Acura AWD Manual

The Acura AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system is an advanced drivetrain technology designed to provide superior traction, stability, and performance in various driving conditions. This manual covers operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical specifications for Acura's intelligent AWD systems including SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive). Below are key sections for system overview, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

AWD System Overview

Key components: Torque transfer unit, rear differential, electronic control module, wheel speed sensors, yaw rate sensor.

Component	Function
Torque Transfer Unit	Distributes power between front and rear axles
Rear Differential	Manages torque distribution to rear wheels
Electronic Control Module	Monitors and controls AWD system operation
Wheel Speed Sensors	Detects individual wheel speeds for traction control
Yaw Rate Sensor	Measures vehicle rotation and stability
Lateral G-Sensor	Detects cornering forces and lateral acceleration
AWD Pump	Provides hydraulic pressure for clutch operation
Clutch Pack	Engages and disengages rear wheel drive
Drive Shafts	Transmits power from transfer case to wheels
Control Valves	Regulates hydraulic fluid flow to clutches

Operation Guidelines

Understanding proper AWD system operation for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Normal driving: System operates primarily in FWD mode for fuel efficiency.
2. Acceleration: Automatically transfers torque to rear wheels during hard acceleration.
3. Cornering: SH-AWD system sends more torque to outer rear wheel for improved handling.
4. Slippery conditions: Automatically engages all wheels when traction loss detected.

WARNING! AWD enhances traction but does not replace safe driving practices in poor conditions.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal AWD system performance and longevity.

1. Fluid changes: AWD system fluid every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
2. Filter replacement: Transmission and differential filters as specified.
3. Component inspection: Check for leaks, wear, and damage during service intervals.
4. System calibration: Verify sensor operation and system calibration annually.

CAUTION! Use only Acura-approved fluids to prevent system damage.

Technical Specifications

• System Type: Electronic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive
• Torque Distribution: Front: 70-100%, Rear: 0-30% (normal operation)
• Maximum Rear Torque: Up to 70% available during cornering
• Response Time: Less than 100 milliseconds
• Fluid Capacity: 3.5 quarts AWD system fluid
• Fluid Type: Acura AWD Fluid or equivalent
• Operating Temperature: -40°F to 300°F (-40°C to 149°C)
• System Weight: Approximately 150 lbs (68 kg)

Controls and Indicators

AWD system operation is automatic with dashboard indicators showing system status.

Dashboard Indicators: AWD light (amber) indicates system issue, VSA light shows stability control active, triangle with exclamation indicates general system warning.

Operation Modes: Normal (automatic), Sport (enhanced torque vectoring), Snow (optimized for low traction). Monitoring: Real-time torque distribution display available in vehicle information system. Alerts: Visual and audible warnings for system malfunctions.

Driving in Various Conditions

AWD system adapts to different road conditions automatically.

1. Dry pavement: Primarily front-wheel drive for fuel efficiency.
2. Wet roads: Automatically engages rear wheels when slippage detected.
3. Snow/ice: Continuous monitoring with proactive torque distribution.
4. Off-road: Limited capability - not designed for severe off-road use.

Tip: Allow system to warm up in extremely cold conditions for optimal performance.

Fluid Requirements

Proper fluid maintenance is critical for AWD system longevity.

1. Check fluid level: With vehicle on level surface, engine warm.
2. Fluid condition: Should be clear reddish color; dark or burnt odor indicates need for change.
3. Replacement interval: Every 30,000 miles under normal conditions.
4. Severe service: Reduce interval to 15,000 miles for towing or extreme conditions.
5. Fluid specification: Use only Acura AWD Fluid or approved equivalent.

WARNING! Incorrect fluid can cause immediate system failure and void warranty.

Warning Systems

AWD system monitors multiple parameters and provides warnings for issues.

Warning Light	Meaning	Action Required
AWD (Amber)	System malfunction	Service immediately - limited to FWD only
AWD (Flashing)	Overheating condition	Reduce speed and allow system to cool
VSA	Stability control active	System working normally
VSA (Amber)	System disabled	Check VSA operation

Care & Inspection

Regular inspection helps prevent major AWD system issues.

Monthly checks: Look for fluid leaks under vehicle, inspect drive shaft boots for damage, check for unusual noises during acceleration. Seasonal inspection: Verify system operation before winter, check fluid level and condition, ensure all warning lights function properly.

CAUTION! Do not attempt to repair AWD components without proper training and equipment.

Warranty Information

Acura AWD systems are covered under the vehicle's powertrain warranty. Standard coverage: 6 years/70,000 miles. Extended coverage available through Acura Care. Warranty requires proper maintenance with Acura-approved fluids and parts. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealership with maintenance records.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
AWD warning light on	System malfunction	Have system scanned for codes at dealership
Vibration during acceleration	Worn CV joints or driveshaft	Inspect and replace damaged components
Noise from rear during turns	Differential issues	Check differential fluid and bearings
Poor traction in slippery conditions	System not engaging	Verify sensor operation and fluid level
Fluid leaks	Seal or gasket failure	Identify source and replace seals

Reset: Some warning lights may require professional reset after repair.

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealership for AWD system diagnosis and repair.