DRIVER’S SEAT POSITION SENSOR
PASSENGER’S SEAT WEIGHT SENSOR
The driver’s advanced front airbag system includes a seat position sensor under the seat. If the seat is too far forward, the airbag will inflate with less force, regardless of the severity of the impact.
If there is a problem with the sensor, the SRS indicator will come on, and the airbag will inflate in the normal manner regardless of the driver’s seating position.
The passenger’s advanced front
airbag system has weight sensors
under the seat. Although Acura does
not encourage carrying an infant or
small child in front, if the sensors
detect the weight of an infant or
small child (up to about 65 lbs or 29
kg), the system will automatically
turn the passenger’s front airbag off.
CONTINUED
29
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:25:02 31STX610 0035
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Be aware that objects placed on the passenger’s seat can also cause the airbag to be turned off.
Moving the front seat forcibly back against cargo on the seat or floor behind it.
How Your Side Airbags Work
Hanging heavy items on the front passenger seat, or placing heavy items in the seat-back pocket.
Moving the front passenger’s seat or seat-back forcibly back against the folded right-side second-row seat.
Also, make sure the floor mat behind
the front passenger’s seat is hooked
to the floor mat anchor (see page
410
interfere with the proper operation
of the sensors and operation of the
seat.
). If it is not, the mat may
If you ever have a moderate to severe side impact, sensors will detect rapid acceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate either the driver’s or the passenger’s side airbag and activate the seat belt tensioner on the affected side.
When the airbag is turned off, a ‘‘passenger airbag off’’ indicator in the center of the dashboard comes on (see page
34
).
If the weight sensors detect there is no passenger in the front seat, the airbag will be off. However, the passenger airbag off indicator will not come on.
To ensure that the passenger’s advanced front airbag system will work properly, donotdoanything thatwouldincreaseordecreasethe weightonthefrontpassenger(cid:146)sseat. This includes:
A second-row passenger pushing or pulling on the back of the front passenger’s seat.
30
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:25:10 31STX610 0036
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Only one airbag will deploy during a side impact. If the impact is on the passenger’s side, the passenger’s side airbag will deploy even if there is no passenger.
SideAirbagCutoffSystem Your vehicle has a side airbag cutoff system designed primarily to protect a child riding in the front passenger’s seat.
To get the best protection from the side airbags, front seat occupants should wear their seat belts and sit upright and well back in their seats.
Although Acura does not encourage children to ride in front, if the position sensors detect a child has leaned into the side airbag’s deployment path, the airbag will shut off.
The side airbag may also shut off if a short adult leans sideways, or a larger adult slouches and leans sideways into the airbag’s deployment path.
Objects placed on the front passenger seat can also cause the side airbag to be shut off.
33
), have the
If the side airbag off indicator comes on (see page passenger sit upright. Once the passenger is out of the airbag’s deployment path, the system will turn the airbag back on, and the indicator will go out.
There will be some delay between the moment the passenger moves into or out of the airbag deployment path and when the indicator comes on or goes off.
A front seat passenger should not use a cushion or other object as a backrest. It may prevent the cutoff system from working properly.
31
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:25:18 31STX610 0037
Additional Information About Your Airbags
How Your Side Curtain Airbags Work
If the impact is on the passenger’s side, the passenger’s side curtain airbag will inflate even if there are no occupants on that side of the vehicle.
InaSideImpact In a moderate to severe side impact, sensors will detect rapid acceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate the side curtain airbag and activate the seat belt tensioner on the driver’s or the passenger’s side of the vehicle.
32
InaRollover If the rollover sensor detects your vehicle is about to roll over, it signals the control unit, which immediately deploys both side curtain airbags and activates both front seat belt tensioners.
The airbag on the passenger’s side will deploy, and the seat belt tensioner will activate, even if there are no passengers on that side of the vehicle.
To get the best protection from the side curtain airbags, occupants should wear their seat belts and sit upright and well back in their seats.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:25:30 31STX610 0038
Additional Information About Your Airbags
How the SRS Indicator Works The SRS indicator alerts you to a potential problem
with your airbags or seat belt tensioners.
When you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, this indicator comes on briefly then goes off. This tells you the system is working properly.
You will also see a ‘‘CHECK
AIRBAG SYSTEM’’ message on the
multi-information display (see page
81
).
If you see any of these indications, the airbags and seat belt tensioners may not work properly when you need them.
If the indicator comes on at any other time, or does not come on at all, you should have the system checked by your dealer. For example:
Ignoring the SRS indicator can result in serious injury or death if the airbag systems or tensioners do not work properly.
If the SRS indicator does not come on after you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.
If the indicator stays on after the engine starts.
If the indicator comes on or flashes on and off while you drive.
Have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as possible if the SRS indicator alerts you to a possible problem.
How the Side Airbag Off Indicator Works Canada
U.S.
This indicator alerts you that the
passenger’s side airbag has been automatically shut off. It does not mean there is a problem with your side airbags.
66
). If it does not
When you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, the indicator should come on briefly and then go out (see page come on, stays on, or comes on while driving without a passenger in the front seat, you will also see a ‘‘PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG OFF’’ message on the multi-information display. Have the system checked (see page
81
).
33
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:25:39 31STX610 0039
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Be aware that objects placed on the front seat can cause the indicator to come on.
If no weight is detected on the front seat, the airbag will be automatically shut off. However, the indicator will not come on.
The passenger airbag off indicator may come on and off repeatedly if the total weight on the seat is near the airbag cutoff threshold.
If an adult or teenage passenger is riding in front, move the seat as far to the rear as possible, and have the passenger sit upright and wear the seat belt properly.
If the indicator comes on with no front seat passenger and no objects on the seat, or with an adult riding there, something may be interfering with the weight sensors. Look for and remove:
Any items under the front passenger’s seat.
Any object(s) hanging on the seat or in the seat-back pocket.
Any object(s), such as a folded- down back seat, that are touching the rear of the seat-back.
If no obstructions are found, have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as possible.
How the Passenger Airbag Off Indicator Works
PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR
U.S. Canada
This indicator alerts you that the passenger’s front airbag has been shut off because weight sensors detect about 65 lbs (29 kg) or less (the weight of an infant or small child) on the front passenger’s seat. It does there is a problem with the airbag.
notmean
34
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:25:48 31STX610 0040
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Even if your
Ifyourvehiclehasamoderateto severeimpact. airbags do not inflate, your dealer should inspect the driver’s seat position sensor, the front passenger’s weight sensors, the front seat belt tensioners, and all seat belts worn during a crash to make sure they are operating properly.
Airbag Service Your airbag systems are virtually maintenance free, and there are no parts you can safely service. However, you must have your vehicle serviced if:
Any airbag
Anairbageverinflates. that has deployed must be replaced along with the control unit and other related parts. Any seat belt tensioner that activates must also be replaced.
Do not try to remove or replace any airbag by yourself. This must be done by an authorized dealer or a knowledgeable body shop.
TheSRSindicatoralertsyoutoa Take your vehicle to an problem. authorized dealer as soon as possible. If you ignore this indication, your airbags may not operate properly.
Additional Safety Precautions
Donotattempttodeactivateyour airbags. seat belts provide the best protection.
Together, airbags and
Donottamperwithairbag componentsorwiringforany Tampering could cause reason. the airbags to deploy, possibly causing very serious injury.
Donotexposethefrontpassenger(cid:146)s If water or seat-backtoliquid. another liquid soaks into a seat- back, it can prevent the side airbag cutoff system from working properly.
CONTINUED
35
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:25:52 31STX610 0041
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Donotremoveormodifyafront seatwithoutconsultingyour This could make the dealer. driver’s seat position sensor or the front passenger’s weight sensors ineffective. If it is necessary to remove or modify a front seat to accommodate a person with disabilities, first contact Acura Client Services at 800-382-2238.
Donotcoverorreplacefrontseat- backcoverswithoutconsulting Improperly replacing yourdealer. or covering front seat-back covers can prevent your side airbags from inflating during a side impact.
36
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:26:00 31STX610 0042
Protecting Children General Guidelines
−
All Children Must Be Restrained Each year, many children are injured or killed in vehicle crashes because they are either unrestrained or not properly restrained. In fact, vehicle accidents are the number one cause of the death of children ages 12 and under.
To reduce the number of child deaths and injuries, every state and Canadian province requires that infants and children be properly restrained when they ride in a vehicle.
Infantsandsmallchildrenmustbe restrainedinanapprovedchildseat thatisproperlysecuredtothe vehicle
(see pages
42
53
−
).
Children who are unrestrained or improperly restrained can be seriously injured or killed in a crash.
Any child too small for a seat belt should be properly restrained in a child seat. A larger child should be properly restrained with a seat belt and use a booster seat if necessary.
Largerchildrenmustberestrained withalap/shoulderbeltandrideon aboosterseatuntiltheseatbeltfits ). themproperly
(see pages
54
57
−
37
Children depend on adults to protect them. However, despite their best intentions, many adults do not know how to passengers.
protect child
properly
If you have children, or ever need to drive with a child in your vehicle, be sure to read this section. It begins with important general guidelines, then presents special information for infants, small children, and larger children.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:26:10 31STX610 0043
Protecting Children General Guidelines
−
All Children Should Sit in a Back Seat According to accident statistics, children of all ages and sizes are safer when they are restrained in a back seat.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children aged 12 and under be properly restrained in a back seat. Some states have laws restricting where children may ride.
Children who ride in the back are less likely to be injured by striking interior vehicle parts during a collision or hard braking. Also, children cannot be injured by an inflating front airbag when they ride in the back.
The Passenger(cid:146)s Front Airbag Can Pose Serious Risks Front airbags have been designed to help protect adults in a moderate to severe frontal collision. To do this, the passenger’s front airbag is quite large, and it can inflate with enough force to cause very serious injuries.
Even though your vehicle has an advanced front airbag system that automatically turns the passenger’s front airbag off (see page ), please follow these guidelines:
34
Infants Neverputarear-facingchildseatin thefrontseatofavehicleequipped If withapassenger(cid:146)sfrontairbag. the airbag inflates, it can hit the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or very seriously injure an infant.
38
SmallChildren Placingaforward-facingchildseatin thefrontseatofavehicleequipped withapassenger(cid:146)sfrontairbagcan If the vehicle seat is behazardous. too far forward, or the child’s head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating front airbag can strike the child with enough force to kill or very seriously injure a small child.
Whenever possible,
LargerChildren Childrenwhohaveoutgrownchild seatsarealsoatriskofbeinginjured orkilledbyaninflatingpassenger(cid:146)s frontairbag. larger children should sit in the back seat, on a booster seat if needed, and be properly restrained with a seat belt. (See page information about protecting larger children.)
for important
54
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:26:23 31STX610 0044
To remind you of the passenger’s front airbag hazards, and that children must be properly restrained in a back seat, your vehicle has warning labels on the dashboard (U.S. models) and on the front visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels.
Protecting Children General Guidelines
−
U.S.Models
SUN VISORS
DASHBOARD
CanadianModels
SUN VISORS
39
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:26:31 31STX610 0045
Protecting Children General Guidelines
−
If You Must Drive with Several Children Your vehicle has two rows of back seats where children can be properly restrained. If you ever have to carry a group of children, and a child must ride in front:
If a Child Requires Close Attention Many parents say they prefer to put an infant or a small child in the front passenger seat so they can watch the child, or because the child requires attention.
If a child requires close physical attention or frequent visual contact, we strongly recommend that another adult ride with the child in a back seat. The back seat is far safer for a child than the front.
Placing a child in the front seat exposes the child to hazards in a frontal collision, and paying close attention to a child distracts the driver from the important tasks of driving, placing both of you at risk.
Place the largest child in the front seat, provided the child is large enough to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly (see page
54
).
Move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible (see page
12
).
Have the child sit upright and well back in the seat (see page
17
).
Make sure the seat belt is properly
positioned and secured (see page
15
).
40
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:26:40 31STX610 0046
Protecting Children General Guidelines
−
Additional Safety Precautions
Neverholdaninfantorchildon If you are not wearing a yourlap. seat belt in a crash, you could be thrown forward and crush the child against the dashboard or a seat-back. If you are wearing a seat belt, the child can be torn from your arms and be seriously hurt or killed.
Makesureanyunusedseatbelt thatachildcanreachisbuckled, thelockableretractorisactivated, andthebeltisfullyretractedand locked. seat belt around their neck, they can be seriously or fatally injured. (See pages activate and deactivate the lockable retractor.)
If a child wraps a loose
for how to
and
51
50
Neverputaseatbeltoveryourself andachild. belt could press deep into the child and cause serious or fatal injuries.
During a crash, the
Neverlettwochildrenusethe If they do, they sameseatbelt. could be very seriously injured in a crash.
Usethechildproofdoorlocksto preventchildrenfromopeningthe reardoors. children from accidentally falling out (see page
This can prevent
131
).
Donotleavechildrenaloneina Leaving children without vehicle. adult supervision is illegal in most states and Canadian provinces, and can be very hazardous.
For example, infants and small children left in a vehicle on a hot day can die from heatstroke. A child left alone with the key in the ignition switch can accidentally set the vehicle in motion, possibly injuring themselves or others.
Lockalldoorsandthetailgate whenyourvehicleisnotinuse. Children who play in vehicles can accidentally get trapped inside. Teach your children not to play in or around vehicles.
Even very young
Keepvehiclekeys/remote transmittersoutofthereachof children. children learn how to unlock vehicle doors, turn on the ignition switch, and open the tailgate, which can lead to accidental injury or death.
41
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:26:48 31STX610 0047
Protecting Infants and Small Children
Protecting Infants
Two types of seats may be used: a seat designed exclusively for infants, or a convertible seat used in the rear- facing, reclining mode.
Donotputarear-facingchildseatin If placed aforward-facingposition. facing forward, an infant could be very seriously injured during a frontal collision.
ChildSeatType An infant must be properly restrained in a rear-facing, reclining child seat until the child reaches the seat maker’s weight or height limit for the seat, and the child is at least one year old.
Only a rear-facing child seat provides proper support for a baby’s head, neck, and back.
42
Rear-facingChildSeatPlacement A rear-facing child seat can be placed in any seating position in the back seat, but not in the front. rear-facingchildseatinthefront seat.
Neverputa
If the passenger’s front airbag inflates, it can hit the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or seriously injure an infant.
When properly installed in the second row, a rear-facing child seat may prevent the driver or a front passenger from moving their seat as far back as recommended, or from locking their seat-back in the desired position.
It can also interfere with proper operation of the passenger’s advanced front airbag system.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:26:56 31STX610 0048
In any of these situations, we strongly recommend that you install the child seat directly behind the front passenger’s seat, move the seat as far forward as needed, and leave it unoccupied. Or, you may wish to get a smaller rear-facing child seat.
Placing a rear-facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death during a collision.
Always place a rear-facing child seat in the back seat, not the front.
Protecting Infants and Small Children
Protecting Small Children
We also recommend that a small child use the child seat until the child reaches the weight or height limit for the seat.
ChildSeatType A child who is at least one year old, and who fits within the child seat maker’s weight and height limits, should be restrained in a forward- facing, upright child seat.
Of the different seats available, we recommend those that have a five- point harness system as shown.
CONTINUED
43
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:27:02 31STX610 0049
Protecting Infants and Small Children
Even with advanced front airbags that automatically turn the passenger’s front airbag off (see page place for a small child.
), a back seat is the safest
34
If it is necessary to put a forward- facing child seat in the front, move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible, be sure the child seat is firmly secured to the vehicle and the child is properly strapped in the seat.
Placing a forward-facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death if the front airbag inflates.
If you must place a forward- facing child seat in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible, and properly restrain the child.
ChildSeatPlacement We strongly recommend placing a forward-facing child seat in a back seat, not the front.
If the vehicle seat is too
Placingaforward-facingchildseatin thefrontseatofavehicleequipped withapassenger(cid:146)sairbagcanbe hazardous. far forward, or the child’s head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating airbag can strike the child with enough force to cause very serious or fatal injuries.
44
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:27:09 31STX610 0050
When buying a child seat, you need to choose either a conventional child seat, or one designed for use with the lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) system.
Conventional child seats must be secured to a vehicle with a seat belt, whereas LATCH-compatible seats are secured by attaching the seat to hardware built into the second-row seats.
Since LATCH-compatible child seats are easier to install and reduce the possibility of improper installation, we recommend selecting this style.
Selecting a Child Seat
In seating positions and vehicles not equipped with LATCH, a LATCH- compatible child seat can be installed using a seat belt.
Whatever type of seat you choose, to provide proper protection, a child seat should meet three requirements:
1.
ThechildseatshouldmeetU.S.or CanadianMotorVehicleSafety Look for FMVSS Standard213. 213 or CMVSS 213 on the box.
2.
Thechildseatshouldbeofthe propertypeandsizetofitthechild. Rear-facing for infants, forward- facing for small children.
3.
Thechildseatshouldfitthe vehicleseatingposition(or positions)whereitwillbeused.
Before purchasing a conventional child seat, or using a previously purchased one, we recommend that you test the seat in the specific vehicle seating position or positions where the seat will be used.
45
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:27:16 31STX610 0051
Installing a Child Seat
After selecting a proper child seat and a good place to install the seat, there are three main steps in installing the seat:
1.
Properlysecurethechildseatto All child seats must be thevehicle. secured to the vehicle with the lap part of a lap/shoulder belt or with the LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children) system. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the vehicle can be endangered in a crash.
2.
After installing a child
Makesurethechildseatisfirmly secured. seat, push and pull the seat forward and from side-to-side to verify that it is secure.
46
The following pages provide guidelines on how to properly install a child seat. A forward-facing child seat is used in all examples, but the instructions are the same for a rear- facing child seat.
A child seat secured with a seat belt should be installed as firmly as possible. However, it does not need to be ‘‘rock solid.’’ Some side-to-side movement can be expected and should not reduce the child seat’s effectiveness.
If the child seat is not secure, try installing it in a different seating position, or use a different style of child seat that can be firmly secured.
3.
Securethechildinthechildseat. Make sure the child is properly strapped in the child seat according to the child seat maker’s instructions. A child who is not properly secured in a child seat can be seriously injured in a crash.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:27:26 31STX610 0052
Installing a Child Seat with LATCH Your vehicle is equipped with LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children) at each of the second row seats.
The lower anchors are located between the seat-back and seat bottom, and are to be used only with a child seat designed for use with LATCH.
The location of each lower anchor is indicated by a small button above the anchor point.
Installing a Child Seat
MARKS
UsingtheOuterLATCH
LOWER ANCHORS
When you install a child seat in rear seating position, use the lower anchors as shown in the illustration. You can install up to three child seats at a time with LATCH.
Do not attach two child seat connectors to a single lower anchor at a time.
To install a LATCH-compatible child seat in either outer second row seat:
1.
2.
Move the seat belt buckle or tongue away from the lower anchors.
Make sure there are no objects near the anchors that could prevent a secure connection between the child seat and the anchors.
CONTINUED
47
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:27:34 31STX610 0053
Installing a Child Seat
RIGID TYPE
FLEXIBLE TYPE
TETHER STRAP
3.
Place the child seat on the vehicle seat, then attach the seat to the lower anchors according to the child seat maker’s instructions.
Some LATCH-compatible seats have a rigid-type connector as shown above.
Other LATCH-compatible seats have a flexible-type connector as shown above.
4.
Whatever type you have, follow the child seat maker’s instructions for adjusting or tightening the fit.
5.
Lift the head restraint (see page
141
), then route the tether strap
through the legs of the head
restraint and over the seat-back,
making sure the strap is not
twisted.
48
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:27:42 31STX610 0054
UsingtheCenterLATCH
6.
Attach the tether strap hook to the tether anchor, then tighten the strap as instructed by the child seat maker.
To install a LATCH-compatible child seat in the center seating position on the second row seat, use the center lower anchors as shown above.
7.
Push and pull the child seat forward and from side-to-side to verify that it is secure.
1.
Pull up the cover below the armrest and find one of the anchors. The other anchor is located underneath the flap at the bottom of the outer seat’s inner bolster.
Installing a Child Seat
2.
3.
Follow step 1 through 4 as described previously to secure the child seat.
Lower the head restraint first. Route the tether strap over the head restraint and seat-back, then attach the tether strap hook to the anchor, making sure the strap is not twisted.
4.
Push and pull the child seat forward and from side-to-side to verify that it is secure.
49
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:27:50 31STX610 0055
Installing a Child Seat
Installing a Child Seat with a Lap/ Shoulder Belt When not using the LATCH system, all child seats must be secured to the vehicle with the lap part of a lap/ shoulder belt.
In addition, the lap/shoulder belts in all seating positions except the driver’s have a lockable retractor that must be activated to secure a child seat.
If you intend to install a child seat in the center seating position of second row seat, make sure the detachable seat belt is securely latched (see page
146
).
1.
With the child seat in the desired seating position, route the belt through the child seat according to the seat maker’s instructions, then insert the latch plate into the buckle.
2.
3.
To activate the lockable retractor, slowly pull the shoulder part of the belt all the way out until it stops, then let the belt feed back into the retractor.
After the belt has retracted, tug on it. If the belt is locked, you will not be able to pull it out. If you can pull the belt out, it is not locked, and you will need to repeat these steps.
50
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:27:58 31STX610 0056
Installing a Child Seat
Installing a Child Seat with a Tether A child seat with a tether can be installed in any seating position in the second or third row.
Since a tether can provide additional security to the lap/shoulder belt installation, we recommend using a tether whenever one is required or available.
CONTINUED
51
4.
After confirming that the belt is locked, grab the shoulder part of the belt near the buckle, and pull up to remove any slack from the lap part of the belt. Remember, if the lap part of the belt is not tight, the child seat will not be secure.
To remove slack, it may help to put weight on the child seat, or push on the back of the seat while pulling up on the belt.
5.
Push and pull the child seat forward and from side-to-side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers. If the child seat is not secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to retract fully, then repeat these steps.
To deactivate the lockable retractor and remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt fully retract.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:28:06 31STX610 0057
Installing a Child Seat
SecondRowInstallation
TETHER STRAP
TETHER ANCHORAGE POINT
Outer Seating Position
Each second row seat has a tether anchorage point behind the seat- back.
1.
After properly securing the child seat (see page ), lift the head restraint, then route the tether strap over the seat-back and through the head restraint legs.
50
For the center seat, lower the head restraint, then route the tether strap over the head restraint and seat-back.
52
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:28:15 31STX610 0058
Installing a Child Seat
ThirdRowInstallation
2.
Attach the tether strap hook to the anchor, making sure the tether strap is not twisted.
3.
Tighten the strap according to the seat maker’s instructions.
Each third row seat has a tether anchorage point on the tailgate sill.
1.
Select the anchor point you want to use. Then open the anchor cover with a small flat-tip screwdriver.
2.
Secure the child seat in the desired position (see page
50
).
3.
Route the tether strap over the head restraint, then attach the tether strap hook to the anchor, making sure the strap is not twisted.
4.
Tighten the strap according to the seat maker’s instructions.
53
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:28:22 31STX610 0059
Protecting Larger Children
When a child reaches the recommended weight or height limit for a forward-facing child seat, the child should sit in a back seat on a booster seat and wear a lap/shoulder belt.
The following pages give instructions on how to check proper seat belt fit, what kind of booster seat to use if one is needed, and important precautions for a child who must sit in front.
Allowing a child age 12 or under to sit in front can result in injury or death if the passenger’s front airbag inflates.
If a child must ride in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible, use a booster seat if needed, have the child sit up properly and wear the seat belt properly.
54
Checking Seat Belt Fit
To determine if a lap/shoulder belt properly fits a child, have the child put on the seat belt, then ask yourself:
1.
Does the child sit all the way back against the seat?
2.
Do the child’s knees bend comfortably over the edge of the seat?
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:28:30 31STX610 0060
3.
Does the shoulder belt cross between the child’s neck and arm?
4.
Is the lap part of the belt as low as possible, touching the child’s thighs?
5.
Will the child be able to stay seated like this for the whole trip?
If you answer yes to all these questions, the child is ready to wear the lap/shoulder belt correctly. If you answer no to any question, the child needs to ride on a booster seat.
Using a Booster Seat
A child who has outgrown a forward- facing child seat should ride in a back seat and use a booster seat until the lap/shoulder belt fits them properly without the booster.
Protecting Larger Children
Some states and Canadian provinces also require children to use a booster seat until they reach a given age or weight (e.g., 6 years or 60 lbs). Be sure to check current laws in the states or provinces where you intend to drive.
Booster seats can be high-back or
low-back. Whichever style you select,
make sure the booster seat meets
federal safety standards (see page
45
seat maker’s instructions.
) and that you follow the booster
CONTINUED
55
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:28:39 31STX610 0061
Protecting Larger Children
If a child who uses a booster seat must ride in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible and be sure the child is wearing the seat belt properly.
A child may continue using a booster seat until the tops of their ears are even with the top of the vehicle’s or booster’s seat-back. A child of this height should be tall enough to use the lap/shoulder belt without a booster seat.
When Can a Larger Child Sit in Front The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children age 12 and under be properly restrained in a back seat.
If the passenger’s front airbag inflates in a moderate to severe frontal collision, the airbag can cause serious injuries to a child who is unrestrained, improperly restrained, sitting too close to the airbag, or out of position.
A side airbag also poses risks. If any part of a larger child’s body is in the path of a deploying side airbag, the child could receive possibly serious injuries.
56
Of course, children vary widely. And while age may be one indicator of when a child can safely ride in front, there are other important factors you should consider.
PhysicalSize
Physically, a child must be large
enough for the lap/shoulder belt to
54
properly fit (see pages
). If
the seat belt does not fit properly,
with or without the child sitting on a
booster seat, the child should not sit
in front.
and
15
Maturity To safely ride in front, a child must be able to follow the rules, including sitting properly, and wearing the seat belt properly throughout a ride.
2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:28:48 31STX610 0062
If you decide that a child can safely ride up front, be sure to:
Carefully read the owner’s manual, and make sure you understand all seat belt instructions and all safety information.
Move the vehicle seat to the rear- most position.
Have the child sit up straight, back against the seat, and feet on or near the floor.
Check that the child’s seat belt is properly and securely positioned.
Supervise the child. Even mature children sometimes need to be reminded to fasten the seat belts or sit properly.
Additional Safety Precautions
Donotletachildwearaseatbelt This could result acrosstheneck. in serious neck injuries during a crash.
This could
Donotletachildputtheshoulder partofaseatbeltbehindtheback orunderthearm. cause very serious injuries during a crash. It also increases the chance that the child will slide under the belt in a crash and be injured.
Twochildrenshouldneverusethe sameseatbelt. could be very seriously injured in a crash.
If they do, they
Protecting Larger Children
Devices intended to
Donotputanyaccessoriesona seatbelt. improve a child’s comfort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt can make the belt less effective and increase the chance of serious injury in a crash.
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2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:28:56 31STX610 0063
Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill you.
Avoid any enclosed areas or activities that expose you to carbon monoxide.
High levels of carbon monoxide can collect rapidly in enclosed areas, such as a garage. Do not run the engine with the garage door closed. Even with the door open, run the engine only long enough to move the vehicle out of the garage.
With the tailgate open, airflow can pull exhaust gas into your vehicle’s interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the tailgate open, open all the windows, and set the climate control system as shown below.
If you must sit in your parked vehicle with the engine running, even in an unconfined area, adjust the climate control system as follows:
1. 2. 3. 4.
Select the fresh air mode. Select the Turn the fan on high speed. Set the temperature control to a comfortable setting.
mode.
Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Your vehicle’s exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. Carbon monoxide should not enter the vehicle in normal driving if you maintain your vehicle properly and follow the information on this page.
Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:
The vehicle is raised for an oil change. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust. The vehicle was in an accident that may have damaged the underside.
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2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:29:07 31STX610 0064
These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury or death. Read these labels carefully.
If a label comes off or becomes hard to read (except for the U.S. dashboard label which may be removed by the owner), contact your dealer for a replacement.
HOOD
RADIATOR CAP
Safety Labels
DASHBOARD U.S.modelsonly
BATTERY LABEL
CONTINUED
59
2008 MDX DOORJAMBS
U.S.models
Canadianmodels
07/07/09 09:29:24 31STX610 0065
Safety Labels
SUN VISOR U.S.models
Canadianmodels
U.S.models
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2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:29:28 31STX610 0066
Instruments and Controls
This section gives information about the controls and displays that contribute to the daily operation of your vehicle. All the essential controls are within easy reach.
Control Locations Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Indicators Gauges Multi-Information Display Controls Near the Steering
........................... ............................ .......... ............................................. .............
. 62
. 63
. 64
. 72
. 73
Wheel
.........................................
. 115
Windshield Wipers and
Washers
.................................
. 116
Rear Window Wiper and
Washer
Turn Signal and Headlights Hazard Warning Button Rear Window Defogger Instrument Panel Brightness Steering Wheel Adjustments Keys and Locks Immobilizer System Ignition Switch Door Locks
................................... ......... ............... ............... ...... ...... ............................. ...................... .............................. .................................... ............ .......................................... .......................... ..................... ............................................... ...................
Remote Transmitter Seats
Childproof Door Locks
Detachable Anchor
Power Tailgate
Tailgate
. 117
. 118
. 122
. 122
. 123
. 124
. 126
. 128
. 129
. 130
. 131
. 131
. 132
. 135
. 140
. 146
Seat Heaters Power Windows Moonroof Parking Brake Mirrors Driving Position Memory
.................................. ............................ ....................................... ............................... ...........................................
System
Interior Lights Interior Convenience Items
........................................ ............................... ......... ..................... ............. .............. .................................. .................... ............................. ................................... ............................ ........ .......................
Beverage Holders Console Compartment Storage Compartment Glove Box Sunglasses Holder Cargo Hooks Sun Visor Vanity Mirror Accessory Power Sockets AC Power Outlet
. 148
. 149
. 152
. 153
. 154
. 157
. 159
. 162
. 163
. 164
. 164
. 164
. 165
. 165
. 166
. 166
. 166
. 167
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2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:29:36 31STX610 0067
Control Locations
DRIVING POSITION MEMORY SYSTEM (P.157)
POWER DOOR LOCK MASTER SWITCH (P.130)
PARKING BRAKE RELEASE HANDLE (P.153)
POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.149)
FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE BUTTON (P.323)
POWER TAILGATE BUTTON *
(P.132)
INSTRUMENT PANEL INDICATORS GAUGES
(P.72)
(P.63)
HomeLink BUTTONS (P.276)
MOONROOF SWITCH (P.152)
MIRROR CONTROL AUTO BUTTON * (P.154)
CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM
(P.170)
AUDIO SYSTEM (P.180)
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (P.341)
REAR CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM (P.175)
HOOD RELEASE (P.325) HANDLE
PARKING BRAKE PEDAL
(P.153)
AUXILIARY INPUT JACKS * (P.267)
HEADPHONE CONNECTORS (P.268)
*
*
If equipped
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2008 MDX 07/07/09 09:29:46 31STX610 0068
Instrument Panel
MESSAGE INDICATOR (P.69)
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR (P.70)
ACTIVE DAMPER SYSTEM INDICATOR *
(P.71)
MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY
(P.73)