Acura MDX 04 Owners Manual

The Acura MDX 2004 is a luxury mid-size SUV featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive system, advanced navigation system, leather interior, power accessories, climate control, and comprehensive safety features including multiple airbags and stability control. Below are key sections for vehicle operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting & Operating 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Features 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Driving Tips 8. Safety Systems 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.5L VTEC V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift, VTM-4 all-wheel drive system, multi-information display, navigation system, power windows/locks/mirrors.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.5L SOHC VTEC V6 with 265 horsepower
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift manual mode
DrivetrainVTM-4 electronic all-wheel drive
Seating Capacity7 passengers with third-row seating
Cargo Space14.8 cu.ft behind third row, 82.5 cu.ft with seats folded
Fuel Capacity19.2 gallons (premium recommended)
Towing CapacityUp to 4,500 lbs with proper equipment
Navigation SystemIntegrated GPS with voice guidance
Audio SystemAM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer
Climate ControlTri-zone automatic temperature control

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with the instrument cluster and controls before driving.

  1. Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph and km/h
  2. Tachometer: Engine RPM with redline at 6,500 RPM
  3. Fuel Gauge: Fuel level with low fuel warning light
  4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
  5. Multi-Information Display: Shows trip computer, maintenance reminders, and system messages
  6. Warning Lights: Various indicators for system status and alerts

WARNING! Always pay attention to warning lights and address issues immediately.

Starting & Operating

Proper starting and operating procedures ensure optimal performance and safety.

  1. Starting: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn to START position
  2. Shifting: Move shift lever through PRND positions smoothly
  3. SportShift: Move shift lever to manual gate for manual shifting
  4. VTM-4 System: Automatic all-wheel drive engagement when needed
  5. Parking: Apply parking brake on inclines, shift to PARK

CAUTION! Never shift to PARK while vehicle is moving.

Specifications

Controls & Features

Master the various controls and features for optimal driving experience.

Steering Wheel Controls: Audio controls, cruise control, navigation interface

Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, navigation display, power outlet

Doors & Locks: Power door locks with auto-lock feature, keyless entry

Windows: Power windows with auto-up/down driver's window

Mirrors: Power adjustable with heating and auto-dimming

Seats: 8-way power driver seat with memory, heated front seats

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  3. Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
  4. Transmission Fluid: Replace every 90,000 miles
  5. Coolant: Replace every 105,000 miles or 7 years
  6. Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
  7. Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles or 7 years

Tip: Reset maintenance minder after each service.

Driving Tips

Optimize your driving experience with these professional tips.

  1. Use SportShift for better control on hills and when towing
  2. Allow VTM-4 system to automatically engage when needed
  3. Use cruise control for highway driving to improve fuel economy
  4. Plan routes using navigation system before driving
  5. Use tri-zone climate control for individual comfort zones
  6. Engage 4WD lock for slippery conditions at low speeds

WARNING! Always wear seat belts and ensure proper child restraint usage.

Safety Systems

Comprehensive safety features protect occupants in various driving situations.

SystemFunction
Dual-Stage AirbagsFront airbags with occupant position detection
Side AirbagsFront seat-mounted side airbags
Side Curtain AirbagsAll outboard seating positions
ABSAnti-lock braking system with electronic brake distribution
VSAVehicle Stability Assist with traction control
TPMSTire Pressure Monitoring System
Security SystemTheft-deterrent system with immobilizer

Care & Cleaning

Proper care maintains vehicle appearance and value.

Exterior: Wash regularly with automotive soap, wax every 3-6 months

Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean leather with approved conditioner

Windows: Use automotive glass cleaner, avoid ammonia-based products

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on interior surfaces or exterior paint.

Warranty Information

Limited Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper coverage. Powertrain Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles. Corrosion Warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealership with proof of maintenance records.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/security systemCheck battery connections; ensure key is recognized by immobilizer
VSA light onSystem faultCheck brake fluid level; have system diagnosed at dealership
Navigation not workingGPS signal/discEnsure clear view of sky; check navigation disc in trunk
Transmission shifting hardFluid level/adaptive memoryCheck fluid level; have transmission adaptive memory reset
TPMS light onLow tire pressureCheck and adjust all tire pressures to recommended levels

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealership for professional service

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-382-2238

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