The vinyl portion on the driver’s side seatback has cracked and begun to delaminate and peel from the backing for the third time. It should be noted that this is in an area where it is impossible not to rub one’s backside against when getting into the vehicle. I first noticed this at around 20,000 miles; the dealer replaced the seatback. Less than 10,000 miles later the same damage occurred. The dealer again replaced the seatback. Then again at about 40,000 miles my third seatback delaminated and began to peel. This time the dealer and factory rep refused to acknowledge this as a valid warranty item, claiming that this was “normal’ wear brought on by sliding into the seat (How else does one get into a car seat?).
I should point out that I am an average size person (5’8”, 174 lbs). This is not a work vehicle and the clothing I wear is not rough or abrasive; consequently there was nothing unusual which might cause excessive wear. Additionally, I also own a 2005 Acura TL, which I drive regularly which shows no signs of this type of damage on its leather seats.
The peeling vinyl is extremely thin which negatively impacts durability. Additionally, the thickness of the vinyl plus its laminated fabric backing feels considerably thinner than the leather on the seating surfaces. As a retired engineer I am acutely aware of some of the cost savings initiatives which manufacturers implement without adequate testing. I suspect that this is one of those cases. Who knows what else they have under designed?
Bottom line, I do not recommend anyone purchase leather seats with their new Acura. This MDX is the 4th Acura I have owned, however given my latest experience, I do not intend to ever purchase another Acura product.