2022-2026 Acura MDX Rear Fender Strake: Understanding the Baffle Plate (74475-TYA-A00)
This small but important plastic shield, often called a strake or baffle plate, protects your MDX's undercarriage and affects aerodynamics; here's what to know before you buy a replacement.
- This part is NOT the full fender liner; it's a small, rigid plastic deflector called a 'strake' or 'baffle plate' for the rear passenger side.
- Failure is always from physical damage (e.g., hitting curbs or debris) and results in scraping noises or the part hanging loose.
- The OEM part number is 74475-TYA-A00 and it is very inexpensive, costing around $10-$15 new.
- Replacement is extremely easy, requiring only a few screws and a few minutes, making it a simple DIY fix.
Symptoms of a Damaged or Missing Fender Strake
Since this is a simple, non-electronic part, failure is always due to physical damage. You won't see any warning lights or receive any diagnostic trouble codes.
- Scraping or Rubbing Noises: The most common symptom is a noise from the rear of the vehicle. If the strake is partially detached, it may scrape against the road on bumps or flap against the tire or underbody at speed.
- Visible Damage: A visual inspection is the best diagnostic tool. Look under the car in front of the rear passenger-side wheel. You may see the part hanging down, cracked, or missing entirely. It is commonly damaged by hitting curbs, road debris, or large speed bumps.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of mid-2026, there are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Acura related to the rear fender strake (74475-TYA-A00) for the 2022-2026 MDX. Most issues with this part are isolated incidents of physical damage rather than a design or manufacturing flaw.
However, a TSB (24-025) was issued in June 2024 for the 2022-2023 MDX regarding a grinding or screeching noise from the rear wheels. This issue is caused by debris getting caught between the metal brake dust shield and the brake rotor, not the plastic fender strake. The fix involves installing updated rear dust shields. 🎬 Watch this video detailing the Acura rear brake noise TSB. It's important to distinguish this metallic grinding from the plastic scraping sound a damaged strake would make.
Pro Tip: The term "splash shield" can be confusing. It is often used to describe the large, flexible fender liner inside the wheel well, smaller engine splash shields under the car, or even mud flaps. The part covered here, 74475-TYA-A00, is specifically the small, rigid "strake" or "baffle plate" for the rear right side.
Buying a Used 2022-2026 MDX Fender Strake
A used OEM strake is an excellent, cost-effective replacement. Because it's a simple plastic part, a used one in good condition is functionally identical to a new one. Aftermarket versions are not common for this specific, small part. When buying used, focus on the physical condition.
What to Inspect:
- Check All Mounting Points: This is the most critical inspection. Ensure all the holes where screws or clips attach are intact and not cracked or broken. A strake with a broken mounting point will not attach securely and will fail again quickly.
- Look for Cracks: Inspect the entire body of the part for cracks, especially around the edges and mounting holes. Even a small crack can propagate and cause the part to break apart while driving.
- Verify Part Number: If possible, confirm the part number is 74475-TYA-A00. This ensures you have the correct piece for the passenger side. The driver's side will have a different part number (likely 74425-TYA-A00).
Cost Comparison
This is an inexpensive part, making an OEM replacement the logical choice. Labor costs are minimal as it's a very simple installation.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $10 - $15 |
| New Aftermarket | Not commonly available |
| Used OEM | $5 - $10 |
| Shop Labor | $25 - $50 (often part of a minimum 0.5-hour charge) |
Replacement Overview
Replacing the rear fender strake is a straightforward DIY job that should take only a few minutes.
- Difficulty: 1/5 (Beginner)
- Estimated Time: 0.2 hours
- Tools Needed: Phillips screwdriver, possibly a 10mm socket or wrench.
The part is typically held on by a few screws and clips. The process involves removing the fasteners, taking off the old part, and securing the new one in its place. In some cases, you may need to slightly loosen a nearby fastener on the main fender liner to get enough clearance to install the new strake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this part the same as a mud flap?
No. This is an aerodynamic and protective strake located under the vehicle, just ahead of the rear wheel. A mud flap is a separate, optional accessory that hangs vertically behind the wheel to prevent mud and water from splashing 🎬 See how to install rear mudguards on an MDX. onto the car's body and vehicles behind you.
Is there a matching part for the driver's side?
Yes. Part number 74475-TYA-A00 is for the right (passenger) side. A corresponding part exists for the left (driver) side, which would be part number 74425-TYA-A00, following Acura's typical numbering convention.
Can I drive without this part?
Yes, it is safe to drive without this part in the short term. However, if it is damaged and dragging, you should remove it immediately to prevent it from catching on something or damaging the tire. Driving without it for an extended period exposes underbody and suspension components to more debris and moisture, which could lead to other issues over time.
Does this part fit the MDX Type S?
Yes, parts diagrams indicate that 74475-TYA-A00 fits all trim levels of the 2022-2026 Acura MDX, including the Base, SH-AWD, and Type S models. While some larger body panels like the main fender liners can differ between the standard and Type S models, this small strake appears to be universal.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 74475-TYA-A00
Position: Rear Right (Passenger Side). Other Names: Stone Deflector, Baffle Plate, Strake R Rear.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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