2002 Acura MDX Touring Manual

The 2002 Acura MDX Touring is a luxury midsize SUV featuring a 3.5L V6 engine producing 240 horsepower, 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift manual mode, Variable Torque Management 4-wheel drive system, leather interior, power moonroof, premium audio system, tri-zone climate control, and advanced safety features including dual-stage airbags and Vehicle Stability Assist. Below are key sections for features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Engine	3.5L SOHC VTEC V6 with 240 hp @ 5,300 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift manual mode
Drivetrain	VTM-4 electronic 4-wheel drive system
Interior	Leather-trimmed seats, woodgrain trim
Audio System	AM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer
Climate Control	Tri-zone automatic climate control system
Seating	7-passenger seating with 3rd-row bench
Power Features	Power windows, locks, mirrors, moonroof
Safety	Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, ABS
Towing Capacity	3,500 lbs when properly equipped

Vehicle Operation

Starting and driving procedures for optimal performance.

1. Starting the engine: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn to START position.
2. Transmission operation: Select gear with shift lever; use SportShift for manual control.
3. VTM-4 system: Automatically engages 4WD when wheel slip detected.
4. Climate control: Set desired temperature using automatic controls.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Never leave children unattended in vehicle.

Instrument Panel

Understanding gauges, indicators, and warning lights.

1. Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph and km/h.
2. Tachometer: Engine RPM with redline at 6,500 rpm.
3. Fuel gauge: Fuel level with low fuel warning light.
4. Temperature gauge: Engine coolant temperature.
5. Warning lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS, airbag.
6. Message center: Displays maintenance reminders and system messages.

CAUTION! Address warning lights immediately. Do not operate vehicle if red warning lights illuminate.

Specifications

• Engine: 3.5L SOHC VTEC V6, 240 hp @ 5,300 rpm, 245 lb-ft torque @ 3,000 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed automatic with SportShift manual mode
• Drivetrain: VTM-4 4-wheel drive with electronic control
• Dimensions: 188.5" length, 76.3" width, 68.7" height
• Weight: 4,463 lbs curb weight
• Fuel Capacity: 19.2 gallons premium recommended
• Towing: 3,500 lbs maximum with proper equipment
• Wheels: 16" alloy wheels with 235/70R16 tires

Controls and Settings

Steering wheel controls, center console, and dashboard functions.

Steering Wheel: Audio controls, cruise control, telephone buttons (if equipped).

Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, navigation (if equipped), transmission shift lever.

Dashboard: Instrument cluster, warning lights, trip computer, maintenance minder system.

Doors/Locks: Power door locks with remote keyless entry, child safety locks.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

1. Oil change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months with 5W-20 oil
2. Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles for even wear
3. Brake inspection: Every 15,000 miles or as needed
4. Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
5. Coolant: Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years
6. Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
7. Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles

Tip: Follow Maintenance Minder system for service notifications.

Driving Features

Advanced driving systems and performance features.

1. SportShift transmission: Manual gear selection without clutch.
2. VTM-4 system: Automatic 4WD engagement for traction.
3. Vehicle Stability Assist: Helps maintain control during cornering.
4. Trailer stability assist: Monitors trailer sway when towing.
5. Cruise control: Maintains set speed on highways.
6. Power steering: Vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power steering.
7. Braking system: 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS.

WARNING! Always drive according to conditions. Advanced systems aid driving but cannot overcome physics.

Safety Systems

Passive and active safety features for occupant protection.

Airbags: Dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags.

Seat belts: 3-point belts for all positions, pretensioners for front seats.

Child safety: LATCH system for child seats, rear door child locks.

Anti-lock brakes: Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking.

Security system: Anti-theft system with engine immobilizer.

Care & Cleaning

Proper cleaning techniques for interior and exterior.

Exterior: Wash with automotive soap, dry with soft cloth. Wax regularly for protection.

Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean leather with approved conditioner, use glass cleaner for windows.

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

Warranty Information

4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty, 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty. Acura Roadside Assistance included. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealership. Keep maintenance records for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/security system	Check battery connections; ensure key is recognized by immobilizer.
Transmission shifts hard	Fluid level/temperature	Check transmission fluid level and condition; allow warm-up in cold weather.
VTM-4 light on	System fault	Have system diagnosed at Acura dealer; check differential fluid.
Brake pedal pulsates	Warped rotors/ABS activation	Inspect brake rotors; normal ABS operation during hard braking.
Check engine light	Emissions/system fault	Have system scanned for codes; common causes include oxygen sensors.

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealership for professional service.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA (1-800-862-2872)