2011 Acura MDX Maintenance Manual

The 2011 Acura MDX is a luxury mid-size crossover SUV featuring a 3.7L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), and advanced safety systems. This maintenance manual covers routine service intervals, fluid specifications, component inspections, and troubleshooting procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow these service intervals based on mileage and time to maintain your Acura MDX's performance and reliability.

Service Interval	Maintenance Items
7,500 miles/12 months	Oil and filter change, tire rotation, fluid level checks
15,000 miles/12 months	Replace air filter, inspect brakes, check suspension
30,000 miles/24 months	Replace cabin air filter, inspect drive belts, check cooling system
60,000 miles/48 months	Replace spark plugs, transmission fluid, brake fluid
105,000 miles/84 months	Replace timing belt, water pump, coolant

Fluid Specifications

Use only Acura-approved fluids for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

1. Engine Oil: 5W-20 premium synthetic blend (4.5 quarts with filter)
2. Transmission Fluid: Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 (3.7 quarts for drain and fill)
3. Coolant: Honda/Acura All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2
4. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4
5. Power Steering Fluid: Honda/Acura Power Steering Fluid
6. Transfer Case Fluid: Honda/Acura Dual Pump Fluid II
7. Rear Differential Fluid: Honda/Acura Hypoid Gear Oil

WARNING! Using incorrect fluids may cause damage to vehicle systems and void warranty.

Engine Maintenance

Regular engine maintenance ensures optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months using 5W-20 synthetic blend
2. Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles or as needed
3. Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles with OEM iridium plugs
4. Fuel System: Use fuel injector cleaner every 15,000 miles
5. PCV Valve: Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace if necessary

CAUTION! Always allow engine to cool before performing maintenance to prevent burns.

Brake System

• Brake Pads: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace when worn to 3mm
• Brake Rotors: Resurface or replace when below minimum thickness
• Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years regardless of mileage
• Parking Brake: Adjust as needed during brake service
• ABS System: Professional diagnosis required for warning lights

Tire Care & Rotation

Proper tire maintenance ensures safety and extends tire life.

Tire Pressure: 32 PSI front, 32 PSI rear (check when cold)

Rotation Pattern: Front-to-rear rotation every 7,500 miles

Tread Depth: Replace tires when tread depth reaches 2/32 inch

Alignment: Check annually or if uneven tire wear occurs

TPMS: System monitors tire pressure; reset after tire service

Electrical System

Maintain proper electrical system function for reliability and safety.

1. Battery: Test annually, clean terminals, replace every 4-5 years
2. Alternator: Output should be 13.5-14.5 volts with engine running
3. Starter: Inspect if slow cranking or clicking occurs
4. Lights: Check all exterior and interior lights monthly
5. Fuses: Keep spare fuses in vehicle for emergencies

Tip: Disconnect negative battery terminal before electrical work.

Cooling System

Prevent overheating with proper cooling system maintenance.

1. Coolant Level: Check monthly when engine is cool
2. Coolant Replacement: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years
3. Radiator Cap: Replace if not holding proper pressure
4. Thermostat: Replace if engine runs too cool or overheats
5. Hoses: Inspect for cracks, bulges, or leaks every 15,000 miles
6. Water Pump: Replace with timing belt at 105,000 miles

WARNING! Never remove radiator cap when engine is hot - risk of severe burns.

Transmission Service

Automatic transmission maintenance for smooth shifting and longevity.

Fluid Change: Drain and fill every 60,000 miles using ATF-Z1

Filter: Replace transmission filter with fluid service

Shift Solenoids: Professional diagnosis for shifting issues

SH-AWD System: Service rear differential and transfer case fluids

CAUTION! Use only specified fluids to prevent transmission damage.

Suspension & Steering

Maintain handling and ride quality with proper suspension care.

• Shocks/Struts: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace if leaking or worn
• Ball Joints: Check for play during tire rotation
• Tie Rods: Inspect for wear during alignment checks
• Power Steering: Use only specified fluid, check for leaks
• Wheel Bearings: Repack or replace if noisy or loose

Safety Systems

Regular inspection of safety systems ensures passenger protection.

Airbags: Professional inspection if warning light illuminates

Seat Belts: Check for proper retraction and locking

ABS/VSA: System self-tests at startup; professional service if lights stay on

Child Safety: Proper use of LATCH system and top tether anchors

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Check Engine Light	Multiple causes	Retrieve codes with OBD-II scanner; address specific fault
Hard starting	Battery/fuel system	Test battery and charging system; check fuel pressure
Overheating	Cooling system	Check coolant level, thermostat, radiator fan operation
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace brake rotors; check calipers
Transmission slipping	Low fluid/worn clutch	Check fluid level and condition; professional diagnosis

Reset Maintenance Minder: Follow display prompts after service completion.

Service: 1-800-382-2238; www.acura.com