2013 Acura RDX Audio System Manual

The 2013 Acura RDX Audio System features a premium 7-speaker sound system with AM/FM radio, CD player, USB audio interface, auxiliary input jack, Bluetooth Audio, and Pandora compatibility. The system includes a multi-information display, steering wheel audio controls, and voice recognition for hands-free operation. Below are key sections for features, operation, connectivity, settings, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Basic Operation 3. Audio Sources 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connectivity 7. Voice Commands 8. Display Features 9. Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: AM/FM tuner, CD player, USB port, AUX input, Bluetooth connectivity, 7-speaker system, multi-information display, steering wheel controls.

FeatureDescription
AM/FM RadioPreset stations with RDS information display
CD PlayerPlays audio CDs and MP3/WMA CDs
USB Audio InterfaceConnects USB devices for music playback
AUX Input Jack3.5mm jack for external audio devices
Bluetooth AudioWireless streaming from compatible devices
Pandora CompatibilityStreaming radio with smartphone connection
7-Speaker SystemPremium audio with subwoofer
Steering Wheel ControlsVolume, track selection, source change
Voice RecognitionHands-free audio control
Multi-Information DisplayAudio information and settings

Basic Operation

Power on the audio system with the POWER/VOLUME knob.

  1. Select audio source: Press SOURCE button to cycle through AM/FM, CD, USB, AUX, Bluetooth.
  2. Adjust volume: Turn POWER/VOLUME knob or use steering wheel controls.
  3. Radio operation: Use TUNE knob to seek stations; press buttons 1-6 for presets.
  4. CD operation: Insert CD; use track buttons for navigation.

WARNING! Do not operate audio system while driving if it distracts from road attention.

Audio Sources

Multiple audio sources available for different media types.

  1. AM/FM Radio: Auto-store function for preset stations; RDS displays station information.
  2. CD Player: Supports audio CDs and MP3/WMA format CDs with folder navigation.
  3. USB Devices: Connect USB flash drives or iPods for music playback and charging.
  4. AUX Input: Connect portable music players via 3.5mm audio cable.
  5. Bluetooth Audio: Pair compatible devices for wireless streaming.
  6. Pandora: Requires smartphone with Pandora app and Bluetooth connection.

CAUTION! Ensure USB devices are properly formatted and compatible.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Audio controls located on center console and steering wheel.

Center Console: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE, TUNE, PRESET, AUDIO, DISP, CD slot, USB port.

Steering Wheel: VOLUME +/- buttons, SOURCE, CH/SKIP buttons, PICK-UP/HANG-UP.

Audio Settings: BASS, TREBLE, FADER, BALANCE, SVC (Speed-sensitive volume compensation). Display Settings: Brightness adjustment, clock setting. Bluetooth Settings: Pairing, device management. System Settings: Beep volume, language selection.

Connectivity

Connect various audio devices to the system.

  1. USB Connection: Connect USB device to USB port; system recognizes and begins playback.
  2. AUX Connection: Connect 3.5mm audio cable from device to AUX input jack.
  3. Bluetooth Pairing: Enable Bluetooth on device; select "HandsFreeLink" from device list.
  4. Pandora Setup: Requires Bluetooth-paired smartphone with Pandora app installed.

Tip: For best Bluetooth performance, keep paired device within vehicle cabin.

Voice Commands

Use voice recognition for hands-free audio control.

  1. Activate: Press and release PICK-UP button on steering wheel.
  2. Basic Commands: "CD", "USB", "FM", "AM", "AUX", "Bluetooth Audio"
  3. Radio Commands: "Tune FM [frequency]", "Preset [number]"
  4. Playback Commands: "Play", "Pause", "Next", "Previous"
  5. Device Commands: "Connect phone", "Disconnect"

WARNING! Use voice commands only when safe to do so while driving.

Display Features

Multi-information display shows audio information and settings.

Display Modes: Audio source, track information, station frequency, connection status. Settings Menu: Access via DISP button for clock, brightness, language. Audio Information: Artist, album, song title (when available). System Messages: Connection status, error messages, pairing prompts.

Maintenance

Keep audio system clean and functioning properly.

Cleaning: Use soft, dry cloth for display and controls; avoid liquids. CD Care: Keep discs clean and free of scratches. USB Ports: Keep free of debris; use compatible devices only. System Updates: Check with Acura dealer for software updates.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on display or controls.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Bluetooth: Qualified Bluetooth enabled device required. Copyright © 2013 Acura; trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. For support, visit owners.acura.com or contact 1-800-382-2238.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from speakersVolume/mute settingsCheck volume level; ensure mute is not activated.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/device issuesDelete old pairings; restart device; ensure Bluetooth enabled.
CD not playingDisc/compatibilityCheck disc for damage; ensure compatible format (audio CD or MP3/WMA).
USB device not recognizedFormat/compatibilityUse FAT32 format; ensure device is compatible; try different USB cable.
Radio poor receptionAntenna/locationCheck antenna connection; move to area with better signal.

Reset: Disconnect vehicle battery for 10 minutes to reset system.

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

2013 Acura RDX Audio System Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025