2014 Acura MDX tow bar

316
uuTowing a TraileruTowing Preparation
Driving
■Hitches
Read the trailer manufacturer’s instructions, and select the appropriate draw bar for
the height of the trailer you will be towing.■Weight distribution hitches
Your vehicle is designed to tow without the need for a load distributing hitch. If you
wish to use one, please consult your trailer maker for proper installation and set-up.
Improper set-up could degrade the handling, stability, and braking performance of
your vehicle.■Safety chains
Always use safety chains when you tow a trailer. Leave enough slack to allow the
trailer to turn corners easily, but do not allow the chains to drag on the ground.■Sway control
This device can be used if your trailer tends to sway. Your trailer maker can tell you
what kind of sway control you need and how to install it. Improper installation could
degrade the handling and stability of your vehicle.■Automatic transmission cooler
Install an additional ATF (automatic transmission fluid) cooler to help prevent the
transmission from overheating, and damaging. You can get the additional ATF
cooler at a dealer.An additional ATF cooler is required to keep the transmission from overheating when
towing more than 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). You can get the additional ATF cooler at a dealer.■Trailer mirrors
Many states, provinces and territories require special exterior mirrors when towing a
trailer. Install special mirrors whenever you cannot clearly see behind you, or if the
trailer creates a blind spot.4WD models

317
uuTowing a TraileruTrailer Stability Assist
*
Driving
Trailer Stability Assist
*
Helps to stabilize the vehicle and trailer when the trailer severely sways.■How trailer stability assist works
When the vehicle and trailer become unstable while driving, trailer stability assist
determines the cause. If the trailer oscillation is detected as the cause, and the
swaying increases, the system applies the brakes or controls engine output to reduce
vehicle speed.
Both the vehicle and trailer brake lights come on automatically if you brake to
reduce vehicle speed.
1Trailer Stability Assist
*
Trailer stability assist is not a function that prevents
the vehicle and trailer from swaying. Avoid high
speeds, abrupt steering, improper trailer load, and
sudden braking to keep the trailer from swaying.
When swayed too severely, the system becomes
ineffective, and you may loose control of your
vehicle, causing the trailer to roll over or get
damaged.
2Driving Safely with a Trailer P. 318
Trailer towing sway is caused by:•Crosswinds•Improper towbar down load•Excessive Speed
The VSA® system indicator blinks during the trailer
stability assist operation.
2VSA® Operation P. 358
* Not available on all models

438Handling the Unexpected
ToolsTypes of Tools
1Types of Tools
The tools are stored in the cargo area.
Wheel Nut Wrench/
Jack Handle
Jack Jack Handle BarTowing Hook
Tool Case
Models with a compact spare tire

uuIf a Tire Goes FlatuChanging a Flat Tire
*
440Handling the Unexpected
1.Push the rear edge of the handle on the
floor lid and open the lid.
2.Take out the cargo floor box.
3.Take the jack, wheel nut wrench, and jack
handle bar out of the tool case.
■Getting Ready to Replace the Flat Tire
1Changing a Flat Tire
*
NOTICEDo not use the jack if it doesn’t work properly. Call
your dealer or a professional towing service.
Handle
Cargo Floor Box
Tool Case* Not available on all models