2012 Acura MDX Owners Manual

The 2012 Acura MDX is a luxury midsize SUV featuring a 3.7L V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), advanced navigation system with voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, premium audio system, tri-zone automatic climate control, power tailgate, and comprehensive safety features including multiple airbags and Vehicle Stability Assist. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, features, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Instrument Panel Overview 3. Starting and Operating 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Audio and Navigation System 7. Climate Control System 9. Safety Features 10. Maintenance Schedule 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.7L V6 engine, SH-AWD system, navigation with real-time traffic, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, power moonroof, leather seating surfaces, power adjustable front seats.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.7L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Transmission6-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
DrivetrainSuper Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Audio SystemPremium 10-speaker system with USB interface
NavigationVoice-activated with real-time traffic
Climate ControlTri-zone automatic climate control system
SeatingLeather-trimmed interior with 8-way power driver seat
SafetyMultiple airbags, VSA, ABS, EBD
ConveniencePower tailgate, smart entry with pushbutton start
EntertainmentAvailable rear seat entertainment system

Instrument Panel Overview

Familiarize yourself with the main controls and displays.

  1. Speedometer and tachometer with multi-information display
  2. Navigation screen and audio system controls
  3. Climate control buttons and dials
  4. Steering wheel mounted controls for audio, cruise, and phone
  5. Gear selector with Sequential SportShift
  6. Power window and door lock controls

WARNING! Always keep your attention on driving and use controls only when safe to do so.

Starting and Operating

Smart Entry System with pushbutton start operation.

  1. Starting engine: Press brake pedal and push ENGINE START/STOP button
  2. Transmission operation: Move gear selector to desired position (P, R, N, D)
  3. Sequential SportShift: Move selector to S position and use paddle shifters
  4. Parking: Apply foot brake, shift to P, set parking brake
  5. SH-AWD: Automatic all-wheel drive engagement for optimal traction

CAUTION! Never leave vehicle unattended with engine running. Always shift to P before exiting.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Steering wheel controls: Audio, cruise control, phone, multi-information display. Center console: Navigation, climate, audio controls.

Multi-Information Display: Trip computer, maintenance minder, vehicle settings, customizations.

Audio: AM/FM radio, CD player, USB interface, XM radio. Climate: Tri-zone automatic temperature control. Navigation: Voice-activated with 8-inch display. Vehicle: Door lock customization, lighting settings, security system.

Audio and Navigation System

Premium audio system with navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.

  1. Audio sources: AM/FM, CD, USB, auxiliary input, XM radio
  2. Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling
  3. Navigation with voice recognition and real-time traffic
  4. System settings: Audio preferences, display settings, phone pairing

Tip: Complete phone pairing while vehicle is stationary for safety.

Climate Control System

Tri-zone automatic climate control for driver, front passenger, and rear passengers.

  1. Auto mode: Set desired temperature and system automatically adjusts
  2. Manual controls: Fan speed, mode selection, air conditioning
  3. Rear controls: Separate temperature and fan controls for rear passengers
  4. Defrost: Front and rear defroster controls

WARNING! Keep air intake clear of obstructions for proper system operation.

Safety Features

Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, multiple airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD).

Maintenance Schedule

Follow Maintenance Minder system for service intervals. Regular maintenance includes oil changes, tire rotation, brake inspection, fluid checks.

CAUTION! Always use Acura genuine parts for maintenance and repairs.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startKey fob battery, brake pedalReplace key fob battery; ensure brake pedal fully depressed
Navigation not workingGPS signal, DVDCheck for obstructions; ensure navigation DVD is properly loaded
Bluetooth disconnectsPhone compatibilityDelete pairing and re-pair phone; check phone compatibility
Warning lights onVarious systemsCheck owner's manual for specific warning light meanings
Transmission issuesFluid level, sensorsCheck transmission fluid level; have system scanned for codes

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service and repairs.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-382-2238

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