2015 Acura MDX check engine

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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
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Holder
Press

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HANDLING THe UNexPeCTeD
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Shift Lever Does Not move
Follow the procedure below if you cannot move the shift lever out of Park (P).
1. Set the parking brake.
2. Remove the built-in key from the remote transmitter.
3. Wrap a cloth around the tip of a small flat-tip screwdriver.
Place it at the back of the release lock cover, and remove
the cover.
4. Insert the key into the shift lock release slot.
5. While pushing the key down, press the shift lever release
button and shift into Neutral (N). The lock is now released.
Have the shift lever checked by a dealer as soon as
possible.
Jump Starting
Turn off the power to electric devices, such as audio and lights. Turn off the engine, then
open the hood (see page 124).
1. Pull up the engine cover to remove it.
2. Connect the first jumper cable to your vehicle’s battery (+)
terminal.
3. Connect the other end of the first jumper cable to the
booster battery (+) terminal. Use a 12-volt booster battery
only.
4. Connect the second jumper cable to the booster battery
(-) terminal.
5. Connect the other end of the second jumper cable to the
engine hanger as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable
to any other part.
6. If your vehicle is connected to another vehicle, start the
assisting vehicle’s engine and increase its rpm slightly.
7. Attempt to start your vehicle’s engine. If it turns over
slowly, make sure that the jumper cables have good metal-
to-metal contact.
WArNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash your hands after handling.
HANDLING THe UNexPeCTeD
Learn about what to do in critical or emergency situations.
Keyless Access remote Battery Strength
If the battery life in your remote transmitter is weak, a message appears in the MID with
information on how to start the engine.
1. Touch the back of the remote transmitter to the ENGINE
START/STOP button while the indicator is flashing.
2. With the brake pedal pressed, press the ENGINE START/
STOP button within 10 seconds.
Booster battery
Engine
hanger
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.
After the engine Starts
Once your vehicle’s engine has started, remove the jumper cables in the following order:
1. Disconnect the jumper cable from your vehicle’s ground.
2. Disconnect the other end of the jumper cable from the booster battery (-) terminal.
3. Disconnect the jumper cable from your vehicle’s battery (+) terminal.
4. Disconnect the other end of the jumper cable from the booster battery (+) terminal.
5. Have your vehicle inspected by a nearby service station or a dealer.
Slot Cover
Release button Shift lock release slot
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Engine coverPin

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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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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.
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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.
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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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maintenance minder™
When maintenance is due, the system message indicator comes on and the Maintenance
Minder appears on the multi-information display every time you turn the vehicle on. Roll
the right selector wheel to change displays.
maintenance minder Service Codes
These codes indicate what services are due on your vehicle.
*1: If the message SERVICE does not appear more than 12 months after the display is\
reset, change the
engine oil every year .
#: See information on maintenance and emissions warranty.
CODEMaintenance Main Items
A
•Replace engine oi l*1
B•Replace engine oil*1 and oil flter•Inspect front and rear brakes, service as necessar y•Check parking brake adjustment•Inspect tie rod ends, steering gearbox, and boot s•Inspect suspension components•Inspect driveshaft boots•Inspect brake hoses and lines (Including ABS/VSA)•Inspect all fuid levels and condition of fuid s•Inspect exhaust system#
•Inspect fuel lines and connections#
*4:If you drive regularly in very high temperatures (over 110 °F, 43 °\
C), in very low temperatures (unde r
-20 °F, -29 °C), or tow a trai ler, repl ace ever y 60,000 mi les/100,000 km .
CODE Maintenance Sub Items
1
•Rotate tires
2
•Replace air cleaner element*2
•Replace dust and pollen flte r*3
•Inspect drive belt
3
•Replace transmission and transfer fuid*
4•Replace spark plug s•Replace timing belt an d inspect water pump*4
•Inspect valve clearanc
e
5
•Replace engine coolan t
6
•Replace rear diferential fuid*
*2:I f you drive in dusty condi tion s, replac e the air cleaner element every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
*3: If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of i\
ndustrial soot and pollution from
diesel-powered vehicles, replace the dust and pollen flter every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
U.S. models
maintenance, replacement, or repair of emissions control devices and systems may
be done by any automotive repair establishment or individuals using parts that are
certified to ePA standards.
According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the
maintenance main items marked with # will not void your emissions warranties.
However, all maintenance services should be performed in accordance with the intervals
indicated by the multi-information display.
Maintenance Minder
Engine oil life
Service codes
Roll the right
selector wheel
to change
displays.
*1: If the message SERVICE does not appear more than 12 months after the display is\
reset, change the
engine oil every year .
#: See information on maintenance and emissions warranty.
CODEMaintenance Main Item s
A
•Replace engine oi l*1
B•Replace engine oil*1 and oil flter
•Inspect front and rear brakes, service as necessar y
•Check parking brake adjustment
•Inspect tie rod ends, steering gearbox, and boot s
•Inspect suspension components
•Inspect driveshaft boots
•Inspect brake hoses and lines (Including ABS/VSA)
•Inspect all fuid levels and condition of fuid s
•Inspect exhaust system#
•Inspect fuel lines and connections#
*4:If you drive regularly in very high temperatures (over 110 °F, 43 °\
C), in very low temperatures (unde r
-20 °F, -29 °C), or tow a trai ler, repl ace ever y 60,000 mi les/100,000 km .
CODEMaintenance Sub Item s
1
•Rotate tires
2•Replace air cleaner element*2
•Replace dust and pollen flte r*3
•Inspect drive belt
3
•Replace transmission and transfer fuid*
4•Replace spark plug s
•Replace timing belt an d inspect water pump*4
•Inspect valve clearanc
e
5
•Replace engine coolan t
6•Replace rear diferential fuid*
*2:If you drive in dusty condi tion s, replac e the air cleaner element every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
*3: If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of i\
ndustrial soot and pollution from
diesel-powered vehicles, replace the dust and pollen flter every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
• Independent of the Maintenance Minder information, replace the brake fluid every 3
years.
•  Inspect idle speed every 160,000 miles (256,000 km).
•  Adjust the valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 if they are noisy.
*if equipped

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mAINTeNANCe
mAINTeNANCe
Under the Hood
Engine oil
dipstick
Brake fluid
(black cap)
Engine oil
fill cap
Washer fluid
(blue cap)
Battery
Engine
coolant
reservoir
Radiator
cap
opening the Hood
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface, and set the parking
brake.
2. Pull the hood release handle under the lower left corner
of the dashboard.
3. Push up the hood latch lever in the center of the hood to
release the lock mechanism, and open the hood.
4. Lift the hood up about halfway. The hydraulic supports
will continue to lift and hold it up.
When closing, lower the hood to approximately 12
inches (30 cm), then press down firmly with your hands.
Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised. The hood will strike the wipers, and
may damage either the hood or the wipers.
Hood release handle
Pull
Lever
engine Compartment CoverCertain parts in the engine compartment are protected
by a cover. You may need to remove the cover when you
perform certain maintenance work.
Remove the engine
compartment cover
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engine oil
Park the vehicle on level ground, and wait approximately three minutes after turning the
engine off before you check the oil.
Checking the oil
1. Remove the dipstick (orange loop).
2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.
3. Insert the dipstick all the way back into its hole.
4. Remove the dipstick again, and check the level. It should
be between the upper and lower marks. Add oil if
necessary.
Upper mark
Lower mark
Ambient temperature
r ecommended engine oil
•  Genuine Acura motor oil
•  Premium-grade 0W-20 detergent oil with an API Certification Seal on the container
This seal indicates the oil is energy conserving and
that it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s latest
requirements.
Use Genuine Acura Motor Oil or another commercial
engine oil of suitable viscosity for the ambient temperature
as shown.
You may also use synthetic motor oil if it is labeled with the API Certification Seal and is
of the specified viscosity grade.

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mAINTeNANCe
mAINTeNANCe
Adding oil
1. Unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap.
2. Add oil slowly.
3. Reinstall the engine oil fill cap, and tighten it securely.
4. Wait for three minutes and recheck the engine oil
dipstick.
Do not fill the engine oil above the upper mark. Overfilling the engine oil can result
in leaks and engine damage.
Engine oil fill cap
r esetting the engine oil Life
If you change or replace the vehicle’s engine oil yourself, you must reset the engine oil
life. Use the right selector wheel to make selections in the MID.
Failure to reset the engine oil life after a maintenance service results in the system
showing incorrect maintenance intervals, which can lead to serious mechanical
problems.
1. Scroll to Maintenance
Info and select it to
display the oil life reset
mode.
2. Select Reset. The service
code disappears and the
oil life returns to 100%.
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Adding Coolant
1. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
2. Remove the engine compartment cover.
3. Turn the radiator cap counterclockwise and relieve any
pressure in the coolant system. Do not push the cap
down when turning.
4. Push down and turn the radiator cap counterclockwise
to remove it.
5. The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler
neck. Add coolant if it is low.
6. Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it fully.
7. Pour coolant into the reserve tank until it reaches the
MAX mark. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.
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.
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills
immediately; they can damage components in the engine compartment.
Radiator cap
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engine Coolant
Park the vehicle on level ground. Check the reserve tank and the coolant level in the
radiator. We recommend Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2.
Checking the reserve Tank
1. Check the amount of coolant in the reserve tank.
2. If the coolant level is below the MIN mark, add the
specified coolant until it reaches the MAX mark.
3. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.
If temperatures consistently below -22°F (-30°C) are expected, the coolant
mixture should be changed to a higher concentration. Consult a dealer for more
information.
MAX
MIN
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Window Washer Fluid
Add washer fluid as necessary. Pour it carefully, and do not overflow the reservoir.
Do not use engine antifreeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir.
Antifreeze can damage your vehicle’s paint. A vinegar/water solution can damage the
windshield washer pump.
For Jump starting, see page 108.
Checking the Battery
The battery condition is monitored by the sensor on the negative terminal. If there is
a problem with the sensor, have your vehicle checked by a dealer. Check the battery
terminals monthly for corrosion.
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.
When conducting any battery maintenance, wear protective clothing and a
face shield, or have a skilled technician do it.
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Canadian models
If the washer fluid
is low, a message
appears on the multi-
information display.Washer Fluid Lo w
WArNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash your hands after handling.
If there is a problem
with the battery
sensor, a message
appears on the multi-
information display.Charging
System Problem
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Changing Wiper Blades
If the wiper blades leave streaks across the windshield, try cleaning them first with a paper
towel or soft cloth and wiper fluid. If the wiper blade rubber has deteriorated, you should
change the wiper blades.
1. Lift the driver side wiper arm first, then the passenger side.
2. Place a cloth on the edge of the lock tab. Push the lock tab
up with a flat-tip screwdriver.
3. Slide the blade from the wiper arm.
4. Slide the wiper blade out from its holder by pulling the
tabbed end out.
5. Remove the retainers from the rubber blade that has been
removed, and mount to a new rubber blade. Correctly
align the rubber protrusion and the retainer grooves.
6. Slide the new wiper blade onto the holder from the
bottom end. The tab on the holder should fit in the indent
of the wiper blade.
7. Slide the wiper blade onto the wiper arm, then push down
the lock tab.
8. Lower the passenger side wiper arm first, then the driver
side.
Lock tab
Blade
Retainer
Blade
Indent
Tab
Avoid dropping the wiper arm, as it may damage the windshield.
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