2008 Acura MDX Owners Manual

system, the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) comes on. If the fuel fill cap was not already tightened, turn the engine off, and check or retighten the fuel fill cap until it clicks at least once. The MIL should go off after several days of normal driving once the cap is tightened or replaced. If the MIL does not go off, have your vehicle inspected by a dealer. For more information, see page

437

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Opening and Closing the Hood

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

1.

Park the vehicle, and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle located under the lower left corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

LATCH

2.

Put your fingers under the front edge of the hood near the center. Slide your hand to your left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle up until it releases the hood. Lift up the hood.

If the hood latch handle moves stiffly, or if you can open the hood without lifting the handle, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated.

Service Station Procedures

3.

Lift the hood up most of the way. The hydraulic supports will lift it up the rest of the way and hold it up.

To close the hood, lower the hood to about a foot (30 cm) above the fender, then press down firmly with your hands. Make sure it is securely latched.

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Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

DIPSTICK

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1.

Remove the dipstick (orange loop).

4.

Remove the dipstick again, and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

If it is near or below the lower mark, 393
see

Adding Engine Oil

on page

2.

Wipe off the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.

3.

Insert the dipstick all the way back into its hole.

326

Engine Coolant Check

RESERVE TANK

MIN

MAX

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If Adding it is below the MIN line, see Engine Coolant for 396
information on adding the proper coolant.

on page

Owner(cid:146)sMaintenance on page

Refer to Checks for information about checking other items on your vehicle.

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Actual Mileage and EPA Fuel Economy Estimates Comparison. Fuel economy is not a fixed number. It varies based on driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle condition. Therefore, it is not possible for one set of estimates to predict fuel economy precisely for all drivers in all environments.

The EPA fuel economy estimates shown in the example to the right are a useful tool for comparison when buying a vehicle. EPA estimates include:

−

Represents urban

City MPG driving in a vehicle in light traffic. A range of miles per gallon achieved is also provided.

−

Represents a

Highway MPG mixture of rural and interstate driving, in a warmed-up vehicle, typical of longer trips in free-flowing traffic. A range of miles per gallon

Fuel Economy

City MPG

Highway MPG

Combined Fuel Economy

Estimated Annual Fuel Cost

(Sample U.S. EPA label shown)

achieved is also provided.

−

Combined Fuel Economy Represents a combination of city and highway driving. The scale represents the range of combined fuel economy for other vehicles in the class.

Estimated Annual Fuel Cost − Provides an estimated annual fuel cost, based on 15,000 miles (20,000
km) per year multiplied by the cost per gallon (based on EPA fuel cost data) divided by the combined fuel economy.

For more information on fuel economy ratings and factors that affect fuel economy, visit fueleconomy.gov vehicles.gc.ca

www. (Canada: Visit

www.

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Fuel Economy

Fuel Economy Factors The following factors can lower your vehicle’s fuel economy:

Aggressive driving (hard acceleration and braking) Excessive idling, accelerating and braking in stop-and-go traffic Cold engine operation (engines are more efficient when warmed up) Driving with a heavy load or the air conditioner running Improperly inflated tires

Improving Fuel Economy

VehicleMaintenance A properly maintained vehicle maximizes fuel economy. Poor maintenance can significantly reduce fuel economy. Always maintain your vehicle according to the maintenance messages displayed on the information display (see Maintenance Checks For example:

Owner(cid:146)s on page 389

).

328

).

Use the recommended viscosity motor oil, displaying the API Certification Seal (see page 393
Maintain proper tire inflation An under-inflated tire increases − ‘‘rolling resistance,’’ which reduces fuel economy. Avoid carrying excess weight in your vehicle It puts a heavier load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption. Keep your vehicle clean In particular, a build-up of snow or mud on your vehicle’s underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel economy.

−

−

DriveEfficiently

−

Drive moderately acceleration, abrupt cornering, and hard braking increase fuel consumption.

Rapid

−

Observe the speed limit Aerodynamic drag has a big effect on fuel mileage at speeds above 45
mph (75 km/h). Reduce your speed and you reduce the drag. Trailers, car top carriers, roof racks and bike racks are also big contributors to increased drag. Always drive in the highest gear possible manual transmission, you can boost your fuel economy by up shifting as early as possible. Avoid excessive idling − results in 0 miles per gallon.

If your vehicle has a

Idling

−

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−

The A/C

Minimize the use of the air conditioning system puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Use the fresh-air ventilation when possible. Plan and combine trips Combine several short trips into one. A warmed-up engine is more fuel efficient than a cold one.

−

Calculating Fuel Economy

MeasuringTechniques Direct calculation is the recommended source of information about your actual fuel economy. Using frequency of fill-ups or taking fuel gauge readings are NOT accurate measures of fuel economy. Fuel economy may improve over the first several thousand miles.

CheckingYourFuelEconomy

Fuel Economy

Miles driven

Gallons of

fuel

Miles per

Gallon

100

Liter

Kilometers

L per 100 km

1) 2) 3) 4)

Fill the fuel tank until the nozzle automatically clicks off. Reset trip counter to zero. Record the total gallons (liters) needed to refill. Follow one of the simple calculations above.

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Accessories and Modifications

Modifying your vehicle, or installing some non-Acura accessories, can make your vehicle unsafe. Before you make any modifications or add any accessories, be sure to read the following information.

Accessories Your dealer has Acura accessories that allow you to personalize your vehicle. These accessories have been designed and approved for your vehicle, and are covered by warranty.

Although non-Acura accessories may fit on your vehicle, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your vehicle’s handling and stability.

Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding accessories and modifications.

When properly installed, cellular phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low-powered audio systems should not interfere with your vehicle’s computer controlled systems, such as your airbags, anti-lock brakes, and tire pressure monitoring system.

Before installing any accessory:

Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, or interfere with proper vehicle operation or performance.

Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page ) or interfere with proper operation of your vehicle.

440

Do not install accessories on the side pillars or across the rear windows. Accessories installed in these areas may interfere with proper operation of the side curtain airbags.

Before installing any electronic accessory, have the installer contact your dealer for assistance. If possible, have your dealer If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation. inspect the final installation.

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Accessories and Modifications

Larger or smaller wheels and tires can interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s anti-lock brakes and other systems.

Modifying your steering wheel or any other part of your vehicle’s safety features can make the systems ineffective.

If you plan to modify your vehicle, consult your dealer.

Modifying Your Vehicle Removing parts from your vehicle, or replacing components with aftermarket components could seriously affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and reliability.

Some examples are:

Lowering your vehicle with a non-Acura suspension kit that significantly reduces ground clearance can allow the undercarriage to hit speed bumps or other raised objects, which could cause the airbags to deploy.

Raising your vehicle with a non- Acura suspension kit can affect the handling and stability.

Non-Acura wheels, because they are a universal design, can cause excessive stress on suspension components and will not be compatible with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

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Carrying Cargo

CONSOLE COMPARTMENT

GLOVE BOX

DOOR POCKETS

REAR COMPARTMENT

STORAGE COMPARTMENT

SEAT-BACK POCKETS

CARGO AREA

332

Your vehicle has several convenient storage areas:

Glove box Door and seat-back pockets Rear cargo area, including the second and third row seats when folded flat Console compartment Storage compartment Rear compartment Roof-rack (if equipped)

However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, stopping distance, and tires, and make it unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the following pages.

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Carrying Cargo

Load Limits The maximum load for your vehicle is 1,158 lbs (525 kg).

See Tire And Loading Information label attached to the driver’s doorjamb.

Label Example

Overloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual.

(4)

The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the ‘‘XXX’’ amount equals 1,400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1,400

150) = 650 lbs.)

750 (5

−

×

This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories, and the tongue load if you are towing a trailer.

−

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit (1)

Locate the statement ‘‘The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.’’ on your vehicle’s placard.

(2)

Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

(3)

Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

(5)

Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.

(6)

If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.

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Carrying Cargo

In addition, the total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, accessories, cargo, and trailer tongue load must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Both are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

Max Load (1,158 lbs)

Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 2 = 300 lbs)

Cargo Weight (858 lbs)

Max Load (1,158 lbs)

Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 4 = 600 lbs)

Cargo Weight (558 lbs)

Max Load (1,158 lbs)

Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 5 = 750 lbs)

Cargo Weight (408 lbs)

Example 1

Example 2

Example 3

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Carrying Cargo

Carrying Cargo in the Cargo Area or on a Roof Rack

Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the cargo area, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible. Tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop.

If you fold down the second or third row seats, tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop.

Carrying Cargo in the Passenger Compartment

Store or secure all items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll underneath and interfere with the proper operation of the seats, the sensors under the seats, or the driver’s ability to operate the pedals.

Also, keep all cargo below the bottom of the windows. If it is higher, it could interfere with the proper operation of the side curtain airbags.

Keep the glove box closed while driving. If it is open, a passenger could injure their knees during a crash or sudden stop.

If you carry large items that prevent you from closing the tailgate, exhaust gas can enter the passenger area. To avoid the possibility of poisoning on page 58

, follow the instructions

carbon monoxide

If you carry any items on a roof rack, be sure the total weight of the rack and the items does not exceed 165 lbs (75 kg).

If you use an accessory roof rack, the roof rack weight limit may be lower. Refer to the information that came with your roof rack.

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Carrying Cargo

Optional Separation Net The separation net can be used to hold back soft, lightweight items stored in the cargo area. Heavy items should be tied down, as the net may not prevent them from being thrown about the vehicle in a crash or a sudden stop.

Optional Cargo Cover The cargo cover can be used to cover the cargo area behind the third row seats. When the third row seats are folded down, the cargo cover can be extended over the larger area. Do not install the cover over the larger area if the third row seats are not folded down.

336

Cargo Hooks

GROCERY HOOKS

CARGO HOOKS

The four hooks on the side panels can be used to install a net for securing items. Each hook is designed to hold up to 50 lbs (23 kg) of weight.

Your vehicle also has a grocery hook on each side panel in the cargo area. They are designed to hold light items. Heavy objects may damage the hook. Make sure any items put on each hook weigh less than 6.5 lbs (3 kg).

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Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the automatic transmission. It also includes important information on parking your vehicle, the braking system, the super handling-all wheel drive (SH-AWD®) system, the vehicle stability assist (VSA) system, active damper system, the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and facts you need if you are planning to tow a trailer or drive off-high way.

Driving Guidelines Preparing to Drive Starting the Engine

........................ ........................ .......................

. 338
. 338
. 339

Check Starting System

Message

................................. .............. Automatic Transmission Super Handling-All Wheel Drive

. 340
. 341

(SH-AWD®) System .................... 348
. 350

Parking ........................................... Tire Pressure Monitoring System ...................................... ............................. ...............

Braking System Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)

. 351
. 356
. 357

(TPMS)

System

........................................ ................ ........................... ..................

Active Damper System Towing a Trailer Trailer Stability Assist Off-Highway Driving

. 359
. 361
. 363
. 375

Guidelines

..................................

. 377

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Driving Guidelines, Preparing to Drive

Do not modify your vehicle in any way that would raise the center of gravity.

Do not carry heavy cargo on the roof.

Seepage foroff-highwaydriving guidelines.

377

Preparing to Drive You should do the following checks and adjustments before you drive your vehicle.

1.

Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.

2.

Check that the hood is fully closed.

3.

4.

5.

Visually check the tires. If a tire looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure.

Check that any items you may be carrying are stored properly or fastened down securely.

Check the seat adjustment (see page

140

).

Driving Guidelines Your vehicle has higher ground clearance that allows you to travel over bumps, obstacles, and rough terrain. It also provides good visibility so you can anticipate problems earlier.

Because your vehicle rides higher off the ground, it has a high center of gravity that can cause it to roll over if you make abrupt turns. Utility vehicles have a significantly higher roll over rate than other types of vehicles.

To prevent rollovers or loss of control:

Take corners at slower speeds than you would with a passenger vehicle.

Avoid sharp turns and abrupt maneuvers whenever possible.

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Preparing to Drive, Starting the Engine

6.

Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors (see page

154

).

7.

Check the steering wheel adjustment (see page 124

).

8.

Make sure the doors and tailgate are securely closed and locked.

9.

Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passengers have fastened their seat belts (see page ).

15

10.

When you start the engine, check the gauges and indicators in the instrument panel, and the messages on the multi-information display (see pages 81

and

63

72

).

Starting the Engine Your vehicle’s starting system has an auto control mode. When you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, this feature keeps the engine’s starter motor running until the engine starts. Follow these instructions to start the engine:

1.

Apply the parking brake.

2.

In cold weather, turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

3.

Make sure the shift lever is in Park. Press on the brake pedal.

4.

Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, then release the ignition switch. You do not need to hold the ignition switch in the START (III) position to start the engine. Depending on the outside temperature, the

starter motor runs for about 6 to 9
seconds until the engine starts.

If you hold the ignition switch in the START (III) position for more than 7 seconds, the starter motor, depending on the outside temperature, runs for about 10 to 25 seconds until the engine starts.

If the engine does not start, wait at least 10 seconds before trying again.

The immobilizer system protects your vehicle f rom thef t. If an improperly- coded key (or other device) is used, the engine’s f uel system is disabled. For more inf ormation, see page

128

CONTINUED

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Starting the Engine

5.

6.

If the engine does not start within 15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4 with the accelerator pedal pressed halfway down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

If the engine fails to start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down, and hold it there while starting to clear flooding. If the engine still does not start, return to step 5.

The engine is harder to start in cold weather. Also, the thinner air f ound at altitudes above 8,000 f eet (2,400
meters) adds to this problem.

340

Check Starting System Message

If there is a problem with the starting system, you will see a ‘‘CHECK STARTING SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display when the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position. You will also see this message when the auto control mode of the starting system has a problem.

If this message is on, the ignition switch has to be held in the START (III) position manually until the engine starts. The ignition switch can be held in that position up to 15 seconds.

Even though you may be able to start the engine manually without the auto control mode of the starting system, have your dealer inspect your vehicle.

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Shift Lever Position Indicators

These indicators on the instrument panel show which position the shift lever is in. In the Sequential SportShift Mode, the ‘‘M’’ indicator next to the ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on, and the illuminated number under the charging system indicator shows you the gear you have selected.

The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission.

If the malfunction indicator lamp comes on along with the ‘‘D’’ indicator, there is a problem with the automatic transmission control system. Avoid rapid acceleration, and have the transmission checked by your dealer as soon as possible.

When the ‘‘D’’ indicator warns of a possible problem with the transmission, you will see a ‘‘CHECK TRANSMISSION’’ message on the multi-information display (see page 82

).

Automatic Transmission

Shifting

To shift from Park to any position, press firmly on the brake pedal, and press the release button on the front of the shift lever, then move the lever. You cannot shift out of Park when the ignition switch is in the LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I) position.

CONTINUED

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Automatic Transmission

To shift from:

Do this:

Press the brake pedal, and press the shift lever release button. Press the shift lever release button.

Move the shift lever.

P to R

R to P N to R D to D D to D D to N N to D R to N

−

This position mechani-

Park (P) cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and press the release button on the shift lever. Make sure your foot is off the accelerator pedal.

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see on 346
page

Shift Lock Release

342

To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch.

−

Press the brake

Reverse (R) pedal and press the release button on the front of the shift lever to shift from Park to reverse. To shift from reverse to neutral, come to a complete stop, and then shift. Press the release button before shifting into reverse from neutral.

−

Use neutral if you

Neutral (N) need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to the Park position if you need to leave your vehicle for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from neutral to another gear.

−

Use this position for

Drive (D) your normal driving. The transmission automatically selects a suitable gear (1 through 5) for your speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher engine speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster.

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SequentialSportShiftMode

＋

) UP SHIFT

SELECTED GEAR With the shift lever in ‘‘D’’ position, you can select the Sequential SportShift mode to shift gears much like a manual transmission, but without a clutch pedal.

When you move the shift lever from ‘‘D’’ to ‘‘M’’ position, the display shows the selected gear.

−

) DOWN SHIFT

To enter the Sequential SportShift mode, move the shift lever further to the driver’s side. To return to ‘‘D,’’ move the shift lever to the passenger’s side. In Sequential SportShift mode, each time you push forward on the shift lever, the transmission shifts to a higher gear. Pull back on the lever to downshift. The number of the gear selected is displayed on the instrument panel.

Automatic Transmission

When you accelerate away from a stop, the transmission starts in first gear. You have to manually upshift between first and fifth gears. Make sure you upshift before the engine speed reaches the tachometer’s red zone. The transmission remains in the selected gear (5, 4, 3, 2, or 1). There is no automatic downshift when you push the accelerator pedal to the floor.

CONTINUED

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Downshifting gives you more power when climbing, and provides engine braking when going down a steep hill.

The transmission also shifts automatically as the vehicle comes to a complete stop. It downshifts to first gear when the vehicle speed is under 10 mph (16 km/h).

If you try to manually downshift at a speed that would cause the engine to exceed the redline in a lower gear, the transmission does not downshift. The gear indicator will flash the number of the lower gear several times, then return to the higher gear.

If the vehicle speed slows to below the redline of the selected lower gear position while the indicator is flashing, the transmission downshifts, and the display shows the selected lower gear.

Automatic Transmission

The transmission may automatically downshift from the higher gear to the lower gear under these conditions:

Driving on level roads and downhill

To shift from

Speed range

→

→

under 19 mph (31 km/h)

under 38 mph (60 km/h)

Driving uphill

To shift from

Speed range

→

→

under 34 mph (55 km/h)

under 47 mph (75 km/h)

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The table shows the speed ranges for upshifting and downshifting.

To shift from

Speed range

→

→

→

under 60 mph (96 km/h)

under 93 mph (150 km/h)

under 118 mph (190 km/h)

To shift from

Speed range

→

→

→

→

over 0 mph (0 km/h)

over 10 mph (16 km/h)

over 19 mph (31 km/h)

over 37 mph (60 km/h)

Automatic Transmission

StartinginSecondGear When you are in Sequential SportShift mode, and the vehicle is stopped, push forward on the shift lever to shift to second gear. You will see ‘‘2’’ in the display. Starting out in second gear will help to reduce wheelspin in deep snow or on a slippery surface.

If you start out in second gear, the transmission will be fixed in that gear.

The transmission will not automatically downshift to first gear even when the vehicle speed is under 10 mph (16 km/h). You need to shift down to first gear manually.

CONTINUED

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Automatic Transmission

Engine Speed Limiter If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer’s red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the rpm below the red zone.

Before downshifting, make sure the engine will not go into the tachometer’s red zone.

Shift Lock Release This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal and pressing the release button does not work.

1.

Set the parking brake.

2.

Remove the key from the ignition switch.

−

This position is

Drive (D ) similar to D, except only the first three gears are selected. Use D when towing a trailer in hilly terrain, or to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D can also keep the transmission from cycling between third, fourth, and fifth gears in stop-and-go driving.

For faster acceleration when in D or D, you can get the transmission to automatically downshift by pushing the accelerator pedal to the floor. The transmission will shift down one, two, or three gears, depending on your speed.

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RELEASE BUTTON

Automatic Transmission

6.

Remove the key from the shift lock release slot, then reinstall the cover. Make sure the notch on the cover is on the driver’s side. Press the brake pedal, and restart the engine.

If you need to use the shift lock release, it means your vehicle is developing a problem. Have the vehicle checked by a dealer.

COVER

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT

3.

Put a cloth on the edge of the shift lock release slot cover. Use a small flat-tipped screwdriver or metal fingernail file to carefully pry up the edge of the cover and remove it from the slot.

4.

Insert a key into the shift lock release slot.

5.

Push down on the key while you press the release button on the front of the shift lever and move the shift lever out of Park to neutral.

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Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD

) System ®

The super handling-all wheel drive (SH-AWD®) system is a full time all- wheel-drive system that automatically controls and transfers varying amounts of engine torque to all wheels independently, according to the driving conditions.

While the SH-AWD® system helps to enhance the vehicle’s driving stability in all situations, it is still your responsibility to drive and corner at reasonable speeds and to leave a sufficient margin of safety.

Each torque indicator is displayed as a bar graph divided into 5
segments. The number of segments represents the amount of torque distributed to each wheel.

When there is only a slight change in torque distribution while driving, such as cruising on level roads at the same speed, the torque distribution monitor may stop displaying the amount of torque. This is not a system problem. The monitor will show the amount if the system senses any change in torque distribution.

SH-AWD® Torque Distribution Monitor

TORQUE INDICATOR

TORQUE INDICATOR

The SH-AWD® torque distribution monitor on the multi-information display shows you the amount of torque being sent to the wheels. Each wheel: right front (RF), left front (LF), right rear (RR), and left rear (LR), has its own torque indicator.

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Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) System

Your vehicle still has normal front- wheel drive with vehicle stability assist (VSA), but does not have the advantages of SH-AWD®. Have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as possible.

®

If the SH-AWD indicator blinks while driving, it indicates the differential temperature is too high. You will also see an ‘‘SH-AWD® DIFF TEMP. HIGH’’ message on the multi- information display. If this happens, pull to the side of the road when it is safe, shift to Park, and let the engine idle until the indicator goes out. If the indicator does not go out, take your vehicle to a dealer to have it

checked.

If the SH-AWD® indicator on the instrument panel stays on, and the ‘‘CHECK SH-AWD® SYSTEM’’ message also appears on the multi- information display, there is problem with the SH-AWD® system.

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Parking

Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly, or your vehicle may roll if it is parked on an incline.

Set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the vehicle from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission.

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Parking Tips

Make sure the moonroof and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Never park over dry leaves, tall grass, or other flammable materials. The hot three way catalytic converter could cause these materials to catch on fire.

Place any packages, valuables, etc. in the cargo area or take them with you.

If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb.

Lock the doors and the tailgate.

If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb.

Check the indicator on the instrument panel to verify that the security system is set.

Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes.

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Your vehicle is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that turns on every time you start the engine and monitors the pressure in your tires while driving.

Each tire has its own pressure sensor. If the air pressure of a tire becomes significantly low, the sensor in that tire immediately sends a signal that causes the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator in the instrument panel to come on. If this happens, you will see which tire is losing pressure on the multi- information display along with a ‘‘CHECK TIRE PRESSURE’’ message.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Low Tire Pressure/ TPMS Indicator

When the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator is on, one or more of your tires is significantly underinflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure as indicated on the vehicle’s tire information placard.

It is possible that the pressures shown on the multi-information display and the pressures you manually measure are slightly different. If the difference is significant or you cannot make the low tire pressure/ TPMS indicator and message on the multi-information display go out after inflating the tires to the specified values, have your dealer check the system as soon as possible.

If you think you can safely drive a short distance to a service station, proceed slowly to the station, then inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.

If the tire is flat, or if the tire pressure is too low to continue driving, replace the tire with the compact spare tire (see page 425

).

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.

Because tire pressure varies by temperature and other conditions, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator may come on unexpectedly.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Although your tire pressure is monitored, you must manually check the tire pressures monthly.

Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when the vehicle is cold, and set to the recommended inflation pressure as specified on the vehicle placard and in the owner’s manual (see page 416

).

For example, if you check and fill your tires in a warm area, then drive in extremely cold weather, the tire pressure will be lower than measured and could be underinflated and cause the low tire pressure/ TPMS indicator to come on. Or, if you check and adjust your tire pressure in cooler conditions, and drive into extremely hot conditions, the tire may become overinflated. However, the low tire pressure/ TPMS indicator will not come on if the tires are overinflated.

Refer to page guidelines.

415

for tire inflation

If there is a problem with the TPMS, this indicator begins to flash. It stops flashing after approximately 1
minute, then stays on. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page

82

).

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Tire Pressure Monitor

To select the tire pressure monitor, press the INFO button several times with the ignition switch in the ON (II) position.

You will see the above display on the multi-information display when all tire pressures are normal.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

U.S. model

Canadian model

To see the inflation pressures of all four tires, press the SEL/RESET button. The display changes as shown above.

Each tire pressure is shown in PSI (U.S. models) or in kPa (Canadian models).

This shows that front left tire is losing pressure.

Each tire has its own pressure sensor. If the air pressure of a tire becomes significantly low, the sensor in that tire immediately sends a signal that causes the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator in the instrument panel to come on. If this happens, you will see which tire is losing pressure on the multi- information display along with a ‘‘CHECK TIRE PRESSURE’’ message.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

If any of the tires has low pressure, the tire pressure monitor also shows above message to warn you about the low tire pressure when you select the display by pressing the INFO button several times. Following this display, press the SEL/RESET button to see each tire pressure. When you continue driving after installing the spare tire, you will also see this message on the multi- information display.

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If there is a problem with the TPMS, the tire pressure monitor shows a ‘‘SYSTEM FUNCTION ERROR’’ message and the tire pressure readings are not displayed. If this happens, you will first see a system warning message ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ on the multi-information display.

TPMS System Failure

If there is a problem with the TPMS, you will see the above message on the multi-information display.

If you see this message, the system is off and is not monitoring the tire pressures. Have the system checked by your dealer as soon as possible.

Also, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator begins to flash, then stays on (see page

352

).

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

If the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator comes on, or the multi- information display shows a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message, the VSA system automatically turns on even when the VSA system is turned off by pressing the VSA OFF switch (see page happens, you cannot turn the VSA system off by pressing the VSA OFF switch again.

). If this

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When you restart the vehicle with the compact spare tire, the TPMS system message will also be displayed on the multi-information display after several miles (kilometers) driving.

Changing a Tire with TPMS If you have a flat tire, the low tire pressure/TPMS and tire monitor indicators will come on. Replace the indicated flat tire with the compact spare tire (see page

425

).

After the flat tire is replaced with the spare tire, the low tire pressure/ TPMS indicator stays on while driving. After several miles (kilometers) driving, this indicator begins to flash, then stays on again. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi- information display. This is normal; the system cannot monitor the spare tire pressure. Manually check the spare tire pressure to be sure it is correct.

This indicator and the warning message on the multi-information display will go off, after several miles (kilometers) driving, when the spare tire is replaced with the specified regular tire equipped with the tire pressure monitor sensor. Each wheel is equipped with a tire pressure sensor mounted inside the tire behind the valve stem. You must use TPMS specific wheels. It is recommended that you always have

your tires serviced by your dealer or a qualified technician. Never use a puncture-repairing agent in a flat tire. If used, you will have to replace the tire pressure sensor. Have the flat tire repaired by your dealer as soon as possible.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Braking System

AsrequiredbytheFCC: ThisdevicecomplieswithPart15ofthe FCCrules.Operationissubjecttothe followingtwoconditions:(1)Thisdevice maynotcauseharmfulinterference,and (2)thisdevicemustacceptany interferencereceived,including interferencethatmaycauseundesired operation. Changesormodificationsnotexpressly approvedbythepartyresponsiblefor compliancecouldvoidtheuser’s authoritytooperatetheequipment. ThisdevicecomplieswithIndustry CanadaStandardRSS-210. Operationissubjecttothefollowingtwo conditions:(1)thisdevicemaynotcause interference,and(2)thisdevicemust acceptanyinterferencethatmaycause undesiredoperationofthedevice.

Braking System Your vehicle is equipped with disc brakes at all four wheels. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The emergency brake assist system increases the stopping force when you depress the brake pedal hard in an emergency situation. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps you retain steering control when braking very hard.

Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, builds up heat, and reduces their effectiveness and reduces brake pad life. In addition, fuel economy can be reduced. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.

Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by taking your foot off the accelerator and downshifting to a lower gear.

Check the brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Be extra cautious in your driving.

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Braking System, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Braking System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.

Brake Wear Indicators All four brakes have audible brake wear indicators.

If the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive, metallic screeching sound when you apply the brake pedal. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will screech all the time. It is normal for the brakes to occasionally squeal or squeak when you apply them.

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps prevent the wheels from locking up, and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly, much faster than a person can do it.

The electronic brake distribution (EBD) system, which is part of the ABS, also balances the front-to-rear braking distribution according to vehicle loading.

Youshouldneverpumpthebrakepedal. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal. This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stomp and steer.’’

You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and may hear some noise. This is normal: it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before the ABS activates. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

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Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

ABS Indicator

If this indicator comes on, the anti- lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system, but without anti-lock. You should have your dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.

You will also see a ‘‘CHECK ABS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi- 81
information display (see page

).

If the indicator comes on while driving, test the brakes as instructed on page

438

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If the ABS indicator and the brake system indicator come on together, and the parking brake is fully released, the EBD system may also be shut down.

Important Safety Reminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the vehicle. control during braking.

It only helps with steering

438

. If the brakes feel normal,

Test your brakes as instructed on page drive slowly and have your vehicle repaired by your dealer as soon as possible. Avoid sudden hard braking which could cause the rear wheels to lock up and possibly lead to a loss of control.

The VSA indicator will come on along with the ABS indicator.