2008 Acura MDX Repair Manual

The 2008 Acura MDX Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the 2008 Acura MDX luxury SUV. This manual covers the 3.7L V6 VTEC engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and body components. Below are key sections for maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, specifications, and repair instructions.

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical specifications for the 2008 Acura MDX.

Specification	Description
Engine	3.7L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower	300 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	275 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift
Drivetrain	Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension	Front: MacPherson strut, Rear: Multi-link
Fuel Capacity	21.0 gallons
Curb Weight	4,486 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

1. Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
2. Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
3. Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
4. Spark plug replacement: Every 105,000 miles
5. Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
6. Brake fluid: Every 3 years
7. Coolant replacement: Every 120,000 miles or 10 years

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

Engine System

3.7L V6 VTEC engine maintenance and repair procedures.

• Engine Oil: SAE 5W-20, 5.7 quarts with filter
• Coolant: Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2
• Spark Plugs: NGK IZFR6K11 (0.039-0.043 inch gap)
• Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
• Valve Adjustment: Check every 105,000 miles
• Fuel Filter: Replace every 60,000 miles

CAUTION! Engine components operate at high temperatures; allow cooling before servicing.

Transmission & Drivetrain

5-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system service.

1. Transmission fluid: Acura ATF-Z1, 3.5 quarts for drain and refill
2. Transfer case fluid: Acura Dual Pump Fluid, 1.6 quarts
3. Rear differential fluid: Acura Hypoid Gear Oil, 1.4 quarts
4. Fluid changes: Every 30,000 miles under severe conditions
5. Shift cable adjustment: Check every 30,000 miles

Tip: Use only specified fluids to prevent transmission damage.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and power steering system.

Front Suspension: MacPherson strut with coil springs, stabilizer bar

Rear Suspension: Multi-link with coil springs, stabilizer bar

Power Steering: Rack-and-pinion with variable assist

Steering gear fluid: Acura Power Steering Fluid, check every 15,000 miles

Wheel alignment: Check every 15,000 miles or after suspension work

Brake System

4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake distribution.

1. Brake pad replacement: Front 10.5mm minimum, Rear 8.0mm minimum
2. Rotor thickness: Front 28.0mm minimum, Rear 16.0mm minimum
3. Brake fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, replace every 3 years
4. ABS bleeding: Requires special procedure with scan tool
5. Parking brake: Adjust at cable equalizer

WARNING! Always bleed brakes properly to prevent air in system.

Electrical System

Battery, charging, starting, and accessory systems.

Component	Specification
Battery	12V, 70Ah (maintenance-free)
Alternator	150A output
Starter	1.4 kW reduction type
Fuses	Under-hood and driver's side panels
Bulbs	See owner's manual for specific types

CAUTION! Disconnect battery negative terminal before electrical work.

Body & Interior

Exterior body panels, interior trim, and accessory systems.

• Body Panels: Aluminum hood, steel body structure
• Paint Codes: Located on driver's door jamb sticker
• Interior Trim: Leather seating surfaces standard
• Entertainment: DVD rear entertainment system available
• Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control

Diagnostic Procedures

Using diagnostic tools and interpreting trouble codes.

1. Connect Acura diagnostic system or OBD-II scanner
2. Retrieve DTCs from PCM, TCM, ABS, and SRS systems
3. Follow specific diagnostic flow charts for each code
4. Clear codes after repair and verify system operation
5. Perform system tests to confirm proper function

Tip: Always begin diagnosis with code retrieval and visual inspection.

Safety Precautions

Essential safety procedures for all repair work.

Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Disconnect battery before electrical work. Use proper lifting points. Wear safety glasses. Follow torque specifications. Use genuine Acura parts.

WARNING! Airbag system can deploy unexpectedly; disable before servicing.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, fuel pump	Check battery voltage, fuel pressure, starter operation
Transmission slips	Low fluid, worn clutches	Check fluid level and condition, scan for codes
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Measure rotor thickness and runout, replace if necessary
Steering pull	Alignment, tire pressure	Check alignment specs, tire pressure and wear
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator, grounds	Test charging system, check ground connections

Technical Support: 1-800-382-2238; www.acura.com