Acura MDX Instruction Manual

The Acura MDX is a premium three-row luxury SUV featuring advanced technology, superior performance, and sophisticated design. Equipped with a powerful V6 engine, available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, intuitive infotainment system, comprehensive safety features, and luxurious interior amenities. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, 9-speed automatic transmission, available SH-AWD, AcuraWatch safety suite, premium audio system, tri-zone climate control, power tailgate.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.5L V6 with Variable Cylinder Management
Transmission9-speed automatic with paddle shifters
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive or available SH-AWD
InfotainmentAcuraLink with 10.2-inch display
Audio SystemAvailable ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio
SafetyAcuraWatch suite with collision mitigation
Seating7-passenger with leather-trimmed seats
Climate ControlTri-zone automatic climate control
LightingLED headlights with auto high-beam
ConveniencePower tailgate with hands-free access

Safety Features

Comprehensive safety systems for driver and passenger protection.

  1. AcuraWatch: Collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist.
  2. Airbags: Front, side, and side curtain airbags with occupant position detection.
  3. Braking: Anti-lock brakes, electronic brake distribution, brake assist.
  4. Stability: Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control.
  5. Visibility: Multi-view camera system, blind spot information.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Safety systems assist but do not replace attentive driving.

First-Time Setup

Initial vehicle setup and personalization.

  1. Key fob programming: Pair key fobs to vehicle memory positions.
  2. Driver position memory: Set seat, mirror, and steering wheel positions.
  3. AcuraLink activation: Connect to cellular service for remote features.
  4. Bluetooth pairing: Connect mobile devices for hands-free operation.
  5. Climate presets: Set preferred temperature zones.

CAUTION! Complete setup while vehicle is parked in safe location.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Primary controls located on steering wheel, center console, and dashboard.

Steering Wheel: Audio controls, cruise control, phone controls, paddle shifters, multi-information display controls.

Center Stack: Power button, drive mode selector, climate controls, audio system controls, navigation controls.

Settings Menu: Vehicle settings, driver assistance systems, lighting, door/window settings, maintenance information, AcuraLink services.

Driving Operations

Normal driving procedures and advanced features.

  1. Starting: Press brake pedal, then push engine start/stop button.
  2. Transmission: Use gear selector for Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Sport.
  3. Drive Modes: Select from Comfort, Normal, Sport, Snow modes.
  4. SH-AWD: Automatic torque distribution for enhanced traction.
  5. Cruise Control: Set speed and following distance with adaptive cruise.

Tip: Use Sport mode for more responsive acceleration and handling.

Infotainment System

AcuraLink system with touchpad interface.

  1. Navigation: Enter destinations using touchpad or voice commands.
  2. Audio: AM/FM/SiriusXM radio, Bluetooth audio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto.
  3. Phone: Make calls, access contacts, read messages hands-free.
  4. Settings: Customize display, sound, and connectivity options.
  5. AcuraLink: Remote start, vehicle status, security features via app.
  6. Voice Control: Use voice commands for navigation, audio, and phone.
  7. Multi-view Camera: Access different camera angles for parking assistance.
  8. Maintenance Minder: View service schedule and alerts.

WARNING! Operate infotainment system only when vehicle is safely parked.

Maintenance Schedule

Routine maintenance for optimal performance and longevity.

Care & Cleaning

Proper cleaning techniques for interior and exterior.

Exterior: Wash with automotive soap, dry with microfiber cloth. Wax periodically for paint protection.

Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean leather with approved conditioner, wipe surfaces with damp cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on interior surfaces. Avoid high-pressure washers on sensors.

Regulatory Information

Complies with all federal motor vehicle safety standards. EPA certified emissions system. Copyright © 2023 Acura. Acura and MDX are trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. For support, visit owners.acura.com or contact 1-800-382-2238.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startKey fob battery/brake pedalReplace key fob battery; ensure brake pedal fully depressed.
Infotainment screen blankSystem reset neededHold power button for 10 seconds to reboot system.
Warning lights onVarious systemsCheck owner's manual for specific light meanings; visit dealer if persistent.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing issueDelete device from phone and vehicle; re-pair following manual instructions.
Transmission shifting roughAdaptive learningDrive normally for system to adapt; visit dealer if issue continues.

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

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

Acura MDX Instruction Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025