2015 Acura MDX ECO mode

56 || 57
AUDIo AND CoNNeCTIvITy
AUDIo AND CoNNeCTIvITy
Compact Disc (CD)
The audio system supports audio CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs in MP3, WMA, or AAC formats.
Audio Source:
Select the CD icon.
Scan: Scan tracks
on the CD or folder.
random: Play tracks
or files in random
order.
CD slot
CD eject
button
CD display Skip/seek bar:
Change the track or
folder. r
epeat: Repeat the
current track or file.
Interface dial (from
the Audio screen):
Rotate to view track
list, and press to
select a track in the
upper display.
Do not use CDs with adhesive labels or insert a damaged CD. Inserting these types of CDs
may cause them to get stuck or damage the audio unit.
No TICe
REAR
REAR
AUDIO
FRONT
AUDIO
NAVFFFFAAAAAAAAAREARAUDIOFAAFRONTAUDIOAA
REAR
NAVNAVFRONT
AU
DIOREAR
AU DIO
Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio*
When music CDs are inserted, they are automatically recorded by system default onto the
built-in HDD for later playback.
CD eject button
HDD display
Audio Source:
Select
the HDD icon.
Album bar: Change
the album.
Scan: Scan all tracks
or the first track on
each album.
random: Play the
artist, album, or tracks
in random order.
Skip/seek bar: Change
the track. meNU button:
Display menu items
in the upper display,
including Music
Search. r
epeat: Repeat the
artist, album, or
track.
Searching for music
Use the interface dial to search for tracks stored on the HDD using several
methods.
1. From the audio screen, press MENU.
2. Select Music Search.
3. Select a search type (artist, album, track, etc.).
4. Select the song you want to play.
You can also search for and play HDD music using Song By Voice
™ (see page 146).
CD slot
Interface dial (from the
Audio screen): Rotate to view
track list, and press to select
a track in the upper display.
*if equipped
Screen shown for model 
with navigation.
Screen shown for model with navigation.

60 || 61
AUDIo AND CoNNeCTIvITy
AUDIo AND CoNNeCTIvITy
Pandora®
Play and operate Pandora from your phone through the vehicle’s audio system. Visit
www.acura.com/handsfreelink to check phone compatibility. Standard data rates apply.
Available in the U.S. only.
Connect your phone when the vehicle is stopped.
For iPhone:
•  Connect via Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (see page 68) or USB (see page 51).
•  A pop-up may appear on your phone requesting you to allow access for Pandora to be
launched.
•  If you cannot operate Pandora through the audio system, it may be streaming through
Bluetooth® Audio. Make sure Pandora mode on the audio system is selected.
•  If Pandora still does not operate, try rebooting the phone and reconnecting the cable if
necessary.
For Android and BlackBerry:
•  Connect via Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (see page 68).
Audio Source: Select
the Pandora icon.
Pandora displayStation bar:
Change the station.
Like/Dislike a song
Skip forward
Interface dial (from
the Audio screen):
Rotate and press to
select an item in the
upper display.
Play/Pause
State  or local laws may prohibit  the operation  of handheld electronic  devices while operating  a vehicle.  
Only launch streaming  audio on your phone  when safe to do so.
State 
or local laws may prohibit  the operation  of handheld electronic  devices while operating  a vehicle.  
Only launch streaming  audio on your phone  when safe to do so.
Aha display
AcuraLink featuring Aha™
Access music and information programming, location-based services, and social
media through your vehicle’s audio system. Visit www.acura.com/handsfreelink
(U.S.) or www.handsfreelink.ca (Canada) to check phone compatibility. Standard
data rates apply.
Visit owners.acura.com (U.S.) or myacura.ca (Canada) and download the AcuraLink
app to your phone prior to using this feature. Make sure you have an active Aha
account. Connect your phone when the vehicle is stopped.
For iPhone:
•  Connect via Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (see page 68) or USB (see page 51).
•  A pop-up may appear on your phone requesting you to allow access for Aha to be
launched.
•  If you cannot operate Aha through the audio system, it may be streaming through
Bluetooth® Audio. Make sure Aha mode on your audio system is selected.
•  If Aha still does not operate, try rebooting the phone and reconnecting the cable if
necessary.
For Android and BlackBerry:
•  Connect via Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (see page 68).
Audio source: Select
the aha icon. Station bar
Play/pause Like/dislike
Stations: View and
select 16 previously
favorited stations.
Interface dial (from the
Audio screen): Rotate
to select an item, and
press ENTER to select it
in the upper display. meNU button:
View
the complete station
list.
Screen shown for model  with navigation.
Screen shown for model with navigation.

86 || 87
DrIvING
DrIvING
Load Limits Example
Example1
Max load
1,173 lbs
(532 kg ) Passenger weight
150 lbs x 2 = 300 lbs
(68 kg x 2 = 136 kg )Cargo
weight
873 lbs
(396 kg )
Example2 Max load
1,173 lbs
(532 kg ) Passenger weight
150 lbs x 5 = 750 lbs
(68 kg x 5 = 340 kg )Cargo
weight
423 lbs
(192 kg )
Overloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause
a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.
Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual.
WArNING
The headlight aim on your vehicle was set by the factory, and does not need to be adjusted.
However, if you regularly carry heavy items in the cargo area or pull a trailer, have the
aiming readjusted at your dealer or by a qualified technician.
Towing a Trailer
Your vehicle can tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, use the proper
equipment, and follow the towing guidelines. See the Owner’s Manual on the Owner
Information CD or visit  owners.acura.com for more information.
Towing Load Limits
Total trailer weight
Do not exceed the maximum allowable weight of the
trailer, cargo, and everything in or on it shown in the table
below.
Towing loads in excess of this can seriously affect vehicle
handling and performance and can damage the engine and
drivetrain.
Total load
Each weight limit \fis calculated base\fd on the following \fconditions\f•Occupants fll seats\f f\bom the f\bont of th\fe vehicle to the b\fac k•Each occupant weigh\fts 150 lbs (68 kg)•Each occupant has 1\f5 lbs (7 kg) of ca\b\fgo in the ca\bgo a\be\faAny additional weight, ca\bgo, o\b accesso\bies \beduce the maximum t\baile\b weight and maximum tongue loa\fd.
Number of
occupant s4WD models with
ATF cooler4WD models
without ATF cooler2WD models
25,000 lbs (2,268 kg\f)3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)\f3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)\f
34,750 lbs (2,155 k\fg )3,250 lbs (1,474 k\fg)3,250 lbs (1,474 k\fg)
44,500 lbs (2,041 k\fg)3,000 lbs (1,361 k\fg)3,000 lbs (1,361 k\fg)
54,250 lbs (1,928 kg\f)2,750 lbs (1,247 k\fg)2,750 lbs (1,247 k\fg)
64,000 lbs (1,814 kg\f)2,500 lbs (1,134 k\fg)2,500 lbs (1,134 k\fg)
7Towing not \becommen\fded

88 || 89
DrIvING
DrIvING
Tongue load
The weight of the tongue with a fully loaded trailer on the
hitch should be approximately:
Boat trailers: 5-15% of the total trailer weight.
Other trailers: 10-15% of total trailer weight.
Number of
occupant s4WD model s2WD models
2500 lbs (227 kg )350 lbs (159 kg )3475 lbs (215 kg)325 lbs (147 kg )4380 lbs (172 kg)300 lbs (136 kg )5290 lbs (132 kg)275 lbs (125 kg )6165 lbs (75 kg)150 lbs (68 kg)7Towing not recommende d
Tongue load
Number of
occupant s4WD model s2WD models
2500 lbs (227 kg )350 lbs (159 kg )
3475 lbs (215 kg)325 lbs (147 kg )
4380 lbs (172 kg)300 lbs (136 kg )
5290 lbs (132 kg)275 lbs (125 kg )
6165 lbs (75 kg)150 lbs (68 kg)
7Towing not recommende d
estimate tongue load
Excessive tongue load reduces front tire traction and steering control. Too little tongue
load can make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway.
You can estimate the tongue load by measuring the trailer hitch height from the ground
in the following steps:
1. Park the vehicle on level ground.
2. Measure the distance between the ground and the bottom of the trailer hitch.
3. Connect the fully loaded trailer to the hitch.
4. Measure the distance between the ground and the bottom of the trailer hitch again.
5. Subtract the second measurement from the first measurement, then refer to the
following table.
If the diference b\,ecomes more than i\,ndicated in the ta\,ble, distrib\fte the\, load or
remove cargo as nee\,ded .
If the diference i\ls4WD models\fWD models
\b inches (2.5 cm)\b50 lbs (68 kg)
\b \b/2 inches (3.8 cm\,)250 lbs (\b\b4 kg)
2 inches (5.\b cm)350 lbs (\b59 kg)
2 3/8 inches (6.0 c\,m)450 lbs (205 kg)—
2 5/8 inches (6.7 c\,m)500 lbs (227 kg)—
Weigh trailer loads using a public scale
Check each weight in the order indicated as shown.
Refer to the table on the right for each weight’s limit except for the tongue load.
Weight limit for
Front gross axle2,811 lbs
(1,275 kg )2,910 lbs
(1,320 kg)
Gross vehicl e5,368 lbs
(2,435 kg ) 5,677 lbs
(2,575 kg)
Rear gross axle2,734 lbs
(1,240 kg )2,965 lbs
(1,345 kg)
Gross combined 8,036 lbs

(3,645 kg ) 9,833 lbs
(4,460 kg)
4WD models
2WD model s
• If you cannot weigh the rear axle, subtract 1 from 2.
•  The maximum gross combined weight (4) decreases by 2% for every 1,000 feet (305
meters) of elevation.
•  To calculate the tongue load, subtract 5 from 6.
•  Refer to the trailer owner’s manual for additional information.
1. Front gross axle weight
2. Gross vehicle weight
3. Rear gross axle weight 4. Gross combined weight
5. Hitched trailer weight
6. Unhitched trailer weight

92 || 93
DrIvING
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Starting to Drive
The keyless access system allows simple push-button start.
Before Starting the engine
Check that the shift lever is in Park (P) and the parking
brake is released, then depress the brake pedal. Keep your
foot firmly on the brake pedal when starting the engine.
The engine is harder to start in cold weather and in thinner
air found at altitudes above 8,000 feet (2,400 m). When
starting the engine in cold weather, turn off all electrical
accessories such as the lights, climate control system, and
rear defogger in order to reduce battery drain.
Changing the Power mode Accessory or on mode: Press ENGINE START/STOP once
without pressing the brake pedal for Accessory mode. Press
it again for On mode.
Starting the engine: Press and hold the brake pedal, then
press ENGINE START/STOP. Keep your foot firmly on the
brake pedal when starting the engine.
Turning the vehicle off: Shift to Park (P), then press ENGINE START/STOP. If you press
the button and the shift lever is not in Park, the vehicle goes into Accessory mode.
Shifting
Park (P): Used for parking or starting/stopping the engine. Press the
brake pedal, then press the release button to shift.
r everse (r): Used for reversing.
Neutral (N): Used for idling.
Drive (D): Used for normal driving or temporarily driving in
sequential mode.
Drive (S): Used for driving in sequential mode. Use the paddle
shifters to change gears (see page 93).
Brake pedal
Before you change the shift lever from D to R and vice versa, come to a complete
stop and keep the brake pedal depressed. Operating the shift lever before the
vehicle has come to a complete standstill can damage the transmission.
Do not operate the shift lever while pressing the accelerator pedal. You could
damage the transmission.
Release button
No TICe
Sequential Shift mode
Use the paddle shifters to change between 1st and 6th gears without removing your
hands from the steering wheel.
When the shift lever is in D: The vehicle goes into sequential shift mode momentarily,
and the gear position indicator comes on. When you start traveling at a constant speed,
sequential shift mode automatically switches off, and the gear position indicator goes off.
When the shift lever is in S: The vehicle goes into sequential shift mode, and the M
(sequential shift mode) indicator and gear position indicator come on. At speeds of 6
mph (10 km/h) or less, the vehicle automatically shifts down into 1st gear. It does not
automatically shift up, even if vehicle speed increases. You can pull away only in 1st or
2nd gear.
When switching out of sequential shift mode, move the shift lever from S to D. When
sequential shift mode is canceled, the M indicator and gear position indicator go off.
Second gear lock mode: If you pull the (+) paddle shifter while stopped or driving at 6
mph (10 km/h) or less, the gear position is locked in 2nd gear. This makes it easier to pull
away on slippery surfaces such as snow-covered roads. To cancel 2nd gear lock mode, pull
the (-) paddle shifter or move the shift lever from S to D.
(-) Paddle shifter:
Pull to shift down
to a lower gear. (+) Paddle shifter:
Pull to shift up to a
higher gear.
recommended shift points
Shift Up Acceleration
1st to 2nd 15 mph (24 km/h)
2nd to 3rd 25 mph (40 km/h)
3rd to 4th 40 mph (64 km/h)
4th to 5th 45 mph (72 km/h)
5th to 6th 50 mph (80 km/h)
M indicator/Gear
position indicator

106 || 107
DrIvING
DrIvING
Surround view Camera*
Four cameras assist in helping you view blind spots around the vehicle.
*if equipped (Canadian models)
The surround 
view camera does not eliminate  all blind spots. Visually confirm safety  around the vehicle  with your 
own eyes  and the mirrors.  Do not rely  on the camera  view.
Front ground view Front blind viewright side viewCheck Your Surround ingsCheck Your Surround ings
Check Your Surround ingsCh eck Yo ur Surroundi ngs
Displaying Front or Side views
Press CAMERA while the vehicle is stopped or at
a speed of 12 km/h or below. The camera display
turns off when the vehicle speed is 15 km/h or
above. Press CAMERA again to switch views.
Press any other button to turn off the camera view.
Displaying the r ear view
Shift into Reverse (R) to display the rear view.
Changing Camera Settings While on the camera view, press MENU. Use the interface dial to select Camera Settings,
and choose from the options.
Left/right side views
Front and side views
rear ground view rear view rear wide view
Rear viewsCheck
Your Surround ingsCheck Your Surround ings
Check Your Surround ingsCh eck Yo ur Surroundi ngs
Check Your Surround ingsCheck Your Surround ings
Check Your Surround ingsCh eck Yo ur Surroundi ngs
Check Your Surround ingsCheck Your Surround ings
Check Your Surround ingsCh eck Yo ur Surroundi ngs
Check Your Surroundings
Check Your Surroundings
Check Your Surroundings
Check Your Surroundings
Check Your Surroundings
Check Your Surroundings
Check Your Surroundings
Check Your Surroundings
Check Your Surroundings
How to r efuel
1. The fuel fill door is located at the left rear of the vehicle.
Park next to the service pump that is most accessible.
2. Turn off the engine.
3. Press the fuel fill door release on the inside of the driver’s
door. The fuel fill door opens.
4. Turn the fuel fill cap slowly to open. Place the fuel fill cap
in the holder.
5. Insert the filler nozzle fully. When the tank is full, the fuel
nozzle clicks off automatically.
6. Replace the fuel fill cap. Tighten it until you hear at least
one click. Close the fuel fill door.
refueling
Use the proper fuel and refueling procedure to ensure the best performance and safety of
your vehicle.
Fuel Information
Use of unleaded premium gasoline of 91 octane or higher is recommended.
•  Acura recommends TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline where available.
•  Do NOT use gasoline containing more than 15% ethanol.
•  Do NOT use gasoline containing methanol.
•  Do NOT use gasoline containing MMT.
We recommend quality gasoline containing detergent additives that help
prevent fuel system and engine deposits. In addition, in order to maintain good
performance, fuel economy, and emissions control, we strongly recommend the
use of gasoline that does NOT contain harmful manganese-based fuel additives
such as MMT, if such gasoline is available.
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously
injured when handling fuel.
• Stop the engine, and keep heat, sparks, and flame away.
•  Handle fuel only outdoors.
•  Wipe up spills immediately.
Cap
WArNING
No TICe
Holder
Press

110 || 111
HANDLING THe UNexPeCTeD
HANDLING THe UNexPeCTeD
overheating
If the temperature gauge needle is at the H mark, the engine suddenly loses power, or
steam or spray comes out from under the hood, your engine is overheating.
1. Immediately park the vehicle in a safe place. Turn off all
accessories and turn on the hazard warning lights.
2. If no steam or spray is present: Keep the engine
running and open the hood (see page 124).
If steam or spray is present: Turn off the engine and wait
until it subsides. Then, open the hood.
3. Check that the cooling fan is operating and stop the engine once the temperature gauge
needle goes down. If the cooling fan is not operating, immediately stop the engine.
4. Once the engine has cooled down, inspect the coolant level and check the cooling
system components for leaks. If the coolant level in the reserve tank is low, add coolant
until it reaches the MAX mark. If there is no coolant in the reserve tank, make sure the
radiator is cool, then cover the radiator cap with a heavy cloth and open the cap. If
necessary, add coolant up to the base of the filler neck, and put the cap back on.
Once the engine has cooled sufficiently, restart it and check the temperature gauge. If the
temperature needle has gone down, resume driving. If it has not gone down, contact a
dealer for repairs.
Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you.
Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.
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.
Continuing to drive with the temperature gauge needle at the H mark may damage the
engine.
MAX MIN
Reserve tank
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No TICe
emergency engine Stop
The ENGINE START/STOP button may be used to stop the engine due to an emergency
situation even while driving. If you must stop the engine, choose one of the following
operations:
• Press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for two
seconds, or
•  Firmly press the ENGINE START/STOP button two times.
The steering wheel will not lock. The power mode changes to ACCESSORY (unless the shift
lever is in Park, in which case the power mode changes to VEHICLE OFF).
Because turning off the engine also disables the power assist the engine provides to the
steering and braking systems, it will require significantly more physical effort and time
to steer and slow the vehicle. Downshift gears and use both feet on the brake pedal, if
necessary, to slow the vehicle and stop immediately in a safe place.
Do not press the button while driving unless it is absolutely necessary for the engine to be
switched off.
Tire Pressure monitoring System (TPmS)
Monitors the tire pressure while you are driving.
If your vehicle’s tire pressure becomes significantly low, the low tire pressure indicator
comes on and a message appears on the multi-information display.
Roll the right selector wheel
to the tire pressure monitor
to see which tire(s) have low
pressure.
What to Do Stop your vehicle in a safe place. Adjust the tire pressure to the level specified on a label
on the driver’s doorjamb.
Driving on an extremely underinflated tire can cause it to overheat. An overheated tire can
fail. Always inflate your tires to the specified pressure.
No TICe
NoTICe

120 || 121
mAINTeNANCe
HANDLING THe UNexPeCTeD
Inspecting and Changing Fuses
1. Turn off the vehicle, including headlights and all
accessories.
2. Remove the fuse box cover.
3. Check the large fuse in the engine compartment If the
fuse is blown, use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove
the screws and replace the fuse with a new one. Reinstall
the screws.
4. Inspect the small fuses in the engine compartment and
the vehicle interior. If there is a burned out fuse, remove
it with the fuse puller and replace it with a new one.
Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances
of damaging the electrical system.
Blown fuse
Combined
fuse Fuse puller
Trying to lift or tow your vehicle by the bumpers will cause serious damage. The bumpers
are not designed to support the vehicle’s weight.
Improper towing such as towing behind a motorhome or other motor vehicle can damage
the transmission.
emergency Towing
Call a professional towing service if you need to tow your vehicle.
All models
Flat bed equipment: The operator loads your vehicle on the back of a truck. This is the best
way to transport your vehicle.
2WD models
Wheel lift equipment: The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the front tires
and lift them off the ground. The rear tires remain on the ground. This is an acceptable way
to tow your vehicle.
No TICe
NoTICe Learn about basic maintenance that you can perform on the vehicle yourself, as well as
information about how to best maintain the vehicle.
Safety Precautions
Some of the most important safety precautions are listed below; however, we cannot warn
you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can
decide whether or not you should perform a given task.

maintenance Safety
•  To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away
from the battery and all fuel-related parts.
•  Never leave rags, towels, or other flammable objects under the hood.
•  To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline.
•  Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with the battery or
compressed air.
•  Do not run the engine in confined spaces where carbon monoxide gas can accumulate.
vehicle Safety
•  The vehicle must be stationary, and parked on level ground with the parking brake set
and the engine off.
•  Be aware that hot parts can burn you.
•  Be aware that moving parts can injure you.
mAINTeNANCe
Improperly maintaining this vehicle or failing to correct a problem before
driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations according
to the schedules in this guide.
Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can
cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures and precautions in this guide.
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