that all tires, including the spare, be removed from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear. The last four digits of the TIN (tire identification number) are found on the sidewall of the tire and indicate Tire the date of manufacture (See Labeling
on page
456
).
417
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:19:02 31STX610 0423
Tires
Tire Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.
Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.
Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use only Acura wheel weights f or balancing.
418
Tire Rotation
Front
Front
(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels)
(For Directional Tires and Wheels)
To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires according to the maintenance messages displayed on the multi-information display. Move the tires to the positions shown in the illustration each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to-back.
Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall).
Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS and vehicle stability assist system (VSA) to work inconsistently.
The ABS works by comparing the speed of the wheels. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the vehicle. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to activate.
When the tires are rotated, make sure the air pressures are checked.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:19:13 31STX610 0424
It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, replace the two front tires or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling.
If you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.
Also be sure you use only TPMS specific wheels. If you do not, the tire pressure monitoring system will not work.
Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.
Installing improper tires on your vehicle can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner’s manual.
Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheel:
18 x 8 J
Tires:
P255/55R18 104H
454
for information about
See page
DOT Tire Quality Grading, and page
456
information.
for tire size and labeling
Tires
Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions.
+
For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.
Snow Tires If you mount snow tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as the original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may be lower than your original tires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.
419
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:19:20 31STX610 0425
Tires
Tire Chains Mount tire chains on your tires when required by driving conditions or local laws. Install them only on the front tires.
Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, Acura strongly recommends using the chains listed below.
SCC Super Z-6 SZ 435
#
When installing chains, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with chains installed. If you hear them contacting the body or chassis, stop and investigate. Make sure the chains are installed tightly, and that they are not contacting the brake lines or suspension. Remove the chains as soon as you start driving on cleared roads.
420
Wheels Clean the wheels as you would the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.
Aluminum alloy wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Cleaning the wheels with harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners) or a stiff brush can damage the clear-coat. To clean the wheels, use a mild detergent and a soft brush or sponge.
Using the wrong chains, or not properly installing chains, can damage the brake lines and cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed.
Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding the selection and use of tire chains.
Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly installed can damage your vehicle’s brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are hitting any part of the vehicle.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:19:28 31STX610 0426
TEST INDICATOR WINDOW
Check the condition of the battery monthly by looking at the test indicator window:
Green White
− −
Black
−
Good condition Liquid level low, replace battery Charging necessary
Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent further corrosion.
If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your dealer or a qualified technician.
Battery posts,
WARNING: terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling.
If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system. Always disconnect the negative ( − reconnect it last.
) cable first, and
Checking the Battery
The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.
A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.
Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled technician do the battery maintenance.
If the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio you will see ‘‘ENTER CODE’’ in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the digit code (see page
235
).
421
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:19:37 31STX610 0427
Vehicle Storage
If you need to park your vehicle for
an extended period (more than 1
month), there are several things you
should do to prepare it for storage.
Proper preparation helps prevent
deterioration and makes it easier to
get your vehicle back on the road. If
possible, store your vehicle indoors.
Fill the fuel tank.
Wash and dry the exterior completely.
Clean the interior. Make sure the carpeting, floor mats, etc., are completely dry.
Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in Park.
422
Block the rear wheels.
If the vehicle is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.
Leave one window open slightly (if the vehicle is being stored indoors).
Disconnect the battery.
Support the front and rear wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.
To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and tailgate seals. Also, apply a vehicle body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and tailgate seals.
Cover the vehicle with a ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Non-porous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.
If possible, periodically run the engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle on and off twice). Preferably, do this once a month.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:19:40 31STX610 0428
Taking Care of the Unexpected
This section covers the more common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your vehicle towed.
...................... .................... ............. ................................ .............. ......... .......... ....... ............... .............................................. ..............................
Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If the Engine Won’t Start Jump Starting If the Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Fuses Fuse Locations Opening the Fuel Fill Door
Manually
Emergency Towing If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck
.................................... ...................... ..........
. 424
. 425
. 431
. 432
. 434
. 436
. 436
. 437
. 438
. 439
. 443
. 446
. 446
. 447
423
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:19:49 31STX610 0429
Compact Spare Tire
Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle as soon as you can.
Check the inflation pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )
Follow these precautions:
Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).
This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road surfaces. Use greater caution while driving.
424
Do not mount snow chains on a compact spare.
Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.
INDICATOR LOCATION MARK
After the flat tire is replaced with the spare tire, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator stays on. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the spare, this indicator begins to flash, then stays on again. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page
354
).
TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR
Replace the tire when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement should be the same size and design tire, mounted on the same wheel. The spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the spare wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:19:57 31STX610 0430
If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.
CARGO AREA FLOOR
Changing a Flat Tire
JACK
The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.
Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.
1.
Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in Park. Apply the parking brake.
TOOLS
SPARE TIRE
2.
Turn on the hazard warning lights, and turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle while you change the tire.
3.
Open the tailgate.
4.
Push the rear edge of the handle to raise the handle loop and pull up the loop to raise the cargo area floor.
CONTINUED
425
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:20:03 31STX610 0431
Changing a Flat Tire
PLASTIC COVER
KNOB
COVER
5.
The tools and jack are under the cargo area behind a cover on the driver’s side. Remove the cover by turning the knobs counterclockwise, then pulling out the cover.
6.
Turn the jack’s end bracket counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the jack.
7.
The spare tire is stored underneath the rear cargo area. Remove the plastic cover on the cargo area lining to access the shaft for the spare tire hoist.
426
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:20:12 31STX610 0432
WHEEL NUT WRENCH
WHEEL NUT WRENCH
Changing a Flat Tire
The wheel nut wrench supplied with your vehicle is specially adapted to f it the hoist shaf t. Do not use any other tool.
8.
Put the wheel nut wrench on the hoist shaft. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to lower the spare tire to the ground.
BRACKET
9.
Keep turning the wheel nut wrench to create slack in the cable.
11.
Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn with the wheel nut wrench.
10.
Remove the bracket from the spare tire.
CONTINUED
427
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:20:19 31STX610 0433
Changing a Flat Tire
EXTENSION
JACKING POINT
WHEEL NUT WRENCH
BRAKE HUB
12.
Place the jack under the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.
13.
Use the extension and the wheel nut wrench as shown to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.
14.
Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire.
15.
Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully; it may be hot from driving.
428
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:20:27 31STX610 0434
16.
Put on the spare tire. Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel nut wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten the wheel nuts fully.
17.
Lower the vehicle to the ground, and remove the jack.
Changing a Flat Tire
20.
Place the flat tire face up under the hoist.
21.
Insert the hoist bracket into the center hole of the flat tire.
18.
Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 94 lbf·ft (127 N·m , 13 kgf·m)
19.
Remove the center cap from the flat tire.
CONTINUED
429
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:20:33 31STX610 0435
Changing a Flat Tire
WHEEL NUT WRENCH
Always raise the spare tire hoist, even if you are not stowing a tire. If the hoist is lef t down, it will be damaged during driving and need to be replaced.
24.
Store the jack in its holder. Turn the jack’s end bracket to lock it in place. Store the tools, and install the cover.
Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.
Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.
25.
Refer to TPMS
Changing a Tire with (see page
355
).
22.
Slowly turn the wheel nut wrench clockwise to take up the slack of the hoist cable. Make sure the bracket is seated in the center hole of the flat tire.
23.
Turn the wheel nut wrench clockwise until the flat tire rests against the underbody of the vehicle and you hear the hoist click.
430
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:20:44 31STX610 0436
If the Engine Won(cid:146)t Start
Diagnosing why the engine won’t start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position:
You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engine’s starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.
You can hear the starter motor operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.
Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly When you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound, a series of clicks, or nothing at all.
Check these things:
Check the transmission interlock. The transmission must be in Park or neutral or the starter will not operate.
Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. Turn on the headlights, and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or do not come on at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting
on page
432
Turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position. If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is probably something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified technician to determine the problem. See Emergency Towing
on page
446
If the headlights dim noticeably or
go out when you try to start the
engine, either the battery is
discharged or the connections are
corroded. Check the condition of
the battery and terminal connec-
tions (see page
then try jump starting the vehicle
from a booster battery (see page
432
). You can
421
).
The Starter Operates Normally In this case, the starter motor’s speed sounds normal, or even faster than normal, when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, but the engine does not run.
Are you using a properly coded key? An improperly coded key will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the instrument panel to blink rapidly (see page ).
70
CONTINUED
431
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:20:54 31STX610 0437
If the Engine Won(cid:146)t Start, Jump Starting
Jump Starting Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.
A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriously injuring anyone nearby.
Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.
You cannot start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it.
ToJumpStartYourVehicle: 1.
Open the hood, and check the physical condition of the battery. In very cold weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or frozen, do not try jump starting until it thaws.
If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can f reeze. Attempting to jump start with a f rozen battery can cause it to rupture.
2.
Turn off all the electrical acces- sories: heater, A/C, climate control, audio system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in neutral or Park, and set the parking brake.
Are you using the proper starting
Starting the
procedure? Refer to
Engine
339
on page
Do you have fuel? Check the fuel gauge; the warning indicator may not be working.
There may be an electrical problem, such as no power to the fuel pump. Check all the fuses (see page
440
).
If you find nothing wrong, you will need a qualified technician to find the problem. See Towing on page
Emergency
446
432
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:21:02 31STX610 0438
Jump Starting
5.
6.
7.
If the booster battery is in another vehicle, have an assistant start that vehicle and run it at a fast idle.
Start your vehicle. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check that the jumper cables have good metal-to-metal contact.
Once the vehicle is running, disconnect the negative cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your vehicle, and then from the booster battery.
Keep the ends of the jumper cables away from each other and any metal on the vehicle until everything is disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.
433
4.
−
Connect the second jumper cable to the negative ( ) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the grounding strap as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine.
BOOSTER BATTERY
The numbers in the illustration show you the order to connect the jumper cables.
3.
+
Connect one jumper cable to the positive ( ) terminal on your vehicle’s battery. Connect the other end to the positive ( terminal on the booster battery.
+
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:21:09 31STX610 0439
If the Engine Overheats
The pointer of your vehicle’s temperature gauge should stay in the midrange under most conditions. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason (hot day, driving up a steep hill, etc.).
If the vehicle overheats, you should take immediate action. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood.
Driving with the temperature gauge pointer at the red mark can cause serious damage to the engine.
434
Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you.
Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.
1.
2.
3.
Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Park, and set the parking brake. Turn off the all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning indicators.
If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.
If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading, the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint, then continue driving.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:21:18 31STX610 0440
4.
If the temperature gauge stays at the red mark, turn off the engine.
5.
6.
7.
Look for any obvious coolant leaks,
such as a split radiator hose.
Everything is still extremely hot,
so use caution. If you find a leak, it
must be repaired before you
Emergency
continue driving (see
Towing
).
446
on page
If you do not find an obvious leak, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Add coolant if the level is below the MIN mark.
If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may need to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the pointer reaches the middle of the tempera- ture gauge, or lower, before check- ing the radiator.
Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.
8.
Using gloves or a large heavy cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pushing down, to the first stop. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap, and turn it until it comes off.
If the Engine Overheats
9.
Start the engine and set the climate control to AUTO at ‘‘Hi.’’ Add coolant to the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. If you do not have the proper coolant mixture available, you can add plain water. Remember to have the cooling system drained and refilled with the proper mixture as soon as you can.
10.
Put the radiator cap back on tightly. Run the engine, and check the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair (see Towing on page
Emergency
446
).
11.
If the temperature stays normal, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. If it has gone down, add coolant to the MAX mark. Put the cap back on tightly.
435
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:21:28 31STX610 0441
Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System Indicator
1.
2.
3.
4.
Low Oil Pressure Indicator
This indicator should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing or stays on, the oil pressure has dropped very low or lost pressure. Serious engine damage is possible, and you should take immediate action.
You will also see a ‘‘CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL’’ message on the multi-information display when this indicator comes on.
Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn of f the engine as soon as you can saf ely get the vehicle stopped.
436
Safely pull off the road, and shut off the engine. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.
Let the vehicle sit for a minute. Open the hood, and check the oil level (see page ). An engine very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.
326
If necessary, add oil to bring the level back to the full mark on the dipstick (see page
393
).
Start the engine, and watch the oil
pressure indicator. If it does not go
out within 10 seconds, turn off the
engine. There is a mechanical
problem that needs to be repaired
before you can continue driving
(see
446
Emergency Towing ).
on page
Charging System Indicator
If the charging system indicator comes on brightly when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged.
You will also see a ‘‘CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page
81
).
Immediately turn off all electrical accessories. Try not to use other electrically operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running; starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.
Go to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:21:36 31STX610 0442
If this indicator comes on while driving, it means one
of the engine’s emissions control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your vehicle’s performance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause increased emissions. Continued operation may cause serious damage.
If you have recently refueled your vehicle, the indicator coming on could be due to a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Tighten the cap until it clicks at least once. Tightening the cap will not turn the indicator off immediately; it can take several days of normal driving.
If the indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving, have your vehicle checked by the dealer as soon as possible.
If you keep driving with the malf unction indicator lamp on, you can damage your vehicle’s emissions controls and engine. Those repairs may not be covered by your vehicle’s warranties.
You will also see a ‘‘CHECK EMISSION SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page
81
).
Readiness Code Your vehicle has certain ‘‘readiness codes’’ that are part of the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems. In some states, part of the emissions testing is to make sure
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
these codes are set. If they are not set, the test cannot be completed.
If the battery in your vehicle has been disconnected or gone dead, these codes may be erased. It takes several days of driving under various conditions to set the codes again.
To check if they are set, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, without starting the engine. The malfunction indicator lamp will come on for 20 seconds. If it then goes off, the readiness codes are set. If it blinks five times, the readiness codes are not set. If possible, do not take your vehicle for an emissions test until the readiness codes are set. Emissions Testing Refer to more information (see page
for
463
).
437
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:21:44 31STX610 0443
Brake System Indicator
If the fluid level is low, take your vehicle to a dealer, and have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.
However, if the brake pedal does not feel normal, you should take immediate action. A problem in one part of the system’s dual circuit design will still give you braking at two wheels. You will feel the brake pedal go down much farther before the vehicle begins to slow down, and you will have to press harder on the pedal.
You will also see a ‘‘CHECK BRAKE
SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-
information display (see page
81
).
Slow down by shifting to a lower
gear, and pull to the side of the road
when it is safe. Because of the long
distance needed to stop, it is
hazardous to drive the vehicle. You
should have it towed, and repaired as
soon as possible (see
Towing
446
Emergency ).
on page
If you must drive the vehicle a short distance in this condition, drive slowly and carefully.
If the ABS indicator and the VSA system indicator come on with the brake system indicator, have your vehicle inspected by your dealer immediately.
U.S.
Canada
The brake system indicator normally comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and as a reminder to check the parking brake. It will stay on if you do not fully release the parking brake.
If the brake system indicator comes on while driving, the brake fluid level is probably low. Press lightly on the brake pedal to see if it feels normal. If it does, check the brake fluid level the next time you stop at a service station (see page
401
).
You will also see a ‘‘LOW BRAKE FLUID’’ message on the multi- information display (see page
81
).
438
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:21:53 31STX610 0444
INTERIOR
LID
REAR
LID
UNDER-HOOD (PRIMARY)
TAB
Fuses
The vehicle’s fuses are located in four fuse boxes.
The rear fuse box is located at the left side of cargo area.
UNDER-HOOD (SECONDARY)
The interior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver’s side.
To remove the fuse box lid, put your finger in the notch on the lid, pull it toward you, and take it out of its hinges.
The primary under-hood fuse box is located next to the battery. The secondary fuse box is on the passenger’s side.
To open it, push the tabs as shown.
TAB
439
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:22:00 31STX610 0445
Fuses
FUSE
BLOWN
BLOWN
444
Checking and Replacing Fuses
If something electrical in your
vehicle stops working, the first thing
you should check for is a blown fuse.
Determine from the chart on pages
, or the diagram
443
on the fuse box lid, which fuse or
fuses control that device. Check
those fuses first, but check all the
fuses before deciding that a blown
fuse is the cause. Replace any blown
fuses, and check if the device works.
, and
445
1.
Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position. Make sure the headlights and all other accessories are off.
2.
Remove the cover from the fuse box.
3.
Check each of the large fuses in the under-hood fuse boxes by looking through the top at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screwdriver.
440
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:22:07 31STX610 0446
BLOWN
FUSE PULLER
4.
Check the smaller fuses in the under-hood fuse boxes and rear fuse box, and all the fuses in the interior and rear fuse boxes by pulling out each one with the fuse puller provided in the primary under-hood fuse box.
5.
Look for a burned wire inside the fuse. If it is burned out, replace it with one of the spare fuses of the same rating or lower.
Fuses
If you cannot drive the vehicle without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the accessory power socket or radio).
If you replace the blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating, it might blow out again. This does not indicate anything wrong. Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating as soon as you can.
CONTINUED
441
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:22:11 31STX610 0447
If the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio you will see ‘‘ENTER CODE’’ in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the digit code (see page
235
).
Fuses
Replacing a f use with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the electrical system. If you do not have a replacement f use with the proper rating f or the circuit, install one with a lower rating.
6.
If the replacement fuse of the same rating blows in a short time, there is probably a serious electrical problem with your vehicle. Leave the blown fuse in that circuit, and have your vehicle checked by a qualified technician.
442
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:22:18 31STX610 0448
PRIMARY UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX
No.
Amps.
Circuits Protected
No.
Amps.
Circuits Protected
Fuse Locations
− − − − − −
120 A − − − 30 A 40 A 40 A 40 A
−
40 A
− −
− 60 A
−
40 A
−
60 A
Main fuse Not Used Not Used Not Used Rear Blower Motor ABS VSA Trailer Main Power Seats, Driver’s Position Memory System, Subwoofer Front Heated Seat, TPMS, Moonroof, Driver’s Lumber Support Not Used Fog Lights, Front Blower Motor Headlights, Daytime Running Lights Cooling Fan, Condenser Fan, MG Clutch, Headlight Washer Ignition Switch Main
*
50 A
− : Canadian model *
− −
50 A 60 A
− −
10
11
12
13
14
15
30 A − 40 A
− − 30 A 30 A 7.5 A 15 A 15 A 20 A 20 A 20 A 20 A
Power Window SH-AWD®, Power Tailgate Open/Closer, Rear ACC Socket, Cargo Area Light, Rear Defroster ECU (PCM) Not Used Audio, Door Lock, Interior Lights Not Used Not Used Active Damper Control Unit Audio Amplifier Rear Entertainment System Hazard Horn, Stop ABS VSA Trailer (Brake) Rear Heated Seat A/C Inverter
443
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:22:27 31STX610 0449
Fuse Locations
SECONDARY UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX
No.
Amps.
Circuits Protected
REAR FUSE BOX
7.5 A 30 A 7.5 A 15 A 15 A 15 A 15 A 40 A 20 A 30 A 30 A 30 A 7.5 A 15 A 15 A 7.5 A
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
22
: Canadian model
Small Lights (Exterior) Headlight Low Main Cooling Fan Timer IGP IG Coil DBW AFHT Front Blower Motor Fog lights Headlight Washer Condenser Fan Cooling Fan MG Clutch Left Headlight Low Right Headlight Low Small Lights (Interior)
*
*
No.
Amps.
Circuits Protected
10
11
− − − − 10 A 20 A − 10 A 30 A 30 A 40 A
Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Rear ACC Socket Power Tailgate Not Used Cargo Area Light SH-AWD® Rear Defroster Power Tailgate
No. Amps.
Circuits Protected
10 A 10 A
10 A 10 A
Left Daytime Running Light Right Daytime Running Light Left Headlight High Right Headlight High
444
2008 MDX 07/07/09 10:22:38 31STX610 0450
INTERIOR FUSE BOX
No.
Amps.
Circuits Protected
No. Amps.
Circuits Protected
Fuse Locations
Auxiliary
No.
Amps.
Circuits Protected
7.5 A 10 A
10 A 20 A 10 A
TPMS Driver’s Lumber Support Motor Moonroof Front Heated Seats Audio
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
7.5 A 10 A 20 A 15 A 15 A 30 A 10 A 20 A 20 A 20 A 20 A 20 A 10 A 20 A 7.5 A
7.5 A
Interior Light Interior Light, Moonroof Door Lock ACC Socket IG Coil Windshield Wiper Subwoofer Passenger’s Power Recline Driver’s Power Slide Telescope Steering Wheel Driver’s Power Recline Passenger’s Power Slide Alternator Fuel Pump SH-AWD® , Active Damper Control Unit Gauges
SRS Not Used Left Rear Power Window Right Rear Power Window Passenger’s Power Window Driver’s Power Window Tilt Steering Wheel ABS VSA A/C Headlight Auto Leveling, Rear Wiper, Windshield/ Rear Washer ACC Not Used
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
10 A − 20 A 20 A 30 A 30 A 20 A 10 A 10 A
15 A
10 A −
Auxiliary
No.
Amps.
Circuits Protected
7.5 A 7.5 A
Starter DIAG STS