2012 Acura RDX User Manual

The 2012 Acura RDX is a luxury compact SUV featuring a 2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift, available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), premium leather interior, navigation system with voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, premium audio system, and advanced safety features including multiple airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and anti-lock braking system (ABS). Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Instrument Panel 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Navigation System 7. Audio and Connectivity 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Emergency Procedures 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Turbocharged engine, SH-AWD system, leather-trimmed interior, power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, steering wheel-mounted controls.

FeatureDescription
Engine2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 240 hp
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive or SH-AWD
Audio System7-speaker premium audio with CD/MP3
NavigationVoice-activated navigation system
ConnectivityBluetooth HandsFreeLink
Climate ControlDual-zone automatic temperature control
SeatingLeather-trimmed power seats
SafetyMultiple airbags, VSA, ABS
ExteriorPower moonroof, fog lights, alloy wheels

Safety Information

Always wear seat belts and ensure all passengers are properly restrained.

  1. Airbag System: Front, side, and side curtain airbags deploy in moderate to severe collisions.
  2. Child Safety: Use rear seats for children under 12; proper child restraint systems required.
  3. VSA System: Helps maintain control during cornering and slippery conditions.
  4. ABS: Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking.

WARNING! Never place rear-facing child seats in front passenger seat with active airbag.

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with all gauges, indicators, and controls before driving.

  1. Speedometer and Tachometer: Primary driving instruments.
  2. Fuel Gauge: Monitor fuel level regularly.
  3. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature indicator.
  4. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brake system indicators.
  5. Multi-Information Display: Shows trip computer, maintenance reminders, and system messages.

CAUTION! If any warning light remains on while driving, stop safely and investigate.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Steering wheel controls: Audio, cruise control, phone, voice commands. Center console: Climate controls, audio system, navigation interface.

Key Functions: POWER (start/stop), LOCK/UNLOCK, trunk release, panic button. Remote: LOCK, UNLOCK, PANIC, trunk release.

Climate: AUTO, temperature controls, fan speed, mode selection, rear defogger. Audio: Power, volume, source selection, track selection, preset buttons. Navigation: DEST, MAP, MENU, CANCEL, ENTER buttons.

Navigation System

Voice-activated navigation with real-time traffic updates.

  1. Enter destination: Use voice command or touchscreen interface.
  2. Route guidance: Follow visual and voice prompts.
  3. Points of interest: Search for gas stations, restaurants, etc.
  4. Traffic information: Real-time traffic avoidance routing.

Tip: Update navigation database regularly for accurate routing.

Audio and Connectivity

7-speaker premium audio system with multiple source options.

  1. AM/FM Radio: Preset up to 12 stations per band.
  2. CD Player: Plays audio CDs and MP3 CDs.
  3. Auxiliary Input: 3.5mm jack for external devices.
  4. USB Connection: For iPod and USB storage devices.
  5. Bluetooth Audio: Stream music from compatible devices.
  6. HandsFreeLink: Make and receive calls wirelessly.

WARNING! Adjust audio settings only when vehicle is stopped.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended maintenance for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

Emergency Procedures

Flat Tire: Use jack and spare tire in trunk. Jump Start: Connect cables properly to battery terminals. Towing: Use proper tow points; front wheels must be off ground for FWD models.

CAUTION! Always use parking brake when changing tires.

Warranty Information

4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty. For warranty claims, contact Acura dealer with proof of maintenance records.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/security systemCheck battery connections; ensure key is recognized; jump start if needed.
Navigation not workingGPS signal/databaseEnsure clear view of sky; update navigation database.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/device compatibilityDelete old pairings; re-pair device; check compatibility.
Warning lights onSystem faultsCheck owner's manual; visit dealer for diagnosis.
Poor fuel economyDriving habits/maintenanceCheck tire pressure; replace air filter; avoid aggressive driving.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset electronic systems.

Service: Contact Acura dealer or 1-800-TO-ACURA for assistance.

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