2012 Acura MDX Shop Manual

The 2012 Acura MDX Shop Manual provides comprehensive technical information for servicing and repairing the 2012 Acura MDX luxury SUV. This manual covers the 3.7L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, specifications, and repair instructions for all major systems including engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, and body components.

1. General Information 2. Maintenance 3. Engine Mechanical 4. Engine Performance 5. Transmission 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Brakes 8. Electrical Systems 9. Body & Interior 10. Specifications 11. Troubleshooting

General Information

Vehicle identification, manual organization, safety precautions, and service procedures.

ItemDescription
VIN LocationDriver's side dashboard visible through windshield
Engine CodeJ37A1
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
DrivetrainSuper Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brake System4-wheel disc with ABS, VSA, and EBD
SuspensionFront: Double wishbone; Rear: Multi-link
Service PrecautionsAlways disconnect battery before electrical work
Lift PointsFour designated jack points under vehicle
Fluid CapacitiesRefer to specifications section

Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance procedures and service intervals.

  1. Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
  3. Coolant: Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years
  4. Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years regardless of mileage
  5. Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
  6. Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
  7. Air filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
  8. Cabin air filter: Replace every 15,000 miles

WARNING! Use only Honda/Acura approved fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Mechanical

3.7L V6 J37A1 engine service procedures.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt and balance shaft belt replacement
  4. Piston and connecting rod service
  5. Crankshaft and main bearing service
  6. Lubrication system service
  7. Cooling system service
  8. Exhaust system service

CAUTION! Engine must be cold before disassembly. Mark all components for proper reassembly.

Engine Performance

Engine management system diagnostics and repair.

Transmission

5-speed automatic transmission with SH-AWD system.

Transmission Service: Fluid change, filter replacement, band adjustments. SH-AWD System: Rear differential service, torque transfer unit, electronic controls.

Shift Solenoids: A, B, C, D, E testing and replacement. Torque Converter: Inspection and replacement procedures. Valve Body: Service and repair procedures. Differential: Front and rear differential service.

Suspension & Steering

Front double wishbone and rear multi-link suspension systems.

  1. Front suspension: Strut replacement, control arms, ball joints
  2. Rear suspension: Shock absorbers, trailing arms, lateral links
  3. Steering system: Power steering pump, rack and pinion
  4. Wheel alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures
  5. Stabilizer bars: Front and rear replacement
  6. Wheel bearings: Front and rear service procedures

Tip: Always check alignment after suspension component replacement.

Brakes

4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, VSA, and EBD systems.

  1. Brake pad replacement: Front and rear procedures
  2. Rotor service: Machining and replacement specifications
  3. Brake fluid bleeding: Manual and pressure bleeding methods
  4. ABS system: Wheel speed sensors, modulator service
  5. VSA system: Yaw rate sensor, steering angle sensor calibration
  6. Parking brake: Cable adjustment and service
  7. Brake booster: Testing and replacement
  8. Master cylinder: Bench bleeding and installation

WARNING! Always bleed brakes in correct sequence. Never reuse brake fluid.

Electrical Systems

Complete electrical system diagnostics and repair.

Battery: Testing and replacement procedures. Charging System: Alternator testing and replacement. Starting System: Starter motor service. Lighting: Headlights, taillights, interior lights. Power Accessories: Windows, locks, seats, mirrors. Climate Control: A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator. Audio/Navigation: Radio, amplifier, navigation system.

Body & Interior

Body components and interior trim service.

Doors: Panel removal, window regulator service. Seats: Power seat motor replacement. Instrument Panel: Cluster removal, gauge service. Glass: Windshield and window replacement. Exterior Trim: Bumper covers, moldings, emblems. Interior Trim: Dashboard, console, headliner service.

Specifications

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, starter, fuel pumpCheck battery voltage; test starter; listen for fuel pump
Rough idleSpark plugs, vacuum leak, MAF sensorReplace spark plugs; check for vacuum leaks; clean MAF
Transmission slipsLow fluid, worn clutchesCheck fluid level and condition; pressure test
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsMeasure rotor runout; machine or replace rotors
ABS light onWheel speed sensorScan for codes; test wheel speed sensors
SH-AWD light onRear differential issueCheck rear differential fluid; scan for codes
OverheatingThermostat, water pump, radiatorTest thermostat; check water pump; flush radiator
Electrical issuesBattery, alternator, groundsLoad test battery; test alternator output; check grounds

Diagnostic Tools: Use Honda HDS or compatible scanner for system diagnostics.

Technical Support: Acura Technical Information System: 1-800-999-1009

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