2002 Acura MDX Owners Manual

The 2002 Acura MDX is a luxury midsize SUV featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, Variable Torque Management 4-wheel drive system, 5-speed automatic transmission, leather interior, power moonroof, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, and advanced safety features including front and side airbags. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Controls 3. Instrument Panel 4. Specifications 5. Driving Your MDX 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Safety Features 8. Audio and Climate Systems 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.5L VTEC V6 engine, VTM-4 4WD system, 5-speed automatic transmission, leather-trimmed interior, power accessories, premium audio system.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.5L SOHC VTEC V6 with 240 horsepower
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift
Drivetrain	VTM-4 4-wheel drive system
Seating	7-passenger leather-trimmed interior
Audio System	AM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer
Climate Control	Dual-zone automatic climate control
Power Features	Power windows, locks, mirrors, and moonroof
Safety	Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, ABS
Cargo	Split folding third-row seats
Exterior	Power moonroof, roof rails, fog lights

Vehicle Controls

Master control locations and operation procedures.

Ignition and starting: Insert key, turn to start position.
Transmission: Select gear with shift lever; use SportShift for manual control.
Steering wheel: Adjust tilt position with release lever.
Power windows: Use switches on driver's door panel.
Door locks: Use master switch or remote transmitter.

WARNING! Always engage parking brake when parked. Do not leave children unattended in vehicle.

Instrument Panel

Dashboard indicators and gauge cluster information.

Speedometer and tachometer: Main driving instruments.
Fuel gauge: Monitor fuel level; refuel when low.
Temperature gauge: Engine coolant temperature.
Warning lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS.
Information display: Odometer, trip meter, maintenance reminders.

CAUTION! If any warning light illuminates while driving, stop vehicle when safe and check condition.

Specifications

Engine: 3.5L SOHC VTEC V6
Horsepower: 240 hp @ 5,300 rpm
Torque: 245 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic with SportShift
Drivetrain: VTM-4 4-wheel drive
Fuel Capacity: 19.2 gallons
Fuel Type: Premium unleaded recommended
Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs with proper equipment
Curb Weight: 4,386 lbs
Wheelbase: 106.3 inches

Driving Your MDX

Operating procedures for various driving conditions.

Starting: Ensure parking brake engaged, foot on brake, select Park, turn key.

VTM-4 System: Automatically distributes torque to all wheels when slippage detected. Manual lock button for extreme conditions.

Normal driving: System operates automatically.
Snow/mud: Use VTM-4 lock for improved traction at low speeds.
Highway: System provides stability and control.
Towing: Follow recommended procedures and weight limits.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals and procedures.

Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
Cabin Air Filter: Replace every 15,000 miles

Tip: Follow maintenance minder system for specific service needs.

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems and proper usage.

Airbags: Dual-stage front airbags, side curtain airbags.
ABS: Anti-lock braking system with electronic brake distribution.
Seat belts: 3-point belts for all seating positions.
Child safety: LATCH system for child seats.
Security: Anti-theft system with remote entry.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Children 12 and under should ride in rear seats.

Audio and Climate Systems

Entertainment and comfort control operation.

Audio System: AM/FM stereo with 6-disc CD changer, 7 speakers including subwoofer.

Radio operation: Power/volume knob, station selection buttons.
CD operation: Load discs, use track selection buttons.
Climate control: Set temperature, fan speed, mode selection.
Rear controls: Rear seat audio and climate controls.

Care & Maintenance

Proper cleaning and upkeep procedures.

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, rinse thoroughly. Wax regularly. Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean leather with approved cleaner.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on interior surfaces. Avoid high-pressure washes near seals.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty coverage and terms.

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles. Rust Perforation: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealer. Keep maintenance records for warranty verification.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/security system	Check battery connections; ensure security light off; try spare key.
Check engine light on	Emission system	Have system scanned for codes at dealer.
Transmission shifting hard	Fluid level/temperature	Check transmission fluid level and condition.
Brake pedal pulsation	Warped rotors	Have brake rotors inspected and resurfaced if needed.
Climate control not cooling	Refrigerant/compressor	Check A/C system charge; have system inspected.

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for all repairs and maintenance.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-382-2238