Acura MDX 5 Speed Manual

The Acura MDX with 5-speed manual transmission is a luxury midsize SUV offering premium driving experience with manual gear control. This model combines Acura's renowned reliability with the engagement of manual shifting, featuring advanced safety systems, premium interior amenities, all-wheel drive capability, and sophisticated engineering. Below are key sections covering features, specifications, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Driving Techniques 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5-speed manual transmission, leather-wrapped shift knob, clutch pedal system, gear indicator, rev-matching technology, hill start assist.

Feature	Description
5-speed manual transmission	Precision manual gear shifting with smooth clutch engagement
Leather-wrapped shift knob	Premium feel for precise gear changes
Clutch pedal system	Hydraulic clutch with adjustable engagement point
Gear indicator	Digital display showing current gear position
Rev-matching technology	Automatically matches engine RPM during downshifts
Hill start assist	Prevents rollback on inclines when starting
Short-throw shifter	Reduced shift distance for quicker gear changes
Dual-zone climate control	Independent temperature settings for driver and passenger
Premium audio system	10-speaker ELS Studio 3D premium audio
SH-AWD system	Super Handling All-Wheel Drive for superior traction

Installation & Setup

Vehicle preparation and initial setup procedures.

Pre-delivery inspection: Verify fluid levels, tire pressure, and system functionality.
Seat adjustment: Position driver seat for optimal clutch pedal reach and comfort.
Mirror adjustment: Set side and rearview mirrors for maximum visibility.
Steering wheel adjustment: Position for comfortable reach and clear instrument view.

WARNING! Always perform pre-drive checks and ensure proper seating position before operating vehicle.

First-Time Operation

Starting and basic operation for new manual transmission drivers.

Starting procedure: Press clutch fully, turn ignition key, release parking brake.
First gear engagement: Shift to first gear while maintaining clutch depression.
Smooth acceleration: Gradually release clutch while applying gentle throttle.
Gear progression: Shift sequentially through gears as RPM increases.
Downshifting: Match engine RPM when shifting to lower gears.

CAUTION! Practice in safe, open areas until comfortable with clutch engagement point.

Specifications

Transmission: 5-speed manual with synchronized gears
Engine: 3.5L V6 VTEC engine
Horsepower: 290 hp @ 6200 RPM
Torque: 267 lb-ft @ 4700 RPM
Drivetrain: SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)
Fuel Economy: City 19 MPG / Highway 25 MPG
Curb Weight: 4,331 lbs
Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs when properly equipped
Transmission Fluid: Honda MTF
Clutch Type: Hydraulic, single-disc

Controls and Settings

Manual transmission controls and adjustable settings.

Gear Pattern: 1 - 3 - 5 2 - 4 - R

Clutch System: Hydraulic clutch with self-adjusting mechanism, pedal free play: 0.4-0.8 inches

Shift Lever: Leather-wrapped, 6-position adjustable height

Rev-matching: Automatic throttle blip during downshifts (can be disabled)

Hill Start Assist: Automatically holds brake pressure for 2 seconds on inclines

Driving Techniques

Advanced manual transmission operation techniques.

Smooth shifting: Coordinate clutch release with throttle application
Rev-matching: Blip throttle when downshifting to match engine speed
Heel-toe operation: Brake with toe while blipping throttle with heel
Engine braking: Use lower gears to slow vehicle without brakes
Skip-shifting: Shift directly from 2nd to 4th or 3rd to 5th during light acceleration

Tip: Avoid resting hand on shift lever between shifts to prevent premature wear.

Maintenance Schedule

Manual transmission maintenance requirements.

Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Clutch fluid: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace if contaminated
Clutch system: Inspect every 30,000 miles for wear
Shift linkage: Lubricate every 15,000 miles
Transmission mount: Inspect every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Use only recommended Honda MTF transmission fluid for optimal performance.

Safety Features

Integrated safety systems complementing manual transmission operation.

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Multiple airbag system, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Care & Cleaning

Manual transmission and interior care procedures.

Leather shift knob cleaning: Use mild leather cleaner, avoid harsh chemicals. Clutch pedal area: Vacuum regularly to prevent debris accumulation. Transmission exterior: Keep clean to monitor for leaks.

CAUTION! Do not use silicone-based products on shift knob as they may cause slippage.

Regulatory Information

Complies with all federal motor vehicle safety standards. EPA certified emissions system. Copyright © 2025 Acura Division of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. For technical support, contact Acura Client Service at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Difficulty shifting	Low transmission fluid	Check and refill transmission fluid to proper level
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch disc	Have clutch system inspected and replaced if necessary
Gear grinding	Synchronizer wear	Double-clutch technique; have transmission inspected
Clutch pedal vibration	Worn release bearing	Inspect and replace clutch components as needed
Stiff shifting when cold	Thick transmission fluid	Allow vehicle to warm up; use proper viscosity fluid

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