2010 Acura MDX Owners Manual

indicates radial).

(1) Tire Size (2) Tire Identification Number (TIN) (3) Maximum Tire Pressure (4) Maximum Tire Load

18 － Rim diameter in inches.

578

104 － Load index (a numerical code

associated with the maximum load the tire can carry).

H － Speed symbol (an

alphabetical code indicating the maximum speed rating).

TireIdentificationNumber(TIN) The tire identification number (TIN) 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.

FW6X － Tire type code.

2202 －

Date of manufacture. Year Week

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.

Tire Labeling

579

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.

580

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.

581

Emissions Controls

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.

582

The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Actꭧ 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 510. ꭧ In Canada, Acura vehicles comply with the Canadian emission requirements, as specified in an agreement with Environment Canada, at the time they are manufactured.

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.

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.

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.

Emissions Controls

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.

583

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.

584

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.

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.

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

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.

CONTINUED 585

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.

Emissions Testing

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).

586

Warranty and Client Relations

Client Service Information........... 588
Warranty Coverages ................... 589
Reporting Safety Defects (U.S.

Vehicles)................................. 590
Authorized Manuals.................... 591

587

Canadian Owners: Acura Client Services Honda Canada Inc. Visit www.acura.cafor contact information

Tel: 1-888-9-ACURA-9
Fax: 1-877-939-0909
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 572)

● 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 Services. U.S. Owners: American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Acura Client Services Mail Stop 500-2N-7E 1919 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501-2746

Tel: (800) 382-2238

588

Warranty Coverages

U.S. Owners Your new vehicle is covered by these warranties: NewVehicleLimitedWarranty－ covers your new vehicle, except for the battery, 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. OriginalEquipmentBatteryLimited Warranty－ this warranty gives up to 100% credit toward a replacement battery.

SeatBeltLimitedWarranty－ a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered by a limited warranty. Please read your warranty booklet for details. 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.

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 2010 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 2010 warranty manual that came with your vehicle.

589

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

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.

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.

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.

590

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

61STX03
61STX03EL

61STX30
31STX630
31STX830

31STXM30
31STXQ30

ACU-R

Form Description

2007-2010 Acura MDX Service Manual

2010 Acura MDX

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual

2008 Acura MDX Body Repair Manual

2010 Acura MDX Owner's Manual

2010 Acura MDX

Navigation System Owner's Manual 2010 Acura MDX Maintenance Journal

2010 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.

591

592

A

Accessories and

Modifications .......................... 428

ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

Position) ................................. 138
Accessory Power Sockets .......... 175
AC Power Outlet ........................ 176
Active Damper System ............... 480
AcuraLink® (U.S. models

only) ....................................... 400

Adaptive Cruise Control

(ACC) ..................................... 347
Additives, Engine Oil ................. 514
Adjusting the Steering Wheel .... 133
Advanced Airbags ........................ 31
Airbag (SRS) .......................... 10, 26
Air Conditioning System ............ 180
Rear A/C Control .................... 185
Air Outlets (Vents) ..................... 187
Air Pressure, Tires .............. 536, 537
Alcohol in Gasoline .................... 420
Antifreeze ................................... 516
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Indicator ............................ 68, 458

Operation ................................ 457
Anti-theft, Audio System ............. 307
Anti-theft Steering Column

Lock ....................................... 138
Audio System ...................... 190, 210
Automatic Climate Control ......... 181
Automatic Lighting Off

Feature ................................... 130
Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners ... 23
Automatic Speed Control ........... 344
Automatic Transmission ............ 439
Capacity, Fluid ........................ 574
Checking Fluid Level .............. 519
Driving with the Paddle

Shifters ................................ 443
Shifting ................................... 440
Shift Lever Position

Indicators ............................ 439
Shift Lever Positions ............... 440
Shift Lock Release ................... 442
Auxiliary Input Jack ................... 306

Index

Battery

Charge Low .............................. 82
Charging System

Indicator ........................ 67, 558
Jump Starting .......................... 554
Maintenance ........................... 543
Specifications .......................... 575
Before Driving ........................... 419
Belts, Seat ................................ 9, 21
Beverage Holders ...................... 172
Blind Spot Information System

(BSI) ...................................... 472
Bluetooth® Audio ....................... 297
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® ...... 364
Booster Seats ............................... 57

CONTINUED

Index

Brakes

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) ........... 457
Break-in, New Linings ............. 420
Bulb Replacement ................... 527
Fluid ....................................... 521
Parking ................................... 163
System Design ........................ 457
System Indicator ............... 67, 560
Wear Indicators ....................... 457
Braking System .......................... 456
Break-in, New Vehicle ................ 420
Brightness Control,

Instruments ............................ 132

Bulb Replacement

Back-up Lights ................ 527, 528
Brake Lights ........................... 527
Front Parking Lights ............... 525
Front Side Marker Lights ........ 525
Headlights .............................. 523
Rear Bulbs .............................. 527
Rear License Plate Lights ........ 529
Specifications .......................... 575
Taillights ................................. 527
Turn Signal Lights .......... 525, 527
Bulbs, Halogen .......................... 523

II

Capacities Chart ......................... 574
Carbon Monoxide Hazard ............ 60
Cargo ......................................... 430
Cargo Hook ................................ 434
Cargo, How to Carry .................. 430
Carrying Cargo .......................... 430
CAUTION, Explanation of ............ iii CD Care ..................................... 245
CD Error Messages ................... 244
CD Player .................................. 233
Chains, Tires .............................. 542
Changing a Flat Tire .................. 547
Changing Oil

How to .................................... 514
When to .................................. 503

Charging System

Indicator ........................... 67, 558
Checklist, Before Driving ........... 437
Childproof Door Locks ............... 140
Child Safety .................................. 39
Booster Seats ........................... 57
Child Seats .................... 44, 45, 47
Important Safety Reminders ..... 43

Infants ...................................... 44
Larger Children ....................... 56
LATCH ..................................... 49
Risks with Airbags ................... 40
Small Children ......................... 45
Tethers .................................... 53
Warning Labels ........................ 41
Where Should a Child Sit? ........ 40
Child Seats ............................. 39, 47
LATCH Anchorage Points ........ 49
Tether Anchorage Points ......... 53
Cleaning the Seat Belts .............. 530
Client Service Information .......... 588
Climate Control System ............. 180
Clock .......................................... 308
Code, Audio System ................... 307
CO in the Exhaust ................ 60, 582
Cold Weather, Starting in ........... 438
Collision Mitigation Braking

System™ (CMBS™) ............... 459
Compact Spare Tire .................... 546
Compass Operation .................... 340
Console Compartment ............... 173
Consumer Information ............... 588
Controls, Instruments and ............ 63

Coolant

Adding .................................... 516
Checking ................................ 424
Proper Solution ....................... 516
Temperature Gauge ................. 76

Crankcase Emissions Control

System ................................... 582
Cruise Control Indicator ............... 73
Cruise Control Operation ........... 344
Cruise Main Indicator .................. 73
Cup Holders ............................... 172
Customize Settings ...................... 89

DANGER, Explanation of ............. iii Dashboard ............................... 3, 64
Daytime Running Lights ............ 129
Dead Battery .............................. 554
Defects, Reporting Safety ........... 590
Defogger, Rear Window ............. 131
Defrosting the Windows ............ 184
Dimensions ................................ 574
Dimming the Headlights ............ 127

Dipstick

Automatic Transmission ......... 519
Engine Oil ............................... 424
Directional Signals ............... 69, 127
Disc Brake Wear Indicators ....... 457
Disc Care ................................... 245
Disc Changer ............................. 200
Disc Changer Error

Messages ............................... 209
Disc Player ................................. 200
Disc Player Error Messages ...... 244
Disposal of Used Oil ................... 515
Doors

Childproof Door Locks ............ 140
Indicator ................................... 12
Locking and Unlocking ........... 139
Lockout Prevention ................. 140
Power Door Locks .................. 139

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S.

Vehicles) ................................ 576
Driver and Passenger Safety .......... 5
Driving ....................................... 435
Economy ................................. 425
Driving Guidelines ..................... 436
Driving Position Memory

System ................................... 166

Index

Driving with the Paddle

Shifters ................................... 443
Dust and Pollen Filter ................ 530
DVD Player ................................ 312
DVD Player Error Messages ...... 336

Economy, Fuel ........................... 425

CONTINUED III

Index

Emergencies on the Road .......... 545
Battery, Jump Starting ............. 554
Brake System Indicator ..... 67, 560
Changing a Flat Tire ............... 547
Charging System

Indicator ........................ 67, 558
Checking the Fuses ................ 562
Driving with a Flat Tire ........... 546
Hazard Warning Flashers ....... 131
Jump Starting .......................... 554
Low Oil Pressure

Indicator ........................ 67, 558

Malfunction Indicator

Lamp ............................. 67, 559

Opening the Fuel Fill Door

Manually ............................. 568
Overheated Engine ................. 556
Towing .................................... 568
Emergency Brake ...................... 163
Emergency Flashers .................. 131
Emergency Towing .................... 568
Emissions Controls .................... 582
Emissions Testing ...................... 585
Engine

Adding Engine Coolant ........... 516
Check Starting System ............ 439

IV

Coolant Temperature Gauge .... 76
If it Won't Start ........................ 553
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp ............................. 67, 559
Oil Life Indicator ..................... 503
Oil Pressure Indicator ....... 67, 558
Oil, What Kind to Use ............. 513
Overheating ............................ 556
Specifications .......................... 575
Speed Limiter .......................... 442
Starting ................................... 438
Engine Coolant .......................... 516
Ethanol in Gasoline .................... 420
Evaporative Emissions

Controls .................................. 582
Exhaust Fumes ............................ 60
Exhaust Gas Recirculation

System ................................... 583

Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

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

Fan, Interior ............................... 183
Features ..................................... 179

Filters

Dust and Pollen ....................... 530
Oil ........................................... 514
Flashers, Hazard Warning ......... 131
Flat Tire, Changing a ................. 547
Floor Mats ................................. 531
Fluids

Automatic Transmission ......... 519
Brake ...................................... 521
Location .................................. 511
Power Steering ........................ 522
Windshield Washer ................. 518

FM Stereo Radio

Reception ................................ 302
Fog Lights .................................. 129
Folding the Second Seat ............. 152
Folding the Third Seat ............... 153
Four-way Flashers ...................... 131
Front Airbags ......................... 10, 29
Front Seat .................................. 148
Adjusting ................................. 148
Air Ventilation ......................... 157
Heaters ................................... 156
Fuel ............................................ 420
Economy ................................. 425
Fill Door and Cap .................... 421

Gauge ...................................... 76
Low Fuel Indicator ................... 75
Octane Requirement ............... 420
Opening the Fuel Fill Door

Manually ............................. 568
Reserve Indicator ..................... 75
Tank, Filling the ...................... 421
Tighten Fuel Cap .................... 422
Fuel Economy ............................ 425
Fuses, Checking the .................. 562

Gas Mileage, Improving ............. 426
Gasoline ..................................... 420
Gauge ...................................... 76
Low Fuel Indicator ................... 75
Octane Requirement ............... 420
Tank, Refueling ....................... 421
Gas Station Procedures .............. 421
Gauges

Engine Coolant Temperature ... 76
Fuel .......................................... 76
Speedometer ............................ 76
Tachometer .............................. 76

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight

Rating) ................................... 484

GCWR (Gross Combined Weight

Rating) ................................... 484

Gearshift Lever Positions

Automatic

Transmission ............... 439, 440
Glove Box .................................. 173
Gross Axle Weight Rating

(GAWR) ................................. 483

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

(GVWR) ................................. 483

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight

Rating) ................................... 484

Halogen Headlight Bulbs ........... 523
HandsFreeLink® ........................ 364
Hazard Warning Flashers .......... 131
Headlights ................................. 127
Aiming .................................... 523
Automatic Lighting Off ............ 130
Daytime Running Lights ......... 129
High Beam Indicator ................ 72

Index

High Beams, Turning on ......... 127
Lights On Indicator .................. 72
Low Beams, Turning on .......... 127
Reminder Chime ..................... 127
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ........ 523
Turning on .............................. 127
Washers .................................. 126
Headphones ............................... 337
Head Restraints .......................... 149
Heated Mirror ............................ 165
Heaters, Seats ............................ 156
Heating and Cooling .................. 180
High Altitude, Starting at ............ 438
High-Low Beam Switch .............. 127
HomeLink® Universal

Transceiver ............................ 362

Hood, Opening and Closing

the .......................................... 423
Horn ...................................... 4, 124

Identification Number,

Vehicle ................................... 572

CONTINUED

Index

Ignition

Keys ........................................ 135
Switch ..................................... 138
Timing Control System ........... 583
Immobilizer System ................... 137
Important Safety Precautions ......... 6
Indicators, Instrument Panel ........ 65
ABS (Anti-lock Brake) ....... 68, 458
Active Damper System ...... 75, 480
Adaptive Cruise Control

(ACC) ................................... 73
A/T Temp ................................ 70
Blind Spot Information System

(BSI) .................................... 74

Brake (Parking and Brake

System) ......................... 67, 560
Charging System .............. 67, 558
Collision Mitigation Braking

System™ ............................... 73
Cruise Control .......................... 73
Cruise Main ............................. 73
Door and Tailgate Open ........... 74
Fog Lights ................................ 72
High Beam ............................... 72
Key (Immobilizer System) ....... 72
Lights On ................................. 72

Low Fuel .................................. 75
Low Oil Pressure .............. 67, 558
Low Tire Pressure .................... 70
Maintenance Minder ............... 503
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp ............................. 67, 559
Passenger Airbag Off ............... 36
Seat Belt Reminder ............. 21, 66
Security System ....................... 75
SH-AWD® ................................. 71
Side Airbag Off .................... 35, 68
SRS ..................................... 35, 68
System Message ................. 71, 85
Tire Pressure Monitor .............. 70
Turn Signal and Hazard

Warning ............................... 69
VSA OFF .................................. 69
VSA System ............................. 69
Infant Restraint ............................ 44
Infant Seats .................................. 44
Tether Anchorage Point ........... 53
Inflation, Proper Tire .................. 536
Inside Mirror ............................. 163
Inspection, Tire .......................... 538
Installing a Child Seat .................. 48
Instrument Panel .......................... 65

Instrument Panel Brightness ..... 132
Instruments and Controls ............. 63
Interface Dial ............................. 210
Interior Lights ............................ 168
Introduction ................................... i iPod® .......................................... 276
iPod® Error Messages ................ 284

Jacking up the Vehicle ............... 547
Jack, Tire ................................... 547
Jump Starting ............................. 554

Keyless Memory Settings .......... 147
Keys ........................................... 135

Label, Certification ..................... 572
Lane Change, Signaling ............. 127
Lap/Shoulder Belt ................. 16, 22

VI

LATCH Anchorage System .......... 49
Lights

Bulb Replacement ................... 523
Indicator ................................... 65
Interior .................................... 168
Parking ................................... 127
Load Limit ........................... 431, 483
LOCK (Ignition Key Position) .... 138
Locks

Anti-theft Steering Column ...... 138
Childproof Door ...................... 140
Fuel Fill Door .......................... 421
Glove Box ............................... 173
Lockout Prevention ................. 140
Power Door ............................. 139
Tailgate ........................... 140, 141
Low Coolant Level ...................... 424
Lower Anchors ............................. 49
Low Fuel Indicator ....................... 75
Low Oil Pressure

Indicator ........................... 67, 558
Lubricant Specifications Chart ... 574
Luggage, Storing (cargo) ........... 430

Maintenance .............................. 501
Main Items and Sub Items ...... 507
Minder .................................... 503
Owner's Maintenance

Checks ................................ 509
Safety ...................................... 502
Schedule ................................. 510

Malfunction Indicator

Lamp ................................ 67, 559
Memory, Driving Position .......... 166
Message Display .......................... 85
Message Indicator ....................... 71
Meters, Gauges ............................ 76
Methanol in Gasoline ................. 420
Mirrors, Adjusting ...................... 164
Modifications ............................. 429
Modifying Your Vehicle ............. 429
Moonroof ................................... 161
Multi-Information Display ............ 77

Neutral Gear Position ................. 441

Index

New Vehicle Break-in ................. 420
NOTICE, Explanation of ................ i Numbers, Identification ............. 572

Oil

Octane Requirement,

Gasoline ................................. 420
Odometer ..................................... 79
Odometer, Trip ............................ 79
Off-Highway Driving

Guidelines .............................. 496

Change, How to ...................... 514
Change, When to .................... 503
Checking Engine .................... 424
Life, Engine ............................. 503
Pressure Indicator ............. 67, 558
Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart ................................... 513
ON (Ignition Key Position) ........ 138
Outside Mirrors ......................... 163
Outside Temperature ................... 80
Overheating, Engine .................. 556
Owner's Maintenance Checks .... 509

CONTINUED VII

Index

Oxygenated Fuels ...................... 420

Panel Brightness Control ........... 132
Park Gear Position ..................... 440
Parking ...................................... 450
Parking Brake ............................ 163
Parking Brake and Brake System

Indicator ........................... 67, 560
Parking Lights ........................... 127
Parking Over Things that

Burn ................................ 450, 584
Passenger Airbag Off Indicator .... 36
PGM-FI System .......................... 583
Playing a Disc ............................ 233
Playing an iPod® ......................... 276
Playing a USB Flash Memory

Device .................................... 285

Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation

system) ............................... 248

Playing the AM/FM

Radio ............................... 191, 211
Playing the XM® Radio ........ 195, 224

VIII

Pollen Filter ............................... 530
Power Seat Adjustments ............ 148
Power Socket Locations ............. 175
Power Steering Fluid ................. 522
Power Windows ......................... 158
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts ........ 19
Preparing to Drive ...................... 437
Proper Seat Belt Usage ................ 16
Protecting Adults and Teens ........ 12
Additional Safety Precautions ... 20
Advice for Pregnant Women .... 19
Protecting Children ...................... 39
General Guidelines .................. 39
Protecting Infants ..................... 44
Protecting Larger Children ...... 56
Protecting Small Children ........ 45
Using Child Seats with

Tethers ................................. 53
Using LATCH .......................... 49

Radiator Overheating ................. 556
Radio/CD Sound System ........... 190

Radio/Disc Sound

System ............................ 191, 211
Radio Theft Protection ............... 307
Readiness Codes ........................ 585
Rear A/C Unit ............................ 185
Rear Audio Control Panel ........... 314
Rear Entertainment System ....... 309
Rear Lights, Bulb

Replacement ........................... 527
Rearview Mirror ......................... 163
Rearview Mirror with Rearview

Camera Display ...................... 416
Rear Window Defogger .............. 131
Rear Window Wiper and

Washer ................................... 126
Reclining the Seat Backs ............ 148
Reclining the Second Seats ........ 152
Refueling .................................... 421
Reminder Indicators ..................... 66
Remote Audio Controls .............. 304
Remote Control (RES) ............... 333
Remote Transmitter ................... 144
Replacement Information

Dust and Pollen Filter ............. 530
Engine Oil and Filter ............... 514
Fuses ...................................... 561

Light Bulbs ............................. 523
Schedule ................................. 510
Spark Plugs ............................. 575
Timing Belt ............................. 522
Tires ....................................... 540
Wiper Blades .......................... 532

Replacing Seat Belts After a

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

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S.

only) ....................................... 590

Reserve Tank, Engine

Coolant ............................ 424, 516
Restraint, Child ............................ 39
Reverse Gear Position ................ 441
Rotation, Tire ............................. 540

Safety Belts .............................. 9, 21
Safety Defects, Reporting (U.S.

only) ....................................... 590
Safety Features .............................. 8
Airbags ............................... 10, 26
Head Restraints ........................ 15
Seat Belts ........................ 9, 16, 21

Seats & Seat-Backs .............. 14, 15
Safety Labels, Location of ............. 61
Safety Messages .......................... iii Seat Belt e-pretensioners .............. 24
Seat Belts ................................. 9, 21
Additional Information ............. 21
Advice for Pregnant Women .... 19
Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners ........................... 23
Cleaning .................................. 530
e-pretensioner .......................... 24
Lap/Shoulder Belt .............. 16, 22
Maintenance ............................ 25
Reminder Indicator and

Beeper ............................. 21, 66
System Components ................ 21
Use During Pregnancy ............. 19
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder

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

Seat Heaters and Seat

Ventilation .............................. 157
Seats .......................................... 148
Adjusting the Second Seat ....... 152
Air Ventilation ......................... 157
Folding the Second Seat .......... 152
Folding the Third Seat ............ 153

Index

Head Restraints ....................... 149
Heaters ................................... 156
Position Memory .................... 166
Third Row Access ................... 153
Seats, Adjusting the ................... 148
Security System ......................... 339
Security System Indicator ............ 75
Sensors

Driver's Seat Position Sensor ... 31
Front Passenger's Weight

Sensors ................................ 31
Impact Sensors ........................ 26
Serial Number ............................ 572
Service Intervals ......................... 503
Service Manual (U.S. only) ........ 591
Service Station Procedures ........ 421
SH-AWD® ................................... 448
Indicator ................................... 71

Shifting the Automatic

Transmission .......................... 440
Shift Lever Position Indicators ... 439
Shift Lock Release ...................... 442

CONTINUED IX

Index

Side Airbags ................................. 32

How the Side Airbag Off

Indicator Works ................... 35
How Your Side Airbags Work .. 32
Side Curtain Airbags .................... 34

How Your Side Curtain Airbags

Work .................................... 34

Side Marker Lights, Bulb

Replacement in ....................... 525
Signaling Turns ............................ 69
Snow Tires ................................. 542
Sound System ..................... 190, 210
Spare Tire .................................. 546
Inflating ........................... 536, 546
Specifications .......................... 575
Spark Plugs ................................ 575
Specifications ............................. 574
Speed Control ............................ 344
Speed Limiter ............................. 442
Speedometer ................................ 76
SRS, Additional Information ......... 26
Additional Safety Precautions ... 38
Airbag Service .......................... 37
Airbag System Components ..... 26
How the Side Airbag Off

Indicator Works ................... 35

How the SRS Indicator Works .. 35
How Your Front Airbags

Work .................................... 29
How Your Side Airbags Work .. 32
How Your Side Curtain Airbags

Work .................................... 34
SRS Indicator ......................... 35, 68
START (Ignition Key

Position) ................................. 138
Starting the Engine .................... 438
Auto Control Mode ................. 438
In Cold Weather at High

Altitude ................................ 438
With a Dead Battery ................ 554
State Emissions Testing ............. 585
Steam Coming from Engine ....... 556
Steering Wheel

Adjustments ............................ 133
Anti-theft Column Lock ........... 138
Buttons ........................... 304, 344
Position Memory .................... 166
Stereo Sound System .......... 190, 210
Storage Compartment ................ 173
Storing Your Vehicle .................. 544
Sunglasses Holder ..................... 174
Sun Visor ................................... 175

Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™

(SH-AWD®) System ................ 448

Supplemental Restraint

System ............................ 10, 26
Servicing .................................. 37
SRS Indicator ...................... 35, 68
System Components ................ 26
Synthetic Oil .............................. 514

Tachometer .................................. 76
Tailgate ...................................... 140
Open Indicator ......................... 74
Opening the ............................ 140
Power ...................................... 141
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in ..... 527
Taking Care of the

Unexpected ............................ 545

Technical Descriptions

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S.

Vehicles) ............................. 576
Emissions Control Systems ..... 582
Three Way Catalytic

Converter ............................ 584

Tire Labeling ........................... 578
Tire Pressure Monitoring System

(TPMS) － Required Federal

Explanation ...................... 580
Temperature Gauge ..................... 76
Temperature, Inside Sensor ....... 189
Temperature, Outside .................. 80
Tensioners, Seat Belts .................. 23
Tether Anchorage Points ............. 53
Theft Protection, Radio .............. 307
Three Way Catalytic

Converter ............................... 584

Tilt/Telescopic Steering

Wheel ..................................... 133
Timing Belt ................................ 522
Tire Chains ................................ 542
Tire, How to Change a Flat ........ 547
Tire Information ......................... 578
Tire Labeling .............................. 578
Tire Pressure Monitoring System

(TPMS) ....................... 451, 580

Low Tire Pressure

Indicator ........................ 70, 451
Tire Pressure Monitor ....... 81, 452
Tires .......................................... 536
Air Pressure ............................ 537

Checking Wear ....................... 538
Compact Spare ........................ 546
DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S.

Vehicles) ............................. 576
Inflation ................................... 536
Inspection ............................... 538
Labeling .................................. 578
Maintenance ........................... 540
Pressure Monitoring System ... 451
Replacing ................................ 540
Rotating .................................. 540
Snow ....................................... 542
Specifications .......................... 575
Tire Chains ............................. 542
Tools, Tire Changing ................. 547
Towing

A Trailer .................................. 483
Emergency Wrecker ............... 568
Equipment and Accessories .... 488
Trailer Loading ....................... 484
Trailer Towing Tips ................. 492
Weight Limit ........................... 483

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring

System) .............................. 451

Required Federal

Explanation ......................... 580

Index

Trailer Stability Assist ................ 494
Transmission

Checking Fluid Level .............. 519
Fluid Selection ........................ 519
Identification Number ............. 572
Shifting the Automatic ............. 440
Treadwear .................................. 538
Trip Computer ............................. 83
Trip Meter ................................... 79
Turn Signals ................................. 69

Unexpected, Taking Care of

the .......................................... 545
Uniform Tire Quality Grading .... 576
Unleaded Gasoline ..................... 420
USB Flash Memory Device Error

Messages ............................... 296
Used Oil, How to Dispose of ...... 515
Using the Paddle Shifters in the D

position (D-Paddle Shift

Mode) ................................. 443

CONTINUED XI

Wrecker, Emergency Towing .... 568

XM® Radio .......................... 195, 224

Index

Using the Paddle Shifters in the S

position (Sequential Shift

Mode) ................................. 445

Vanity Mirror ............................. 175
Vehicle Capacity Load ................ 431
Vehicle Dimensions ................... 574
Vehicle Identification Number ... 572
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)

System ................................ 469
VSA OFF Indicator ................... 69
VSA OFF Switch ..................... 470
VSA System Indicator .............. 69
Vehicle Storage .......................... 544
Ventilation .................................. 187
VIN ............................................ 572
Viscosity, Oil .............................. 513

WARNING, Explanation of ........... iii Warning Labels, Location of ......... 61

XII

Warranty Coverages (U.S.

only) ....................................... 589

Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level ........ 518
Operation ................................ 125

Wheels

Adjusting the Steering ............. 133
Alignment and Balance ........... 540
Aluminum Alloy Wheels ......... 542
Cleaning .................................. 542
Compact Spare ........................ 546
Wrench, Nut ........................... 547

Windows

Auto Reverse ........................... 159
Operating the Power ............... 158
Rear, Defogger ........................ 131

Windshield

Cleaning .................................. 125
Defroster ................................. 184
Washers .......................... 125, 518

Wipers, Windshield

Changing Blades ..................... 532
Operation ................................ 125
Rear Windshield Wiper and

Washer ................................ 126
Worn Tires ................................. 538

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 513). Oil change capacity (including filter): 4.5 US qt (4.3 L) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Acura ATF-Z1 (automatic transmission fluid) (see page 520).

Rear Differential Fluid: Use Acura ATF-Z1 (automatic transmission fluid) 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 522).

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 521). 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)

31STX632
00X31-STX-6320

2010 Acura MDX Owner’s Manual

©2009 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. — All Rights Reserved

1234.5678.91.0
Printed in U.S.A.

3 1 T K 4 6 1 0
o w n e r s . a c u r a . c o m