2005 Acura MDX Repair Manual

The 2005 Acura MDX Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for servicing and maintaining the 2005 Acura MDX luxury SUV. This manual covers engine systems (3.5L V6 J35A4), transmission (5-speed automatic), drivetrain (VTM-4 all-wheel drive), suspension, brakes, electrical systems, HVAC, and body components. Includes diagnostic procedures, repair instructions, torque specifications, and maintenance schedules. Below are key sections for technical specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedules 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission & Drivetrain 5. Brake Systems 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical Systems 8. HVAC System 9. Body & Interior 10. Diagnostic Procedures 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for the 2005 Acura MDX including dimensions, capacities, and performance specifications.

Specification	Description
Engine	3.5L SOHC V6 J35A4 with VTEC
Horsepower	265 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque	250 lb-ft @ 3500-5000 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift
Drivetrain	VTM-4 electronic all-wheel drive
Fuel Capacity	19.2 gallons (72.7 liters)
Curb Weight	4,470 lbs (2,028 kg)
Towing Capacity	3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
Wheelbase	106.3 inches
Overall Length	188.5 inches

Maintenance Schedules

Recommended maintenance intervals and service procedures for optimal vehicle performance.

Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts and fluids for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

Engine Systems

Detailed repair procedures for the 3.5L V6 J35A4 engine and related systems.

Engine Removal: Complete step-by-step procedure with torque specifications
Cylinder Head: Removal, inspection, and installation procedures
Timing Belt: Replacement procedure and tension adjustment
Fuel System: Fuel pump, injectors, and pressure regulator service
Ignition System: Spark plug replacement and coil testing
Cooling System: Radiator, thermostat, and water pump service
Exhaust System: Manifold and catalytic converter procedures

Transmission & Drivetrain

Service procedures for the 5-speed automatic transmission and VTM-4 all-wheel drive system.

Transmission: Fluid service, filter replacement, shift solenoid testing, valve body service.

VTM-4 System: Transfer case service, rear differential maintenance, drive shaft inspection.

Transmission fluid capacity: 3.1 quarts (drain and refill). Rear differential fluid: 1.4 quarts. Transfer assembly fluid: 1.2 quarts.

Brake Systems

Complete brake system service including disc brakes, ABS, and VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist).

Front brake pads: Replacement procedure and bedding process
Rear brake pads: Service instructions and parking brake adjustment
Brake rotors: Inspection criteria and machining specifications
ABS modulator: Diagnostic procedures and component testing
Brake fluid bleeding: Manual and pressure bleeding methods

Tip: Always replace brake components in axle sets for optimal braking performance.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension service including MacPherson struts and multi-link rear suspension.

Front struts: Removal and installation with alignment procedures
Rear suspension: Control arm and stabilizer bar replacement
Steering gear: Power steering pump and rack service
Wheel alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures
Ball joints: Inspection and replacement criteria
Stabilizer links: Service procedures and torque values

WARNING! Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical Systems

Wiring diagrams, component locations, and diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems.

Battery: Testing and replacement. Charging system: Alternator output testing. Starting system: Starter motor service. Lighting: Headlight adjustment and bulb replacement. Power accessories: Window motors, door locks, and mirror controls. Instrument cluster: Gauge testing and bulb replacement.

HVAC System

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair.

Climate control: Automatic temperature control diagnosis. Blower motor: Replacement procedure. A/C compressor: Removal and installation. Refrigerant: Recovery and recharge procedures. Heater core: Replacement instructions.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior trim, and accessory service procedures.

Doors: Panel removal and window regulator service. Seats: Power seat motor replacement. Dashboard: Component removal and installation. Exterior trim: Bumper cover and moldings. Glass: Windshield and door glass replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures

Using diagnostic tools and interpreting trouble codes for efficient repair.

OBD-II: Connector location and code retrieval. Factory scan tool: HDS interface procedures. System tests: Component actuation and sensor monitoring. Wiring: Continuity testing and voltage measurements.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, fuel pump	Check battery voltage; test starter operation; verify fuel pressure.
Transmission slippage	Low fluid, worn clutches	Check fluid level and condition; perform pressure test.
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Measure rotor runout; machine or replace rotors.
Steering pull	Alignment, tire pressure	Check and adjust alignment; verify tire pressures match.
Electrical issues	Ground connections, fuses	Inspect ground points; check all related fuses and relays.

Reset Procedures: Maintenance minder reset, VSA system calibration, power window reset.

Technical Support: Acura Technical Information System; authorized dealer service departments