2016 Acura RDX engine

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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.ca 
(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.
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
T ongue LoadTongue load

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Remote Engine Start*
Start your vehicle’s engine using the two-way remote transmitter from extended
distances before you enter the vehicle.
*if equipped
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 the ENGINE START/
STOP button 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 the ENGINE START/STOP button.
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 the ENGINE START/STOP
button.
Brake pedal
Lock button
ENGINE button: After
pressing the Lock
button, press and hold
to start the engine.Red indicator: Remote
is out of range or
cannot communicate
with the vehicle, or the
engine is stopped.
Amber indicator: Remote
is communicating with
the vehicle.
Green indicator:
Confirms doors are
locked or engine is
running.
Starting the Engine
Press the Lock button, then press and hold the ENGINE button.
The engine runs for up to 10 minutes. To extend the time for another 10 minutes,
repeat the procedure during the initial 10 minutes.
While the engine is running, the climate control system adjusts the interior
temperature, the security system remains on, and lights and accessories remain
off.
Stopping the EnginePress and hold the ENGINE button.
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 transmitter or keyless access.
Engine exhaust contains toxic carbon monoxide.
Breathing carbon monoxide can kill you or cause unconsciousness.
Never use the remote engine starter when the vehicle is parked in a garage
or other area with limited ventilation.
WARNING
Make sure the vehicle is in a safe location when using remote engine start (i.e., a
well  ventilated area, away  from flammable materials).

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Shifting
Change your vehicle’s gears to begin driving.
Shift Lever
Park (P): Used for parking or starting/stopping the
engine. Press the brake pedal, then press the release
button to shift.
Reverse (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.
Press the release button, and use the paddle
shifters to change gears (see page 85).
When 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.
NOTICE
Sequential Shift Mode
Use the paddle shifters to change 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. You can also hold the (+) paddle shifter for two
seconds to return to normal drive.
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 co\
me 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.
Release button(-) Paddle shifter:
Pull to shift down to
a lower gear. (+) Paddle shifter:
Pull to shift up to a
higher gear. Recommended shift points
M indicator/gear
position indicator
Shift up
Normal acceleratio n1st to 2n d15 mph (24 km/h)
2nd to 3rd 25 mph (40 km/h )
3rd to 4th40 mph (64 km/h)
4th to 5th 45 mph (72 km/h)
5th to 6th50 mph (80 km/h)

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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
Turning CMBS On or OffPress and hold the CMBS OFF button. A beep
sounds and a message appears in the MID. The
CMBS indicator appears when the system is off.
Important Safety Reminder
CMBS™ is designed to reduce the severity of an unavoidable collision. It does not
prevent collision nor stop the vehicle automatically. It is still your responsibility to
operate the brake pedal and steering wheel appropriately according to the driving
conditions.
Parking Sensor System*
When the system senses an object when you are parking or backing up, indicators
appear on the upper display and a series of beeps sound. As you get closer to the
object(s), the beep rate increases.
Turning the System On or Off Press the parking sensor button. A green indicator
light appears on the button when the system is on.
Indicators appear when the
sensor device detects an
obstacle.
CMBS
button
*if equipped

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How to Refuel
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. Pull the fuel fill door release handle near the
parking brake. 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 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.
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.
WARNING
Pull
Cap
Holder
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.
NOTICE Learn about what to do in critical or emergency situations.
Keyless Access
Remote Battery Strength
If the battery life in your keyless access remote is weak, a message appears in the
multi-information display (MID) with information on how to start the engine.
1. Touch the back of the keyless access remote 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.
HANDLING THE UNEXPECTED
HOLD
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 keyless access
remote.
3. Wrap a cloth around  the tip of a small  flat-tip 
screwdriver to remove the cover of the shift lock
release slot. Put  the tip of the  flat-tip screwdriver 
into the slot and remove it as shown in the image.
4. Insert the key into the shift lock release slot.
5. While pushing the key down, press the shift lever
release button and place the shift lever into
Neutral. The lock is now released. Have the shift
lever checked by a dealer as soon as possible.
Slot
Cover
Release button
Shift lock release slot

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Jump Starting
Turn off the power to electric devices, such as audio and lights. Turn off the engine,
then open the hood.
1. Connect the first jumper cable to your vehicle’s
battery (+) terminal.
2. Connect the other end of the first jumper cable
to the booster battery (+) terminal. Use a 12-volt
booster battery only.
3. Connect the second jumper cable to the booster
battery (-) terminal.
4. 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.
5. If your vehicle is connected to another vehicle,
start the assisting vehicle’s engine and increase its
rpm slightly.
6. Attempt to start your vehicle’s engine. If it turns over slowly, make sure 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.
Booster battery
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.
WARNING
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 assisting vehicle’s (-)
terminal.
3. Disconnect the jumper cable from your vehicle’s (+) terminal.
4. Disconnect the other end of the jumper cable from the assisting vehicle’s (+)
terminal.
Have your vehicle inspected by a nearby service station or a dealer.
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.
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 comes 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.
WARNING
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.
WARNING
Continuing to drive with the temperature gauge needle at the H mark may
damage the engine.
NOTICE
Reserve tank MAX
MIN

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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 (P), 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.
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.
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.
NOTICE
Do not press the button while driving unless it is absolutely necessary for the
engine to be switched off.
NOTICE
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. Press
the Info button on the steering wheel to view the tire pressure monitor to see
pressure readings for each tire (see page 28).
Driving  on an extremely underinflated  tire can cause it to overheat.  An 
overheated  tire can fail. Always inflate  your tires to the specified pressure.
NOTICE
What to Do
Stop your vehicle in a safe place. Check the tire pressure and adjust the pressure
to the specified level. The specified tire pressure is on a label on the driver’s
doorjamb.
The specific tire
with low pressure is
displayed.

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Changing a Flat Tire
If a  tire goes  flat while  driving, grasp  the steering wheel firmly, and brake gradually 
to reduce speed.  Stop in a safe place. Replace  the flat  tire with  the compact 
spare tire*. Go to a dealer as soon as possible to have the full-size tire repaired or
replaced.
Getting Ready to Change the Tire
Park the vehicle on a firm, level, non-slippery surface. Move the shift lever to Park
(P), and apply the parking brake. Turn the hazard warning lights on and turn the
vehicle off.
1. Open the tailgate. Turn on the cargo lights on
the inside of the tailgate, if necessary (see page
34).  Open  the cargo area  floor lid.
2. Take the wheel nut wrench and jack handle bar
out of the cargo area.
3. Unscrew the wing bolt, and remove the spacer
cone. Then, remove the spare tire.
4. Take the jack out of the spare tire area.
5. Loosen each wheel nut about one turn using the
wheel nut wrench.
Spare tire
*if equipped
Setting Up the Jack
1. Place the jack under the jacking point closest to
the tire to be changed.
2. Turn the end bracket (as shown in the image)
clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the
jacking point. Make sure that the jacking point
tab is resting in the jack notch.
3. Raise the vehicle, using the jack handle bar and
the jack handle, until the tire is off the ground.
The following instructions must be followed to use the jack safely:
•  Do not use the jack with people or luggage in the vehicle.
•  Use the jack provided in your vehicle. Other jacks may not support the weight
(“load”) or fit the jacking point.
•  Do not use while the engine is running.
•  Use only where the ground is firm and level.
•  Use only at the jacking points.
•  Do not get in the vehicle while using the jack.
•  Do not put anything on top of or underneath the jack.
The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.
Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the
vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.
WARNING
Jack
handle
bar
Wheel nut wrench as jack handle