2012 Acura MDX Repair Manual

The 2012 Acura MDX Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for servicing and maintaining the 2012 Acura MDX luxury SUV. This manual covers engine systems, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, body components, and routine maintenance procedures. Below are key sections for technical specifications, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, troubleshooting, and safety information.

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

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for the 2012 Acura MDX including engine specifications, dimensions, capacities, and performance metrics.

SpecificationDescription
Engine Type3.7L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower300 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque270 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Transmission6-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
DrivetrainSuper Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Fuel Capacity21.0 gallons
Curb Weight4,478 lbs
Towing Capacity5,000 lbs (with towing package)
Wheelbase108.3 inches
Overall Length191.6 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals and maintenance procedures for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

  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. Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
  5. Brake fluid: Every 3 years regardless of mileage
  6. Spark plugs: Every 105,000 miles
  7. Timing belt: Every 105,000 miles

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

Engine Systems

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and component replacement.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt and balance shaft belt replacement
  4. Fuel system service and injector replacement
  5. Cooling system maintenance and thermostat replacement
  6. Exhaust system inspection and component replacement

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Allow engine to cool before servicing cooling system components.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Brake System

Complete brake system service including disc brakes, pads, rotors, and hydraulic components.

Front Brakes: 12.6-inch ventilated discs, dual-piston calipers. Rear Brakes: 13.1-inch ventilated discs, single-piston calipers.

Brake Pad Replacement: Measure thickness; replace if below 3mm. Rotor Service: Resurface or replace if below minimum thickness. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended. ABS System: Special diagnostic equipment required for service.

Suspension & Steering

Front: MacPherson strut with coil springs and stabilizer bar. Rear: Multi-link with coil springs and stabilizer bar.

  1. Strut and shock absorber replacement procedures
  2. Control arm and ball joint inspection
  3. Stabilizer bar and link replacement
  4. Wheel alignment specifications and procedures
  5. Power steering system service and fluid replacement

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical Systems

Comprehensive electrical system diagnostics and repair procedures.

  1. Battery testing and replacement (70Ah recommended)
  2. Alternator output testing and replacement
  3. Starter motor service and replacement
  4. Fuse and relay location guide
  5. Wiring diagram interpretation
  6. Lighting system diagnostics
  7. Power window and door lock repair
  8. Audio and navigation system service

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before electrical repairs. Use proper circuit protection when testing.

Heating & A/C

Climate control system service including compressor, condenser, and refrigerant handling.

Refrigerant: R-134a, 1.38 lbs capacity. Compressor: Variable displacement type. A/C Service: Requires certified technician and proper equipment. Heater Core: Dash removal required for replacement. Blower Motor: Located under passenger side dash.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior component service, and trim repair procedures.

CAUTION! Use proper safety equipment when working with airbag systems and pyrotechnic seatbelt pretensioners.

Diagnostic Procedures

Using diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and specialized equipment for system troubleshooting.

OBD-II Connector: Located under driver's side dash. Diagnostic Tools: Honda HDS or equivalent scanner required. Data List: Live data parameters for system monitoring. System Tests: Active commands for component testing.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, starter, fuel systemCheck battery voltage; test starter; verify fuel pressure.
Transmission slippingLow fluid, worn clutchesCheck fluid level and condition; scan for codes.
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsResurface or replace rotors; check caliper function.
Steering wheel shakeUnbalanced tires, worn componentsBalance tires; inspect tie rods and ball joints.
A/C not coolingLow refrigerant, compressorCheck refrigerant pressure; test compressor clutch.

Reset Procedures: Maintenance minder, DTC clearing, and system initialization.

Technical Support: Acura Technical Information System; certified Acura dealerships

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