2012 Acura MDX Owners Manual

is a group of numbers and letters that look like the following example. TIN is located on the sidewall of the tire.

DOT B97R FW6X 2202

DOT － This indicates that the tire meets all requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

B97R － Manufacturer's

identification mark.

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Tire Labeling

FW6X － Tire type code.

2202 －

Date of manufacture. Year Week

584

Glossary of Tire Terminology Cold Tire Pressure － The tire air pressure when the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). Load Rating － Means the maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure. Maximum Inflation Pressure － The maximum tire air pressure that the tire can hold. Maximum Load Rating － Means the load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire. Recommended Inflation Pressure － The cold tire inflation pressure recommended by the manufacturer. Treadwear Indicators (TWI) － Means the projections within the principal grooves designed to give a visual indication of the degrees of wear of the tread.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) － Required Federal Explanation

Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.)

As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale

when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure.

Driving on a significantly under- inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) － Required Federal Explanation

Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.

Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly.

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The burning of gasoline in your vehicle's engine produces several byproducts. Some of these are carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline evaporating from the tank also produces hydrocarbons. Controlling the production of NOx, CO, and HC is important to the environment. Under certain conditions of sunlight and climate, NOx and HC react to form photochemical ‘‘smog.’’ Carbon monoxide does not contribute to smog creation, but it is a poisonous gas.

The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Actᤳ sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emissions controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emissions controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 514. ᤳ In Canada, Acura vehicles comply with the Canadian emission requirements, as specified in an agreement with Environment Canada, at the time they are manufactured.

Emissions Controls

Crankcase Emissions Control System Your vehicle has a positive crankcase ventilation system. This keeps gasses that build up in the engine's crankcase from going into the atmosphere. The positive crankcase ventilation valve routes them from the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned. Evaporative Emissions Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emissions control canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving.

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Emissions Controls

Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery The onboard refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) system captures the fuel vapors during refueling. The vapors are adsorbed in a canister filled with activated carbon. While driving, the fuel vapors are drawn into the engine and burned off. Exhaust Emissions Controls The exhaust emissions controls include four systems: PGM-FI, ignition timing control, exhaust gas recirculation, and three way catalytic converter. These four systems work together to control the engine's combustion and minimize the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that come out the tailpipe. The exhaust emissions control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emissions control systems.

588

PGM-FISystem The PGM-FI system uses sequential multiport fuel injection. It has three subsystems: air intake, engine control, and fuel control. The powertrain control module (PCM) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operating conditions. IgnitionTimingControlSystem This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO, and NOx produced. ExhaustGasRecirculation(EGR) System The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system takes some of the exhaust gas and routes it back into the intake manifold. Adding exhaust gas to the air/fuel mixture reduces the amount of NOx produced when the fuel is burned.

ThreeWayCatalyticConverter The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2), and water vapor. Replacement Parts The emissions control systems are designed and certified to work together in reducing emissions to levels that comply with the Clean Air Act. To make sure the emissions remain low, you should use only new Acura replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your vehicle. The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your vehicle. Read your warranty manual for more information.

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Three Way Catalytic Converter

The three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Acura part or its equivalent. The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any combustible materials that come near it. Park your vehicle away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables.

WARM UP THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTERS ● Keep the engine well maintained. ● Have your vehicle diagnosed and

repaired if it is misfiring, backfiring, stalling, or otherwise not running properly.

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's performance. Follow these guidelines to protect your vehicle's three way catalytic converter. ● Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective.

589

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

4. Without touching the accelerator pedal, start the engine, and let it idle for 20 seconds.

5. Keep the vehicle in Park. Increase the engine speed to 2,000 rpm, and hold it there until the temperature gauge rises to at least 1/4 of the scale (about 3 minutes).

6. Without touching the accelerator

pedal, let the engine idle for 20
seconds.

If the testing facility determines that the readiness codes are not set, you will be requested to return at a later date to complete the test. If you must get the vehicle retested within the next two or three days, you can condition the vehicle for retesting by doing the following. 1. Make sure the gas tank is nearly,

but not completely, full (around 3/4).

2. Make sure the vehicle has been parked with the engine off for 6
hours or more.

3. Make sure the ambient

temperature is between 40° and 95°F (4° and 35°C).

Emissions Testing

Testing of Readiness Codes If you take your vehicle for an emissions test shortly after the battery has been disconnected or gone dead, it may not pass the test. This is because of certain ‘‘readiness codes’’ that must be set in the on- board diagnostics for the emissions systems. These codes are erased when the battery is disconnected, and set again only after several days of driving under a variety of conditions.

590

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Emissions Testing

8. Then drive in city/suburban traffic

for at least 10 minutes. When traffic conditions allow, let the vehicle coast for several seconds without using the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal.

9. Make sure the vehicle has been parked with the engine off for 30
minutes.

If the testing facility determines the readiness codes are still not set, see your dealer.

7. Select a nearby lightly traveled major highway where you can maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph (80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20
minutes. Drive on the highway in D. Do not use the cruise control. When traffic allows, drive for 90
seconds without moving the accelerator pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary slightly; this is okay.) If you cannot do this for a continuous 90 seconds because of traffic conditions, drive for at least 30
seconds, then repeat it two more times (for a total of 90 seconds).

591

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592

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Warranty and Client Relations

Client Service Information........... 594
Warranty Coverages ................... 595
Reporting Safety Defects............. 596
Authorized Manuals.................... 597

593

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Canadian Owners: Honda Canada Inc. Acura Client Services 180 Honda Boulevard Markham, ON L6C 0H9

Tel: 1-888-9-ACURA-9
Fax: 1-877-939-0909
E-Mail: [email protected] In Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands: Vortex Motor Corp. Bella International P.O. Box 190816
San Juan, PR 00919-0816

Tel: (787) 620-7546

When you call or write, please give us this information: ● Vehicle Identification Number (see

page 576)

● Name and address of the dealer

who services your vehicle

● Date of purchase ● Odometer reading of your vehicle ● Your name, address, and

telephone number

● A detailed description of the

problem

● Name of the dealer who sold the

vehicle to you

Client Service Information

Acura dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership's management. The service manager or general manager can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way. If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact Acura Client Relations. U.S. Owners: American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Acura Client Relations Mail Stop 500-2N-7E 1919 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501-2746

Tel: (800) 382-2238

594

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

RustPerforationLimitedWarranty－ all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit. AccessoryLimitedWarranty－ Acura accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details. ReplacementPartsLimitedWarranty － covers all Acura replacement parts against defects in materials and workmanship.

U.S. Owners Your new vehicle is covered by these warranties: NewVehicleLimitedWarranty－ covers your new vehicle, except for the emissions control systems, and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship. EmissionsControlSystemsDefects WarrantyandEmissions PerformanceWarranty－ these two warranties cover your vehicle's emissions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read your warranty booklet for exact information. SeatBeltLimitedWarranty－ a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered by a limited warranty. Please read your warranty booklet for details.

Warranty Coverages

ReplacementBatteryLimited Warranty－ provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from your dealer. ReplacementMufflerLifetime LimitedWarranty－ provides coverage for as long as the purchaser of the muffler owns the vehicle. Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 2012 Acura warranty information booklet that came with your vehicle for precise information on warranty coverages. Your vehicle's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty information is in a separate booklet. Canadian Owners Please refer to the 2012 warranty manual that came with your vehicle.

595

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Reporting Safety Defects

In the US If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

In Canada If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform Honda Canada Inc. and you may also inform Transport Canada.

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

If Transport Canada receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may lead to a recall and remedy campaign. However, Transport Canada cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Honda Canada Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to http://www.safercar.gov; or write to: Administrator, NHTSA, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from http://www.safercar.gov.

To contact Transport Canada's Defect Investigations and Recalls Division, you may call 1-800-333-0510. For more information on reporting safety defects or about motor vehicle safety, go to http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety.

596

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only) The publications shown below can be purchased from Helm Incorporated. You can order by phone or online:

● Call Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356 (credit card orders only)

● Go online at www. helminc. com If you are interested in other years or models, contact Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356.

Publication

Form Number

61STX05
61STX03EL

61STX30
31STX650
31STX850

31STXM50
31STXQ50

ACU-R

Form Description

2010-2012 Acura MDX Service Manual

2010-2011 Acura MDX

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual

2008 Acura MDX Body Repair Manual

2012 Acura MDX Owner's Manual

2012 Acura MDX

Navigation System Owner's Manual 2012 Acura MDX Maintenance Journal

2012 Acura MDX Advance Technology Guide

Order Form for Previous Years Indicate Year and Model Desired

Authorized Manuals

Service Manual: Covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the journeyman mechanic, but it is simple enough for most mechanically inclined owners to understand. Electrical Troubleshooting Manual: Complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your vehicle. Body Repair Manual: Describes the procedures involved in the replacement of damaged body parts.

597

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Accessories and

Modifications .......................... 431

ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

Position) ................................. 139
Accessory Power Sockets .......... 177
AC Power Outlet ........................ 178
Active Damper System ............... 484
Active Head Restraints ............... 152
AcuraLink® (U.S. models

only) ....................................... 402

Adaptive Cruise Control

(ACC) ..................................... 348
Additives, Engine Oil ................. 518
Adjusting the Steering Wheel .... 134
Advanced Airbags ........................ 31
Airbag (SRS) .......................... 10, 27
Air Conditioning System ............ 182
Rear A/C Control .................... 187
Air Outlets (Vents) ..................... 189
Air Pressure, Tires .............. 540, 541
Alcohol in Gasoline .................... 422
Antifreeze ................................... 520

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Indicator ............................ 70, 462
Operation ................................ 461
Anti-theft, Audio System ............. 308
Anti-theft Steering Column

Lock ....................................... 139
Audio System ...................... 192, 212
Automatic Climate Control ......... 183
Automatic Lighting Off

Feature ................................... 131
Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners ... 23
Automatic Speed Control ........... 345
Automatic Transmission ............ 443
Capacity, Fluid ........................ 578
Checking Fluid Level .............. 523
Driving with the Paddle

Shifters ................................ 447
Shifting ................................... 444
Shift Lever Position

Indicators ............................ 443
Shift Lever Positions ............... 444
Shift Lock Release ................... 446
Auxiliary Input Jack ................... 307

Index

Battery

Charging System

Indicator ........................ 69, 562
Jump Starting .......................... 558
Maintenance ........................... 547
Specifications .......................... 579
Before Driving ........................... 421
Belts, Seat ................................ 9, 21
Beverage Holders ...................... 174
Blind Spot Information System

(BSI) ...................................... 476
Bluetooth® Audio ....................... 298
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®

(Models with navigation

system) ............................... 383

Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®

(Models without navigation

system) ............................... 365
Booster Seats ............................... 58

CONTINUED

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Index

Brakes

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) ........... 461
Break-in, New Linings ............. 422
Fluid ....................................... 525
Parking ................................... 164
System Design ........................ 461
System Indicator ............... 69, 564
Wear Indicators ....................... 461
Braking System .......................... 460
Break-in, New Vehicle ................ 422
Brightness Control,

Instruments ............................ 133

Bulb Replacement

Back-up Lights ................ 531, 532
Front Parking Lights ............... 529
Front Side Marker Lights ........ 529
Headlights .............................. 527
High-mount Brake Light ......... 533
Rear Bulbs .............................. 531
Rear License Plate Lights ........ 533
Specifications .......................... 579
Taillights ................................. 531
Bulbs, Halogen .......................... 527

II

Capacities Chart ......................... 578
Carbon Monoxide Hazard ............ 61
Cargo ......................................... 433
Cargo Hooks .............................. 437
Cargo, How to Carry .................. 433
Carrying Cargo .......................... 433
CAUTION, Explanation of ............. iv CD Care ..................................... 247
CD Error Messages ................... 246
CD Player .................................. 235
Certification Label ...................... 576
Chains, Tires .............................. 546
Changing a Flat Tire .................. 551
Changing Oil

How to .................................... 518
When to .................................. 507

Charging System

Indicator ........................... 69, 562
Checklist, Before Driving ........... 441
Childproof Door Locks ............... 141
Child Safety .................................. 40
Booster Seats ........................... 58
Child Seats .................... 45, 46, 48

Important Safety Reminders ..... 44
Infants ...................................... 45
Larger Children ....................... 57
LATCH ..................................... 50
Risks with Airbags ................... 41
Small Children ......................... 46
Tethers .................................... 54
Warning Labels ........................ 42
Where Should a Child Sit? ........ 41
Child Seats ............................. 40, 48
LATCH Anchorage Points ........ 50
Tether Anchorage Points ......... 54
Cleaning the Seat Belts .............. 534
Client Service Information .......... 594
Climate Control System ............. 182
Clock .......................................... 309
Code, Audio System ................... 308
CO in the Exhaust ................ 61, 587
Cold Weather, Starting in ........... 442
Collision Mitigation Braking

System™ (CMBS™) ............... 463
Compact Spare Tire .................... 550
Compass Operation .................... 342
Console Compartment ............... 175
Consumer Information ............... 594
Controls, Instruments and ............ 65

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Coolant

Adding .................................... 520
Checking ................................ 427
Proper Solution ....................... 520
Temperature Gauge ................. 78

Crankcase Emissions Control

System ................................... 587
Cruise Control Indicator ............... 75
Cruise Control Operation ........... 345
Cruise Main Indicator .................. 75
Cup Holders ............................... 174
Customize Settings ...................... 90

DANGER, Explanation of .............. iv Dashboard ............................... 3, 66
Daytime Running Lights ............ 130
Dead Battery .............................. 558
Defogger, Rear Window ............. 132
Defrosting the Windows ............ 186
Dimensions ................................ 578
Dimming the Headlights ............ 128
Dipstick

Automatic Transmission ......... 523

Engine Oil ............................... 427
Directional Signals ............... 71, 128
Disc Brake Wear Indicators ....... 461
Disc Care ................................... 247
Disc Changer ............................. 203
Disc Changer Error

Messages ............................... 211
Disc Player .......................... 203, 235
Disc Player Error Messages ...... 246
Disposal of Used Oil ................... 519
Doors

Childproof Door Locks ............ 141
Indicator ................................... 12
Locking and Unlocking ........... 140
Lockout Prevention ................. 141

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S.

Vehicles) ................................ 581
Driver and Passenger Safety .......... 5
Driving ....................................... 439
Economy ................................. 428
Driving Guidelines ..................... 440
Driving Position Memory

System ................................... 168

Driving with the Paddle

Shifters ................................... 447
Dust and Pollen Filter ................ 534

Index

DVD Player ................................ 313
DVD Player Error Messages ...... 337

Economy, Fuel ........................... 428
Emergencies on the Road .......... 549
Battery, Jump Starting ............. 558
Brake System Indicator ..... 69, 564
Changing a Flat Tire ............... 551
Charging System

Indicator ........................ 69, 562
Checking the Fuses ................ 566
Driving with a Flat Tire ........... 551
Hazard Warning Flashers ....... 132
Jump Starting .......................... 558
Low Oil Pressure

Indicator ........................ 69, 562

Malfunction Indicator

Lamp ............................. 69, 563

Opening the Fuel Fill Door

Manually ............................. 572
Overheated Engine ................. 560
Towing .................................... 572
Emergency Brake ...................... 164

CONTINUED III

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Index

Emergency Flashers .................. 132
Emergency Towing .................... 572
Emissions Controls .................... 587
Emissions Testing ...................... 590
Engine

Adding Engine Coolant ........... 520
Check Starting System ............ 443
Coolant Temperature Gauge .... 78
If it Won't Start ........................ 557
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp ............................. 69, 563
Oil Life Indicator ..................... 507
Oil Pressure Indicator ....... 69, 562
Oil, What Kind to Use ............. 517
Overheating ............................ 560
Specifications .......................... 579
Speed Limiter .......................... 446
Starting ................................... 442
Engine Coolant .......................... 520
Ethanol in Gasoline .................... 422
Evaporative Emissions

Controls .................................. 587
Exhaust Fumes ............................ 61
Exhaust Gas Recirculation

System ................................... 588

IV

Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

Belts by .................................... 19

Fan, Interior ............................... 185
Features ..................................... 181
Filters

Dust and Pollen ....................... 534
Oil ........................................... 518
Flashers, Hazard Warning ......... 132
Flat Tire, Changing a ................. 551
Floor Mats ................................. 535
Fluids

Automatic Transmission ......... 523
Brake ...................................... 525
Location .................................. 515
Power Steering ........................ 526
Windshield Washer ................. 522

FM Stereo Radio

Reception ................................ 303
Fog Lights .................................. 130
Folding the Second Seat ............. 153
Folding the Third Seat ............... 154
Four-way Flashers ...................... 132

Front Airbags ......................... 10, 30
Front Seat .................................. 149
Adjusting ................................. 149
Air Ventilation ......................... 158
Heaters ................................... 157
Fuel ............................................ 422
Economy ................................. 428
Fill Door and Cap .................... 424
Gauge ...................................... 78
Low Fuel Indicator ................... 77
Octane Requirement ............... 422
Opening the Fuel Fill Door

Manually ............................. 572
Reserve Indicator ..................... 77
Tank, Filling the ...................... 424
Tighten Fuel Cap .................... 425
Fuel Economy ............................ 428
Fuses, Checking the .................. 566

Gas Mileage, Improving ............. 429
Gasoline ..................................... 422
Gauge ...................................... 78
Low Fuel Indicator ................... 77

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Index

Octane Requirement ............... 422
Tank, Refueling ....................... 424
Gas Station Procedures .............. 424
Gauges

Engine Coolant Temperature ... 78
Fuel .......................................... 78
Speedometer ............................ 78
Tachometer .............................. 78

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight

Rating) ................................... 488

GCWR (Gross Combined Weight

Rating) ................................... 488

Gearshift Lever Positions

Automatic

Transmission ............... 443, 444
Glove Box .................................. 175
Gross Axle Weight Rating

(GAWR) ................................. 488

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

(GVWR) ................................. 488

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight

Rating) ................................... 488

Halogen Headlight Bulbs ........... 527
Hazard Warning Flashers .......... 132
Headlights ................................. 128
Aiming .................................... 527
Automatic Lighting Off ............ 131
Daytime Running Lights ......... 130
High Beam Indicator ................ 74
High Beams, Turning on ......... 128
Lights On Indicator .................. 74
Low Beams, Turning on .......... 128
Reminder Chime ..................... 129
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ........ 527
Turning on .............................. 128
Washers .................................. 127
Headphones ............................... 338
Head Restraints .......................... 150
Heated Mirror ............................ 167
Heaters, Seats ............................ 157
Heating and Cooling .................. 182
High Altitude, Starting at ............ 442
High Beam Lever ................ 128, 129
High-Low Beam Switch .............. 128

HomeLink® Universal

Transceiver ............................ 363

Hood, Opening and Closing

the .......................................... 426
Horn ...................................... 4, 125

Identification Number,

Vehicle ................................... 576

Ignition

Keys ........................................ 136
Switch ..................................... 139
Timing Control System ........... 588
Immobilizer System ................... 138
Important Safety Precautions ......... 6

CONTINUED

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Index

Indicators, Instrument Panel ........ 67
ABS (Anti-lock Brake) ....... 70, 462
Active Damper System ...... 77, 484
Adaptive Cruise Control

(ACC) ................................... 75
A/T Temp ................................ 72
Blind Spot Information System

(BSI) .................................... 76

Brake (Parking and Brake

System) ......................... 69, 564
Charging System .............. 69, 562
Collision Mitigation Braking

System™ ............................... 75
Cruise Control .......................... 75
Cruise Main ............................. 75
Door and Tailgate Open ........... 76
Fog Lights ................................ 74
High Beam ............................... 74
Key (Immobilizer System) ....... 74
Lights On ................................. 74
Low Fuel .................................. 77
Low Oil Pressure .............. 69, 562
Low Tire Pressure .................... 72
Maintenance MinderTM ........... 507
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp ............................. 69, 563

Passenger Airbag Off ............... 37
Seat Belt Reminder ............. 21, 68
Security System ....................... 77
SH-AWD® ................................. 73
Side Airbag Off .................... 36, 70
SRS ..................................... 36, 70
System Message ................. 73, 86
Tire Pressure Monitor .............. 72
Turn Signal and Hazard

Warning ............................... 71
VSA OFF .................................. 71
VSA System ............................. 71
Individual Map Lights ................ 171
Infant Restraint ............................ 45
Infant Seats .................................. 45
Tether Anchorage Points ......... 54
Inflation, Proper Tire .................. 540
Inside Mirror ............................. 165
Inspection, Tire .......................... 542
Installing a Child Seat .................. 49
Instrument Panel .......................... 67
Instrument Panel Brightness ..... 133
Instruments and Controls ............. 65
Interface Dial ............................. 212
Interior Lights ............................ 170
Introduction ................................... i

iPod® .......................................... 278
iPod® Error Messages ................ 286

Jacking up the Vehicle ............... 551
Jack, Tire ................................... 551
Jump Starting ............................. 558

Keys ........................................... 136

Label, Certification ..................... 576
Lane Change, Signaling ............. 128
Lap/Shoulder Belt ................. 16, 22
LATCH Anchorage System .......... 50
Lights

Indicator ................................... 67
Interior .................................... 170
Parking ................................... 128
Turn Signal ............................. 128

VI

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Index

Load Limit ........................... 434, 487
LOCK (Ignition Key Position) .... 139
Locks

Anti-theft Steering Column ...... 139
Childproof Door ...................... 141
Fuel Fill Door .......................... 424
Glove Box ............................... 175
Lockout Prevention ................. 141
Tailgate ........................... 141, 142
Low Coolant Level ...................... 427
Lower Anchors ............................. 50
Low Fuel Indicator ....................... 77
Low Oil Pressure

Indicator ........................... 69, 562
Lubricant Specifications Chart ... 578
Luggage, Storing (cargo) ........... 433

Maintenance .............................. 505
Main Items and Sub Items ...... 511
Minder .................................... 507
Owner's Maintenance

Checks ................................ 513
Safety ...................................... 506

Schedule ................................. 514

Malfunction Indicator

Lamp ................................ 69, 563
Memory, Driving Position .......... 168
Message Display .......................... 86
Message Indicator ....................... 73
Meters, Gauges ............................ 78
Methanol in Gasoline ................. 422
Mirrors, Adjusting ...................... 166
Modifications ............................. 432
Modifying Your Vehicle ............. 432
Moonroof ................................... 163
Multi-Information Display ............ 79

Neutral Gear Position ................. 445
New Vehicle Break-in ................. 422
NOTICE, Explanation of ................ i Numbers, Identification ............. 576

Octane Requirement,

Gasoline ................................. 422

Oil

Odometer ..................................... 81
Odometer, Trip ............................ 81
Off-Highway Driving

Guidelines .............................. 500

Change, How to ...................... 518
Change, When to .................... 507
Checking Engine .................... 427
Life, Engine ............................. 507
Pressure Indicator ............. 69, 562
Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart ................................... 517
ON (Ignition Key Position) ........ 139
Outside Mirrors ......................... 166
Outside Temperature ................... 82
Overheating, Engine .................. 560
Owner's Maintenance Checks .... 513
Oxygenated Fuels ...................... 422

Panel Brightness Control ........... 133
Park Gear Position ..................... 444
Parking ...................................... 454
Parking Brake ............................ 164

CONTINUED VII

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Index

Parking Brake and Brake System

Indicator ........................... 69, 564
Parking Lights ........................... 128
Parking Over Things that

Burn ................................ 454, 589
Passenger Airbag Off Indicator .... 37
PGM-FI System .......................... 588
Playing a Disc ............................ 235
Playing an iPod® ......................... 278
Playing a USB Flash Memory

Device .................................... 287
Playing Disc ............................... 203
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation

system) ............................... 250

Playing the AM/FM

Radio ............................... 193, 213
Playing the XM® Radio ........ 197, 226
Pollen Filter ............................... 534
Power Seat Adjustments ............ 149
Power Socket Locations ............. 177
Power Steering Fluid ................. 526
Power Windows ......................... 160
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts ........ 19
Preparing to Drive ...................... 441
Proper Seat Belt Usage ................ 16

Protecting Adults and Teens ........ 12
Additional Safety Precautions ... 20
Advice for Pregnant Women .... 19
Protecting Children ...................... 40
General Guidelines .................. 40
Protecting Infants ..................... 45
Protecting Larger Children ...... 57
Protecting Small Children ........ 46
Using Child Seats with

Tethers ................................. 54
Using LATCH .......................... 50

Radiator Overheating ................. 560
Radio/CD Sound System ........... 192
Radio/Disc Sound

System ............................ 193, 213
Radio Theft Protection ............... 308
Readiness Codes ........................ 590
Rear A/C Unit ............................ 187
Rear Audio Control Panel ........... 315
Rear Entertainment System ....... 310
Rear Lights, Bulb

Replacement ........................... 531

Rearview Mirror ......................... 165
Rearview Mirror with Rearview

Camera Display ...................... 417
Rear Window Defogger .............. 132
Rear Window Wiper and

Washer ................................... 127

Recalling a Memorized Driving

Position .................................. 148
Reclining the Seat Backs ............ 149
Reclining the Second Seats ........ 153
Refueling .................................... 424
Reminder Indicators ..................... 68
Remote Audio Controls .............. 305
Remote Control (RES) ............... 334
Remote Transmitter ................... 145
Replacement Information

Dust and Pollen Filter ............. 534
Engine Oil and Filter ............... 518
Fuses ...................................... 565
Schedule ................................. 514
Spark Plugs ............................. 579
Timing Belt ............................. 526
Tires ....................................... 544
Wiper Blades .......................... 536

Replacing Seat Belts After a

Crash ........................................ 25

VIII

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Index

Reporting Safety Defects ............ 596
Reserve Tank, Engine

Coolant ............................ 427, 520
Restraint, Child ............................ 40
Reverse Gear Position ................ 445
Rotation, Tire ............................. 544

Safety Belts .............................. 9, 21
Safety Defects, Reporting ........... 596
Safety Features .............................. 8
Airbags ............................... 10, 27
Door Locks .............................. 12
Head Restraints ........................ 15
Seat Belts ........................ 9, 16, 21
Seats & Seat-Backs .............. 14, 15
Safety Labels, Location of ............. 62
Safety Messages ........................... iv Seat Belt e-pretensioners .............. 24
Seat Belts ................................. 9, 21
Additional Information ............. 21
Advice for Pregnant Women .... 19
Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners ........................... 23

Cleaning .................................. 534
e-pretensioner .......................... 24
Lap/Shoulder Belt .............. 16, 22
Maintenance ............................ 25
Reminder Indicator and

Beeper ............................. 21, 68
System Components ................ 21
Use During Pregnancy ............. 19
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder

Belt .................................. 16, 22

Seat Heaters and Seat

Ventilation .............................. 158
Seats .......................................... 149
Adjusting the Second Seat ....... 153
Air Ventilation ......................... 158
Folding the Second Seat .......... 153
Folding the Third Seat ............ 154
Head Restraints ....................... 150
Heaters ................................... 157
Position Memory .................... 168
Third Row Access ................... 154
Seats, Adjusting the ................... 149
Security System ......................... 341
Security System Indicator ............ 77
Sensors

Driver's Seat Position Sensor ... 31

Front Passenger's Weight

Sensors ................................ 31
Impact Sensors ........................ 27
Serial Number ............................ 576
Service Intervals ......................... 507
Service Station Procedures ........ 424
SH-AWD® ................................... 452
Indicator ................................... 73

Shifting the Automatic

Transmission .......................... 444
Shift Lever Position Indicators ... 443
Shift Lock Release ...................... 446
Side Airbags ................................. 33

How the Side Airbag Off

Indicator Works ................... 36
How Your Side Airbags Work .. 33
Side Curtain Airbags .................... 35

How Your Side Curtain Airbags

Work .................................... 35

Side Marker Lights, Bulb

Replacement in ....................... 529
Signaling Turns ............................ 71
Snow Tires ................................. 546
Sound System ..................... 192, 212

CONTINUED IX

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Index

Spare Tire .................................. 550
Inflating ........................... 540, 550
Specifications .......................... 580
Spark Plugs ................................ 579
Specifications ............................. 578
Speed Control ............................ 345
Speed Limiter ............................. 446
Speedometer ................................ 78
SRS, Additional Information ......... 27
Additional Safety Precautions ... 39
Airbag Service .......................... 38
Airbag System Components ..... 27
How the Side Airbag Off

Indicator Works ................... 36
How the SRS Indicator Works .. 36
How Your Front Airbags

Work .................................... 30
How Your Side Airbags Work .. 33
How Your Side Curtain Airbags

Work .................................... 35
SRS Indicator ......................... 36, 70
START (Ignition Key

Position) ................................. 139
Starting the Engine .................... 442
Auto Control Mode ................. 442

In Cold Weather at High

Altitude ................................ 442
With a Dead Battery ................ 558
State Emissions Testing ............. 590
Steam Coming from Engine ....... 560
Steering Wheel

Adjustments ............................ 134
Anti-theft Column Lock ........... 139
Buttons ........................... 305, 345
Position Memory .................... 168
Stereo Sound System .......... 192, 212
Storage Compartment ................ 175
Storing Your Vehicle .................. 548
Sunglasses Holder ..................... 176
Sun Visor ................................... 176
Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™

(SH-AWD®) System ................ 452

Supplemental Restraint

System ............................ 10, 27
Servicing .................................. 38
SRS Indicator ...................... 36, 70
System Components ................ 27
Synthetic Oil .............................. 518

Tachometer .................................. 78
Tailgate ...................................... 141
Open Indicator ......................... 76
Opening the ............................ 141
Power ...................................... 142
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in ..... 531
Taking Care of the

Unexpected ............................ 549

Technical Descriptions

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S.

Vehicles) ............................. 581
Emissions Control Systems ..... 587
Three Way Catalytic

Converter ............................ 589
Tire Labeling ........................... 583
Tire Pressure Monitoring System

(TPMS) － Required Federal

Explanation ...................... 585
Temperature Gauge ..................... 78
Temperature, Inside Sensor ....... 191
Temperature, Outside .................. 82
Tensioners, Seat Belts .................. 23
Tether Anchorage Points ............. 54

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Theft Protection, Radio .............. 308
Three Way Catalytic

Converter ............................... 589

Tilt/Telescopic Steering

Wheel ..................................... 134
Timing Belt ................................ 526
Tire Chains ................................ 546
Tire, How to Change a Flat ........ 551
Tire Information ......................... 583
Tire Labeling .............................. 583
Tire Pressure Monitoring System

(TPMS) ....................... 455, 585

Low Tire Pressure

Indicator ........................ 72, 455
Tire Pressure Monitor ....... 83, 456
Tires .......................................... 540
Air Pressure ............................ 541
Checking Wear ....................... 542
Compact Spare ........................ 550
DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S.

Vehicles) ............................. 581
Inflation ................................... 540
Inspection ............................... 542
Labeling .................................. 583
Maintenance ........................... 544
Pressure Monitoring System ... 455

Replacing ................................ 544
Rotating .................................. 544
Snow ....................................... 546
Specifications .......................... 580
Tire Chains ............................. 546
Tools, Tire Changing ................. 551
Towing

A Trailer .................................. 487
Emergency Wrecker ............... 572
Equipment and Accessories .... 492
Trailer Loading ....................... 488
Trailer Towing Tips ................. 496
Weight Limit ........................... 487

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring

System) .............................. 455

Required Federal

Explanation ......................... 585
Trailer Stability Assist ................ 498
Transmission

Checking Fluid Level .............. 523
Identification Number ............. 576
Shifting the Automatic ............. 444
Treadwear .................................. 542
Trip Computer ............................. 84
Trip Meter ................................... 81
Turn Signals ................................. 71

Index

Unexpected, Taking Care of

the .......................................... 549
Uniform Tire Quality Grading .... 581
Unleaded Gasoline ..................... 422
USB Flash Memory Device Error

Messages ............................... 297
Used Oil, How to Dispose of ...... 519
Using the Paddle Shifters in the D

position (D-Paddle Shift

Mode) ................................. 447

Using the Paddle Shifters in the S

position (Sequential Shift

Mode) ................................. 449

Vanity Mirror ............................. 177
Vehicle Capacity Load ................ 434
Vehicle Dimensions ................... 578
Vehicle Identification Number ... 576

CONTINUED XI

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Index

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)

System ................................ 473
VSA OFF Button ..................... 474
VSA OFF Indicator ................... 71
VSA System Indicator .............. 71
Vehicle Storage .......................... 548
Ventilation .................................. 189
VIN ............................................ 576
Viscosity, Oil .............................. 517

WARNING, Explanation of ............ iv Warning Labels, Location of ......... 62
Warranty Coverages (U.S.

only) ....................................... 595

Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level ........ 522
Operation ................................ 126

Wheels

Adjusting the Steering ............. 134
Alignment and Balance ........... 544
Aluminum Alloy Wheels ......... 546
Cleaning .................................. 546
Compact Spare ........................ 550

XII

Wrench, Nut ........................... 551

Windows

Auto Reverse ........................... 160
Operating the Power ............... 160
Rear, Defogger ........................ 132

Windshield

Cleaning .................................. 126
Defroster ................................. 186
Washers .......................... 126, 522

Wipers, Windshield

Changing Blades ..................... 536
Operation ................................ 126
Rear Windshield Wiper and

Washer ................................ 127
Worn Tires ................................. 542
Wrecker, Emergency Towing .... 572

XM® Radio .......................... 197, 226

11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu

Service Information Summary

Gasoline: Premium unleaded gasoline, pump octane number of 91 or higher. Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.00 US gal (79.5 L) Recommended Engine Oil: API Premium grade 5W-20
detergent oil (see page 517). Oil change capacity (including filter): 4.5 US qt (4.3 L) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Acura ATF DW-1 (automatic transmission fluid) (see page 524).

Rear Differential Fluid: Use Acura All-Wheel Drive Fluid (DPSF) only. Capacity: SH-AWD differential case 2.6 US qt (2.5 L)

Transfer Assembly Fluid: SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90 viscosity hypoid gear oil, API service classified GL4 or GL5 only. Power Steering Fluid: Acura Power Steering Fluid preferred, or another brand of power steering fluid as a temporary replacement. Do not use ATF (see page 526).

Brake Fluid: Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid as a temporary replacement (see page 525). Tire Pressure (measured cold): Front/Rear:

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Compact Spare Tire:

60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2)