2015 Acura MDX engine

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Driving Guidelines for y our Utility v ehicle
Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. To
prevent rollovers or loss of control:
•  Take corners at slower speeds than you would with a passenger vehicle.
•  Avoid sharp turns and abrupt maneuvers whenever possible.
•  Do not modify your vehicle in any way that raises its center of gravity.
•  Never carry more than 165 lbs (75 kg) of cargo on the roof rack (Acura accessory).
In addition:
•  During the first 600 miles (1,000 km) of operation, avoid sudden acceleration or full
throttle operation so as not to damage the engine or powertrain.
•  Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles (300 km). You should also follow this when
the brake pads are replaced.
Improperly operating this vehicle on or off pavement can cause crash or
rollover in which you and your passengers can be seriously injured or killed.
Follow all instructions and guidelines in this guide.
Keep your speed low, and don’t drive faster than conditions permit.
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Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle’s handling,
stability, and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.
Follow all instructions in the vehicle owner’s manual regarding accessories
and modifications.
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maximum Load Limit
Carrying too much cargo or improperly storing it can affect your vehicle’s handling,
stability, stopping distance, and tires, and make it unsafe.
The maximum load for your vehicle is 1,173 lbs (532 kg). See the Tire and Loading
Information label on the driver’s doorjamb.
Label Example
This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories, and
the tongue load if you are towing a trailer. Below are the steps for determining the
correct load limit:
1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should
never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.
2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding
in your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX
lbs.
4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load
capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1,400 lbs. and there will
be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and
luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1,400 - 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.)\
5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the
vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load
capacity calculated in step 4.
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred
to your vehicle. Consult the Owner’s Manual on the Owner Information CD or
at owners.acura.com to determine how this reduces the available cargo and
luggage load capacity of your vehicle.
In addition, the total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, accessories, cargo, and
trailer tongue load must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Both are on a label on the driver’s
doorjamb.

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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.
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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

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Pre-Tow Checklist
When preparing to tow, and before driving away, be sure to check the following:
•  Avoid towing a trailer during your vehicle’s first 600 miles (1,000 km).
•  The vehicle and trailer have been properly serviced and are in good condition. Lights
and brakes work properly, and the tires are properly inflated.
•  All weights and loads are within limits. Never exceed the gross weight ratings.
•  When towing more than 3,500 lbs (1,590 kg), use of gasoline with an octane rating of
91 or higher is recommended.
•  Check if all loads are within limits at a public scale (see page 89). If a public scale is
not available, add the estimated weight of your cargo load to the weight of the trailer
(as quoted by the manufacturer) and the tongue load.
•  The hitch, safety chains, and any other attachments are secure.
•  All items in or on the trailer are properly secured and cannot shift while you drive.
Exceeding any load limit or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer can
cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting to
drive.
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remote engine Start*
Start your vehicle’s engine using the two-way remote transmitter before you enter the
vehicle.
Green indicator:
Confirms doors are
locked or engine is
running.Amber indicator:
Remote is
communicating with
vehicle.
red indicator:
Remote is out of
range or cannot
communicate with
the vehicle, or engine
is stopped.eNGINe button: After
pressing the LOCK
button, press and hold
to start the engine.
L oCK button
Operating range:  
approximately  328 feet (100  m)
Make sure the vehicle is in a safe location when using remote engine start (i.e., a well
ventilated area, away from any flammable materials).
Starting the engine
Press LOCK, then press and hold ENGINE.
The engine runs for up to 10 minutes. To extend the run time for another
10 minutes, repeat the procedure during the initial 10 minutes.
While the engine is running, the climate control system adjusts the cabin temperature, the
security system remains on, and lights and accessories remain off.
Stopping the engine
Press and hold ENGINE.
The engine will also stop if it has been running for more than 10 minutes, or if any door is
opened without using the remote or keyless access.
Carbon monoxide gas is toxic and can rapidly accumulate in closed or even
partly enclosed areas. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill
you.
Never use the remote engine starter with the vehicle in a garage or other areas
with limited ventilation.
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*if equipped

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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
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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

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Integrated Dynamics System (IDS)
Choose a driving mode for your preference based on road conditions, vehicle speed, and
handling.
Comfort: Maximizes driver comfort through increased steering assist.
Normal: Balances performance for everyday driving.
Sport: Enhances vehicle response and feel through decreased steering assist and increased
throttle and torque.
The selected mode
briefly appears in
the MID.IDSIntegrated Dynamics System
NormalSport
Comfort
Press IDS to cycle
through modes.
v ehicle Stability Assist (vSA®), aka electronic Stability Control (eSC)
System
Helps to stabilize the vehicle during cornering if the vehicle turns more or less than what
was intended. It assists in maintaining traction on slippery surfaces by regulating engine
output and selectively applying the brakes.
Turning vSA on or off
VSA is turned on every time you start the vehicle. If you turn VSA off, your vehicle has
normal braking and cornering ability, but not VSA traction and stability enhancement.
Press and hold the VSA OFF button until you hear a beep
to turn VSA on or off. The VSA Off indicator appears when
the system is off.
Traction control stops functioning, which allows the
wheels to spin more freely at low speed. This can be
helpful when trying to free your vehicle if it is stuck in
mud or snow.
VSA OFF
button VSA OFF
indicator
Braking
Slow down or stop your vehicle, and keep it from moving when parked.
Foot Brake
Press the brake pedal to slow down or stop your vehicle
from moving.
Parking BrakeKeep the vehicle from moving when it is parked.
To apply: Press the parking brake with your foot.
To release: Press the brake pedal, then press the parking
brake until it releases.
Brake Assist SystemDuring hard or emergency braking, the system increases braking force. The brake pedal
may move slightly or make a noise; this is normal. Continue to hold the brake pedal
firmly down.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
During hard or emergency braking, the system rapidly pumps the brakes to prevent wheel
lockup and help you maintain steering control. The brake pedal may pulsate slightly
during ABS operation; this is normal. Do not pump the brake pedal, and continue to hold
it firmly down.
The ABS may not function correctly if you use an incorrect tire type and size.
Release the parking brake fully before driving. The rear brakes and axle can be
damaged if you drive with the parking brake applied.
Brake pedal
Parking brake
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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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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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