2000 Acura MDX Owners Manual

The 2000 Acura MDX is a luxury mid-size SUV featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, VTM-4 all-wheel drive system, leather interior, power accessories, climate control, premium audio system, and advanced safety features including dual front airbags and ABS. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Controls 4. Comfort & Convenience 5. Driving & Performance 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Specifications 8. Safety Features 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, VTM-4 AWD system, 5-speed automatic transmission, power windows/locks/mirrors, leather seats, dual-zone climate control, premium audio with CD player.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.5L SOHC V6 VTEC engine
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
DrivetrainVTM-4 all-wheel drive system
Seating Capacity7-passenger with third-row seat
Fuel Capacity19.2 gallons
Cargo Space81.5 cu.ft. with seats folded
Audio SystemAM/FM stereo with CD player and 6 speakers
Climate ControlDual-zone automatic climate control
Power FeaturesWindows, door locks, mirrors
Security SystemAnti-theft system with remote entry

Instrument Panel

Main gauges: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, odometer/trip meter.

  1. Warning lights: Check engine, battery, oil pressure, brake system, ABS, airbag.
  2. Indicator lights: Turn signals, high beams, cruise control, AWD, security.
  3. Multi-information display: Outside temperature, trip computer, maintenance reminders.
  4. Controls: Headlights, wipers, cruise control, audio system, climate control.

WARNING! Always pay attention to warning lights; stop vehicle if red warning lights illuminate.

Operating Controls

Steering wheel controls: Audio controls, cruise control. Center console: Gear selector, climate controls, audio system.

  1. Starting: Insert key, press brake, turn to START position.
  2. Shifting: Press brake pedal to shift from Park; use SportShift for manual control.
  3. VTM-4: Automatic AWD engagement when needed; VTM-4 LOCK for low-traction conditions.
  4. Parking brake: Pull lever to engage; press pedal and pull lever to release.

CAUTION! Always come to complete stop before shifting from Reverse to Drive.

Comfort & Convenience

Driving & Performance

Engine: 240 hp @ 5,300 rpm, 245 lb-ft torque @ 3,000 rpm. Transmission: 5-speed automatic with Grade Logic Control.

VTM-4 System: Automatically transfers torque to rear wheels when front wheels slip; VTM-4 LOCK for maximum traction below 18 mph.

Fuel Economy: 17 city/23 highway mpg. Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs with proper equipment. Handling: 4-wheel independent suspension, vehicle stability assist.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance required to maintain warranty and performance.

  1. Oil change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  3. Air filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
  4. Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
  5. Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
  6. Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
  7. Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles

Tip: Follow maintenance minder system for service intervals.

Specifications

Detailed vehicle specifications and capacities.

CategorySpecification
Engine3.5L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower240 hp @ 5,300 rpm
Torque245 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic
DrivetrainVTM-4 AWD
Fuel Capacity19.2 gallons
Curb Weight4,430 lbs
Towing Capacity3,500 lbs
Wheelbase106.3 inches
Overall Length188.5 inches

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems for occupant protection.

  1. Airbags: Dual-stage front airbags, side curtain airbags
  2. ABS: 4-wheel anti-lock braking system
  3. VSA: Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control
  4. Brakes: 4-wheel disc brakes with electronic brake distribution
  5. Seat Belts: 3-point belts for all seating positions
  6. Child Safety: LATCH system for child seats
  7. Security: Anti-theft system with engine immobilizer

WARNING! Always wear seat belts; children 12 and under should ride in back seat.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/security systemCheck battery connections; ensure key is recognized by immobilizer.
Check engine lightEmission system issueHave system scanned for codes; visit dealer if light is flashing.
Transmission shifting hardLow fluid/temperatureCheck transmission fluid level; allow warm-up in cold weather.
VTM-4 light onAWD system issueCheck for loose gas cap; visit dealer for system diagnosis.
Brake pedal pulsationABS activation/warped rotorsNormal during hard braking; have brakes inspected if constant.

Emergency: Contact Acura Roadside Assistance at 1-800-382-2238.

Service: Visit authorized Acura dealer for repairs and maintenance.

Warranty Information

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles. Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact Acura Client Service at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com.

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