2015 Acura RDX traction control

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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.
Models with navigation
Searching for Music
Use the interface dial to search for tracks stored on the HDD using several
methods.
1. Press AUDIO.
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 129).
HDD/AUX button:
Play HDD.
AUDIO button: Go to
the audio screen.
CD
eject button
HDD displaySKIP bar:
Change
tracks, or rewind or
fast forward within
a track.
CATEGORY bar:
Skip to the next or
previous album.
TUNE bar: Go to
the next or previous
track.Interface dial (from
the Audio screen):
Move up, down, left,
and right. Rotate and
press ENTER to make
selections.
CD slot
SCAN button: Press to hear a 10-second
sample of each song in the current search
method. Press again to turn off scan.
Learn how to operate the vehicle’s hands-free calling system.
Basic HFL Operation
Make and receive phone calls using the vehicle’s audio system, without handling
your phone. Visit www.acura.com/handsfreelink (U.S.) or www.handsfreelink.ca
(Canada) to check phone compatibility.
Models without navigation
HFL Displays and Controls
Use the controls to enter information and make selections. To reduce the
potential for driver distraction, certain manual functions may be inoperable or
grayed out while the vehicle is moving.
BLUETOOTH® HANDSFREELINK ®
PHONE button: Go
to the phone screen.
BACK button: Go
back to the previous
display or cancel an
operation. Selector knob: Rotate
and press SELECT to
make selections.
HFL display
Pick-Up button: Go to the Phone screen, or answer
an incoming call.
Hang-Up button: End a call.
Talk button: Call a number with a stored voice tag.
Back button: Go back to the previous screen.
State 
or local laws may prohibit  the operation  of handheld electronic  devices while operating  a 
vehicle.
BLUETOOTH® HANDSFREELINK®
BLUETOOTH® HANDSFREELINK®

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Using Speed Dial
Make calls quickly using stored speed dial entries. Use the selector knob to make
and enter selections.
1. Press the PHONE button to go to the Phone
screen.
2. Select Speed Dial.
3. Select the entry you want to begin the call.
If an entry has a stored voice tag, you can call it at any time. Press the Talk button
and follow the prompts.
SMS Text Messaging
Receive and send text messages from your paired and linked phone. Visit  
www.acura.com/handsfreelink (U.S.) or www.handsfreelink.ca (Canada) to check
phone compatibility. Standard message rates apply. This feature is limited while the
vehicle is moving.
Receiving and Responding to Messages
When you receive a new message, a pop-up appears on the display. Use the
selector knob to view the message when the vehicle is stopped. You can also
reply to it using fixed phrases or call the sender.
1. When the pop-up appears, select Yes.
2. The message is displayed, and the system reads
it aloud.
To reply: Select Reply, and choose one of the
six available responses. Select Send to send the
message.
To call the sender: Select Call.
Models with navigation
HFL Displays and Controls
Use the controls to enter information and make selections. To reduce the
potential for driver distraction, certain manual functions may be inoperable or
grayed out while the vehicle is moving. Voice commands are always available.
PHONE button: Go
to the phone screen.
CANCEL button: Go
back to the previous
display or cancel an
operation. Interface dial
(from
the Phone screen):
Move up, down, left,
and right. Rotate and
press ENTER to make
selections.
HFL display
Pick-Up button: Go directly to the Cellular Phone
screen, or answer an incoming call.
Hang-Up button: End a call.
Talk button: Say voice commands.
Back button: Go back to the previous screen.
Voice Command Tips
•  When using the Talk button, wait for a beep before saying a command.
•  To bypass the system prompts, simply press the Talk button again to say your
command.
•  When the Talk button is pressed, all available voice commands are highlighted
in yellow.
•  Speak in a clear, natural voice.
•  Reduce all background noise.
•  Adjust the dashboard and side vents away from the microphone in the ceiling.
•  Close the windows and moonroof.
BLUETOOTH® HANDSFREELINK®
BLUETOOTH® HANDSFREELINK®

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NAVIGATION
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Learn how to enter a destination and operate the navigation system.
Basic Navigation Operation
A real-time navigation system uses GPS and a map database to show your current
location and help guide you to a desired destination. You can operate the system
using voice commands or the system controls.
To reduce the potential for driver distraction, certain manual functions may
be inoperable or grayed out while the vehicle is moving. Voice commands are
always available.
Steering Wheel Controls
Use the steering wheel controls to give voice commands.
TALK button: Press to give navigation commands.
BACK button: Press to cancel a command or operation.
Voice Command Tips
•  When using the Talk button, wait for a beep before saying a command.
•  To bypass the system prompts, simply press the Talk button again to say your
command.
•  When the Talk button is pressed, all available voice commands are highlighted
in yellow.
•  Speak in a clear, natural voice.
•  Reduce all background noise.
•  Adjust the dashboard and side vents away from the microphone in the ceiling.
•  Close the windows and moonroof.
Using the navigation system while driving can take your attention away from
the road, causing a crash in which you could be seriously injured or killed.
Only operate system controls when the conditions permit you to safely do so.
WARNING
NAVIGATION*
*if equipped
Talk button
Back button
Navigation Display and ControlsUse the controls to enter information and make selections.
MAP/GUIDE
button: Display
the map screen or
directions when en
route. INFO button:
Select items such
as calendar, traffic
incidents, and
system setup.
CANCEL button: Go
back to the previous
display or cancel an
operation. DEST/ROUTE
button: Enter
destination
information.
button: Change
screen brightness. Use
the interface dial to
make adjustments. Interface Dial:
Rotate to scroll the
map or menus. Move
up, down, left, or
right. Press ENTER to
make a selection.
GPS signal
strength
Traffic
status*
Current
map scale Current vehicle
position
AcuraLink®
message Weather
warning*Map
orientation
Current
streetLandmark
icon
*subscription feature
Traffic icon examples*
Weather icon examples*
Congestion
Incident
Weather
Construction
Road closed Clear
Cloudy
Fog
Rain
Snow

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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 has been properly serviced, and the suspension and the cooling
system are in good operating condition.
•  The trailer has been properly serviced and is in good condition.
•  All weights and loads are within limits. Never exceed the gross weight ratings.
•  Check if all loads are within limits at a public scale. If a public scale is not
available, add the estimated weight of your cargo load to the weight of your
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.
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 (U.S.) or www.myacura.com 
(Canada) for more information.
Towing Load Limits
Total trailer weight
Maximum allowable weight of the trailer, cargo,
and everything in or on it must not exceed 1,500
lbs (680 kg). Towing loads in excess of this can
seriously affect vehicle handling and performance
and can damage the engine and drivetrain.
Total load
Tongue load
The weight of the tongue with a fully loaded trailer
on the hitch should be approximately 10% of the
total trailer weight.
•  Excessive tongue load reduces front tire traction
and steering control. Too little tongue load can
make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway.
•  To achieve a proper tongue load, start by loading
60% of the load toward the front of the trailer
and 40% toward the rear. Readjust the load as
needed.
Tongue load
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.
WARNING
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), 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.
If you press the button and the shift lever is not in
Park (P), the vehicle goes into Accessory mode.
Turning the vehicle off: Shift to Park (P), then press
ENGINE START/STOP.
Brake pedal

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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 System
During 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.
NOTICE
NOTICE
Parking brake

Foot brake
Vehicle 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 turn on the vehicle, even if you previously turned
it off. 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 may
make it easier when trying to free your vehicle
if it is stuck in mud or snow.
VSA OFF indicator
VSA OFF
button

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Tire Information
To safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be of the proper type and size, in
good condition  with adequate tread, and properly inflated.
Inflation Guidelines
•  Properly inflated  tires provide the best combination  of handling, tread life, and 
comfort. Refer to the driver’s doorjamb label or the specifications (see page
120) for the specified pressure.
•  Underinflated  tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and  fuel economy, 
and are more likely to fail from overheating.
•  Overinflated  tires make your vehicle ride harshly, are more prone  to road 
hazards, and wear unevenly.
•  Every day before you drive, look at each of the tires. If one looks lower than the
others, check the pressure with a tire gauge.
•  Measure the air pressure when tires are cold. This means the vehicle has been
parked for at least 3 hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). If necessary, add
or release air until the specified pressure is reached. If checked when hot, tire
pressure can be as much as 4-6 psi (30-40 kPa, 0.3-0.5 kgf/cm
2) higher than
checked when cold.
•  At least once a month or before long trips, use a gauge to measure the pressure
in all tires, including the spare. Even tires in good condition can lose 1-2 psi
(10-20 kPa, 0.1-0.2 kgf/cm
2) per month.
Inspection Guidelines
Every  time you inflate  the tires, check  for the  following:
•  Any damage to tires, including bumps, bulges, cuts, splits, or cracks in the side
or tread. Remove any foreign objects and inspect for air leaks. Replace tires if
you see fabric or cord.
•  Uneven or excessive tread wear. Have a dealer check the wheel alignment.
•  Cracks or other damage around the valve stems.
Wear Indicators
The groove where the wear indicator is located is
1/16 inch (1.6 mm) shallower than elsewhere on the
tire. If the tread has worn so low that the indicator
is exposed, replace the tire. Worn out tires have
poor traction on wet roads.
Example of a wear
indicator mark
Tire and Loading Information Label
The label attached to the driver’s doorjamb provides necessary tire and
loading information. 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.
WARNING
Original
tire sizes Number of
people your
vehicle can
carry Proper
cold tire
pressure
Total weight
your vehicle
can carry (do
not exceed)

Tire and Wheel Replacement
Replace your tires with radials of the same size, load range, speed rating, and
maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall). Using
tires of a different size or construction can cause certain vehicle systems to
work incorrectly. It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that isn’t
possible, replace the front or rear tires in pairs.
If you change or replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s specifications match
those of the original wheels. Only use TPMS-specified wheels approved for your
vehicle.
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 the owner’s manual.
WARNING

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Tire Service Life
The life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including driving habits, road
conditions,  vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and 
environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).
In addition  to regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is 
recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach
five years old. All tires, including the spare, should be removed from service after
10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of
wear.
Winter Tires
If driving on snowy or frozen roads, mount all season tires marked “M+S”, snow
tires, or tire chains; reduce speed; and maintain sufficient distance between
vehicles when driving. For winter tires, select the size and load ranges that are
the same as the original tires, and mount them to all four wheels. For tire chains,
install them on the front tires only.
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 guide regarding the selection and use of tire
chains.
WARNING
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.
NOTICE
Tire Labeling
The tires that came on your vehicle have a number of markings. Those you
should be aware of are described below.
Glossary of Tire Terminology
Cold Tire Pressure – The tire air pressure when the vehicle has been
parked for at least three hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km).
Load Rating – The maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given
inflation pressure.
Maximum Inflation Pressure –  The maximum tire air pressure  that the tire 
can hold.
Maximum Load Rating – The load rating for a tire at the maximum
permissible inflation pressure  for that  tire.
Recommended Inflation Pressure –  The cold tire inflation pressure 
recommended by the manufacturer.
Treadwear Indicators (TWI) – The projections within the principal grooves
designed to give a visual indication of the degrees of wear of the tread.
Tire Identification Number (TIN)
The tire identification number (TIN)
is a group of numbers and letters
that look like the example below. TIN
is located on the sidewall of the tire.
DO T B97R FW6X 2209DOT: This indicates that the tire meets all requirements of the U.S. Department of
Transportation.
B97R: Manufacturer’s identication mark.
FW6X: Tire type code.
22 09: Date of manufacture.
Year
Week
Tire sizeTire
identication number (TIN)
Maximum
tire load
Maximum
tire pressure
Tire size
Here is an example of what each marking
means:
215/70R16 100S
•  215: tire width in millimeters
•  70: aspect ratio (tire section height as a
percentage of its width)
•  R: tire construction code (radial)
•  16: rim diameter in inches
•  100: load index (code indicating
maximum load tire can carry)
•  S: speed symbol (code indicating
maximum speed rating)

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DOT Tire Quality Grading
The tires on your vehicle meet all U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. All tires are
also graded for treadwear, traction, and temperature performance according to
Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. The following explains these
gradings.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread
shoulder and maximum section width.
For example:
Treadwear 200
Traction AA
Temperature A
All passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition
to these grades.
TreadwearThe treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire
when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as
well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of
tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart
significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices,
and differences in road characteristics and climate.
TractionThe traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades
represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled
conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire
marked C may have poor traction performance.
WARNING: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead
braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning,
or peak traction characteristics.
TemperatureThe temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s
resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when
tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and
reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The
grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must
meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and
A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
WARNING: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that
is properly inflated and not  overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation,  or 
excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup
and possible tire failure.