Haynes Manual 2003 Acura MDX

The Haynes Manual for the 2003 Acura MDX provides comprehensive repair and maintenance information for this luxury midsize SUV. Covering all North American models with 3.5L V6 engine, this manual includes step-by-step procedures for engine overhaul, transmission service, brake systems, suspension, electrical systems, and routine maintenance. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedules 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission & Drivetrain 5. Brake Systems 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical Systems 8. Heating & AC 9. Body & Interior 10. Troubleshooting 11. Wiring Diagrams

Vehicle Specifications

Complete technical specifications for the 2003 Acura MDX including engine, transmission, dimensions, and capacities.

Specification	Details
Engine Type	3.5L SOHC V6 (J35A4)
Horsepower	260 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Torque	250 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift
Drivetrain	VTM-4 all-wheel drive system
Fuel Capacity	19.2 gallons
Curb Weight	4,464 lbs
Towing Capacity	4,500 lbs
Wheelbase	106.3 inches
Overall Length	188.5 inches

Maintenance Schedules

Recommended maintenance intervals and service procedures for optimal vehicle performance.

Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
Transmission fluid: Change every 30,000 miles
Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts or equivalent quality replacements for optimal performance.

Engine Systems

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.

Engine Removal: Step-by-step guide for complete engine removal and installation
Cylinder Head: Removal, inspection, and installation procedures
Timing Belt: Replacement procedure with proper tension adjustment
Valve Adjustment: Cold adjustment procedure with specifications
Fuel System: Fuel pump, injectors, and pressure regulator service
Ignition System: Spark plugs, coils, and distributor service
Cooling System: Radiator, thermostat, and water pump replacement

Transmission & Drivetrain

Service procedures for automatic transmission and VTM-4 all-wheel drive system.

Transmission fluid service: Drain and fill procedure
Transmission removal: Complete step-by-step guide
VTM-4 system: Maintenance and troubleshooting
Drive axles: CV joint and boot replacement
Transfer case: Fluid service and maintenance
Differential: Front and rear differential service

CAUTION! Use only Honda ATF-Z1 transmission fluid for proper operation.

Brake Systems

Complete brake system service including ABS and electronic brake distribution.

Component	Service Procedure
Front Brakes	Pad replacement, rotor service, caliper rebuild
Rear Brakes	Pad replacement, rotor service, parking brake adjustment
ABS System	Diagnosis, sensor replacement, hydraulic unit service
Brake Fluid	Bleeding procedure, fluid replacement
Master Cylinder	Replacement and bench bleeding

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension service with power steering system maintenance.

Front struts: Removal and installation procedure
Rear shocks: Replacement with proper torque specifications
Control arms: Bushings and ball joint replacement
Stabilizer bars: Link and bushing replacement
Power steering: Pump replacement and fluid service
Wheel alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures

Tip: Always replace suspension components in pairs for optimal handling.

Electrical Systems

Complete electrical system diagnosis and repair procedures.

Battery: Testing, replacement, and maintenance
Charging System: Alternator testing and replacement
Starting System: Starter motor service and solenoid replacement
Lighting: Headlight, taillight, and interior light replacement
Instrument Cluster: Removal and bulb replacement
Power Accessories: Window motors, door locks, and mirror repair
Fuses & Relays: Location diagrams and testing procedures

Heating & AC

Climate control system service including compressor and heater core replacement.

AC system: Evacuation and recharge procedure
Compressor: Removal and installation with proper oil charge
Condenser: Replacement and system flushing
Heater core: Removal and installation procedure
Blower motor: Replacement and resistor service
Control panel: Removal and diagnosis procedures

WARNING! AC system service requires proper certification and equipment.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement and interior component service procedures.

Component	Service Procedure
Front Bumper	Removal and installation with sensor calibration
Doors	Panel removal, window regulator replacement
Seats	Removal, power seat motor replacement
Dashboard	Removal for heater core and instrument cluster access
Carpet	Removal and installation for cleaning or repair

Troubleshooting

Common problems and solutions for the 2003 Acura MDX.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine misfire	Faulty spark plugs or coils	Replace spark plugs and test ignition coils
Transmission slippage	Low fluid or worn clutch packs	Check fluid level and condition; service transmission
ABS warning light	Faulty wheel sensor	Diagnose with scan tool; replace affected sensor
Power steering noise	Low fluid or pump failure	Check fluid level; replace pump if necessary
AC not cooling	Refrigerant leak or compressor failure	Perform leak test; repair leaks and recharge system

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Engine control system wiring diagrams
Transmission control circuit diagrams
ABS and brake system wiring
Lighting and accessory circuits
Power distribution and ground locations
Connector pinouts and wire color codes

Note: Always disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.