Has anyone experienced a loud "thunk" noise upon applying brakes after a shift from reverse to drive (and vice versa) with an MDX? If so, is this normal?

This is normal and is a result of the brake pads shifting inside of the calipers. The clearance between the calipers and brake pads allows the pads to move freely. This is why you notice the thump when changing directions from a stop.

THANK YOU! I ended up calling my dealership to schedule service on this, and they told me exactly the same thing. Thanks for your help!

:iagree: They are a "floating" type caliper/pad. That was the most common complaint among new Honda owners while I worked for Honda. If the customer did not want to beleive us - Honda says to use a business card as shims - this stops the noise until the paper falls out. Why Honda did that is beyond me, kinda stupid - just like their V6 auto tranny.

They're making a shim kit for the rear brakes on the MDX now.