2012 Acura MDX Owners Manual

compatible with your vehicle's braking system and can cause extensive damage.

Brake Fluid

MIN

MAX

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If the level is at or below the MIN mark, your brake system needs attention. Have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

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Power Steering Fluid, Timing Belt

Always use Acura Power Steering Fluid. You may use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement, but have the power steering system flushed and refilled with Acura PSF as soon as possible. A low power steering fluid level can indicate a leak in the system. Check the fluid level frequently, and have the system inspected as soon as possible. If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer.

Turning the steering wheel to full left or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump.

Timing Belt The timing belt should be replaced at the intervals shown in the Maintenance Minder schedule. Replace the timing belt every 60,000
miles (U.S.) or every 100,000 km (Canada) if you regularly drive your vehicle in any of the following conditions: ● In very high temperatures

(over 110°F, 43°C).

● In very low temperatures (under －20°F, －29°C). ● Frequently tow a trailer.

Power Steering Fluid

UPPER LEVEL

LOWER LEVEL

Check the level on the side of the reservoir when the engine is cold. The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. If not add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL mark. Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

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Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the cargo area or pull a trailer, readjustment may be required. Adjustments should be done by your dealer or another qualified technician. Low Beam Headlight Bulb Replacement The low beam headlight bulbs are a type of high voltage discharge tube. High voltage can remain in the circuit even with the light switch off and the key removed. Because of this, you should not attempt to examine or change a low beam headlight bulb yourself. If a low beam headlight bulb fails, take the vehicle to your dealer to have it replaced.

Lights

STAY BRACKETS

Replacing a High Beam Headlight Bulb Your vehicle has halogen headlight bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its base, and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

(Passenger's side) Remove the power steering reserve tank from the stay brackets.

POWER STEERING FLUID

1. Open the hood. 2. Remove the front bulkhead cover

(see page 516).

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Lights

CAP

HOLDING CLIP

BULB

CONNECTOR 3. Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.

4. Remove the bulb by turning it

about one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

(Passenger's side) Use a flat-tip screwdriver to remove the holding clip from the engine coolant reserve tank, and then remove the engine coolant reserve tank. Remove the cap from the engine coolant reserve tank (use towel to wipe fluid). Unclip hose from the stay brackets on the engine coolant reserve tank.

528

5. Insert the new bulb into the hole,

and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.

6. Push the electrical connector onto

the new bulb.

7. Turn on the headlights to test the

new bulb.

8. (Passenger's side)

Install the engine coolant reserve tank and power steering reserve tank.

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Replacing Front Turn Signal/ Parking and Side Marker Light Bulbs

FRONT TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

BULB

PARKING LIGHT

BULB

SIDE MARKER LIGHT

BULB

Lights

SOCKET

SOCKET

5. Push the new bulb straight into

the socket until it bottoms.

6. Insert the socket back into the

headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

7. Turn on the lights to make sure

the new bulb is working.

SOCKET

1. Open the hood. 2. Remove the front bulkhead cover

(see page 516).

3. Remove the socket by turning it

one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

4. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket.

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Lights

Replacing Front Fog/Daytime Running Light Bulbs Your vehicle uses halogen light bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its plastic case, and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

BOLT

HOLDING CLIP

Halogen bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

2. Remove the bolt and use the flat-

tip screwdriver to remove the holding clips located under the front bumper.

1. To change the bulb on the driver's

side, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right, then turn off the engine. To change the bulb on the passenger's side, turn the steering wheel to the left.

530

HOLDING CLIP

SCREW

3. Use a flat-tip screwdriver to

remove the holding clip from the inner fender, and remove the screw with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

4. Pull the inner fender cover away

from the fender and bumper.

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Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs (in Rear Pillar)

COVER

BOLT

5. Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.

6. Remove the bulb from the fog light assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

1. Open the tailgate. Put a cloth on the edge of the cover to prevent scratches. Remove the covers by prying the edge with a flat-tip screwdriver.

BOLT

2. Remove the two bolts, and remove

the rear light assembly from the rear pillar.

3. Determine which of the two bulbs is burned out: turn signal/hazard lights or side marker light.

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Lights

6. Push the new bulb straight into

the socket until it bottoms.

7. Turn on the lights to make sure

the new bulb is working.

8. Put the socket back into the light assembly, and turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

9. Install the rear light assembly in

the rear pillar. Tighten the two bolts. Snap the bolt covers into position.

Replacing a Back-up Light Bulb

COVER

1. Open the tailgate. Place a cloth on

the edge of the light assembly cover to prevent scratches. Remove the cover by carefully prying in the notch on its middle edge with a flat-tip screwdriver.

BULB

SOCKET

4. Remove the socket by turning it

one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

5. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket.

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BULB

6. Put the socket back into the light assembly, and turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

7. Place the cover back into the light assembly. Push it up until it locks in place.

SOCKET

2. Remove the socket by turning it

one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

3. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket.

4. Push the new bulb straight into

the socket until it bottoms.

5. Turn on the lights to make sure

the new bulb is working.

Lights

Side Turn Signal Light Each outside mirror has side turn signal lights. The lights should be replaced by your dealer. High-mount Brake Light The high-mount brake light should be replaced by your dealer. Rear License Plate Bulb The license plate has two lights above it. The bulbs should be replaced by your dealer.

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Dust and Pollen Filter, Cleaning the Seat Belts

Cleaning the Seat Belts

OPENING

Dirt build-up around the openings of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to retract slowly. Wipe the openings with a clean cloth dampened in mild soap and warm water or isopropyl alcohol.

If your seat belts get dirty, use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. Let the belts air-dry before you use the vehicle.

Dust and Pollen Filter This filter removes the dust and pollen that is brought in from the outside through the climate control system. Have your dealer replace the filter when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the multi- information display. It should be replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000
km) if you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air, or if the flow from the climate control system becomes less than usual.

534

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Front

Rear

If you use a non-Acura floor mat, make sure it fits properly and that it can be used with the floor mat anchors. Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mats.

The floor mats that came with your vehicle hook over the floor mat anchors. This keeps the floor mats from sliding forward, possibly interfering with the pedals, or backwards, making the front passenger's weight sensors ineffective. If you remove a floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your vehicle.

Floor Mats

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Wiper Blades

Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every 6 months. Replace them if you find signs of cracking in the rubber, and areas that are getting hard or if they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.

WIPER ARMS

To replace the front wiper blades: 1. Raise each wiper arm off the

windshield, lifting the driver's side first, then the passenger's side.

LOCK TAB

2. Disconnect the blade assembly

from the wiper arm: ● Press and hold the lock tab. ● Slide the blade assembly toward

the lock tab until it releases from the wiper arm.

Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised, or you will damage the hood and the wiper arms.

When replacing a wiper blade, make sure not to drop the wiper blade or wiper arm down on the windshield.

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BLADE

BLADE

3. Remove the blade from its holder by grabbing the tabbed end of the blade. Pull firmly until the tabs come out of the holder.

REINFORCEMENT

4. Examine the new wiper blades. If

they have no plastic or metal reinforcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade, and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.

Wiper Blades

5. Slide the new wiper blade into the

holder until the tabs lock.

6. Slide the wiper blade assembly

onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.

7. Lower the wiper arm against the

window. Windshield: Lower the passenger's side first, then the driver's side.

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Wiper Blades

WIPER ARM

To replace the rear wiper blade: 1. Raise the wiper arm off the rear

window.

2. Slide the blade out of the wiper

arm.

538

BLADE

REINFORCEMENT

3. Examine the new wiper blades. If

they have no plastic or metal reinforcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade, and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.

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4. Slide the new blade into the wiper

arm. Make sure it is engaged in the slot along its full length.

5. Lower the wiper arm.

Wiper Blades

539

Use a gauge to measure the air pressure in each tire at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm2) per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time.

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Tires

To safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated. The following pages give more detailed information on how to take care of your tires and what to do when they need to be replaced.

Using tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner's manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance.

540

Inflation Guidelines Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort. ● Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

● Overinflated tires can make your

vehicle ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warns you when a tire pressure is low. See page 455 for more information. Even though your vehicle is equipped with TPMS, we recommend that you visually check your tires every day. If you think a tire might be low, check it immediately with a tire gauge.

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Check the air pressures when the tires are cold. This means the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). Add or release air, if needed, to match the recommended cold tire pressures. If you check air pressures when the tires are hot [driven for several miles (kilometers)], you will see readings 4
to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4
kgf/cm2) higher than the cold readings. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the recommended cold air pressure. The tire will be underinflated. While tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

You should get your own tire pressure gauge and use it whenever you check your tire pressures. This will make it easier for you to tell if a pressure loss is due to a tire problem and not due to a variation between gauges. Recommended Tire Pressures The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions. MDX,TechnologyPackage,andU.S. TechnologyPackagewithEntertainment models

Tire Size

255/55R18 105H

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front/Rear: 32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2
kgf/cm2)

Tires

U.S.AdvancePackage,Advance PackagewithEntertainment,and CanadianElitePackagemodels

Tire Size

P255/50R19 103H

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front/Rear: 32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2
kgf/cm2)

The compact spare tire pressure is: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2) For convenience, the recommended tire sizes and cold tire pressures are on a label on the driver's doorjamb. For additional information about your tires, see page 581.

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U.S.AdvancePackage,Advance PackagewithEntertainment,and CanadianElitePackagemodels

Tire Size

P255/50R19 103H

Cold Tire Pressure for High Speed Driving

Front: 33 psi (230 kPa,

2.3 kgf/cm2)

Rear: 36 psi (260 kPa,

2.6 kgf/cm2)

Tire Inspection Every time you check inflation, you should also examine the tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear.

You should look for: ● Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find either of these conditions. ● Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace the tire if you can see fabric or cord.

● Excessive tread wear.

Tires

High Speed Driving We strongly recommend that you do not drive faster than the posted speed limits and conditions allow. If you ever drive in a sanctioned competitive event at sustained high speeds (over 99 mph or 160 km/h), be sure to adjust the cold tire pressures as shown below. If you do not, excessive heat can build up and cause sudden tire failure. MDX,TechnologyPackage,andU.S. TechnologyPackagewithEntertainment models

Tire Size

255/55R18 105H

Cold Tire Pressure for High Speed Driving

Front: 32 psi (220 kPa,

2.2 kgf/cm2)

Rear: 33 psi (230 kPa,

2.3 kgf/cm2)

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INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

Tire Service Life The service life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including, but not limited to, driving habits, road conditions, vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

Your tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down, you will see a 1/2
inch (12.7 mm) wide band across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. A tire this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators.

Tires

In addition to your regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach five years old. It is also recommended that all tires, including the spare, be removed from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear. The last four digits of the TIN (tire identification number) are found on the sidewall of the tire and indicate the date of manufacture (See Tire Labeling on page 583).

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Tires

Tire Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment. Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicle's aluminum wheels. Use only Acura wheel weights for balancing.

544

Tire Rotation

Front

Front

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels) To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires according to the maintenance messages displayed on the multi-information display. Move the tires to the positions shown in the illustration each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to-back.

Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire's sidewall). Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS and vehicle stability assist system (VSA) to work inconsistently. The ABS works by comparing the speed of the wheels. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the vehicle. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to activate.

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It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, replace the two front tires or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your vehicle's handling. If you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel's specifications match those of the original wheels. Also be sure you use only TPMS specific wheels. If you do not, the tire pressure monitoring system will not work. Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.

Installing improper tires on your vehicle can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner's manual.

Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheel: MDX,TechnologyPackage,andU.S. TechnologyPackagewithEntertainment models 18 x 8 J (TPMS) U.S.AdvancePackage,Advance PackagewithEntertainment,and CanadianElitePackagemodels 19 ᤲ 8 ᨨ J (TPMS)

Tires

Tires: MDX,TechnologyPackage,andU.S. TechnologyPackagewithEntertainment models 255/55R18 105H U.S.AdvancePackage,Advance PackagewithEntertainment,and CanadianElitePackagemodels P255/50R19 103H See page 581 for information about DOT Tire Quality Grading, and page 583 for tire size and labeling information. Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M ＋ S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions. For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.

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Tires

Snow Tires If you mount snow tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as the original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may be lower than your original tires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations. Tire Chains Mount tire chains on your tires when required by driving conditions or local laws. Install them only on the front tires. Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, Acura strongly recommends using the chains listed below. SCC Super Z-6＃ SC 435

546

When installing chains, follow the manufacturer's instructions and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with chains installed. If you hear them contacting the body or chassis, stop and investigate. Make sure the chains are installed tightly, and that they are not contacting the brake lines or suspension. Remove the chains as soon as you start driving on cleared roads.

Using the wrong chains, or not properly installing chains, can damage the brake lines and cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner's manual regarding the selection and use of tire chains.

Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly installed can damage your vehicle's brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are hitting any part of the vehicle.

Wheels Clean the wheels as you would the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly. Aluminum alloy wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Cleaning the wheels with harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners) or a stiff brush can damage the clear-coat. To clean the wheels, use a mild detergent and a soft brush or sponge.

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The sensor on the negative terminal monitors your vehicles battery condition. If there is a problem with the sensor, you will see a ‘‘CHECK BATTERY SENSOR’’ message on the multiinformation display. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer. Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent further corrosion.

If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your dealer or a qualified technician. WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling. If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle's electrical system. Always disconnect the negative (－) cable first, and reconnect it last.

Checking the Battery

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled technician do the battery maintenance.

If the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio you will see ‘‘ENTER CODE’’ in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the digit code (see page 308).

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Vehicle Storage

If you need to park your vehicle for an extended period (more than 1
month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your vehicle back on the road. If possible, store your vehicle indoors. ● Fill the fuel tank. ● Wash and dry the exterior

completely.

● Clean the interior. Make sure the

carpeting, floor mats, etc., are completely dry.

● Leave the parking brake off. Put

the transmission in Park.

548

● Cover the vehicle with a

‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Non-porous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.

● If possible, periodically run the

engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle on and off twice). Preferably, do this once a month.

● Block the rear wheels. ● If the vehicle is to be stored for a

longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.

● Leave one window open slightly (if

the vehicle is being stored indoors).

● Disconnect the battery. ● Support the front and rear wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.

● To minimize sticking, apply a

silicone spray lubricant to all door and tailgate seals. Also, apply a vehicle body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and tailgate seals.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your vehicle towed.

Compact Spare Tire .................... 550
Changing a Flat Tire ................... 551
If the Engine Won't Start............. 557
Jump Starting.............................. 558
If the Engine Overheats .............. 560
Low Oil Pressure Indicator ......... 562
Charging System Indicator ......... 562
Malfunction Indicator Lamp........ 563
Brake System Indicator............... 564
Fuses .......................................... 565
Fuse Locations............................ 569
Opening the Fuel Fill Door

Manually................................. 572
Emergency Towing..................... 572
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck .......... 573

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Compact Spare Tire

Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle as soon as you can. Check the inflation pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2) Follow these precautions: ● Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h). ● This tire gives a harsher ride and

less traction on some road surfaces. Use greater caution while driving.

● Do not mount snow chains on a

compact spare.

● Do not use your compact spare tire

on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

● After the flat tire is replaced with

the spare tire, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator stays on. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the spare, this indicator begins to flash, then stays on again. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page 458).

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR Replace the tire when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement should be the same size and design tire, mounted on the same wheel. The spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the spare wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

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If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.

CARGO AREA FLOOR

Changing a Flat Tire

JACK

The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.

1. Park the vehicle on firm, level, and

non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in Park. Apply the parking brake.

TOOLS

SPARE TIRE

2. Turn on the hazard warning lights, and turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle while you change the tire.

3. Open the tailgate.

4. Push the rear edge of the handle

to raise the handle loop and pull up the loop to raise the cargo area floor.

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Changing a Flat Tire

PLASTIC COVER

KNOB

COVER

5. The tools and jack are under the cargo area behind a cover on the driver's side. Remove the cover by turning the knobs counterclockwise, then pulling out the cover.

6. Turn the jack's end bracket

counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the jack.

7. The spare tire is stored

underneath the rear cargo area. Remove the plastic cover on the cargo area lining to access the shaft for the spare tire hoist.

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WHEEL NUT WRENCH

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

Changing a Flat Tire

BRACKET

9. Keep turning the wheel nut wrench to create slack in the cable.

10. Remove the bracket from the

spare tire.

The wheel nut wrench supplied with your vehicle is specially adapted to fit the hoist shaft. Do not use any other tool.

8. Put the wheel nut wrench on the

hoist shaft. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to lower the spare tire to the ground.

11. Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn

with the wheel nut wrench.

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Changing a Flat Tire

EXTENSION

JACKING POINT

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

BRAKE HUB

12. Place the jack under the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

13. Use the extension and the wheel nut wrench as shown to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.

14. Remove the wheel nuts, then

remove the flat tire.

15. Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully; it may be hot from driving.

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16. Put on the spare tire. Put the

wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel nut wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten the wheel nuts fully.

17. Lower the vehicle to the ground,

and remove the jack.

Changing a Flat Tire

20. Place the flat tire face up under the

hoist.

21. Insert the hoist bracket into the

center hole of the flat tire.

18. Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 94 lbf·ft (127 N·m, 13 kgf·m)

19. Remove the center cap from the

flat tire.

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Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.

Always raise the spare tire hoist, even if you are not stowing a tire. If the hoist is left down, it will be damaged during driving and need to be replaced.

24. Store the jack in its holder. Turn the jack's end bracket to lock it in place. Store the tools, and install the cover.

25. Refer to Changing a Tire with

TPMS (see page 459).

22. Slowly turn the wheel nut wrench clockwise to take up the slack of the hoist cable. Make sure the bracket is seated in the center hole of the flat tire.

23. Turn the wheel nut wrench

clockwise until the flat tire rests against the underbody of the vehicle and you hear the hoist click.

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Diagnosing why the engine won't start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position: ● You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engine's starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.

● You can hear the starter motor

operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.

Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly When you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound, a series of clicks, or nothing at all.

Check these things: ● Check the transmission interlock. The transmission must be in Park or neutral or the starter will not operate.

● Turn the ignition switch to the ON

(II) position. Turn on the headlights, and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or do not come on at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting on page 558.

● Turn the ignition switch to the

START (III) position. If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is probably something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified technician to determine the problem. See Emergency Towing on page 572.

If the Engine Won't Start

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is discharged or the connections are corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connections (see page 547). You can then try jump starting the vehicle from a booster battery (see page 558).

The Starter Operates Normally In this case, the starter motor's speed sounds normal, or even faster than normal, when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, but the engine does not run. ● Are you using a properly coded

key? An improperly coded key will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the instrument panel to blink rapidly (see page 74).

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If the Engine Won't Start, Jump Starting

● Are you using the proper starting procedure? Refer to Starting the Engine on page 442.

● Do you have fuel? Check the fuel gauge; the warning indicator may not be working.

● There may be an electrical

problem, such as no power to the fuel pump. Check all the fuses (see page 566).

If you find nothing wrong, you will need a qualified technician to find the problem. See Emergency Towing on page 572.

Jump Starting Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.

A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriously injuring anyone nearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

You cannot start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it.

ToJumpStartYourVehicle: 1. Open the hood, and check the

physical condition of the battery. In very cold weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or frozen, do not try jump starting until it thaws.

If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can freeze. Attempting to jump start with a frozen battery can cause it to rupture.

2. Turn off all the electrical

accessories: heater, A/C, climate control, audio system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in neutral or Park, and set the parking brake.

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BOOSTER BATTERY

The numbers in the illustration show you the order to connect the jumper cables. 3. Connect one jumper cable to the

positive (＋) terminal on your vehicle's battery. Connect the other end to the positive (＋) terminal on the booster battery.

4. Connect the second jumper cable

to the negative (－) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the grounding point as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine.

Jump Starting

5. If the booster battery is in another vehicle, have an assistant start that vehicle and run it at a fast idle. 6. Start your vehicle. If the starter

motor still operates slowly, check that the jumper cables have good metal-to-metal contact.

7. Once the vehicle is running,

disconnect the negative cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your vehicle, and then from the booster battery. Keep the ends of the jumper cables away from each other and any metal on the vehicle until everything is disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.

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If the Engine Overheats

The pointer of your vehicle's temperature gauge should stay in the midrange under most conditions. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason (hot day, driving up a steep hill, etc.). If the vehicle overheats, you should take immediate action. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood.

Driving with the temperature gauge pointer at the red mark can cause serious damage to the engine.

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Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

1. Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Park, and set the parking brake. Turn off all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2. If you see steam and/or spray

coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

3. If you do not see steam or spray,

leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading, the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint, then continue driving.

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4. If the temperature gauge stays at the red mark, turn off the engine.

5. Look for any obvious coolant

leaks, such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you continue driving (see Emergency Towing on page 572).

6. If you do not find an obvious leak,

check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Add coolant if the level is below the MIN mark.

7. If there was no coolant in the

reserve tank, you may need to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the pointer reaches the middle of the temperature gauge, or lower, before checking the radiator.

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

8. Using gloves or a large heavy

cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pushing down, to the first stop. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap, and turn it until it comes off.

If the Engine Overheats

9. Start the engine and set the

climate control to AUTO at ‘‘Hi.’’ Add coolant to the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. If you do not have the proper coolant mixture available, you can add plain water. Remember to have the cooling system drained and refilled with the proper mixture as soon as you can.

10. Put the radiator cap back on

tightly. Run the engine, and check the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair (see Emergency Towing on page 572).

11. If the temperature stays normal,

check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. If it has gone down, add coolant to the MAX mark. Put the cap back on tightly.

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Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System Indicator

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

This indicator should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing or stays on, the oil pressure has dropped very low or lost pressure. Serious engine damage is possible, and you should take immediate action. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL’’ message on the multi-information display when this indicator comes on.

Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn off the engine as soon as you can safely get the vehicle stopped.

1. Safely pull off the road, and shut

off the engine. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2. Let the vehicle sit for a minute.

Open the hood, and check the oil level (see page 427). An engine very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

3. If necessary, add oil to bring the level back to the full mark on the dipstick (see page 517).

4. Start the engine, and watch the oil pressure indicator. If it does not go out within 10 seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving (see Emergency Towing on page 572).

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Charging System Indicator

If the charging system indicator comes on brightly

when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page 87). Immediately turn off all electrical accessories. Try not to use other electrically operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running; starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly. Go to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

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If this indicator comes on while driving, it means one

of the engine's emissions control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your vehicle's performance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause increased emissions. Continued operation may cause serious damage. If you have recently refueled your vehicle, the indicator coming on could be due to a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Tighten the cap until it clicks at least once. Tightening the cap will not turn the indicator off immediately; it can take several days of normal driving.

If the indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving, have your vehicle checked by the dealer as soon as possible.

If you keep driving with the malfunction indicator lamp on, you can damage your vehicle's emissions controls and engine. Those repairs may not be covered by your vehicle's warranties.

You will also see a ‘‘CHECK EMISSION SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page 87).

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Readiness Code Your vehicle has certain ‘‘readiness codes’’ that are part of the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems. In some states, part of the emissions testing is to make sure these codes are set. If they are not set, the test cannot be completed. If the battery in your vehicle has been disconnected or gone dead, these codes may be erased. It takes several days of driving under various conditions to set the codes again. To check if they are set, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, without starting the engine. The malfunction indicator lamp will come on for 20
seconds. If it then goes off, the readiness codes are set. If it blinks five times, the readiness codes are not set. If possible, do not take your vehicle for an emissions test until the readiness codes are set. Refer to Emissions Testing for more information (see page 590).

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If the fluid level is low, take your vehicle to a dealer, and have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads. However, if the brake pedal does not feel normal, you should take immediate action. A problem in one part of the system's dual circuit design will still give you braking at two wheels. You will feel the brake pedal go down much farther before the vehicle begins to slow down, and you will have to press harder on the pedal. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM’’ message on the multi- information display (see page 87).

Slow down by shifting to a lower gear, and pull to the side of the road when it is safe. Because of the long distance needed to stop, it is hazardous to drive the vehicle. You should have it towed, and repaired as soon as possible (see Emergency Towing on page 572). If you must drive the vehicle a short distance in this condition, drive slowly and carefully. If the ABS indicator and the VSA system indicator come on with the brake system indicator, have your vehicle inspected by your dealer immediately.

Brake System Indicator

U.S.

Canada

The brake system indicator normally comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and as a reminder to check the parking brake. It will stay on if you do not fully release the parking brake. If the brake system indicator comes on while driving, the brake fluid level is probably low. Press lightly on the brake pedal to see if it feels normal. If it does, check the brake fluid level the next time you stop at a service station (see page 525). You will also see a ‘‘LOW BRAKE FLUID’’ message on the multi- information display (see page 87).

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INTERIOR

LID

REAR

LID

UNDER-HOOD (PRIMARY)

TAB

Fuses

The vehicle's fuses are located in four fuse boxes. The interior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver's side. To remove the fuse box lid, put your finger in the notch on the lid, pull it toward you, and take it out of its hinges.

The rear fuse box is located at the left side of the cargo area.

The primary under-hood fuse box is located next to the battery. To open it, push the tabs as shown.

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