2008 Acura MDX Owner's Manual - Page 438

Main Menu Table Of Contents If the Engine Overheats The pointer of your vehicle's temperature gauge should stay in the midrange under most conditions. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason (hot day, driving up a steep hill, etc.). If the vehicle overheats, you should take immediate action. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood. 1. Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Park, and set the parking brake. Turn off the all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning indicators. 2. If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood. 3. If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading, the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint, then continue driving. Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you. Do not open the hood if steam is coming out. Driving with the temperature gauge pointer at the red mark can cause serious damage to the engine. 434 2008 MDX