2016 Acura MDX check engine

132 || 133 MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE
TABLE OF
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INDEX
VISUAL INDEX
VOICE COMMAND
INDEX
SAFETY
INFORMATION
CLIENT
INFORMATION
INSTRUMENT
PANEL
SPECIFICATIONS
VEHICLE
CONTROLS
MAINTENANCE
AUDIO AND
CONNECTIVITY
HANDLING THE
UNEXPECTED
BLUETOOTH®
HANDSFREELINK®
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NAVIGATION
*if equipped
Maintenance Minder Service Codes
These codes indicate what services are due on your vehicle.
*1: If the message Maintenance Due Now 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.
*2: If you drive in dusty conditions, replace the air cleaner element every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
*3: If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air from industry
and diesel-powered vehicles, replace the dust and pollen filter every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
CODEMaintenance Main Items
A

Replace engine oil*1
B
Replace engine oil*1 and oil filter

Inspect front and rear brakes

Check parking brake adjustment

Check expiration date for TRK bottle*

Inspect tie rod ends, steering gearbox, and boots

Inspect suspension components

Inspect driveshaft boots

Inspect brake hoses and lines (Including ABS/VSA)

Inspect all fluid levels and condition of fluids

Inspect exhaust system#

Inspect fuel lines and connections#
*4: Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds or trailer towing results in higher
transmission temperature. This requires transmission fluid changes more frequently than
recommended by the Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your vehicle under these
conditions, have the transmission fluid changed at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
*5: If you drive regularly in very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C), in very low temperatures
(under -20°F, -29°C), replace every 60,000 miles/100,000 km.
*6: Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds or trailer towing results in higher level
of mechanical (Shear) stress to fluid. This requires differential fluid changes more frequently
than recommended by the Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your vehicle under these
conditions, have the differential fluid changed at 7,500 miles (12,000 km), then every 15,000
miles
(24,000 km).
CODEMaintenance Sub Items
1

Rotate tires
2
Replace air cleaner element*2

Replace dust and pollen filter*3

Inspect drive belt
3

Replace transmission fluid*4
4
Replace spark plugs

Replace timing belt and inspect water pump*5

Inspect valve clearance
5

Replace engine coolant
6
Replace rear differential fluid*, *6
Under the Hood
Engine oil
dipstick
(orange)
Brake fl uid
(black cap)
Engine oil
fi ll cap Washer
fl uid
Battery
Engine
coolant
reserve tank
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 fi rmly with
your hands.Hood release handle
Pull
Lever
Engine Compartment Cover
Certain parts in the engine compartment are
protected by a cover. You may need to remove the
cover when you perform certain maintenance work.
Pull up on the engine cover, and remove it from
the pins. Start on the passenger’s side and lift the
outermost edge of the cover. Move towards the
driver side while applying uniform upward pressure.
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. Do not open the hood
during auto idle stop operation.*
NOTICE
*if equipped

134 || 135 MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE
TABLE OF
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VISUAL INDEX
VOICE COMMAND
INDEX
SAFETY
INFORMATION
CLIENT
INFORMATION
INSTRUMENT
PANEL
SPECIFICATIONS
VEHICLE
CONTROLS
MAINTENANCE
AUDIO AND
CONNECTIVITY
HANDLING THE
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BLUETOOTH®
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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
Recommended Engine Oil

Premium-grade 0W-20 detergent oil with an API Certi cation 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 Certifi cation Seal
and is of the specifi ed viscosity grade.
Ambient temperature
Adding Oil
1. Unscrew and remove the engine oil fi ll cap.
2. Add oil slowly.
3. Reinstall the engine oil fi ll cap, and tighten it
securely.
4. Wait for three minutes and recheck the engine
oil dipstick.
Do not fi ll the engine oil above the upper mark. Overfi lling the engine oil can
result in leaks and engine damage.
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.
NOTICE
NOTICE
Resetting 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 on the steering wheel to make
selections in the MID.
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%.
Engine oil fi ll cap

136 || 137 MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE
TABLE OF
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VOICE COMMAND
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SAFETY
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INSTRUMENT
PANEL
SPECIFICATIONS
VEHICLE
CONTROLS
MAINTENANCE
AUDIO AND
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HANDLING THE
UNEXPECTED
BLUETOOTH®
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DRIVING
ACURALINK®
NAVIGATION
Adding Coolant
1. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
2. Remove the engine compartment cover (see
page 133).
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 fi ller 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 fl uid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills
immediately; they can damage components in the engine compartment.
Radiator cap
WARNING
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 specifi ed 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
NOTICE
NOTICE
Window Washer Fluid
Add washer fl uid as necessary (see page 133). Pour it carefully, and do not
overfl ow 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 115.
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 fl ame 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.
WARNING
If the washer fl uid is low,
a message appears on
the multi-information
display.Washer Fluid LowWasher Fluid Low
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.ChargingCharging
System ProblemSystem Problem
NOTICE

146 || 147 SPECIFICATIONS MAINTENANCE
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SPECIFICATIONS
VEHICLE
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MAINTENANCE
AUDIO AND
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HANDLING THE
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NAVIGATION
Testing of Readiness Codes
Your vehicle has “Readiness Codes” as part of the onboard self-diagnostic system.
Some states refer to these codes as a test to see if your vehicle’s emissions
components are working properly. The codes may not be read if you go through the
emissions testing just after the battery has gone dead or been disconnected.
To check if they are set, set the power mode to ON without starting the engine.
The malfunction indicator lamp will come on for several seconds. If it goes off, the
readiness codes are set. If it blinks fi ve times, the readiness codes are not set.
If you are required to have your vehicle emissions tested before the readiness codes
are set, prepare the vehicle for retesting by doing the following:
1. Fill the gas tank to approximately 3/4 full.
2. Park the vehicle and leave the engine off for 6 hours or more.
3. Make sure the ambient temperature is between 40°F and 95°F (4°C and 35°C).
4. Start the engine without touching the accelerator pedal, and let it idle for 20
seconds.
5. Keep the vehicle in Park (P). Increase the engine speed to 2,000 rpm, and hold it
there for about 3 minutes.
6. Let the engine idle with your foot off the accelerator for 20 seconds.
7. Select a nearby, lightly traveled major highway where you can maintain a speed
of 50 to 60 mph (80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20 minutes. Drive on the highway
with the vehicle in Drive. Do not use cruise control. When traffi c allows, drive
for 90 seconds without using the accelerator pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary
slightly; this is OK.) If you cannot do this for a continuous 90 seconds because of
traffi c conditions, drive for at least 30 seconds, then repeat two more times (for
a total of 90 seconds).
8. Drive in city/suburban traffi c for at least 10 minutes. When traffi c conditions
allow, let the vehicle coast for several seconds without using the accelerator
pedal or the brake pedal.
9. Park the vehicle and leave the engine off for 30 minutes.
The readiness codes are erased when the battery is disconnected, and set again
only after several days of driving under a variety of conditions.
If an emissions testing facility determines that the readiness codes are not set, you
may be requested to return at a later date to complete the test, or see your dealer.
Vehicle
*1: 2WD models
*2: AWD models
ModelAcura MDX
No. of Passengers:
2 t n o r F
Rear 2nd Row 3
3rd Row 2
7 l a t o T
Weights:Gross Vehicle
Weight RatingU.S.:5,368 lbs (2,435 kg )*15,677 lbs (2,575 kg )*2Canada:2,575 kgGross Axle Weight
Rating (Front)U.S.:2,811 lbs (1,275 kg )*12,910 lbs (1,320 kg )*2Canada:1,320 kgGross Axle Weight
Rating (Rear)U.S.:2,734 lbs (1,240 kg )*12,965 lbs (1,345 kg )*2Canada:1,345 kg
Gross Combined
Weight RatingU.S.: 8,036 lbs (3,645 kg )*19,833 lbs (4,460 kg )*2Canada:4,460 kgAir Conditioning:Refrigerant TypeHFC-134a (R-134a)Charge Quantity23.8 – 25.6 oz (675 – 725 g)Lubricant TypePAG RL897
Fluids
Engine Oil
Engine Coolant
Recommended·Genuine Acura Motor Oil 0W-20
·API Premium-grade 0W-20 detergent oil
CapacityChange 5.4 US qt (5.1 )
Change
including
filter5.7 US qt (5.4 )
SpecifiedAcura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2
Ratio 50/50 with distilled water
Capacity1.93 US gal (7.3 )
(change including the remaining 0.19 US gal
(0.72 ) in the reserve tank)
Washer Fluid
Tank CapacityU.S.: 4 US qt (3.8 )
Canada: 5.6 US qt (5.3 )
Brake FluidSpecifiedAcura Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Rear Differential Fluid
*
Transfer Assembly Fluid*
SpecifiedAcura Automatic Transmission Fluid ATF-TYPE 3.1
or higher
Capacity Change 3.5 US qt (3.3 )
SpecifiedAcura DPSF-II
Capacity Change 1.92 US qt (1.82 )
Specified·Acura Hypoid Gear Oil HGO-1
·Hypoid gear oil SAE 75W-85 or SAE 90
(API grade GL4 or GL5)
Capacity Change 0.45 US qt (0.43 )
SPECIFICATIONS
Tires
*1: Model with 18 inch wheel
*2: Model with 19 inch wheel
RegularSize245/60R18 105H*1245/55R19 103H*2Pressure
psi (kPa [kgf/cm2])35 (240 [2.4])
Compact
Spare
*Size T165/80D17 104M
Pressure
psi (kPa [kgf/cm
2])60 (420 [4.2])
Wheel SizeRegular18 x 8J*119 x 8J*2Compact Spare*17 x 4T
Engine and Fuel
Engine
FuelDisplacement211.8 cu-in (3,471 cm3)
Spark Plugs NGK DILZKR7B11G
TypeUnleaded premium gasoline, Pump octane
number of 91 or higher
Fuel Tank Ca
pacity19.5 US gal (73.8 )
Light Bulbs
Headlights (High/Low Beam)LED
Fog Lights*LEDFront Turn Signal/Side Marker/
Parking Lights28/8 W (Amber)
Daytime Running Lights LED
Side Turn Signal Lights (on Door
Mirrors)LED
Brake Lights 21 W
Rear Side Marker LightsLED
D E L s t h g i l l i a T
Back-Up Lights21 W
Rear Turn Signal Lights 21 W
High-Mount Brake LightLED
Rear License Plate Light LED
Puddle Lights*LED
Interior Lights
Front, Second Row and Third
Row LightsLED
Front and Rear Ambient Lights LED
Vanity Mirror Lights 1.4 W
Door Courtesy Lights 3.4 W
Door Inner Handle Lights LED
Console Compartment Light 1.4 W
Glove Box Light 1.4 W
Foot Lights 5 W
Car
go Area Lights 5 W
*if equipped

148 || 149 CLIENT INFORMATION CLIENT INFORMATION
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
INDEX
VISUAL INDEX
VOICE COMMAND
INDEX
SAFETY
INFORMATION
CLIENT
INFORMATION
INSTRUMENT
PANEL
SPECIFICATIONS
VEHICLE
CONTROLS
MAINTENANCE
AUDIO AND
CONNECTIVITY
HANDLING THE
UNEXPECTED
BLUETOOTH®
HANDSFREELINK®
DRIVING
ACURALINK®
NAVIGATION
Learn about information specifi c to you as an Acura client and how to get help.
Frequently Asked Questions/ Troubleshooting
Below are some frequently asked questions and troubleshooting items that you
may have about the vehicle.
Q: How do I set the vehicle clock?
A: For vehicles without navigation, see page 51. For vehicles with navigation, the
time is automatically set using GPS signals.
Q: Why doesn’t the vehicle start when I press the ENGINE START/STOP button?
A: The brake pedal must be pressed to start the engine.
Q: What is the AUTO setting on my headlight lever?
A: When in the AUTO position, the vehicle’s exterior lights will automatically turn
on or off depending on the ambient lighting.
Q: Why won’t the driver’s door unlock when I grab the door handle, even though the
keyless access remote is within range?
A: If you pull the handle too quickly, the system may not have time to confi rm the
door is unlocked. Wait to hear a beep to confi rm the door is unlocked. If you are
wearing gloves, the system may be slow to respond.
Q: After my battery was disconnected or went dead, the audio system is asking for a
code. Where do I nd this?
A: In most cases, you do not need to enter a code. Turn on the vehicle and the audio
system, and press and hold the power button until the system reactivates.
Q: Why can’t I operate Pandora through the audio system?
A: Audio may be streaming through Bluetooth® Audio. Make sure Pandora mode
is selected and the phone cable is properly connected to the USB adapter. Some
phones may prompt you to “Allow” a connection.
Q: Is my phone compatible with Bluetooth features?
A: Visit www.acura.com/handsfreelink (U.S) or www.handsfreelink.ca (Canada) to
check phone compatibility for Bluetooth® Audio, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®,
and SMS text messaging.
Q: Every time I press the Talk button, the system gives me voice prompts. Can I turn
these off?*
A: Press SETTINGS. Use the interface dial to select System Settings then Voice Rec.
For the Voice Prompt option, select Off.
CLIENT INFORMATION
*if equipped
Q: Why can’t I select an item using the interface dial?*
A: To prevent driver distraction, certain items are limited are inoperable while the
vehicle is moving. Use voice commands or pull over to select the items.
Q: Where can I nd the vehicle identi cation number (VIN)?
A: Check the label on the driver’s doorjamb.
*if equipped
Contact Us
Acura dealer personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer
all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve
to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership’s service manager or
general manager. If you are dissatisfi ed with the decision made by the dealership’s
management, contact Acura Client Relations/Services.
U.S. Owners:
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Acura Client Relations
1919 Torrance Blvd.
Mail Stop 500-2N-7E
Torrance, CA 90501-2746
Tel: (800) 382-2238
In Puerto Rico and
the U.S. Virgin Islands:
Bella International
P.O. Box 190816
San Juan, PR 00919-0816
Tel: (787) 620-7546Canadian Owners:
Honda Canada, Inc.
Acura Client Services
180 Honda Blvd.
Markham, ON
L6C 0H9
Tel: (888)-922-8729
Fax: (877)-939-0909
E-Mail: [email protected]
When you call or write, please give us the following information:
• Vehicle Identifi cation Number
• Date of purchase
• Odometer reading of your vehicle
• Your name, address, and telephone number
• A detailed description of the problem
• Name of the dealer who sold the vehicle to you