0175?
Short-term driving is fine for the MDX as a family SUV. However, many MDX owners use their vehicle for daily commuting and road trips. A rich condition increases fuel costs and, more importantly, threatens the catalytic converters. The 2022 MDX has three cats that cost $800–$1,800 each at Acura dealer pricing. Resolve P0175 within a week or two.
Acura Dealer vs Independent
Acura dealer labor rates run $140–$190 per hour versus $100–$140 at independent shops. For P0175, most repairs don't require proprietary Acura diagnostic tools beyond what a well-equipped Honda specialist has. The J35 engine shares parts with Honda Pilot and Odyssey, keeping aftermarket part costs reasonable. Check warranty coverage first — the 2022 MDX may still be within the 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty.