2012 Acura MDX Owner's Manual
2012 Acura MDX Manual
2012 Acura MDX manual content summary:
- 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 1
2012 MDX Owner's Manual (Unlinked) This document does not contain hyperlinks and may be formatted for printing instead of web use. This is due to changes in content and specifications of the vehicle that happen throughout the model year. This manual will be replaced with a hyperlinked version at - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 2
with the vehicle when it is sold. This Owner's Manual covers all models of the MDX. You may find descriptions of equipment and features that are not on your particular model. Images throughout this owner's manual (including the front cover) represent features and equipment that are available on some - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 3
Introduction Congratulations! Your selection of a 2012 Acura MDX was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure. One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new vehicle is to read this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls and convenience - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 4
in certain crash or near crash-like situations, such as an air bag deployment or hitting a road obstacle, data that will assist in understanding how a vehicle's systems performed. The EDR is designed to record data related to vehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time, typically - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 5
Diagnostic Recorders This vehicle is equipped with service-related devices that record information about powertrain performance. The data can be used to verify emissions law requirements and/or help technicians diagnose and solve service problems. It may also be combined with data from other sources - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 6
. Safety Headings－ such as Important Safety Reminders or Important Safety Precautions. Safety Section － such as Driver and Passenger Safety. Instructions － how to use this vehicle correctly and safely. ● ● ● This entire book is filled with important safety information － please read it - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 7
bumps, obstacles, and rough terrain. It also provides good visibility so you can anticipate problems earlier. These advantages come at some cost. Because your vehicle is taller and rides higher off the ground, it has a high center of gravity. This means your vehicle can tip or roll over if you make - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 8
Features (climate control, audio, rear entertainment, steering wheel, security, cruise control, and other convenience items) .. 181 Before Driving (fuel, vehicle break-in, and cargo loading) ...421 Driving (engine and transmission operation) ...439 Maintenance (minder, fluid checking, minor services - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 9
to tow a trailer. Maintenance The Maintenance Minder™ shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer for maintenance service. There is also a list of things to check and instructions on how to check them. Taking Care of the Unexpected This section covers several problems motorists - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 10
CONNECTORSᤳ (P. 340) DRIVER'S FRONT AIRBAG (P. 10, 30) DRIVING POSITION MEMORY SYSTEM (P. 168) POWER DOOR LOCK MASTER SWITCH (P. 140) PARKING BRAKE RELEASE HANDLE (P. 164) POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P. 160) FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE BUTTON (P. 424) POWER TAILGATE BUTTON (P. 142) Your Vehicle at a Glance - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 11
DEFOGGER (P. 132) ACCESSORY POWER SOCKETS (P. 177) HORNᤳ1 SEAT HEATER SWITCHES (P. 157) / SEAT HEATER AND SEAT VENTILATION BUTTONSᤳ2 (P. 158) ACTIVE DAMPER SYSTEM BUTTONᤳ2 (P. 484) DISTANCE STEERING WHEEL BUTTONᤳ2 VOICE CONTROL (P. 357) AUDIO CONTROLS BUTTONSᤳ3 (P. 305) BLUETOOTH CRUISE CONTROL - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 12
your vehicle. Important Safety Precautions ...6 Your Vehicle's Safety Features...8 Your Airbags ...27 Airbag System Components ...27 How Your Indicator Works ...37 Airbag Service ...38 Additional Safety Precautions 60 Carbon Monoxide Hazard ...61 Safety Labels ...62 Driver and Passenger Safety 5 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 13
best protection in all types of collisions. Airbags are designed to supplement seat belts, not replace them. So even though your vehicle － 60). instructions and warnings in this manual. Don't Drink and Drive Alcohol and driving don't mix. Even one drink can reduce your ability to respond to changing - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 14
to the Task of Driving Safely Engaging in mobile phone conversation or other activities that keep you from paying close attention to the road, other vehicles and pedestrians could lead to a crash. Remember, situations can change quickly, and only you can decide when it is safe to divert attention - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 15
ᤳ (11) Door Locks (12)Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) Sensor (11) (8) Your vehicle is equipped with many features that work together to protect you and your passengers during a crash. Some features do not require any action on your part. These include a strong steel framework that forms - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 16
and against other occupants. Driver and Passenger Safety ● Keep you from being thrown out of the vehicle. Help keep you in a good position should the airbags ever deploy. A good position reduces the risk of injury from an inflating airbag and allows you to get the best advantage from the airbag - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 17
Your Vehicle's Safety Features Airbags Your vehicle has a supplemental restraint system (SRS) with front airbags to help protect the heads and chests of the driver and a front seat passenger during a moderate to severe frontal collision (see page 30 for more information on how your front airbags - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 18
back from the steering wheel as possible while allowing full control of the vehicle. A front passenger should move their seat as far back from the safety. Driver and Passenger Safety Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in a severe crash, even - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 19
instructions on how to properly protect the driver, adult passengers, and teenage children who are large enough and mature enough to drive or ride in the front. See pages 40 － 60 for important guidelines on how to properly protect infants, small children, and larger children who ride in your vehicle - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 20
the chance of someone being thrown out of the vehicle during a crash, and it helps prevent passengers from accidentally opening a door and falling out. Locking the doors also helps prevent an outsider from unexpectedly opening a door when you come to a stop. When the tailgate is not tightly closed - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 21
Administration and Transport Canada recommend that drivers allow at least 10 inches (25 cm) between the center of the steering wheel and the front seats. Adjust the driver's seat as far to the rear as possible while allowing you to maintain full control of the vehicle. Have a front passenger - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 22
crash. Adjust the seat-back to an upright position, and sit well back in the seat. Reclining a seat-back so that the shoulder part Driver and Passenger Safety Adjust the driver's seat-back to a comfortable, upright position, leaving ample space between your chest and the airbag cover in the center - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 23
because a twisted belt can cause serious injuries in a crash. The second row center seat, and both third row seats, have a detachable crash injuries. See page 150 for how to adjust the head restraints and how the driver's and front passenger's active head restraints work. Position the lap part - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 24
and Teens If necessary, pull up on the belt again to remove any slack, then check that the belt rests across the center of your chest and over your shoulder. This spreads the forces of a crash over the strongest bones in your upper body. If the seat belt touches or crosses your neck, or - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 25
greatly increased. In addition, an occupant who is out of position in the front seat can be seriously or fatally injured in a crash by striking interior parts of the vehicle or being struck by an inflating front airbag. Sitting improperly or out of position can result in serious injury or death in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 26
your doctor if it's okay for you to drive. Driver and Passenger Safety If you are pregnant, the best way to protect yourself and your unborn child when driving or riding in a vehicle is to always wear a seat belt, and keep the lap part of the belt as low as possible across the hips - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 27
do, they Do not put any accessories on seat belts. Devices intended to improve ● could be very seriously injured in a crash. ● Passengers should not stand up or change seats while the vehicle is moving. A passenger who is not occupant comfort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt can - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 28
remind you and your front passenger to fasten your seat belts. This system monitors the front seat belts. If you turn the ignition switch seat belt, the indicator will come on about 6 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position. If either the driver or a front passenger does - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 29
stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body. The seat belts in all positions except the driver's have a lockable retractor that must be activated to secure a child seat (see page 53). If the shoulder part of the belt is pulled all the way out, the lockable retractor - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 30
can result in serious injury or death. Instruct children not to play with any seat belt and make sure any unused seat belt a child can reach is buckled, fully retracted, and locked. Driver and Passenger Safety DETACHABLE ANCHOR The lap/shoulder belts in the center seat of the second row and both - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 31
in the seat belt could be helpful. If the tensioner is activated, the SRS indicator comes on and the tensioner must be replaced. Seat Belt e-pretensioners If your vehicle gets too close to the vehicle ahead of it in your lane, the driver's e-pretensioner slightly retracts the seat belt to alert the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 32
been worn during a crash may not provide the same level of protection in a subsequent crash. The dealer should also inspect the anchors for damage and replace them if needed. If the automatic seat belt tensioners activate during a crash, they must be replaced. Driver and Passenger Safety CONTINUED - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 33
Additional Information About Your Seat Belts Not checking or maintaining seat belts can result in serious injury or death if the seat belts do not work properly when needed. Check your seat belts regularly and have any problem corrected as soon as possible. 26 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 34
Front Seat Belt Tensioners/Seat Belt ᤳ e-pretensioners (5) Side Airbags (6) (6) Driver's Seat Position Sensor (7) Front Passenger's Weight Sensors (8) Passenger Airbag Off Indicator (15) (9) Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) Sensors (10) Front Passenger's Weight Sensors/OPDS Sensors Control - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 35
Your Airbag System (SRS) includes: ● ● Two SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) front airbags. The driver's airbag is stored in the center of that can detect a moderate to severe front impact, side impact, or if your vehicle is about to rollover. Sensors that can detect whether a child is in the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 36
, the control unit, the airbag activators, the seat belt tensioners, and driver and front passenger seat belt use when the ignition switch is in the ON (II) position. ● An indicator on the instrument panel that alerts you to a possible problem with your airbag system components (see page 36 and 67 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 37
How Your Front Airbags Work During a frontal crash, your seat belt restrains your lower body and torso, and the front airbag helps protect be minimal. Only the driver's airbag will deploy if there is no passenger in the front seat, or if the advanced airbag system has turned the passenger's airbag - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 38
soon as it is safe to do so. Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Front Airbags (SRS) Advanced Airbags Your vehicle is equipped with dualstage, multiple-threshold front airbags (SRS). During a frontal crash severe enough to cause one or both front airbags to deploy, the airbags can inflate at different - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 39
indicator in the center of the dashboard comes on (see problem with the sensor, the SRS indicator will come on, and the airbag will inflate in the normal manner regardless of the driver's seating position. The passenger's advanced front airbag system has weight sensors under the seat. Although Acura - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 40
front passenger seat. CONTINUED ● ● ● If you ever have a moderate to severe side impact, sensors will detect rapid acceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate either the driver's or the passenger's side airbag and activate the seat belt tensioner on the affected side. ● 33 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 41
System Your vehicle has a side airbag cutoff system designed primarily to protect a child riding in the front passenger's seat. Although Acura off indicator comes on (see page 36), have the passenger sit upright. Once the passenger is out of the airbag's deployment path, the system will turn - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 42
side of the vehicle. To get the best protection from the side curtain airbags, occupants should wear their seat belts and sit upright and well back in their seats. Driver and Passenger Safety In a Side Impact In a moderate to severe side impact, sensors will detect rapid acceleration and signal - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 43
The SRS indicator alerts you to a potential problem with your airbag system components. When you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, this indicator comes on briefly then goes off. This tells you the system is working properly. If the indicator comes on at any other time, or does not - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 44
the seat belt properly. If the indicator comes on with no front seat passenger and no with the weight sensors. Look for and remove: ● Driver and Passenger Safety Any items under the front problem with the airbag. If no obstructions are found, have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 45
About Your Airbags Airbag Service Your airbag systems are virtually maintenance free, and there are no parts you can safely service. However, you must have your vehicle serviced if: ● ● The SRS indicator alerts you to a problem. Take your vehicle to an ● If your vehicle has a moderate to severe - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 46
● belts provide the best protection. ● Do not cutoff system from working properly. Do not remove or driver's seat position sensor or the front passenger's weight sensors ineffective. If it is necessary to remove or modify a front seat to accommodate a person with disabilities, first contact Acura - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 47
Each year, many children are injured or killed in vehicle crashes because they are either unrestrained or not properly restrained. In seat belt fits them properly (see pages 57 － 60). Children depend on adults to protect them. However, despite their best intentions, many adults do not know how to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 48
According to crash statistics, likely to be injured by striking interior vehicle parts during a collision or hard braking. though your vehicle has an advanced front airbag system that automatically vehicle equipped with a passenger's front airbag can be hazardous. If the vehicle seat is too Driver - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 49
's front airbag hazards, and that children must be properly restrained in a back seat, your vehicle has warning labels on the dashboard (U.S. models) and on the front visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels. U.S. Models SUN VISORS DASHBOARD Canadian Models SUN VISORS 42 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 50
back seat. The back seat is far safer for a child than the front. Driver and Passenger Safety Place the largest child in the front seat, provided the child is enough to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly (see page 57). Move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible (see page 149). Have the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 51
child on your lap. If you are not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could be thrown forward and crush the child against the dashboard or a 53 and 54 for how to activate and deactivate the lockable retractor.) ● For example, infants and small children left in a vehicle on a hot day can die - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 52
installed in the second row, a rear-facing child seat may prevent the driver or a front passenger from moving their seat as far back as recommended, It can also interfere with proper operation of the passenger's advanced front airbag system. Child Seat Type An infant must be properly restrained in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 53
seat. Protecting Small Children Of the different seats available, we recommend those that have a fivepoint harness system as shown. We also recommend that a Know the requirements where you are driving and follow the child seat instructions. Many experts recommend use of a rear-facing seat up to age - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 54
front seat of a vehicle equipped with a passenger's airbag can be hazardous. If the vehicle seat is too Even with advanced front airbags that automatically turn seat in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible, and properly restrain the child. Driver and Passenger Safety far forward, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 55
type you choose, follow the child seat manufacturer's use and care instructions as well as the instructions in this manual. Proper installation is key to maximizing your child's safety. In seating positions and vehicles not equipped with LATCH, a LATCH compatible child seat can be installed - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 56
. All child seats must be secured to the vehicle with the lap part of a lap/shoulder belt or with the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the vehicle can be endangered in a crash. 2. Make sure the child seat is firmly secured. After - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 57
Installing a Child Seat Installing a Child Seat with LATCH Your vehicle is equipped with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) at each of the second row seats. The lower anchors are located between the seat- - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 58
Installing a Child Seat Driver and Passenger Safety RIGID TYPE FLEXIBLE TYPE TETHER STRAP 3. Place the child seat on the vehicle seat, then attach the seat to the lower anchors according to the child seat maker's instructions. Some LATCH-compatible seats have a rigid-type connector as shown - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 59
the tether strap hook to the tether anchor, then tighten the strap as instructed by the child seat maker. If the tether strap is too long and child seat in the center seating position on the second row seat, use the center lower anchors as shown above. 1. Pull up the cover below the armrest and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 60
/ Shoulder Belt When not using the LATCH system, all child seats must be secured to the vehicle with the lap part of a lap/ shoulder belt. In addition, the lap/shoulder belts in all seating positions except the driver's have a lockable retractor that must be activated to secure a child seat. If you - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 61
, we recommend using a tether whenever one is required or available. 4. After confirming that the belt is locked, grab the shoulder part of the belt near the buckle, and pull up to remove any slack from the lap part of the belt. Remember, if the lap part of the belt is not tight, the child seat - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 62
a Child Seat Second Row Installation TETHER STRAP Driver and Passenger Safety Outer Seating Position TETHER ANCHORAGE POINT the seat-back and through the head restraint legs. For the center seat, lower the head restraint, then route the tether strap over the head restraint and seat- - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 63
open the anchor cover with a small flat-tip screwdriver. 2. Secure the child seat in the desired position (see page 53). 3. Remove the head restraint, . Make sure the removed head restraint is secured in a safe place. 4. Tighten the strap according to the seat maker's instructions. If the tether - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 64
booster seat and wear the lap/ shoulder belt. The following pages give instructions on how to check proper seat belt fit, what kind of booster airbag inflates. If a child must ride in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible, use a booster seat if Driver and Passenger Safety CONTINUED 57 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 65
cross between the child's neck and arm? 4. Is the lap part of the belt as low as possible, touching the child's a booster seat until they reach a given age or weight (e.g., 6 years or 60 lbs). Be sure to check current laws in the states, provinces or territories where seat maker's instructions. 58 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 66
is unrestrained, improperly restrained, sitting too close to the airbag, or out of position. A side airbag also poses risks. If any part of a larger child's body is in the path of a deploying side airbag, the child could receive possibly serious injuries. Of course, children vary widely. And while - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 67
read the owner's manual, and make sure you understand all seat belt instructions and all safety information. Move the vehicle seat to the not put any accessories on a seat belt. Devices intended to in serious neck injuries during a crash. ● ● Do not let a child put the shoulder part of a seat - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 68
: 1. Select the fresh air mode. 2. Select the mode. 3. Turn the fan on high speed. 4. Set the temperature control to a comfortable setting. Driver and Passenger Safety The vehicle is raised for an oil change. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust. The vehicle was in a crash that may have - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 69
of potential hazards that could cause serious injury or death. Read these labels carefully. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read (except for the U.S. dashboard label which may be removed by the owner), contact your dealer for a replacement. DASHBOARD U.S. models only RADIATOR CAP BATTERY - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 70
Safety Labels SUN VISOR U.S. models DOORJAMBS U.S. models Canadian models Driver and Passenger Safety Canadian models U.S. models 63 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 71
64 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 72
that contribute to the daily operation of your vehicle. All the essential controls are within easy System ...Interior Lights ...Interior Convenience Items ...Beverage Holders ...Console Compartment ...Storage Compartment ...Glove Box ...Sunglasses Holder ...Sun Visor ...Vanity Mirror ...Accessory - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 73
(P. 424) POWER TAILGATE BUTTON (P. 142) HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P. 426) INSTRUMENT PANEL HOMELINK BUTTONS INDICATORS (P. 67) (P. 363) GAUGES (P. 78) MOONROOF SWITCH (P. 163) MIRROR CONTROL AUTO BUTTON (P. 165) CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM (P. 182) AUDIO SYSTEM (P. 192) AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (P. 443) REAR - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 74
75)/ ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC) INDICATORᤳ (P. 75) SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATOR (P. 77) PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR (P. 69) ACTIVE DAMPER SYSTEM INDICATORᤳ (P. 77) FOG LIGHT INDICATOR (P. 74) BLIND SPOT INFORMATION SYSTEM INDICATORᤳ (P. 76) ᤳ ᤳ: If equipped The U.S. instrument panel is - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 75
Instrument Panel Indicators The instrument panel has many indicators to give you important information about your vehicle. Seat Belt Reminder Indicator This indicator comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. It reminds you and your passengers to fasten your seat belts. A - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 76
). 2. If it stays on after you have fully released the parking brake while the engine is running, or if it comes on while driving, it can indicate a problem in the brake system. You will also see a ''LOW BRAKE FLUID'' or ''CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM'' message on the multi-information display (see pages 87 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 77
. If this indicator comes on at any other time, there is a problem in the ABS. If this happens, take the vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. With this indicator on, your vehicle still has normal braking ability but no anti-lock function. You will also see a ''CHECK ABS SYSTEM'' message on the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 78
position. It flashes when VSA is active (see page 473). If it comes on and stays on at any other time, there is a problem with the VSA or Hill Start Assist system. You will also see a ''CHECK VSA SYSTEM'' message on the multiinformation display (see page 88). Take your vehicle to a dealer to have it - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 79
1. If it comes on while driving, it indicates that one or more of your vehicle's tires are towing service. For more information, see page 572. 2. If this indicator begins to flash, there is a problem with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). You will also see a ''CHECK TPMS SYSTEM - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 80
ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If this indicator comes on at any other time, there is a problem in the SH-AWD system. You will also see a ''CHECK SH-AWD SYSTEM'' message on the multi-information display (see page 88). Take your vehicle to a dealer to have it checked. For more information - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 81
. If you turn the ignition switch to the ACCESSORY (I) or the LOCK (0) position without turning off the light switch, this indicator will remain on. A reminder chime will also sound when you open the driver's door. Fog Light Indicator This indicator comes on when you turn on the fog lights - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 82
also see ''ACC'' on the multi-information display. If the indicator comes on amber, there is a problem with the ACC system. You will also see a ''CHECK ACC SYSTEM'' message on the multi-information display (see page 88). Take your vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. For more information, see - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 83
see a ''BLIND SPOT NOT AVAILABLE'' message on the multi-information display. When you clean the rear bumper, the indicator should go off after you begin driving again. When you turn the system on, the indicator will turn off. If the indicator comes on at any other time, there is a problem with BSI - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 84
Instrument Panel Indicators Active Damper System Indicator If equipped Low Fuel Indicator Security System Indicator This indicator comes on briefly when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If this indicator comes on at any other time, there is a problem in the system. While this - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 85
rise to the upper zone. If it reaches the red (hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. For instructions and precautions on checking the engine's cooling system, see page 560. Fuel Gauge This shows how much fuel you have. It may show slightly more or less than the actual - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 86
of the periodic maintenance your vehicle needs for continued trouble-free driving. When you open the driver's door, a ''Welcome'' message is shown on the multi-information display. INFO (▲/▼) BUTTON With the ignition switch in the ON (II) position, the multi-information display changes as shown - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 87
Multi-Information Display Main Menu INFO button Go to Customize Menu (See page 90) SEL/RESET button Go to HandsFreeLink Menu (See page 367) (See page 81) Trip Computer (See page 84) (See page 81) (See page 81) Tire Pressure for each tire (See page 83) 80 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 88
When the main menu is blank, SH-AWD or TIRE PRESSURE, pressing the SEL/RESET button changes the display to ''trip meter/ odometer'' ''outside temperature/ odometer'' and ''engine oil life/ odometer''. ODOMETER The odometer shows the total distance your vehicle has been driven. It measures miles in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 89
Trip A and average fuel economy A to reset at the same time when you refuel your vehicle (see page 102). Outside Temperature OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE U.S. CANADA The temperature sensor is in the front bumper. The temperature reading can be affected by heat reflection from the road surface, engine heat - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 90
AWD Torque Distribution Monitor Tire Pressure Monitor Instruments and Controls U.S. Canada This shows the remaining life of the engine oil. It shows 100% after the engine oil is replaced and the display is reset. The engine oil life is calculated based button. The display changes as shown. You - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 91
receive or make phone calls from your cell phone through your vehicle's Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (HFL) system without touching your cell phone. When the main menu displays ''TRIP COMPUTER'', pressing the SEL/ RESET button changes the display to ''AVERAGE FUEL A/RANGE'' to ''AVERAGE FUEL B/RANGE - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 92
the last several miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada), so it will vary with changes in speed, traffic, etc. This shows the average speed you are traveling is reset. Instruments and Controls If you want to reset the ELAPSED TIME manually, go to the trip computer's ELAPSED TIME display, and press and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 93
triggers the appropriate indicator(s) on the instrument panel, including the system message indicator, to come on. The system message indicator does not go off until the problem(s) is corrected. You will also hear a beep when the system message comes on for the first time. Most of the messages are - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 94
Multi-Information Display U.S. See page 12 Canada See page 562 See page 164 See page 562 U.S. See page 21 See page 21 See page 36 U.S. U.S. Instruments and Controls Canada See page 564 See page 563 See Page 443 Canada See page 36 Canada See page 564 See page 130 CONTINUED 87 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 95
Multi-Information Display See page 462 U.S. See page 72 See page 486 See page 522 See page 473 Canada See page 144 See page 77 See page 452 See page 452 See page 443 See page 360 See page 75 See page 467 See page 499 See page 456 See page 458 See page 456 88 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 96
Multi-Information Display See page 482 Instruments and Controls See page 482 See page 547 See page 507 See page 425 CONTINUED 89 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 97
turn the ignition switch to the ACCESSORY (I) or the LOCK (0) position, or move the shift lever out of Park, the display will change to the normal screen. You can customize some vehicle control settings for ''DRIVER 1'' and ''DRIVER 2'' separately. If ''DRIVER 1'' or ''DRIVER 2'' is not displayed - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 98
CAR DETECT BEEP ACC DISPLAY SPEED UNIT METER SETUP (P. 99) LANGUAGE SELECTION Description Causes the system to beep when a vehicle ahead of you gets too close. Changes the ACC display speed unit. Changes models Changes the interior light sensitivity to your liking. 105 108 109 Changes the driver's - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 99
the timing of when the headlights come on. The headlight switch needs to be in the AUTO position. Changes the setting of when to automatically lock the doors. Changes the setting of when to automatically unlock the driver's/all the doors. Setting Option 60 sec 15 sec 30 secᤳ 60 sec 30 sec 0 sec 15 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 100
Multi-Information Display DEFAULT ALL Instruments and Controls If you want to set the default settings, press the INFO ( / ) button to select DEFAULT ALL, then press the SEL/RESET button. To set the default settings, press the INFO ( / ) button to select SET then press the SEL/RESET button. If - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 101
you can customize: ● ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL SETUP METER SETUP POSITION SETUP LIGHTING SETUP DOOR/WINDOW SETUP WIPER SETUP When you want to change the vehicle control settings, press the INFO ( / ) button to select CHG SETTING, then press the SEL/ RESET button. Each time you press the INFO - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 102
Multi-Information Display ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL SETUP see page 96 Instruments and Controls METER SETUP see page 99 Select ''EXIT'' POSITION SETUP see page 107 LIGHTING SETUP see page 110 DOOR/WINDOW SETUP see page 115 WIPER SETUP see page 123 SEL/RESET BUTTON INFO (▲/▼) BUTTON Select ''CANCEL - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 103
two custom settings for adaptive cruise control (ACC): ● PRE-RUNNING CAR DETECT BEEP ACC DISPLAY SPEED UNIT ● To enter customize mode, SETUP'' is displayed. Each time you press the INFO ( / ) button, the screen changes as shown in the illustration. Press the INFO ( / ) button until you see the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 104
Detect Beep Instruments and Controls When PRE-RUNNING CAR DETECT BEEP is set to ON, one beep sounds when the ACC detects a vehicle in front of you. A beep also sounds when that vehicle passes out of the range of your vehicle's radar sensor. Select this item from ''ACC SETUP'' by pressing the INFO - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 105
Multi-Information Display Adaptive Cruise Control Display Speed Unit To change the unit of measurement from mph to km/h, follow these instructions: Select this item from ''ACC SETUP'' by pressing the INFO ( / ) button repeatedly until ''ACC DISPLAY SPEED UNIT'' is displayed. Press the SEL/RESET - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 106
● ● While METER SETUP is shown, press the SEL/RESET button to enter the customize mode. Each time you press the INFO ( / ) button, the screen changes as shown in the illustration. Press the INFO ( / ) button until you see the setting you want to customize, then press the SEL/RESET button to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 107
, and Spanish. To choose the language you want, follow these instructions: You can choose this customizable item from ''METER SETUP'' by pressing the SEL/RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 108
below the actual temperature, you can adjust it by following these instructions: You can choose this customizable item from ''METER SETUP'' by set the desired value. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 109
and AVG. FUEL to reset every time you refuel your vehicle, follow these instructions: You can choose this customizable item from ''METER SETUP'' by SEL/ RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 110
pressing the INFO ( / ) button, then enter your selection by pressing the SEL/ RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. If the ''SETTING INCOMPLETE'' message appears, go back to ''ADJUST ALARM - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 111
Multi-Information Display Elapsed Time Reset There are four elapsed time reset choices you can make: MANUAL ONLY － You can reset the elapsed time, when Trip Computer's Elapsed Time is displayed (see page 85). IGN OFF － The elapsed time is reset when - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 112
levels in between. To disable the auto interior illumination function, select OFF. Instruments and Controls When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. If the ''SETTING INCOMPLETE'' message appears, go back to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 113
pressing the INFO ( / ) button, then enter your selection by pressing the SEL/RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. If the ''SETTING INCOMPLETE'' message appears, go back to ''AUTO INTERIOR - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 114
While ''POSITION SETUP'' is shown, press the SEL/RESET button to enter the customize mode. Each time you press the INFO ( / ) button, the screen changes as shown in the illustration. Press the INFO ( / ) button until you see the setting you want to customize, then press the SEL/RESET button to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 115
move to the position stored in the memory when you open the driver's door, using the remote transmitter. You can choose this customizable item the SEL/ RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 116
up when you turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position and remove the key. You can choose this customizable item from ''POSITION SETUP'' by SEL/ RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 117
While ''LIGHTING SETUP'' is shown, press the SEL/RESET button to enter the customize mode. Each time you press the INFO ( / ) button, the screen changes as shown in the illustration. Press the INFO ( / ) button until you see the setting you want to customize, then press the SEL/RESET button to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 118
Instruments and Controls The interior lights fade out when you close all doors and tailgate. To change how long the lights stay on before they fade out, follow these instructions: You can choose this customizable item from ''LIGHTING SETUP'' by pressing the INFO ( / ) button repeatedly. Press - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 119
, and license plate lights go off after the selected time when you remove the key from the ignition switch and close the driver's door. To change how long the lights stay on before they go off, follow these instructions: You can choose this customizable item from ''LIGHTING SETUP'' by pressing the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 120
level. You can select the auto light sensitivity from the following five levels: MAX － The headlights come on when it is bright. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. If the ''SETTING INCOMPLETE'' message - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 121
by pressing the INFO ( / ) button, then enter your selection by pressing the SEL/RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. If the ''SETTING INCOMPLETE'' message appears, go back to ''AUTO LIGHT - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 122
● While ''DOOR/WINDOW SETUP'' is shown, press the SEL/RESET button to enter the customize mode. Each time you press the INFO ( / ) button, the screen changes as shown in the illustration. Press the INFO ( / ) button until you see the setting you want to customize, then press the SEL/RESET button to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 123
can choose from: SHIFT FROM P － The doors lock whenever you move the shift lever out of Park. WITH VEH SPD － The doors lock when the vehicle speed reaches about 10 mph (about 16 km/h). OFF － The auto door lock is deactivated all the time. You can choose this customizable item from - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 124
the shift lever to Park with the brake pedal depressed. IGN OFF － The driver's door or all the doors, depending on the door lock mode setting (see Instruments and Controls When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 125
( / ) button to switch the door lock mode setting between the driver's door and all doors. Then, press the SEL/RESET button to enter your selection. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 126
To select whether the driver's or all doors unlock when the remote transmitter or key is used, follow these instructions. You can choose this the SEL/RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. If - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 127
, and a beeper sounds when you push the LOCK button again within 5 seconds to verify that the doors and the tailgate are locked and the security system has set (see page 341). You can customize the exterior lights not to flash and the beeper not to sound. You can choose this customizable - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 128
but do not open any of the doors or the tailgate within 30 seconds, the doors and the tailgate automatically relock and the security system sets. You can change this relock time from 30 seconds to 60 or 90 seconds. Instruments and Controls When your selection is successfully completed, the display - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 129
pressing the INFO ( / ) button, then enter your selection by pressing the SEL/RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. If the ''SETTING INCOMPLETE'' message appears, go back to ''SECURITY RELOCK - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 130
. WITH VEH SPD － The intermittent operation varies according to vehicle speed. Instruments and Controls SEL/RESET BUTTON INFO (▲/▼) BUTTON the customize mode. Each time you press the INFO ( / ) button, the screen changes as shown in the illustration. Press the INFO ( / ) button until you see the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 131
by pressing the INFO ( / ) button, then enter your selection by pressing the SEL/RESET button. When your selection is successfully completed, the display changes as shown above, and then goes back to the customize item screen. If the ''SETTING INCOMPLETE'' message appears, go back to ''WIPER ACTION - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 132
AND SEAT VENTILATION BUTTONSᤳ1 (P. 158) ACTIVE DAMPER SYSTEM BUTTONᤳ1 (P. 484) BLUETOOTH STEERING WHEEL HANDSFREELINK ADJUSTMENTS (P. 134) BUTTON (P. 365) ᤳ1: If equipped ᤳ2: To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel. ᤳ3: Refer to the navigation system manual. For how to operate - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 133
you release the lever. OFF － The wipers are not activated. INT － The length of the wipe interval is varied automatically according to vehicle speed. delay ( position), the wipers change to low speed operation when the vehicle speed exceeds 12 mph (20 km/h). To change the ''WIPER ACTION'' setting, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 134
Windshield Wipers and Washers Headlight Washers (On Canadian models) The headlight washers use the same fluid reservoir as the windshield washers. Rear Window Wiper and Washer Instruments and Controls The headlight washers can be operated at any time by pressing the headlight washer button - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 135
position with the front windshield wipers activated, the rear window wiper operates automatically . To signal a lane change, push lightly on the lever, and hold it. The lever will return to center when you release it or complete a turn removed from the ignition switch, you will hear a reminder chime when - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 136
lights on indicator comes on as a reminder. The lights and indicator will turn off automatically when the system senses high ambient light. The lights will remain on when you turn off the ignition switch. They will turn off automatically when you remove the key and open the driver's door. To turn - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 137
and release the parking brake. They remain on until you turn the ignition switch off, even if you set the parking brake. When the headlights are on, the daytime running lights are off. The automatic lighting feature is controlled by a sensor located on top of the dashboard. Do not cover this - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 138
''CHECK DRL SYSTEM'' message on the multi-information display, there is a problem with the daytime running light system. Take your vehicle to a remove the key and close the driver's door. To change the ''HEADLIGHT AUTO OFF TIMER'' setting, see page 112. The automatic lighting off feature activates - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 139
rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive. The defogger , see page 167. Push the button between the center vents to turn on the hazard warning lights (four a dangerous area near heavy traffic, or if your vehicle is disabled. The rear window defogger will clear fog, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 140
, then press the ＋ button. You will hear a beep when it is canceled. You can customize when the glare reduction function starts. To change ''AUTO INTERIOR ILLUMINATION'', see page 105 for more information. Instruments and Controls Adjust the brightness of the instrument panel by pressing the ＋ or - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 141
and be seriously injured in a crash. Adjust the steering wheel only when the vehicle is stopped. Move the steering wheel in, out, up, or down by pushing and holding the adjustment switch in that direction. Release the switch when the steering wheel reaches the desired position. Make sure the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 142
is also controlled by the driving position memory system (see page 168). If your vehicle's battery is disconnected or goes dead, or the fuse for the power tilt and telescopic steering wheel is removed, the power tilt and telescopic steering wheel system needs to be reset when you reconnect the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 143
key replaced. Use only Acura-approved key blanks. These keys contain electronic circuits that are activated by the immobilizer system. They will not work your vehicle. The valet key works only in the ignition and the driver's door lock. You can keep the glove box locked when you leave your vehicle - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 144
and Locks Retractable Master Key RELEASE BUTTON Push Always use the fully-extended key when you insert it to the ignition switch. If the key does not fully extend, the immobilizer system may not operate properly and may prevent the engine from starting. The key may come in contact with your finger - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 145
Immobilizer System The Immobilizer System protects your vehicle from theft. If an improperly coded key (or other device) is used, the engine's fuel system is disabled. When you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, the immobilizer system indicator should come on briefly, then go off. If - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 146
(I) － You can operate the audio system and the accessory power sockets in this position. ON (II) － This is the normal key position when driving. Several of the indicators on the instrument panel come on as a test when you turn the ignition switch from the ACCESSORY (I) to the ON (II) position - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 147
door lock. To unlock only the driver's door, insert the key, turn the key, and release it. The remaining doors and the tailgate unlock when you turn the key a second time within a few seconds. When you shift to P after driving, the driver's door unlocks. To change the ''AUTO DOOR UNLOCK'' setting - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 148
are not disabled if all the doors and the tailgate are closed. If you try to lock an open driver's door by pulling the lock tab rearward the lock tab on the driver's door pops out. Childproof Door Locks Tailgate Instruments and Controls LOCK The childproof door locks are designed to prevent - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 149
. TAILGATE BUTTON POWER TAILGATE BUTTON The tailgate can be opened and closed with the remote transmitter (see page 145) or the button in the driver's door pocket when both front doors are unlocked. Press and hold the tailgate button on the remote transmitter or the button for about 1 second - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 150
feature stops working when the tailgate is about to latch so the motor can pull the tailgate shut. If your vehicle's battery is disconnected, goes dead, or the fuse is removed When the tailgate or the roof is covered with snow or ice. Do not install any accessories on the tailgate. It may cause the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 151
lock system cannot unlock the tailgate, unlock it manually. Use a small flat-tip screwdriver to remove the cover on the back of the tailgate. Push the release lever to the right as shown. If you need to unlock the tailgate manually, it means there is a problem with the tailgate. Have the vehicle - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 152
change the ''SECURITY RELOCK TIMER'' setting, see page 121. The door activated spotlights come on when you press the UNLOCK button if the door activated locked and the security system has set. This button does not work if any door or tailgate is not fully closed. To change the ''KEYLESS LOCK - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 153
tailgate, replace the battery as soon as possible. Battery type: CR1616 To replace the battery: 1. Remove the screw at the base of the transmitter with a small Phillips-head screwdriver. NOTE: Be careful when removing this screw as the head of the screw can strip out. 2. Separate the keypad from - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 154
Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes remove the upper half by carefully - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 155
Remote Transmitter Recalling a Memorized Driving Position Here are the settings activated with the remote: ● Customized settings (see page 90). Driving position memory (see page 168). Audio system settings (see page 212). Climate control settings (see page 183). The steering wheel will move to the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 156
the seat also tilts up or down at the same time. Adjusts the seat-back angle forward or backward. Increases or decreases the lumbar support. (Driver's seat only) See pages 14 － 15 for important safety information and warnings about how to properly position the seats and seatbacks. Instruments and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 157
warning about improperly positioning head restraints. FRONT SEATBACK CUSHION Your vehicle is equipped with head restraints in all seating positions to help LEGS RELEASE BUTTON They are most effective when you adjust them so the center of the back of the occupant's head rests against the center of - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 158
, or correctly reinstall, the head restraints can result in severe injury during a crash. Always replace the head restraints before driving. Instruments and Controls LEGS RELEASE BUTTON Removing the Head Restraint To remove a head restraint for cleaning or repair, pull it up as far as it - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 159
and the seat-back. Install each restraint in its proper location. Only use genuine Acura replacement head restraints. ● ● ● The driver's and front passenger's seats have active head restraints. If the vehicle is struck severely from the rear, the occupant properly secured with the seat belt - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 160
folded seat-back does not press against the front passenger's seat, as this could cause the weight sensors to work improperly. Instruments and Controls To change the seat-back angle of the seats in the second row, pull up on the handle on the outside of the seatback, and push the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 161
Access Folding the Third Row Seat 1. Use the latch plate to release the seat belt from the detachable anchor (see page 155). 2. row seat-back must be folded down or in the full up right position. THIRD ROW SEAT RELEASE LEVER HANDLE To get into the third row seats, pull up the lever on the side of - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 162
forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard (See Carrying Cargo on page 433). LATCH PLATE Detachable Anchor When the seats are returned death in a crash. Before using the seat belt, make sure the detachable anchor is correctly latched. The seat belts in the second row center seat and the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 163
Seats SECOND ROW CENTER SEAT LATCH PLATE THIRD ROW SEATS SMALL LATCH PLATE HOOK TRIANGLE MARKS ANCHOR BUCKLE SMALL LATCH PLATE Pull out the small latch plate and the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 164
Driver's Seat Front seat LOW Second row seat MDX, Technology Package, and U.S. Technology Package with Entertainment models Both front seats are equipped with seat heaters. Because of the sensors for the side airbag cutoff system Technology Package with Entertainment, Advance Package with - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 165
from the battery. If the engine is left idling for an extended period, do not use the seat heaters even on the LO setting. changes. Follow these precautions when using the seat heaters: HEATERS Driver's seat If equipped Both front seats are equipped with seat heaters and an air ventilation system - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 166
Pressing the button while the heater is running will switch the system to the HI setting air ventilation mode. To ventilate the seat, press the button. The indicator (blue) next to the button will come on. The air ventilation system has four settings: HI － Three indicators on. MID － Two indicators - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 167
cancel this feature, push on the switch again to get it to pop out. Keep the MAIN switch pushed in when you have children in the vehicle so they window fully, push the window switch firmly down to the second detent, then release it. The window automatically goes down all the way. To stop the window - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 168
are away from the window before closing it. If your vehicle's battery is disconnected or goes dead, or the driver's window fuse is removed, the AUTO function may be disabled. If the AUTO function is disabled, the power window system will need to be reset after reconnecting the battery or installing - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 169
open and close the windows and moonroof with the key in the driver's door lock. To open: 1. Insert the key in the driver's door lock. 2. Turn the key clockwise, then release it. 2. Turn the key counterclockwise, then release it. 3. Turn the key counterclockwise again, and hold it. All four windows - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 170
center of the moonroof switch straight up. To stop the moonroof from tilting up fully, push the moonroof switch forward. To close the moonroof fully, push the moonroof switch forward to the second detent, then release then stop. To close the moonroof, remove the obstacle, then use the moonroof switch - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 171
front door cancels this function. Parking Brake RELEASE HANDLE Driving the vehicle with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles if the vehicle is driven with the parking brake on. If you try to open the moonroof in below-freezing temperatures, or when it is covered with snow or - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 172
the inside and outside mirrors clean and adjusted for best visibility. Be sure to adjust the mirrors before you this feature, press the button on the bottom of the mirror. The AUTO indicator comes on as a reminder. When it is on, the mirror darkens when it senses the headlights of a vehicle behind - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 173
. To turn the feature off, place the switch in the center position. ● 1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. 2. Move the selector switch to L (driver's side) or R (passenger's side). ● Outside mirror positions can be stored in the driving position memory system (see page 168 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 174
Controls The outside mirrors are heated to remove fog and frost. With the ignition the button. The indicator in the button comes on as a reminder. Press the button Package model Door mirrors can be folded by the folding button next to the selector switch, which enables you to park your vehicle - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 175
with the outside mirrors folded. Driving Position Memory System Your vehicle has a memory feature for the steering wheel, driver's seat, and outside mirror positions. Seat, except for power to a comfortable position (see page 134). Adjust the outside mirrors for best visibility (see page 166). 168 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 176
Selecting a Memorized Position To select a memorized position, do this: 1. Make sure the vehicle is parked. 2. Press the desired memory button (1 or 2) until you hear a beep, then release the button. The system will move the seat, steering wheel, and outside mirrors to the memorized positions. The - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 177
desired, you can use the adjustment switches to change the positions of the seat, steering wheel or outside mirrors after they are in their . Your vehicle has the light control buttons on the front ceiling. With these buttons, you can select three positions: OFF, Door (door activated position), - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 178
turned off and all doors are closed, it will turn off when the vehicle is locked with the remote transmitter, or after 15 minutes. Instruments and . To change the ''INTERIOR LIGHT DIMMING TIME'' setting, see page 111. ON position: ● Second and Third row All the individual map lights come on and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 179
on for about 30 seconds regardless of the interior light dimming time setting (see page 111). The courtesy lights between the front map lights come on when the parking lights are turned on. To adjust its brightness, press either of the instrument panel brightness control buttons (＋ or －) with the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 180
Interior Convenience Items SUNGLASSES HOLDER SUN VISOR VANITY MIRROR COAT HOOK STORAGE COMPARTMENTS Instruments and Controls GLOVE BOX GROCERY HOOK CENTER POCKET ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET CONSOLE COMPARTMENT ARMREST/BEVERAGE HOLDER BEVERAGE HOLDER ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET 173 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 181
holders are also provided in the second row seat armrest. Pivot down the seat-back to use them. To open the beverage holder, press and release the front lid. To close, press the lid again until it latches. When you put back the armrest in the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 182
keep the glove box closed while driving. Your vehicle is equipped with a front seat armrest pad that is also a console compartment. To open the console compartment fully, push both buttons at the front of the compartment. The console compartment has a removable tray. Pull the tray straight up to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 183
. SUN VISOR To use the sun visor, pull it down. When using the sun visor for the side window, remove the support rod from the clip, and swing it out. In this position, the sun visor can be adjusted by moving it the sun visor back in place when you are getting into or out of the vehicle. 176 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 184
. All models have the front accessory power socket under the audio system and rear socket behind the third row seat on the driver's side. Instruments and Controls To use the vanity mirror on the back of the sun visor, pull up the cover. The vanity mirror light will not come on if the sun visor is - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 185
volt DC accessories that are rated 120 watts or less (10 amps). None of the sockets will power an automotive type cigarette lighter element. AC Power system There is a 115 volt AC power outlet inside the front console compartment. To use the AC power outlet, open the lids and open the outlet cover. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 186
Interior Convenience Items NOTE: The AC power outlet is not designed for electric appliances which require high initial peak wattage such as cathode-ray tube type televisions, refrigerators, electric pumps, etc. It is also not suitable for devices that process precise data such as medical equipment - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 187
180 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 188
conditions. The standard audio system has many features. This section describes those features and how to use them. Your vehicle has an anti-theft audio system that requires a code number to enable it. The security system helps do discourage vandalism and theft to your vehicle. Disc Changer Error - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 189
Climate Control System FRONT CONTROL PANEL AUTO BUTTON ON/OFF BUTTON DRIVER'S SIDE TEMPERATURE AUTO INDICATOR DRIVER'S SIDE TEMPERATURE CONTROL BUTTONS FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE TEMPERATURE REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER/HEATED MIRROR BUTTON WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER BUTTON FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE TEMPERATURE - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 190
system in your vehicle picks the proper combination of air conditioning, heating, and ventilation to maintain the interior temperature you select, and to remove moisture from the air and make the interior dry. The system in the display on the back of the center console. Features CONTINUED 183 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 191
189). On models with navigation system Dual Button In the Auto mode, the vehicle's interior temperature is independently regulated for the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers according to each adjusted temperature. The system also regulates each temperature based on the information of the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 192
controlled. Making any manual selection causes the word AUTO in the display to go out. Fan Control Press the ▲ button to increase the fan speed and airflow. Press the ▼ button to decrease it. Air Conditioning (A/C) Button Features Keep the system completely off for short periods only. To keep - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 193
indicator in the button is on, air from the vehicle's interior is sent throughout the system again. When the indicator is off, air is brought in from the outside of the vehicle (fresh air mode). The outside air intakes for the climate control system are at the base of the windshield. Keep this area - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 194
button is off, the temperature of the rear passenger compartment is synchronized to the driver's side set temperature. If the AUTO mode is selected on the front control panel, you will see AUTO SYNC on the rear system display. When the indicator in this button is on, the temperature of the rear - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 195
flows from When the upper vents on the back of the center console. is selected, air flows from When the lower vents. Pressing the AUTO button puts the system in automatic operation mode. The rear system automatically adjusts the fan speed and airflow levels to maintain the selected temperature of - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 196
Climate Control System Triple Zone Temperature Control The temperatures of the driver's side and the front passenger's side can be controlled independently when the indicator in the DUAL button is on. When the indicator in the REAR - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 197
will see AUTO SYNC on the system display of the rear control panel. To set the temperature of the rear passenger compartment to a different value than the driver's side, press the REAR button, then press either temperature control buttons on the back of the center console. The word ''SYNC'' in the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 198
TEMPERATURE/HUMIDITY SENSOR Features SUNLIGHT SENSOR To regulate the interior temperature and humidity, the climate control system has two sensors. A sunlight sensor is located in the top of the dashboard and a temperature/ humidity sensor is next to the steering column. Do not cover the sensors - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 199
your vehicle's audio system. For vehicles without navigation system, see pages 193 through 211. For vehicles with navigation system, see pages 212 through 302. Personalization Setting When you unlock the doors with your remote and turn the audio system on, the driver's ID (Driver 1 or Driver 2) is - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 200
Playing the AM/FM Radio (Models without navigation system) Features A.SEL(AUTO SELECT) BUTTON FM BUTTON SCAN BUTTON VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/POWER)KNOB AM BUTTON SKIP BUTTONS TUNE KNOB PRESET BUTTONS CONTINUED 193 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 201
change bands, press the AM or FM button. On the FM band, ST will be displayed if the station is broadcasting in stereo. Stereo reproduction in AM is not available selected band. To activate it, press the SCAN button, then release it. You will see SCAN in the display. When the system finds a strong - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 202
the auto select feature to find stations in the local area. Press the A.SEL button. ''A.SEL'' flashes in the display, and the system goes into scan The presets may be lost if your vehicle's battery goes dead, is disconnected, or the radio fuse is removed. For information on AM/FM radio frequencies - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 203
SVC － Adjusts the volume level based on the vehicle speed. Each mode is shown in the display as it changes. Turn the TUNE knob to adjust the setting to your liking. When the level reaches the center, you will see ''C'' in the display. The system will return to the audio display about 5 seconds after - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 204
Playing the XM® Radio (Models without navigation system) Features XM RADIO BUTTON CATEGORY BUTTONS SCAN BUTTON VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/POWER)KNOB TUNE KNOB TITLE BUTTON PRESET BUTTONS CONTINUED 197 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 205
to the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position. Push the VOL/ knob to turn on the audio system, and available channels. In the category mode, such as Jazz, Rock, Classical, etc., you can select all of the channels within that category. Each time you press and release the TITLE button, the display changes - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 206
, simply press and release the proper preset button to tune to it. The presets may be lost if your vehicle's battery goes dead, is disconnected, or the radio fuse is removed. XM Radio Display Messages ''LOADING'' － XM is loading the audio or program information. ''OFF AIR'' － The channel currently - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 207
XM® Radio (Models without navigation system) ''NO SIGNAL'' － The signal is currently too weak. Move the vehicle to an area away from tall buildings, and with an unobstructed view of the southern horizon. '' '' － The selected channel number does not exist, or is not part of your subscription, or this - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 208
rack. As required by the FCC: Changes service has expired or you purchased your vehicle from a previous owner, you can listen to a sampling of the broadcasts available on XM Radio. With the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) or the ON (II) position, push the VOL/ knob to turn on the audio system - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 209
with good reception. Once your audio system is activated, ''CATEGORY'' or ''CHANNEL'' will appear in the display, and you'll be able to listen to XM Radio broadcasts. XM Radio will continue to send an activation signal to your vehicle for at least 12 hours from the activation request. If the service - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 210
Playing Discs (Models without navigation system) TRACK/FILE NUMBER MP3/WMA INDICATOR FOLDER NUMBER Features DISC SLOT DISC LOAD BUTTON VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/POWER)KNOB SKIP BUTTONS DISC EJECT BUTTON TUNE (FOLDER) KNOB PRESET BUTTONS RANDOM BUTTON SCAN BUTTON REPEAT BUTTON CONTINUED 203 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 211
(Models without navigation system) To Play a Disc To load or play discs, the ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON ( with the TITLE button (see page 205). The system will continuously play a disc until you change modes. This audio system can also play CD-Rs and CD-RWs compressed in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 212
Playing Discs (Models without navigation system) Loading Discs Your vehicle's in-dash disc changer holds up to six discs. 1. To load all disc, press the LOAD button until you hear a beep and see ''LOAD'' in the display. To load only one disc, press and release the LOAD button. 2. The disc number - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 213
first 16 characters again. If any letter is not available, it is replaced with '' . '' (dot) audio system next time, the system keeps your selection with the TITLE button. Use the SKIP buttons while a disc is playing to select passages and change WMA mode). Press and release the SKIP button to skip - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 214
mode FOLDER REPEAT － This feature, when activated, replays all the files on the selected folder in the order they are compressed in MP3 or WMA. To activate folder repeat mode, press and release the RPT button repeatedly until you see FRPT in the display. The system continuously replays the current - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 215
navigation system) Each time you press and release the RPT button, the mode changes from file repeat to folder repeat, to disc repeat then to normal playing. RANDOM (Random within a disc) － This feature plays the tracks within a disc (the files in MP3 or WMA mode) in random order. To activate random - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 216
order (the first file in the main folder on each disc in MP3 or WMA mode). To activate the disc scan feature, press and release the SCAN button repeatedly until D-SCAN shows in the display. The system will then play the first track/ file in the first main folder on the first disc for - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 217
. Protecting Discs For information on how to handle and protect compact discs, see page 247. To remove the disc currently in play, press the eject button. When a disc is removed from a slot, the system automatically begins the load sequence so you can load another disc in that position. If you do - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 218
a problem with the first disc. If the error message cycle repeats and you cannot clear it, take your vehicle to a dealer. Error Message HEAT ERROR FORMAT BAD DISC － PLEASE CHECK OWNER'S MANUAL PUSH EJECT BAD DISC － PLEASE CHECK OWNER'S MANUAL Cause High temperature Track/File format not supported - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 219
menu items. When you make a selection, push the center of the selector (ENTER) to go to that selection. Personalization Setting When you unlock the doors with your remote and turn the audio system on, the driver's ID (Driver 1 or Driver 2) is detected, and the radio presets and sound level - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 220
Playing the AM/FM Radio (Models with navigation system) NAVIGATION SCREEN Without rear entertainment system A.SEL (AUTO SELECT) BUTTON With rear entertainment system A.SEL (AUTO SELECT) BUTTON Features AUDIO DISPLAY SCAN BUTTON TITLE BUTTON AM/FM BUTTON VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/ POWER) KNOB CANCEL BUTTON - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 221
you can also use the features provided by the radio data system (RDS). For more information on the RDS, see page 217. TUNE ICON The ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or the ON (II) position. Press the AUDIO button to view the audio control display. Turn the system on by pressing the VOL - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 222
Playing the AM/FM Radio (Models with navigation system) SKIP (SEEK) － The skip (seek) function searches up and down from the current frequency to find a station with a strong signal. To activate it, press either side ( or ) of the SKIP button, then release it. SCAN INDICATOR SCAN ICON To scan with - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 223
see A.SEL on the audio display and the navigation screen, and the system goes into scan mode for several seconds. The system stores the frequencies of six no longer receive your preset stations, you can use the auto select feature to find stations in the local area. Push the interface selector down - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 224
service name according to the information provided by the radio data system (RDS) if the station has the RDS information available audio display shows ''RDS INFO OFF.'' RDS INFO MESSAGE Features The RDS INFO display function shows the name of the station you are listening to. With the audio system - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 225
system) Radio Data System (RDS) Category RDS SEARCH ICON With the FM band selected, you can select the program type provided by the RDS. Press the AUDIO hits and soft music R & B: Rhythm and blues, and soft rhythm and blues CLASSIC: Classical music RELIGION: Programs concerned with religion INFO - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 226
system) RDS Category Search SEEK/SCAN ICON(RDS Search mode) RDS CATEGORY You can also select an RDS category with the CATEGORY button. Press either side ( or ) of the CATEGORY button to display an RDS category in the audio your favorite category. To activate it, push the AUDIO button to display the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 227
right corner of the navigation screen. When you press and release ENTER to select the RDS category, RDS category search (SEEK up/down) starts. If the system does not find a station, ''NOTHING'' blinks for about five seconds on the audio display, then ''NOTHING'' blinks for about five seconds on the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 228
and release ENTER to select the RDS category, RDS program SCAN starts. The system will audio display while scanning it. When the system finds one, it will stop and play that station for about 10 seconds. If you do nothing, the system INDICATOR Features RDS RADIO TEXT ICON To activate radio text - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 229
system) Adjusting the Sound BASS, TREBLE, FADER, and BALANCE are each adjustable. You can also adjust the strength of the sound coming from the center characters on the selected RDS station. To adjust the sound, press the AUDIO button, push the interface selector down, and turn the interface dial to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 230
FM Radio (Models with navigation system) The system will return to the audio playing mode in the center display about 10 seconds after sound grid come to the center of the adjustment bar. If the fader adjustment is set to F9 (maximum front level), the subwoofer is turned off. Features You can also - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 231
be activated when listening to DISC (CD-DA, MP3, WMA, AAC), XM Radio, AUX (USB, iPod® , AUX, Bluetooth® Audio), and HDD Audio. When ProLogic II is available, ''PL II'' is shown in the audio display. When ProLogic II is not available in the selected audio source, ''PL II N/ A'' is shown on the center - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 232
AM/FM Radio (Models with navigation system) To set this feature on or off, select Dolby audio playing modes (XM, AUX), when DPLII is on, the music coming from the rear speakers may sound distorted. This is due to compression of the music, and it does not indicate a problem with the setting. Features - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 233
XM® Radio (Models with navigation system) NAVIGATION SCREEN Without rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY SCAN BUTTON TITLE BUTTON XM RADIO BUTTON VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/ POWER) KNOB AUDIO BUTTON INTERFACE DIAL SCAN BUTTON TITLE BUTTON With rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY SKIP/ CATEGORY BUTTONS - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 234
(Models with navigation system) Your vehicle is capable of receiving change to XM1 or XM2. Push the AUDIO button to display XM information on the navigation screen. You can operate the XM Radio system with the interface dial. Features To listen to XM Radio, turn the ignition switch to the ACCESSORY - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 235
all of the channels within that category. In the channel mode, you can select all of the available channels. Each time you press and release the TITLE button, the audio display changes in the following sequence: CATEGORY NAME,NAME (artist name), TITLE (music title), CHANNEL NAME, and CHANNEL. On - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 236
category are scanned. To activate SCAN, press the SCAN button. You will see SCAN on the screen and audio display. The system plays each channel in numerical BAND Features CATEGORY SCAN － This function samples the stations in the selected category. Push down the interface selector to select AUDIO - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 237
steps 2 and 3. Once a channel is stored, press and release the proper preset button to tune to it. XM Radio Display Messages ''OFF AIR'' － The channel currently selected is no longer broadcasting. ''LOADING'' － XM is loading the audio or program information. ''UPDATING'' － The encryption code is - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 238
of the vehicle may cause satellite reception interruptions. To help compensate for this, ground-based repeaters are placed in major metropolitan areas. Satellite signals are more likely to be blocked by tall buildings and mountains the farther north you travel from the equator. Features SATELLITE - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 239
system) Depending on where you drive, you may experience reception problems. south of you. As required by the FCC: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible channel, category, name, and title information. To activate this function, press and hold the button for about - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 240
''DELETE ALL'' or ''DELETE SELECTED ITEM,'' then press ENTER on the interface selector. Features NOTE ICON SOUND FILE RECORDED DATE To replay and see the stored file, press the AUDIO button to select the audio display on the navigation screen. Push down the interface selector to display the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 241
XM® Radio (Models with navigation system) Receiving XM Radio Service If your XM Radio service has expired or you purchased your vehicle from a previous owner, you can listen to a sampling of the broadcasts available on XM Radio. With the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) or the ON (II) position - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 242
Playing a Disc (Models with navigation system) NAVIGATION SCREEN Features Without rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY DISC SLOT TITLE BUTTON RANDOM BUTTON SKIP BUTTONS TITLE BUTTON EJECT BUTTON With rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY SKIP BUTTONS VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/POWER) KNOB SCAN BUTTON - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 243
navigation system) Your vehicle's audio system has an internal disc player. To operate the disc player, the ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY RW ● ● ● The disc packages or jackets should have one of these marks. On models without Rear Entertainment System Video CDs and DVD-V format discs - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 244
of the current folder and file are shown. The system will continuously play a disc until you change modes. For information on how to handle and protect compact was not recorded with this information, it will not be displayed. Features Do not use discs with adhesive labels. The label can curl up - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 245
(Models with navigation system) Each time you press the TITLE button, the audio display changes from artist name to album name, to track name and then to normal display that shows the track number and the elapsed time. When playing a disc in MP3/WMA/AAC, the display mode changes from folder name - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 246
while playing a disc. Turn the interface dial to select Repeat on the AUDIO MENU, and press ENTER on the interface selector. Turn the interface dial to select the Repeat icon, and press ENTER on the interface selector. This feature plays the tracks within a disc in random order. When playing MP3 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 247
system) Turn the interface dial to select the track random icon, and press ENTER on the interface selector. To turn this feature left off. To turn this feature off, press the SCAN button again the interface selector. The system begins to play the last on the disc. To activate scan, press the SCAN button, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 248
. When you turn the system back on, the disc will begin playing where it left off. Playing an MP3/WMA/AAC Disc This audio system plays CD-ROM, CD or display some text data. Maximum Maximum Maximum foldersᤳ Files layersᤳ 255 999 8 Features CD-ROM CD-R CD-RW DVD-ROM DVD-R DVD-RW 255 3500 8 ᤳ - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 249
with navigation system) Changing the Folders While playing an MP3/WMA/AAC disc, you can select a folder within the disc by pressing either side of the category button. Each time you press either side of the button, the folder title and its first file's information appear on the audio display and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 250
a disc. Turn the interface dial to select Repeat on the AUDIO MENU, and press ENTER on the interface selector. Turn the interface dial to select the folder repeat icon, and press ENTER on the interface selector. This feature, when activated, plays all files in the current folder in random order. To - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 251
The system begins to play a file for about 10 seconds, and continues to sample the remaining files. To turn this feature off, activate this feature, press the SCAN button. You can also select the SCAN icon with the interface dial. Push the selector down, turn the dial to select Scan on the AUDIO - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 252
Disc (Models with navigation system) Folder Scan This feature, when activated, samples the first file of each folder for 10 seconds. To scan a folder, press the SCAN button. Or, push the interface selector down while playing a disc. Turn the interface dial to select Scan on the AUDIO MENU, and press - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 253
is a problem with the first disc. If the error message cycle repeats and you cannot clear it, take your vehicle to a dealer. Error Message BAD DISC PLEASE CHECK OWNER'S MANUAL BAD DISC PLEASE CHECK OWNER'S MANUAL PUSH EJECT MECH ERROR CHECK DISC FOCUS Error Disc violates copyright Disc not supported - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 254
discs, use only high quality discs labeled for audio use. ● ● Do not use discs with a clean soft cloth. Wipe across the disc from the center to the outside edge. A new disc may be rough problems. Remove these pieces by rubbing the inner and outer edges with the side of a pencil or pen. Features - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 255
a sophisticated and delicate mechanism. If you insert a damaged disc as indicated in this section, it may become stuck inside and damage the audio unit. Examples of these discs are shown to the right: 1. Bubbled, wrinkled, labeled, and excessively thick discs Bubbled/ Wrinkled With Label/ Sticker - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 256
discs 5. Discs with scratches, dirty discs ● Recommended discs are printed with the following logo. Features Triangle Shape 3-inch (8-cm) CD (Only on models with CD changer.) ● Fingerprints, scratches, etc. ● Audio unit may not play the following formats. CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R or DVD-RW may - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 257
(HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) NAVIGATION SCREEN Without rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY RANDOM BUTTON REPEAT BUTTON SKIP BUTTONS SCAN BUTTON VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/ POWER) KNOB INFO BUTTON INTERFACE DIAL INTERFACE DIAL SKIP BUTTONS With rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY RANDOM - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 258
Audio (Models with navigation system) The Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio function can record tracks from music CDs to the navigation system not be recovered. Features ● Only recordings from a standard CD-DA (44.1 kHz, 16 bit stereo PCM digital sound data) to HDD are supported. Digital music files, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 259
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Playlists Playlists are track lists in a certain playback group. Original Playlist This playlist is automatically generated when the music CD is recorded. The maximum number - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 260
Audio (Models with navigation system) Recording a Music CD to HDD Audio If you play a music CD that has not yet been recorded on the HDD, the system will automatically begin recording to the HDD once the disc is loaded. To turn this feature are not available during recording. Features ● REC - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 261
navigation system) ● You can listen to tracks from other playlists that have already been recorded while recording. Press the HDD button and switch over to HDD Audio. With the factory settings, all of the songs on a music CD are automatically recorded. Recording settings cannot be changed during - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 262
a music CD, move the interface selector down on the HDD Audio screen. Turn the interface dial to select HDD Setup, and press ENTER on the interface selector. RIPPING ICON REC TO HDD ICON Features Turn the interface dial to select MANUAL and press ENTER on the interface selector. Select a track to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 263
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Playing Tracks on HDD To play tracks on HDD, push the HDD button until the HDD Audio screen appears. Playback will start automatically with the track previously selected. Changing a track/track list To select tracks, press the Skip - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 264
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) To turn this feature off, turn the interface dial then press ENTER on the interface selector. Features RANDOM ICON This function plays tracks in the current mode in random order. To activate random play, press the RDM button, or - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 265
. The voice command music search feature, Song By VoiceTM, is also available. Refer to the navigation system manual for complete details. SCAN OFF activate scan, press the SCAN button, or push the interface selector down during track playback. Turn the interface dial to select Scan on the HDD AUDIO - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 266
Audio (Models with navigation system) Searching Music by Album ALPHABET TAB Turn the interface dial to select the album you want to listen to, then press ENTER on the selector. The first track on the selected album begins to play. Features or left, you can change the alphabet tab. CONTINUED 259 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 267
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Searching Music by Artist Turn the be displayed in alphabetical order. If you push the interface selector right or left, you can change the alphabet tab. Push the interface selector up to display the Search music by screen, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 268
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Turn the interface dial to select a track ENTER on the interface selector. The first track on the selected playlist begins to play. Features Push the interface selector up to display the Search music by screen, and turn the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 269
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Searching Music by Genre Turn the interface dial to select the genre you want to listen to, and then press ENTER on the interface selector. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 270
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Customizing Original/User Playlist The HDD has the playlist. Changing the Order of Tracks Within the User Playlist Features 2. Turn the interface dial to select the playlist, then press ENTER. 1. On the HDD audio screen, push up - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 271
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) 4. Turn the interface dial and select Edit return to the Playback screen of the User Playlist. Changing the Name of the Original Playlist 1. Select a desired playlist to change the original playlist name (album name). Refer to the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 272
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) 2. Turn the interface dial and select Edit Music Info, then press ENTER on the interface selector. 3. Edit Music Info screen. 7. The display returns to the Playlist screen where you can confirm the changes. Features CONTINUED 265 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 273
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Changing the Track Titles 2. Turn the interface dial and select Edit Music Info, then press ENTER on the interface selector. 1. Select a desired original playlist, then turn - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 274
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) 5. On the Edit Track Name screen, input the new AUDIO MENU, and then select Edit Track. The subsequent procedure is the same as step 4. Changing the Artist Name of the Original Playlist and User Playlist Features You can change - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 275
Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) All Tracks Artist － Enables you to change the artist name of all the tracks in the selected album. Album Artist Only － You can change the artist name of the selected album. This Track Artist Only － You can change the artist name of the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 276
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Changing the Musical Genre 1. Select a desired playlist to change the user playlist music genre, or a desired album to change the original playlist music genre. Refer to the Music Search function on page 258 for how to select a - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 277
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) 4. Select a genre, turn the interface dial to select a genre and then press ENTER. You will be returned to the Edit Music Info screen. Deleting a Track 1. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 278
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) NOTE: ● When you delete a track from on the interface selector. Select OK to confirm you want to delete the Album. NOTE: ● Features ● When you delete the Original Playlist, any tracks stored in a User Playlist are also deleted. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 279
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Adding a Track to a User Playlist 1. While tracks will be stored twice. Acquiring Title Information 1. Push the interface selector down to display AUDIO MENU. 2. Turn the interface dial and select Get Music Info, then press ENTER on - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 280
interface dial to select HDD Setup, then press ENTER on the interface selector. Features VERSION You can check the HDD Audio capacity and remaining space as well as the Gracenote Music Recognition Service (CDDB) version included with the navigation system on the HDD Setup screen. CONTINUED 273 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 281
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) 4. Turn the interface dial and select Gracenote Info. Update, then press ENTER on the interface . Select Yes to delete, or No to cancel. NOTE: If you select Music on HDD, the system will automatically restart after deletion. 274 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 282
an internet-based music recognition service that allows artist, album, and track information from CDs to display on the HDD. Gracenote users are allowed 4 free updates a year. More information about Gracenote, its features, and downloads are available at www.acura.com (in U.S.) or www.acura.ca (in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 283
Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) Gracenote® End User License Agreement Version 20061005 This rights under this Agreement against you directly in its own name. The Gracenote service uses a unique identifier to track queries for statistical purposes. The purpose of - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 284
Audio (Models with navigation system) Gracenote makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy of any Gracenote Data from in the Gracenote Servers. Gracenote reserves the right to delete data from the Gracenote Servers or to change its services at Features 277 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 285
VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/POWER) KNOB USB/AUX BUTTON MAP/GUIDE BUTTON CANCEL BUTTON AUDIO BUTTON SKIP BUTTONS With rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY RANDOM BUTTON REPEAT BUTTON VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/POWER) KNOB MAP/GUIDE BUTTON CANCEL BUTTON AUDIO BUTTON USB/AUX BUTTON INTERFACE DIAL INTERFACE DIAL 278 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 286
the AUX mode by using the navigation system voice control buttons, but cannot operate the play mode functions. The voice command music search feature, Song By Voice™, is also available. Refer to the navigation system manual for complete details. This system may not work with all software versions - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 287
navigation system) Use only compatible iPods with the latest software. iPods that are not compatible will not work in this audio unit. NOTE: ● Connecting an iPod USB CONNECTOR DOCK CONNECTOR Do not connect your iPod using a hub. Do not keep the iPod and dock connector cable in the vehicle. Direct - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 288
center display. Pressing the AUDIO button displays the artist, album and track (file) names on the navigation screen. To Change or Select Files Use the SKIP button an iPod is playing to select passages and change files. SKIP － Each time you press and release the side of the SKIP button, the system - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 289
MAP/GUIDE button cancels the audio control display on the screen. Press ENTER on the interface selector to display the items on that list, then turn the interface dial to make a selection. Press ENTER to set your selection. If you select ''ALL'' on the albums list, all the tracks become available - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 290
Playing an iPod® (Models with navigation system) 3. Turn the interface dial, select the Repeat icon SHUFFLE ICON Features REPEAT － This feature continuously plays a file. 1. Press the AUDIO button to display the audio control screen, then push the interface selector down to display AUDIO MENU. 2. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 291
down to display AUDIO MENU. To cancel this function, turn the interface dial and select the Shuffle OFF icon, and then press ENTER on the interface selector. NOTE: Available operating functions vary on models or versions. Some functions may not be available on the vehicle's audio system. 284 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 292
iPod® (Models with navigation system) To Stop Playing Your iPodᤎ To play the radio, press the AM/FM, or XM button. Press the DISC button to switch to the disc mode. Press the HDD button to switch to HDD Audio and press the USB/AUX button to switch to Bluetoothᤎ Audio. Disconnecting an iPod - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 293
iPod® Error Messages (Models with navigation system) If you see an error message in the audio display while playing an iPod, find the solution in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error message, take your vehicle to your dealer. Error Message UNSUPPORTED CONNECT RETRY NO SONG Solution - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 294
BUTTON VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/POWER) KNOB MAP/GUIDE BUTTON CANCEL BUTTON AUDIO BUTTON SKIP BUTTONS SCAN BUTTON VOL/Ⴛ (VOLUME/POWER) KNOB MAP/GUIDE BUTTON USB/AUX BUTTON CANCEL BUTTON AUDIO BUTTON SKIP BUTTONS Features With rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY USB/AUX BUTTON INTERFACE DIAL INTERFACE - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 295
device, connect it to the USB adapter cable in the console compartment, then press the USB/AUX button until you see ''USB'' in the display. The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position. The audio system reads and plays the audio files on the USB flash memory device in MP3, WMA - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 296
AAC format, a file with unsupported version cannot be played. If the system finds it, the audio unit displays UNSUPPORTED, and then skips to the next file. Connecting a USB Flash Memory Device USB CONNECTOR Features ● Combining a low sampling frequency with a low bitrate may result in extremely - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 297
the audio system, the USB indicator is shown in the audio display. It also shows the folder and file numbers. Pressing the AUDIO button change files. SKIP － Each time you press and release the side of the SKIP button, the system skips forward to the beginning of the next file. Press and release - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 298
system) To Select a File from Folder and File Lists To go back to the normal playing display, press the AUDIO button. Pressing the CANCEL button goes back to the previous screen and pressing the MAP/GUIDE button cancels the audio mode display. To Select Repeat, Random or Scan Mode: Features - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 299
Playing a USB Flash Memory Device (Models with navigation system) TRACK REPEAT REPEAT OFF ICON 3. Turn the of the track. 1. On the USB main screen, push the interface selector down to display AUDIO MENU. 2. Turn the interface dial to select Repeat and press ENTER on the interface selector. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 300
a USB Flash Memory Device (Models with navigation system) 3. Turn the interface dial, select the interface dial and select the Random OFF icon, and then press ENTER on the interface selector. Features TRACK RANDOM ICON This function plays all the tracks on the USB flash memory device in random - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 301
a USB Flash Memory Device (Models with navigation system) FOLDER RANDOM 3. Turn the interface dial, select in random order. 1. On the USB main screen, push the interface selector down to display AUDIO MENU. 2. Turn the interface dial, select Random and press ENTER on the interface selector. This - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 302
Models with navigation system) 3. Turn the is played back, regular playback is resumed. FOLDER SCAN ICON Features This function samples the first file in each folder within the USB main screen, push the interface selector down to display AUDIO MENU. 2. Turn the interface dial, select the Scan icon - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 303
a USB Flash Memory Device You can disconnect the USB flash memory device at any time even if the USB mode is selected on the audio system. Always follow the USB flash memory device's instructions when you remove it. When you disconnect the USB flash memory device while it is playing, the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 304
with navigation system) If you see an error message in the center display while playing a USB flash memory device, find the solution in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error message, take your vehicle to your dealer. Error Message BAD USB DEVICE PLEASE CHECK OWNER'S MANUAL ERROR - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 305
Bluetooth® Audio System (Models with navigation system) NAVIGATION SCREEN Without rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY With rear entertainment system AUDIO DISPLAY TITLE BUTTON AM/FM BUTTON XM BUTTON DISC BUTTON HDD BUTTON AUDIO BUTTON SKIP BUTTONS TITLE BUTTON AM/FM BUTTON USB/AUX BUTTON XM - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 306
to the vehicle's Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (HFL) system (see page 390). Not all Bluetooth-enabled phones with streaming audio capabilities are compatible with the system. You can find an approved phone by visiting www.acura.com/handsfreelink, or by calling the HandsFreeLink® consumer support at - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 307
If your Bluetooth® Audio compatible phone does not operate as described, make sure it is an Acura approved phone. To find out if your phone is approved, go to www.acura.com/ handsfreelink (in Canada, www. acura.ca), or call the HandsFreeLink® consumer support at 1-888-528-7876. Voice Control System - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 308
press ENTER to set your selection. Each time you press ENTER, the system switches between the resume mode and pause mode. NOTE: The pause function may not be available on some phone devices. To change sound settings Features The resume/pause mode can stop playing a file temporarily. Press the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 309
® Audio System (Models with navigation system) Turn the dial to select a sound setup mode, then press ENTER to set your selection. See page 222 for more sound setting information. To switch to HFL mode To turn off the Bluetooth® Audio mode As required by the FCC: This device complies with Part 15 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 310
Radio Reception Radio Frequencies Your vehicle's radio can receive the complete AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequencies: AM band: from the station's transmitter, nearby large objects, and atmospheric conditions. Features A radio station's signal gets weaker as you get farther away from - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 311
/FM Radio Reception As required by the FCC: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible day and not receive it the next day because of a change in conditions. Electrical interference from passing vehicles and stationary sources can cause temporary reception problems. 304 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 312
HDD (on models with navigation system), Bluetooth® Audio (if paired), AUX (if an appropriate audio unit is connected). If an iPod or a USB flash memory device is plugged into the system, you can also select AUX. If you are listening to the radio, use the CH button to change stations. Each time you - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 313
Audio USB flash memory device or iPod with the USB adapter cable, press and release the top (＋) of the CH button to skip forward to the beginning of the folder. To activate this, press and hold either side of the CH button until you hear a beep. On models without navigation system If you are playing - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 314
Input Jack On models with Rear Entertainment System Features The auxiliary input jack is inside the console compartment. The system will accept auxiliary input from standard audio accessories using a 1/8 inch (3.5 mm) stereo miniplug. When a compatible audio unit is connected to the jack, press - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 315
correctly, the radio will start playing. The Anti-theft Identification Card also lists your audio serial number. It is best to store the card in a safe place at home. In addition, you should write the audio system's serial number in this owner's manual. If you make a mistake entering the code - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 316
mode by pressing the SET button, then press either ▼ or ▲ button to change the setting. The navigation system receives signals from the global positioning system (GPS), and the displayed time is updated automatically by the GPS. Refer to the navigation system manual for how to adjust the time. 309 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 317
Rear Entertainment System U.S. Technology Package with Entertainment, Advance Package with Entertainment, Canadian Technology, and Elite Packages Your vehicle is equipped with a rear entertainment system that includes a DVD player for the enjoyment of the rear passengers. With this system, the rear - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 318
rear control. The indicator in the button comes on and your passengers can no longer operate the system with the rear control panel. When the the control panel is disabled. The rear system selects the source it was last set to. If that source has been removed (the DVD has been ejected from the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 319
Rear Entertainment System REAR PWR BUTTON REAR CTRL OFF BUTTON OVERHEAD SCREEN UNIT FRONT SOURCE BUTTON REAR SOURCE BUTTON 312 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 320
comes on automatically. Radio controls for the front entertainment system can also be used to operate the rear entertainment system your rear entertainment system can play DVD video discs, audio CDs, MP3/ screen, press and hold the TILT button. Features OVERHEAD SCREEN Press the REAR PWR button in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 321
Rear Entertainment System Insert a DVD into the lower DVD/ CD slot in the audio unit. Push the DVD in halfway, the drive will pull it in the rest of the way. PLAY － Press the DVD ( ) button if the DVD - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 322
－ Press the eject button to remove the DVD from the drive. To Return to Front Audio Controls To return front panel control to the front audio system, press the FRONT SOURCE button. You will hear a beep and the indicator in the button comes on. The indicator also comes on automatically, when you do - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 323
and select from among all available channels (in CH mode). Press the MENU button to display the Audio Menu on the overhead screen. You can enter the highlighted function by pressing the ENTER button. These functions have the same features as those of the front audio system. Pressing and holding the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 324
by pressing the ENTER button. These functions have the same features as those of the front audio system. When TITLE/SCROLL button is pressed, the title scrolls. When to move forward, or the button to move backward. Release the button when the system reaches the point you want. To select the menu on - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 325
System TITLE/SCROLL Button MENU Button Top Menu When you press the TITLE/SCROLL button while a DVD is playing, the current status of title, chapter, elapsed time, angle, subtitle, audio select RETURN. When you select ''TOP MENU'', the screen changes to the DVD's title menu. This menu also appears - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 326
System Menu Play Mode ''Audio'' Features When you select ''MENU'' with the interface dial, the screen changes to the DVD's title menu. When you select ''PLAY MODE'' with the interface dial, you can change the DVD's Audio, Subtitle or Angle setting. To change the Audio setting, highlight ''Audio - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 327
Rear Entertainment System The selectable languages vary from DVD to DVD, and this feature may not be available on some DVDs. To go back to play, press the MENU or CANCEL button. ''Subtitle'' ''Angle'' To change the DVD's subtitle, highlight ''Subtitle'' from the play mode menu with the or button. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 328
Rear Entertainment System Search ''Title/Chapter Search'' NumInput Features Highlight ''SEARCH'' with the interface dial to select ''Title'', ''Chapter'', or ''NumInput'' and press ENTER. With ''Title'' highlighted, use the interface dial to jump to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 329
Rear Entertainment System Repeat OFF SETUP Button Rotate the interface dial to select each number, then press the ENTER button. Press the button when you have finished inputting the number. If you want to delete a number, press the button, and if you want to change the input order of a number, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 330
System Disp Adjust To adjust the display, highlight ''Disp Adjust'' from the setup menu with the interface dial and press the ENTER button. You can adjust these display settings: ● Brightness Contrast Black Level Color dial, and, then pressing the ENTER button. Features ● ● ● ● CONTINUED 323 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 331
Rear Entertainment System Aspect Ratio You can set the screen mode to these settings: ● Normal Wide Zoom Full ● ● ● The display changes as shown above setting menu is displayed, and the current setting is highlighted in blue. Select the desired setting by turning the interface dial, then press - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 332
Rear Entertainment System Personal Surround Select ''Music,'' ''Cinema,'' or ''Voice'' by ''Off,'' the logo disappears, and there will be no special sound effect. Language Features To change the Personal Surround setting, highlight ''Personal Surround'' from the setup menu with the interface - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 333
setup menu appears for audio. Disp Adjust, Personal Surround, and Language The operation for these menus is the same as that for using the DVD player. You can change the color of the screen to white, black, blue, brown, or red. You can also synchronize with the front navigation system. Rotate the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 334
Rear Entertainment System INITIAL SETTINGS (Language) Menu Language Features When you select ''Language'' with the interface dial, the menu shown above appears. of the desired language. Select ''other,'' and press the ENTER button. The display changes as shown in the next column. CONTINUED 327 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 335
Rear Entertainment System If you select ''No,'' and press the ENTER button, the display returns to the initial screen of the ''Language'' menu. If you select ''Yes,'' the display changes to the language code input mode. Select the first digit using the interface dial, and press the ENTER button to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 336
this is on, the louder sounds are lowered, and quieter sounds are increased. Features You can select the dubbed language before playing DVDs. Select ''Audio Language'' by pressing the or button. Follow the same instructions you used to set the menu language. You can select the subtitle language - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 337
Rear Entertainment System Angle Mark ANGLE MARK Select the ''Dynamic Range'' by turning the interface DVD, the angle mark is displayed in the upper right corner of the screen. You can set the system to display or not display this angle mark. Select the ''Angle Mark'' by turning the interface dial. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 338
Rear Entertainment System Parental Level You can place an auditory restriction by changing the parental control level. The higher the level number, the lower the restriction. Features Highlight ''Parental Level'' and press the ENTER button. You will see the submenu. If you select ''No'' and press - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 339
Rear Entertainment System Changing the Password If the system does not recognize the password you entered, you will see the above display. Repeat the parental control level steps until you enter the correct password. If you enter the password correctly, you can then change the parental control - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 340
Rear Entertainment System Features To change the password, select ''Password.'' You will see the above menu this until all four digits are entered. Press the button on the control panel. If the system does not recognize the password you entered, you will see the above display. Repeat the password - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 341
Rear Entertainment System Remote Control If you forget the password, select ''Password,'' and press the button 10 times. The display changes as shown ceiling unit and used as a remote control. To remove it from the ceiling unit, press the release button. The control panel will swing down partway. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 342
that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Features If it takes several pushes on the button to operate the rear entertainment system, have your dealer replace - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 343
intellectual property rights. There are various types of DVDs available. Some of them are not compatible with your system. The DVD player in your rear entertainment system can play DVDs and CDs bearing the above marks on their packages or jackets. Use of this copyright protection technology must - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 344
audio system will try to play the disc. If there is still a problem vehicle to a dealer. Error Message DISC ERROR Cause FOCUS Error Solution Press the disc eject button, and remove removed, consult your dealer. Press the disc eject button, and remove cannot be removed, consult this system. Reinsert - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 345
. When you remove the headphones, the earpieces automatically pivot inward, and the headphones turn off. When not in use, store the headphones in the pocket of either front seat. The audio for the rear entertainment system is sent to the wireless headphones that come with the system. When using - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 346
shown in the diagram next to the battery slot. Slide the cover back into place on the earpiece, then press down on the back edge to lock it in place. Auxiliary input jacks and headphone connectors for the rear entertainment system are on the back of the center console compartment. CONTINUED 339 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 347
DIALS AUXILIARY INPUT JACKS HEADPHONE CONNECTORS The system will accept auxiliary inputs from standard video games and video equipment. Some video game power supplies may cause poor picture quality. V = Video jack L = Left audio jack R = Right audio jack There are three headphone connectors for - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 348
marker lights and taillights flashes if someone attempts to break into your vehicle or remove the audio unit. This alarm continues for two minutes, then the system resets. To deactivate the system before the two minutes have elapsed, unlock the driver's door with the key or the remote transmitter - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 349
vehicles, or driving near large objects that can cause a magnetic disturbance. It can also be affected by accessories such as antennas and roof racks Press and hold the SET button for five seconds until the clock display changes to ''ZON ? N.'' (Clock adjustment mode will be started after the first - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 350
, away from buildings, power lines, and other vehicles. Compass Zone Selection 4. Find the zone for your the SET button for five seconds until the clock display changes to ''ZON ? N.'' (Clock adjustment mode will be started selection and return display to normal. Features In most areas, there is a - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 351
Compass Zone Map 344 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 352
hold it for 1 second (see page 362). 2. Accelerate to the desired cruising speed above 25 mph (40 km/h). Features SET/DECEL BUTTON Improper use of the cruise control can lead to a crash. Use the cruise control only when traveling on open highways in good weather. Non-ACC model is shown 1. Push - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 353
vehicle come back on. Changing the Set Speed You can increase the set cruising speed in any of these ways: ● You can decrease the set cruising speed in any of these ways: ● Press and hold the RES/ACCEL button. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button. Push on the accelerator - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 354
(40 km/h), then press and release the RES/ACCEL button. The CRUISE CONTROL [ACC (green)] indicator comes on. The vehicle accelerates to the same speed as before. Pressing the CRUISE (MAIN) button turns the system completely off and erases the previous cruising speed. Features CANCEL BUTTON Non-ACC - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 355
on the steering wheel, and the ACC functions of the multi-information display. The radar sensor for ACC is shared with the collision mitigation braking system™ (CMBS™). For more information on the radar sensor, see page 464. For more information on CMBS, see page 463. MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY ACC - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 356
, interchange, service area, parking area, etc. In these areas, there is no vehicle ahead of you, but ACC would still try to accelerate to your set speed. In bad weather (rain, fog, snow, etc.) On a slippery road (for example a road covered with ice or snow). Features ● ● ● ● ● ● CONTINUED - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 357
Improper use of ACC can lead to a crash. Use ACC only when traveling on open highways in good weather. When there is no vehicle ahead within ACC range When a vehicle ahead is within ACC range and going slower than your set speed Your vehicle will maintain a set cruising speed. If the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 358
to warn you. In this case, decelerate your vehicle by pressing the brake pedal, and keep an appropriate distance from the vehicle ahead. Features When a vehicle ahead is within ACC range and going at a steady speed Your vehicle follows the vehicle ahead of it, keeping a constant distance. ACC will - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 359
it is up to you to maintain a safe distance by using the brake pedal. ACC may not recognize motorcycles or other small vehicles ahead of your vehicle. ACC may react to vehicles beside you or even a building beside you by momentarily applying the brakes or sounding a beeper under conditions such as - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 360
the SET/ DECEL button on the steering wheel, then release the accelerator pedal. If you press the SET/DECEL button when the vehicle speed is below 25 mph (40 km/h), you will hear a beep for about 1 second. This means ACC is not activated, and you cannot set your speed. When your speed reaches - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 361
under the current unit. The set speed can be increased by using the RES/ACCEL button or the accelerator pedal. To increase the set speed with the RES/ACCEL button, do this: Press and hold the RES/ACCEL button. The vehicle will accelerate. When you reach the speed you want, release the button. 354 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 362
close you get to the vehicle ahead of you. Decreasing the Set Speed The set speed can be decreased using the SET/DECEL button or the brake pedal. To decrease the set speed with the SET/DECEL button, do this: Features Press and hold the SET/DECEL button. Release the button when you - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 363
to the previously set speed. When the system detects a vehicle ahead of you, a beeper sounds once and a solid-line vehicle icon appears on the multi-information display. CANADA CANADA Detecting a Vehicle Ahead of You U.S. U.S. When that vehicle changes lanes or goes out of ACC range, a beeper - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 364
distance you select is also shown on the multi-information display. U.S. LONG RANGE CANADA Features With ACC on, the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you is controlled and maintained. You can change this distance to one of three ranges: long, middle, or short. Middle Short - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 365
speed is shown on the multi-information display. To return to that speed, accelerate to over 25 mph (40 km/h), then press the RES/ ACCEL button. for 3 seconds. Any of these conditions may cause ACC to cancel: ● The vehicle speed decreases below 22 mph (35 km/h). Poor weather (rain, fog, snow, etc.) - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 366
periods. Abrupt steering wheel movement. When the ABS or VSA is activated. When the VSA indicator comes on. ACC Indicator ● ● ● Features it comes on at any other time, there is a problem in the ACC system. If this happens, take the vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. The ACC system - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 367
chart on this and the following page. Message Description ACC is on. U.S. ACC detects a vehicle ahead of you. CANADA You will hear a beep when the vehicle moves out of the ACC radar sensor's range. U.S. ACC does not detect a vehicle ahead of you. CANADA You will hear a beep when ACC detects - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 368
front grille is dirty. You will hear three beeps. Message Description Apply the brakes immediately. Your vehicle is too close to the vehicle ahead of it. You will hear a continuous beep. Features ACC has automatically canceled because of bad weather or other conditions. You will hear three beeps - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 369
the cruise control is selected, ACC does not sound a beeper or display a message on the multiinformation display. Make sure to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you. Always be aware which mode is selected. 362 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 370
and January 1, 1993 may be equipped with safety stop and reverse features. If your unit does not have an external entrapment protection system, an easy test to confirm the function and performance of the safety stop and reverse feature is to lay a 2 ╳ 4 under the closing door. The door should stop - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 371
until the HomeLink indicator begins to flash (about 10 to 20 seconds), then release the buttons. You should erase all three codes before selling the vehicle. If you have any problems programming HomeLink, see the owner's manual included with the device you are trying to program, or call HomeLink at - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 372
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) HomeLink® is a registered trademark of Johnson Controls, Inc. As required by the FCC: This device complies with Part phones, pairing procedures, and special feature capabilities: In the U.S., visit www.acura.com/ handsfreelink, or call (888 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 373
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) Using HFL HFL Buttons HFL TALK BUTTON ● Voice Control Tips ● Press and release release to give a command or answer a call. HFL Back button － Press and release to end a call, go back to the previous command, or cancel the command. Air - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 374
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) ● To change the volume level of HFL, use the audio system volume knob or the steering wheel volume controls. Help Features ● Information Display To hear general HFL information, including help on pairing a phone or setting up the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 375
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) Some phones may send battery, signal strength, and roaming status information to HFL. You will see ''HANDSFREELINK'' and the '' '' indicator on the audio display when you operate HFL. 368 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 376
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) How to Use HFL The ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position. ''Pair'' ''Edit'' ''Phone Setup'' ''Delete'' ''List'' Press HFL Talk button ''Status'' ''Next Phone'' ''Set Pairing Code'' Pair a phone to the system (See - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 377
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) ''Redial'' ''Transfer'' ''Mute'' ''Send'' Press existing phonebook entry (See page 377) Delete a phonebook entry (See page 377) If your phone supports this function, use this to transfer contacts from your phone to HFL (See page 378) Hear - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 378
''Call Notification'' ''Auto Transfer'' ''Clear'' Features ''Change Language'' ''Tutorial'' ''Hands Free Help'' Change language from English to French (See page 381)ᤳ Hear a tutorial for general rules on using the system (See page 367) Hear a list of available commands and additional information - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 379
) To use HFL, you need to pair your Bluetooth-compatible cell phone to the system. Phone Setup This command group is available for paired cell phones. Phone pairing tips ● To pair a cell phone: To rename a paired phone: You cannot pair your phone while the vehicle is moving. Your phone must be in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 380
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) To delete a paired phone: To hear the names of all paired phones: To hear which paired phone is currently linked: Press and release the HFL Talk button before a command. 1. Say ''Phone setup.'' 2. Say ''Delete'' after the prompts. 3. HFL - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 381
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) To change from the currently linked phone to another paired phone: To change the pairing code setting: Press and release . HFL uses a Class 2 Bluetooth, which means the maximum range between your phone and vehicle is 30 feet (10 meters). - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 382
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) To make a call using a name in the HFL phonebook: To make a call using a phone number: Press and release and make the call. Press and release the HFL Talk button before a the person you called through the audio speakers. To redial the last - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 383
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) Muting a Call You can mute your voice to the person you are talking to during a call. To mute your voice during a call, press and release the HFL Talk button and say ''Mute.'' To unmute your voice, press and release the HFL Talk button and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 384
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system or ''John Smith'' instead of ''John.'' Press and release the HFL Talk button before a command. 1. Say '' 5. Follow the HFL prompts to complete the edit. Press and release the HFL Talk button before a command. 1. Say ''Phonebook.'' 2. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 385
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) To list all names in the phonebook: To store a specific phone number from your cell phone directly to the HFL phonebook (available on some phones): Press and release the HFL Talk button before a command. 1. Say ''Phonebook.'' 2. Say '' - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 386
it for you, or you will have to clear the entire system (see page 380). To change your security pass code: Press and release the HFL Talk button before a command. 1. Say ''System setup.'' 2. Say ''Change passcode'' after the prompts. Features 3. Follow the HFL prompts and say the new 4-digit - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 387
ring tone. If you get into the vehicle while you are on the phone, the call can be automatically transferred to HFL with the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position. Press and release the HFL Talk button before a command. 1. Say ''System setup.'' 2. Say ''Auto transfer'' after the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 388
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) Quick Language Selection Canadian models only To quickly change the language: Change Language Canadian models only To change the system language between English and French: Press and release the HFL Talk button before a command. 1. Say - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 389
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models without navigation system) As required by the FCC: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 390
either the navigation system controls or voice commands without the distraction of handling your cell phone. To use HFL, you need a Bluetoothcompatible cell phone. For a list of compatible phones, pairing procedures, and special feature capabilities: In the U.S., visit www.acura.com/handsfreelink - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 391
. To change the volume level of HFL, use the audio system volume knob or the steering wheel volume controls. TALK BUTTON BACK BUTTON Help Feature For help at any time, including a list of available options, say ''Help.'' MICROPHONE ● Language PICK-UP Button － Press and release to answer - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 392
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) Displays On the navigation screen: On the Cellular Phone screen: When you receive an incoming call, you will see the following displays and notifications. On the audio screen: Features Some phones may send battery, signal strength, and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 393
the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position. ''Cellular Phone'' ''Pair Phone'' ''Setup Bluetooth Phone'' ''Pass-Key'' ''Delete Phone'' Pair your phone to the system. ( can be used for all above options. Voice commands for the HFL system can only be used from the Cellular Phone screen. To quickly access - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 394
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) ''Import Cellular Phonebook'' ''Cellular Phone'' Import your entire cell phone's phonebook data to the system. (See page 394) ''Register Voice Tag'' Create a voice tag for a speed dial number. (See page 396) Features HFL system can only - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 395
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) ''Dial'' Enter a phone number to dial. ''Direct Dial'' ''Cellular 399) Voice commands can be used for all above options. Voice commands for the HFL system can only be used from the Cellular Phone screen. To quickly access the Cellular Phone - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 396
compatible cell phone to the system. HFL uses a Class 2 Bluetooth, which means the maximum range between your phone and vehicle is 30 feet (10 meters). Cellular Phone Phone Setup This menu group is for phone pairing, and user, phonebook, and speed dial editing. Features PHONE SETUP Press the PICK - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 397
(Models with navigation system) Setup Bluetooth Phone Phone pairing tips: ● To pair a cell phone: You cannot pair your phone while the vehicle is moving. Up to six phones can be paired. Your phone's battery may drain faster when it is paired to HFL. ● ● 1. Select ''Setup Bluetooth Phone'' from - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 398
with navigation system) To change the pass-key setting: Delete the number first To delete a paired phone: TRASH ICON Features 1. Select ''Setup Bluetooth Phone'' from the Phone Setup screen. 2. Select ''Pass-Key.'' NOTE: The default pass-key ''0000'' is used until you change the setting. For - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 399
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) Search for Next Connected Phone Edit User/PIN To change from the currently linked phone to another paired phone, select ''Search a Next Connected Phone'' on the Phone Setup screen. HFL disconnects the linked phone and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 400
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) To create a PIN for each user: When you set a PIN Phone Setup screen. 2. Select ''Delete.'' 3. Follow the prompts to complete the deletion. Features 1. Select ''Edit User/PIN'' from the Phone Setup screen. 2. Select ''PIN.'' CONTINUED 393 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 401
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) Import Cellular Phonebook (available on some phones) The entire phonebook data (up to 1,000 entries, depending on the phone) of the cell phone that is linked to HFL can be imported to the system. 2. HFL begins importing the phonebook. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 402
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) Edit Speed Dial To store a speed dial number: 1. Select ''Edit Speed Dial'' from the Phone Setup screen. 2. Select ''Register Speed Dial.'' 3. Select a number on the speed dial list where you want to store the number. Features The first - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 403
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) When a voice tag is stored for the entry, you can dial the number by saying ''Call'' and the voice tag name. To add a voice tag - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 404
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) To delete a speed dial number: 1. Select ''Edit Speed Dial'' dial entries. Features During a call, HFL allows you to talk up to 30 minutes after you remove the key from the ignition switch. However, this may weaken the vehicle's battery. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 405
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) To make a call using a name in the Phone Select ''Phonebook'' from the Cellular Phone screen. If a phonebook has not yet been imported, the system will attempt to import one first. 1. Select ''Dial'' from the Cellular Phone screen. 2. Enter - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 406
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) To make a call using Call History: To make a call Any voice-tagged speed dial entry can be dialed by voice from the Cellular Phone screen. Features 1. Select ''Call History'' from the Cellular Phone screen. 2. Call History is sorted by - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 407
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (Models with navigation system) Receiving a Call When you receive a call, from your phone to HFL. Mute － Allows you to mute your voice. ᤳ Available on some phones The following options are available during a call: Direct Dialᤳ － Allows you to send numbers or names during - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 408
(Models with navigation system) Call Waiting Bluetooth® Wireless Technology As required by the FCC: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC undesired operation of the device. If your phone has Call Waiting, press and release the PICK-UP button to put the original call on hold and answer the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 409
by providing a direct communication link between your vehicle and the Acura Server. Working through the XM radio satellite, AcuraLink works in conjunction with the navigation system, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (HFL), and audio system in your vehicle. It displays and receives several kinds of - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 410
AcuraLink® (U.S. models only) Reading Messages If you have new messages, an envelope icon appears in the lower left hand part of the navigation screen. To view previously read messages: Features A list of all messages will be shown. New Messages will be at the top. Select the message you want to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 411
They indicate if your vehicle has a problem that may need vehicle identification before you can receive messages. This can take several days to process. Message Options When you open a message, you can read a summary of it, and then choose one of several options. If an option is not available - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 412
the navigation system. Call Your Dealer － Select this option to call the Acura dealer you purchased your vehicle from. AcuraLink also directs you to this dealer so you can schedule a maintenance appointment or receive information about a message. If your assigned servicing dealer changes, AcuraLink - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 413
AcuraLink® (U.S. models only) Deleting Messages NOTE: Diagnostic info and recall/ campaign messages can only be deleted by your dealer. To delete a single message: ● To delete all messages: NOTE: The Delete All Messages command does not apply to Diagnostic Info and Recall messages. They can only be - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 414
Tips, Feature Guide, Maintenance Minder™, Recalls/Campaigns, Diagnostic Info, and Scheduled Dealer Appointments. The system can store up to 255 messages. Message categories can be added, revised, or deleted through broadcast messages from Acura. These messages, based on updated vehicle information - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 415
.owners.acura.com, register some required settings, and complete the Phone-Data Connection set-up (see page 416). Your Bluetooth® compatible phone should also be paired and linked to your vehicle's Bluetooth® HFL (see page 389). ● ● ● These messages provide detailed information about the service - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 416
AcuraLink® (U.S. models only) The system will automatically connect to the Acura server, then show you an appropriate appointment date and time on the navigation screen. If you accept this appointment, select ''Confirm Appointment,'' then press ENTER. Features When you see the Maintenance Minder - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 417
, time and dealer. If it is OK, press ENTER. If you want to change or reschedule the appointment date, select ''Cancel,'' then press ENTER. Press the INFO/ the message category list. Then press ENTER. The system will automatically connect to the Acura server, then show you a new appointment date - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 418
Features . The system will automatically connect to the Acura server, then show you the confirmation on the navigation screen. If you accept the cancellation, press ENTER. If you select the cancellation appointment, you cannot try to reschedule the appointment. If you want to change - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 419
Recall/Campaigns For this reason, it is important that we retain your current phone number. Please update your information using My Acura at www.owners.acura.com. If your vehicle is affected by a recall or other important safety information, a letter will be mailed to you about the issue and how to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 420
costly repairs. The AcuraLink system cannot determine some mechanical problems (such as squeaks or rattles) that are not triggered by the diagnostic indicator monitors. For more information on the instrument panel indicators, see page 68. When any indicator comes is not active, you of the problem, the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 421
vehicle will not be updated. Any changes to those appointments should be made from the My Acura website. When you make an appointment through My Acura's online Scheduling Service Appointment, you can be reminded in advance the Acura server and retrieve the latest information regarding the problem. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 422
messages, visit the My Acura website at www.owners.acura. com to change your messaging preferences. Auto Reading － Select ON to have the system automatically read each message to you. Select OFF to manually select the Voice button when you want a message read to you. Features CONTINUED 415 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 423
This is used to access the most recent diagnostic information when a problem occurs. To find more information on Bluetooth® compatible and enabled cell phones, visit www.acura.com/handsfreelink or call the HandsFreeLink® consumer support at 1-888-528-7876. NOTE: For the Phone Data Connection button - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 424
will remove the prompt when you select the Check Now option and will automatically connect to the Acura server. This setting only applies when you have a Bluetooth® models with navigation system Refer to the navigation system manual for operation of the rearview camera. Features CONTINUED 417 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 425
take a short time for the system to display the rearview. The when you use the camera display for an extended period of time. POWER BUTTON You can turn the camera in the rearview mirror. For the best picture, always keep the rearview camera clean, and do not cover the camera lens. To avoid - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 426
Mirror with Rearview Camera Display Rearview Camera Guide Line SCREEN DISPLAY The camera display has parking guide lines that indicate distance from your vehicle. 1st Line 20in (0.5m) 2nd Line 39in (1m) 3rd Line 79in (2m) 4th Line 118in (3m) NOTE ● Features The rearview camera has a unique lens - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 427
420 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 428
know how to properly store luggage or packages. The information in this section will help you. If you plan to add any accessories to your vehicle, please read the information in this section first. Break-in Period ...Fuel Recommendation ...Service Station Procedures ...Refueling...Tighten Fuel Cap - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 429
Break-in Period Help assure your vehicle's future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 600 miles (1,000 km). During this period: ● Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration. Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles (300 km). Do not change - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 430
TIER Detergent Gasoline'' where available to help maintain the performance and reliability of your vehicle. TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline meets a new gasoline standard jointly established by leading automotive manufacturers to meet the needs of today's advanced engines. Qualifying gasoline retailers - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 431
with your vehicle's fuel vapor recovery system. The system helps keep fuel vapor from going into the atmosphere. Try filling at another pump. If this does not fix the problem, consult your dealer. FUEL FILL CAP TETHER Push HOLDER 1. Park with the driver's side closest to the service station pump - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 432
'' message will appear each time you restart the engine until the system turns the message off. Tighten Fuel Cap Message If the system still detects a leak in the vehicle's evaporative emissions system, the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) comes on. If the fuel fill cap was not already tightened - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 433
Service Station Procedures Opening and Closing the Hood HOOD RELEASE HANDLE 3. Lift the hood up most of the way. The hydraulic supports sure it is securely latched. LATCH 1. Park the vehicle, and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle located under the lower left corner of the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 434
Service Station Procedures Oil Check DIPSTICK Engine Coolant Check RESERVE TANK UPPER MARK Before Driving LOWER MARK MIN MAX Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil. 1. Remove the page 513 for information about checking other items on your vehicle. CONTINUED 427 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 435
drivers in all environments. The EPA fuel economy estimates shown in the example to the right are a useful tool for comparison when buying a vehicle combined fuel economy for other vehicles in the class. Estimated Annual Fuel Cost － Provides an estimated annual fuel cost, based on 15,000 miles in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 436
mph (75 km/h). Reduce your speed and you reduce the drag. Trailers, car top carriers, roof racks and bike racks are also big contributors to increased drag. Always drive in the highest gear possible － If your vehicle has a manual transmission, you can boost your fuel economy by up shifting as early - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 437
Fuel Economy ● Minimize the use of the air conditioning system － The A/C puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Use the fresh-air ventilation when possible. Plan and combine trips － Combine several short trips into one. A warmed-up engine is more fuel efficient than a cold - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 438
, and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed. Follow all instructions in this owner's manual regarding accessories and modifications. When properly installed, cellular phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low-powered audio systems should not interfere with your vehicle's computer controlled - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 439
and stability. Non-Acura wheels, because they are a universal design, can cause excessive stress on suspension components and will not be compatible with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Modifying your steering wheel or any other part of your vehicle's safety features can make the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 440
the second and third row seats when folded flat Console compartment Storage compartment Rear compartment Roof-rack (if equipped) Before Driving ● ● ● ● ● However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your vehicle's handling, stability, stopping distance, and tires, and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 441
your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle. Overloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause a crash in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 442
In addition, the total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, accessories, cargo, and trailer tongue load must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Both are on a label on the driver's doorjamb. Before Driving Example 1 Max Load (1,150 lbs) (525 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 443
side curtain airbags. Carrying Cargo in the Cargo Area or on a Roof Rack Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the cargo area, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible. Tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop. ● ● ● If - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 444
hold back soft, lightweight items stored in the cargo area. Heavy items should be tied down, as the net may not prevent them from being thrown about the vehicle in a crash or a sudden stop. Optional Cargo Cover The cargo cover can be used to cover the cargo area behind the third row seats. When the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 445
438 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 446
Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, the vehicle stability assist (VSA®) system, active damper system (If equipped), the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), the collision mitigation braking system™ (CMBS™), the blind spot information system (BSI) and facts you need if you are planning to tow a trailer or - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 447
and abrupt maneuvers whenever possible. Do not modify your vehicle in any way that would raise the center of gravity. Do not carry heavy cargo on the roof. ● Your vehicle is equipped with a super handling-all wheel drive (SH-AWD) system. When the system senses a loss of one or more wheel traction - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 448
Preparing to Drive You should do the following checks and adjustments before you drive your vehicle. 1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice. 2. Check that the hood is fully closed. 3. Visually check the tires. If a tire looks low, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 449
your vehicle from theft. If an improperlycoded key (or other device) is used, the engine's fuel system is disabled. For more information, see page 138. The engine is harder to start in cold weather. Also, the thinner air found at altitudes above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) adds to this problem. 442 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 450
. Even though you may be able to start the engine manually without the auto control mode of the starting system, have your dealer inspect your vehicle. If there is a problem with the starting system, you will see a ''CHECK STARTING SYSTEM'' message on the multi-information display when the ignition - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 451
comes on along with the ''D'' indicator, there is a problem with the automatic transmission control system. Avoid rapid acceleration the release button on the front of the shift lever, then move the lever. You cannot shift out of Park when the ignition switch is in the LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I) - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 452
shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch. Reverse (R) － Press the brake pedal and the release button on the front of the shift lever to shift from Park to reverse. To shift from reverse to neutral, come to a complete stop, and then shift. Press the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 453
if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal and pressing the release button does not work. 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Remove the key from the ignition switch. COVER 3. Put a cloth on the edge of the shift lock release slot cover. Use a small flat-tip screwdriver or metal fingernail file to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 454
6. Remove the key from the shift lock release slot, then reinstall the cover. Make sure the notch on the cover is on the driver's side. Press the brake pedal, and restart the engine. If you need to use the shift lock release, it means your vehicle is developing a problem. Have the vehicle checked - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 455
gear number on the instrument panel. GEAR POSITION INDICATOR The transmission control system monitors the accelerator pedal use and your driving conditions. When you press the accelerator pedal as in normal driving, the system judges that you are driving at a constant cruising speed without using - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 456
the accelerator pedal off. This will only work when the accelerator manual transmission using the paddle shifters, but without a clutch pedal. To enter the sequential shift mode, press the release vehicle comes to a complete stop and the vehicle speed is about 6 mph (9 km/h). If there is a problem - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 457
shifter. When you accelerate from a stop, the transmission starts in first gear, and shifts from first to second automatically. You must manually upshift between second . You try to shift to third or a higher gear when the vehicle is stationary. You press both paddle shifters at the same time. You - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 458
in Second Gear When you are in sequential shift mode, and the vehicle is stopped, pull the ＋ (right) paddle shifter to shift Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you good fuel economy and effective emissions control. The following shift points - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 459
, according to the driving conditions. While the SH-AWD system helps to enhance the vehicle's driving stability in all situations, it is still a system problem. The monitor will show the amount if the system senses any change in torque distribution. TORQUE INDICATOR The SH-AWD torque distribution - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 460
the indicator goes out. If the indicator does not go out, take your vehicle to a dealer to have it checked. If the SH-AWD indicator on the instrument panel stays on, and the ''CHECK SH-AWD SYSTEM'' message also appears on the multiinformation display, there is problem with the SH-AWD system. 453 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 461
Turn off the lights. Place any packages, valuables, etc. in the cargo area or take them with you. vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb. Check the indicator on the instrument panel to verify that the security system is set. Make sure the parking brake is fully released - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 462
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Your vehicle is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that turns on every time you start the engine and monitors the pressure in your tires while driving. Each tire has its own pressure sensor. If the air pressure of a tire becomes - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 463
stays on. You will also see a ''CHECK TPMS SYSTEM'' message on the multi-information display (see page 88). Although your tire pressure is monitored, you must manually check the tire pressures monthly. Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when the vehicle is cold, and set to the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 464
pressures of all four tires, press the SEL/RESET button. The display changes as shown above. Each tire pressure is shown in PSI (U.S. models) or in kPa (Canadian models). Each tire has its own pressure sensor. If the air pressure of a tire becomes significantly low, the sensor in that tire - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 465
ERROR'' message and the tire pressure readings are not displayed. If this happens, you will first see a system warning message ''CHECK TPMS SYSTEM'' on the multi-information display. If there is a problem with the TPMS, you will see the above message on the multi-information display. If you see - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 466
vehicle with the compact spare tire, the TPMS system message will also be displayed on the multi-information display after several miles (kilometers) driving. Changing SYSTEM'' message on the multiinformation display. This is normal; the system cannot monitor the spare tire pressure. Manually serviced - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 467
Your vehicle is equipped with disc brakes at all four wheels. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The emergency brake assist system increases the stopping force when you depress the brake pedal hard in an emergency situation. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 468
Braking System, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Braking System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 469
. If the ABS indicator and the brake system indicator come on together, and the parking brake is fully released, the EBD system may also be shut down. Test your brakes as instructed on page 564. If the brakes feel normal, drive slowly and have your vehicle repaired by your dealer as soon as possible - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 470
time for the driver to prevent it. Here is a brief description of what the CMBS can do: When your speed is above 10 mph (15 km/h), the CMBS is monitoring the vehicle ahead of you with radar. When your vehicle is approaching the vehicle ahead of yours too quickly, the system may activate one or more - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 471
these parts receives a strong impact, switch the system off by pressing the CMBS off button, and have your vehicle checked by a dealer. If the front grille ever needs to be repaired, consult a dealer first. If the radar sensor cover or the radar sensor ever needs to be removed, take your vehicle to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 472
correct size and in good condition (see Tires on page 540). If the system senses a likely collision with a vehicle or object ahead of you, it alerts you with a visual alert or a combination of a visual alert and an audible alert. Driving ● The visual alert is an amber colored BRAKE message that - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 473
System™ (CMBS™) CMBS Distance between vehicles YOUR VEHICLE Stage one The radar sensor detects a vehicle E-pretensioner VEHICLE AHEAD There is a risk of a collision with the vehicle ahead of you. - Audio driver and front passenger seat belts. Lightly applied YOUR VEHICLE Stage threeᤳ VEHICLE - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 474
in the instrument panel comes on, and a CHECK CMBS SYSTEM message appears on the multi-information display for about 5 seconds. ● An abnormal tire condition is detected (wrong tire size, flat tire, etc.). Extended off-road or mountainous driving. Driving your vehicle with the parking brake - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 475
CMBS INDICATOR The CMBS indicator normally comes on under these conditions: ● When you manually switch off the system. When the system shuts off automatically. When you drive in bad weather (rain, snow, fog, etc.). If anything covers the radar sensor cover (dirt, mud, dry leaves, wet snow - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 476
indicator comes on at any other time and a CHECK CMBS SYSTEM message appears on the multi-information display, there is a problem with the CMBS. You can still drive your vehicle, but CMBS will not be operating. Have your vehicle checked by a dealer. ● Limitations The CMBS may not activate under - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 477
™) YOUR VEHICLE YOUR VEHICLE This system is designed to detect and provide sufficient advanced warning of a collision. As a result, you may experience occasional false activations. Even with little or no chance of a collision, the CMBS may activate under these conditions: ● When you change lanes - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 478
Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) YOUR VEHICLE LOW BRIDGE RAILS Driving ● When you approach or pass a vehicle ahead of you that is turning left or right in an intersection. ● When you pass a low bridge at high speed. When you go over a sharp- - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 479
Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) YOUR VEHICLE Important Safety Reminder The main purpose of the CMBS is to reduce the severity of injuries caused by an unavoidable collision. While the CMBS may help to alert you and minimize the severity of a collision, it may not activate in every - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 480
margin of safety. VSA Off Indicator When VSA is off, the VSA off indicator comes on as reminder. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System Indicator When VSA activates, you will see the VSA system indicator blink. If this indicator comes on while driving, pull to the side of the road when it is safe - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 481
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®), aka Electronic Stability Control (ESC), System You will also see a ''CHECK VSA SYSTEM'' message on the multiinformation display if there is a problem with the VSA system. If the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator comes on, or the multiinformation display shows a '' - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 482
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®), aka Electronic Stability Control (ESC), System VSA and Tire Sizes accelerator. This feature starts operating a few seconds after you are in any drive gear position (when faced uphill) or in reverse (when faced downhill). This feature requires that the vehicle has come - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 483
may result in a crash and serious injury or death. Do not rely only on the blind spot information system when changing lanes. Always look in your mirrors, to either side of your vehicle, and behind you for other vehicles before changing lanes. If equipped The blind spot information system (BSI) is - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 484
at a speed between 6 mph (10 km/h) and 100 mph (160 km/h), the BSI alert indicator comes on under either of the following conditions: ● The system will not alert you to all vehicles in blind spot zones (such as vehicles you have just passed which you should already be aware of) unless it remains in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 485
Blind Spot Information System (BSI) BSI INDICATOR MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY BSI ALERT INDICATOR LEFT SIDE RIGHT SIDE BSI OFF BUTTON U.S. model is shown 478 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 486
Blind Spot Information System (BSI) LEVER INDICATOR ILLUMINATE BLINK Driving The BSI alert indicator starts to blink as a reminder if you move the turn signal lever in the direction of the detected vehicle. Radar sensors, located underneath each corner of the rear bumper, detect objects. Do not - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 487
Blind Spot Information System (BSI) Important Precautions Like all assistance systems, BSI has limitations. Over-reliance on BSI may result in a collision. Always look in your mirrors, to either side of your vehicle, and behind you for other vehicles before changing lanes. The system should be - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 488
a motorcycle, is in the alert zone. A vehicle is behind or approaching your vehicle while on a curved road. When towing a trailer. A vehicle is moving from a far lane to the adjacent lane. The system picks up external electrical interference. The rear bumper has been deformed, or improperly repaired - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 489
Blind Spot Information System (BSI) BSI OFF Button To turn the system on again, press the same button. The BSI indicator on the instrument panel turns off. The multi-information display indicates that the system is on. When the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position, the system will be in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 490
alert indicator: ● May come on when a vehicle enters one of the alert zones, even if this message is displayed. ● May not come on due to obstruction (splashes, etc.), even if this message is not displayed. ᤳ: System status may remain on even when the BLIND SPOT NOT AVAILABLE message is displayed. If - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 491
Blind Spot Information System (BSI), Active Damper System As required by the FCC: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 492
in road surface. To switch between comfort and sport mode, press and release the active damper system button located on the center console to choose the desired mode. When comfort mode is selected, the green indicator in the button comes on, and the message ''COMFORT'' will appear on the multi - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 493
Active Damper System Active Damper System Indicator If there is a problem with the active damper system, the active damper system shuts down and the active damper system indicator on the instrument panel comes on. If you see this warning indicator and message, have your vehicle checked at your - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 494
equipment, and follow the guidelines in this section. If your vehicle is equipped with the blind spot information system (BSI), do not use it when towing a trailer. For more information see page 482. Break-In Period Your vehicle is equipped with a trailer stability assist to help stabilize the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 495
Towing a Trailer Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) － The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all accessories, all cargo and the tongue load is 5,952 lbs (2,700 kg). Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR) － The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all accessories, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 496
models without Active Damper System On models with Active Damper System 1. Park the vehicle on level ground. 2. Measure and record the distance from the ground to the bottom of the trailer hitch. 3. Connect the fully loaded trailer to the hitch. 4. Measure again from the ground to the same spot on - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 497
lbs (2,041 kg) 4,250 lbs (1,928 kg) 3,999 lbs (1,814 kg) Towing is Not Recommended Maximum Tongue Loadᤳᤳ 500 lbs (227 kg) 470 lbs ( vehicle to the back, each occupant weighs 150 lbs (68 kg), and each has 15 lbs (7 kg) of cargo in the cargo area. Any additional weight, including cargo or accessories - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 498
Towing a Trailer Checking Loads To accurately check your loads at the public scale, the vehicle and trailer should be fully loaded, and all occupants should stay in the vehicle while the attendant watches the scale. 2. Check the gross vehicle weight. Limit: 5,952 lbs (2,700 kg) 3. Check the rear - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 499
Towing a Trailer Towing Equipment and Accessories Towing generally requires a variety of supplemental equipment. To ensure the best quality, we recommend that you purchase Acura package that includes a hitch, a ball mount, and a wiring harness. Discuss any additional needs with your trailer sales or - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 500
equipment may result in serious damage to your vehicle. Read the trailer manufacturer's instructions, and select the appropriate draw bar for the height of the trailer you will be towing. Weight Distributing Hitch Acura recommends that any trailer with a total trailer weight of 1,000 lbs (450 kg - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 501
size wheel and tire, and page 551 for information on changing a flat tire. Remember to unhitch the trailer before changing a flat. Ask your trailer sales or rental agency where and how to store the trailer's spare tire. GROUND (BLACK) STOP (LIGHT GREEN) This device is recommended if your trailer - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 502
Towing a Trailer Trailer Lights ACCESSORY OPTION ILLUMINATION LIGHTS RIGHT TURN SIGNAL LEFT TURN SIGNAL TRAILER BACK-UP LIGHT BACK-UP LIGHT (ᤱ) BRAKE DIAGNOSTIC ELECTRIC BRAKE TRAILER HAZARD LIGHT ᤉB CHARGE TAILLIGHTS If you use a non-Acura suitable connector between the vehicle and the trailer. - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 503
and inflated as recommended by the trailer maker. ● The vehicle has been properly serviced, and the suspension and the cooling system are in good operating condition. The trailer has been properly serviced and is in good condition. All weights and loads are within limits. The hitch, safety - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 504
not try to hold the vehicle in place by pressing on the accelerator, as this can cause the automatic transmission to overheat. When driving down hills, reduce your speed and shift down to S position, or use the paddle shifters to lower gear (3 or 2) in the S position. When towing a trailer, do not - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 505
behind a motor home. If your vehicle needs to be towed in an emergency, see page 572. Trailer Stability Assist Your vehicle is equipped with trailer stability assist function. This function works on the same sensors as the vehicle stability assist (VSA) system. This function helps to stabilize the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 506
even if you do not keep the pressure on the brake pedal. When the brakes are applied, the trailer's brake lights come on along with the vehicle brake lights. When the trailer stability assist activates, you will see the VSA system indicator blink. There may also be some noise from the VSA hydraulic - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 507
problem with the VSA system, the system and trailer stability assist shuts off. The VSA system indicator also come on (see page 473). The ABS indicator and the brake system indicator may also come on along with the VSA system indicator. If you see these warning indicators, have your vehicle checked - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 508
to continually assess the situation and drive within the limits. Check Out Your Vehicle Before you leave the pavement, be sure to do all scheduled maintenance and service, and inspect your vehicle for any problems. Pay special attention to the condition of the tires, and check the tire pressures - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 509
anti-lock braking system pump them for you. Avoiding Obstacles Debris in the road can damage your suspension or other components. Because your vehicle has a high center provide good traction. The water may hide hazards such as rocks, holes, or mud. ● ● The water is not deep enough to cover your - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 510
wheel hubs, some additional service may be required. This service is not covered by your warranties. If AWD system. If you are still unable to free yourself, your vehicle is equipped with front and rear tow hooks designed for this purpose. Use a nylon strap to attach the MDX to the recovery vehicle - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 511
504 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 512
want to purchase the service manual. See page 597 for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your dealer. U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ''certified - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 513
engine and exhaust system cool down before touching any parts. Injury from moving parts. Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so. ● Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground, the parking brake is set, and the engine is off. To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 514
features of the multiinformation display on your vehicle is the Maintenance Minder™. Based on engine operating conditions and accumulated engine revolutions, the onboard computer in your vehicle calculates the remaining engine oil life. The system % － 61% 70% 60% － 51% 60% 50% － 41% 50% - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 515
indicating the main and sub items required at the time of the oil change. Refer to page 514 for a complete list of the maintenance main items oil life. The message ''SERVICE'', along with ''5%'', and the maintenance item code are displayed on the lower part of the multiinformation display when the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 516
MinderTM These messages will come on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. Immediately have the service performed, and make sure life. The message ''SERVICE'', along with ''0%'', and the maintenance item code are displayed on the lower part of the multiinformation display - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 517
after seeing the 0% message. Immediately have the service performed, and make sure to reset the display service is not done and the remaining engine oil life becomes 0%, the multiinformation display will show a ''SERVICE engine oil life, the message ''SERVICE'', along with the maintenance item code - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 518
Display Your dealer will reset the display after completing the required maintenance service. You will see ''OIL LIFE 100%'' on the display the next on the steering wheel repeatedly until the multi-information display shows blank, SH-AWD and tire pressure. 3. Press and hold the SEL/RESET button on - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 519
the display without doing the service, the system will not show the correct maintenance intervals. This can lead to serious mechanical problems because you will no longer have an accurate record of when maintenance is needed. Your authorized dealer knows your vehicle best and can provide competent - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 520
Maintenance MinderTM U.S. Vehicles: According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with ＃ will not void your emissions warranties. However, Acura recommends that all maintenance services be performed in accordance with the intervals indicated by the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 521
Rotate tires Replace air cleaner element If you drive in dusty conditions, replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km). Replace dust and pollen filter If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air from industry and from diesel-powered vehicles, replace every 15 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 522
Fluid Locations POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap) BRAKE FLUID (Black cap) ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR ENGINE OIL FILL CAP Maintenance WASHER FLUID (Black cap) ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop) AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop) RADIATOR CAP 515 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 523
Engine Compartment Cover The component parts in the engine compartment are protected by the cover. You may need to remove the cover when you perform some simple maintenance work. Cover is secured by holding clips. To remove the front bulkhead cover, remove the holding clips with a flattip - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 524
Oil ENGINE OIL FILL CAP Unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve cover. Pour in the oil slowly and Institute's latest requirements. It is highly recommended that you use Acura motor oil in your vehicle. Make sure the API Certification Seal says ''For Gasoline Engines.'' - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 525
that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly. Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle should be raised on a service stationtype hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 526
oil drain. A special wrench (available from your dealer) is required. Make sure the oil filter gasket is not stuck to the engine block. If it is, remove it before installing a new oil filter. 6. Refill the engine with the recommended oil. Engine oil change capacity (including filter): 4.5 US qt - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 527
or plain water. If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/ coolant as soon as possible. If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in the radiator. Removing - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 528
Engine Coolant RADIATOR CAP COVER RADIATOR CAP 4. The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant cool. 2. Remove the radiator cap cover. Relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down. 3. Remove the radiator - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 529
with a good-quality windshield available windshield washer fluid. RESERVE TANK MIN 6. Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank. Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your vehicle's cooling system - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 530
vehicle on level ground. Start the engine, let it run until the radiator fan comes on, then shut off the engine. For accurate results, wait about 60 way into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration. 4. Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level. It should be between the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 531
. Using transmission fluid other than Acura ATF DW-1 may cause deterioration in transmission operation and durability, and could result in damage to the transmission. Damage resulting from the use of transmission fluid other than Acura ATF DW-1 is not covered by the Acura new vehicle warranty. 524 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 532
monthly. Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed as possible. Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle's braking system and can cause extensive damage. MIN MAX The fluid level should - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 533
frequently, and have the system inspected as soon as possible. Timing Belt The timing belt should be replaced at the intervals shown in the Maintenance Minder schedule. Replace the timing belt every 60,000 miles (U.S.) or every 100,000 km (Canada) if you regularly drive your vehicle in any of the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 534
vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the cargo removed. Because of this, you should not attempt to examine or change a low beam headlight bulb yourself. If a low beam headlight bulb fails, take the vehicle Remove the front bulkhead cover (see page 516). (Passenger's side) Remove - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 535
turn clockwise to lock it in place. 6. Push the electrical connector onto the new bulb. 7. Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb. ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR CONNECTOR (Passenger's side) Use a flat-tip screwdriver to remove the holding clip from the engine coolant reserve tank, and then - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 536
to lock it in place. 7. Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working. Maintenance 1. Open the hood. 2. Remove the front bulkhead cover (see page 516). 3. Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise. 4. Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. CONTINUED 529 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 537
driver's side, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right, then turn off the engine. To change the bulb on the passenger's side, turn the steering wheel to the left. 2. Remove the bolt and use the flattip screwdriver to remove the holding clips located under the front bumper - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 538
-quarter turn counterclockwise. 1. Open the tailgate. Put a cloth on the edge of the cover to prevent scratches. Remove the covers by prying the edge with a flat-tip screwdriver. 2. Remove the two bolts, and remove the rear light assembly from the rear pillar. 3. Determine which of the two bulbs - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 539
light assembly in the rear pillar. Tighten the two bolts. Snap the bolt covers into position. COVER 1. Open the tailgate. Place a cloth on the edge of the light assembly cover to prevent scratches. Remove the cover by carefully prying in the notch on its middle edge with a flat-tip screwdriver - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 540
and turn it clockwise to lock it in place. 7. Place the cover back into the light assembly. Push it up until it locks in above it. The bulbs should be replaced by your dealer. Maintenance BULB SOCKET 2. Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise. 3. Pull the bulb straight - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 541
and Pollen Filter This filter removes the dust and pollen that is brought in from the outside through the climate control system. Have your dealer replace the filter when this service is indicated . Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. Let the belts air-dry before you use the vehicle. 534 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 542
possibly interfering with the pedals, or backwards, making the front passenger's weight sensors ineffective. If you remove a floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your vehicle. If you use a non-Acura floor mat, make sure it fits properly and that it can be used with the floor - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 543
front wiper blades: 1. Raise each wiper arm off the windshield, lifting the driver's side first, then the passenger's side. 2. Disconnect the blade assembly hold the lock tab. Slide the blade assembly toward the lock tab until it releases from the wiper arm. ● Do not open the hood when the wiper - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 544
the wiper arm against the window. Windshield: Lower the passenger's side first, then the driver's side. REINFORCEMENT 3. Remove the blade from its holder by grabbing the tabbed end of the blade. Pull firmly until the tabs come out of the holder. 4. Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 545
. 2. Slide the blade out of the wiper arm. 3. Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no plastic or metal reinforcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade, and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade. 538 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 546
Wiper Blades 4. Slide the new blade into the wiper arm. Make sure it is engaged in the slot along its full length. 5. Lower the wiper arm. Maintenance 539 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 547
tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed. Follow all instructions in this owner's manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warns you when a tire pressure is low. See page - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 548
for most normal driving conditions. MDX, Technology Package, and U.S. Technology Package with Entertainment models Tire Size 255/55R18 105H Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front/Rear: 32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2) U.S. Advance Package, Advance Package with Entertainment, and Canadian Elite - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 549
build up and cause sudden tire failure. MDX, Technology Package, and U.S. Technology Package with Entertainment models Tire Size 255/55R18 105H psi (230 kPa, 2.3 kgf/cm2) U.S. Advance Package, Advance Package with Entertainment, and Canadian Elite Package models Tire Size P255/50R19 103H Cold Tire - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 550
Service Life The service life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including, but not limited to, driving habits, road conditions, vehicle It is also recommended that all tires, including the spare, be removed from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 551
be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer system to activate. (For Non-directional (For Directional Tires and Wheels) Tires and Wheels) Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicle's aluminum wheels. Use only Acura - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 552
are available at your dealer. Tires: Installing improper tires on your vehicle can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed. Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner's manual. Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheel: MDX - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 553
vehicle has limited tire clearance, Acura strongly recommends using the chains listed below. SCC Super Z-6＃ SC 435 When installing chains, follow the manufacturer's instructions cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed. Follow all instructions in this owner's manual regarding the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 554
problem with the sensor, you will see a ''CHECK BATTERY SENSOR'' message on the multiinformation display. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer. Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. The - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 555
preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your vehicle back on the road. If possible, store your vehicle indoors. ● ● Block the rear wheels. If the vehicle is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground. Leave one - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 556
and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your vehicle towed. Compact Spare Tire ...Changing a Flat Tire ...If the Engine Won't Start ...Jump Starting ...If the Engine - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 557
or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle as soon as you can. Check the inflation you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2) Follow these precautions: again. You will also see a ''CHECK TPMS SYSTEM'' message on the multi-information display (see page - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 558
away from the traffic lanes. CARGO AREA FLOOR JACK The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath. Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle when it is supported only by the jack. 1. Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 559
Changing a Flat Tire PLASTIC COVER KNOB COVER 5. The tools and jack are under the cargo area behind a cover on the driver's side. Remove the cover by turning the knobs counterclockwise, then pulling out the cover. 6. Turn the jack's end bracket counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the jack - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 560
Changing a Flat Tire WHEEL NUT WRENCH WHEEL NUT WRENCH BRACKET The wheel nut wrench supplied with your vehicle is specially adapted to fit the hoist shaft. Do not use any other tool. 8. Put the wheel nut wrench on the hoist shaft. Turn the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 561
Place the jack under the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts nut wrench as shown to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground. 14. Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire. 15. Before mounting the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 562
Lower the vehicle to the ground, and remove the jack. 20. Place the flat tire face up under the hoist. 21. Insert the hoist bracket into the center hole of at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 94 lbf·ft (127 N·m, 13 kgf·m) 19. Remove the center cap from the flat - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 563
's end bracket to lock it in place. Store the tools, and install the cover. 22. Slowly turn the wheel nut wrench clockwise to take up the slack of the vehicle and you hear the hoist click. 25. Refer to Changing a Tire with TPMS (see page 459). Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 564
the headlights are very dim or do not come on at all, the battery is discharged. technician to determine the problem. See Emergency Towing on page 572. can then try jump starting the vehicle from a booster battery (see page system indicator in the instrument panel to blink rapidly (see page 74 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 565
Start Your Vehicle: 1. Open problem. See Emergency Towing on page 572. If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can freeze. Attempting to jump start with a frozen battery can cause it to rupture. 2. Turn off all the electrical accessories: heater, A/C, climate control, audio system - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 566
cables have good metal-to-metal contact. 7. Once the vehicle is running, disconnect the negative cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your vehicle, and then point as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine. 559 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 567
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 brake. Turn off all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning indicators. 2. If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 568
control to AUTO at ''Hi.'' Add coolant to the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. If you do not have the proper coolant mixture available, you can add plain water. Remember to have the cooling system drained and refilled with the proper mixture as soon as you can. 10. Put - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 569
go out within 10 seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving (see Emergency Towing on page 572). Charging System Indicator If the charging system indicator comes on brightly when the engine is running, the battery is not being - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 570
off as you continue driving, have your vehicle checked by the dealer as soon as possible. Readiness Code Your vehicle has certain ''readiness codes'' that are part of the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems. In some states, part of the emissions testing is to make sure these codes are - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 571
stay on if you do not fully release the parking brake. If the brake system indicator comes on while driving, the brake fluid level problem in one part of the system's dual circuit design will still give you braking at two wheels. You will feel the brake pedal go down much farther before the vehicle - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 572
Fuses INTERIOR LID REAR LID UNDER-HOOD (PRIMARY) TAB The vehicle's fuses are located in four fuse boxes. The interior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver's side. To remove the fuse box lid, put your finger in the notch on the lid, pull it toward you, and take it out of - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 573
TAB Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your vehicle stops working, the first thing you should check for is to the LOCK (0) position. Make sure the headlights and all other accessories are off. 2. Remove the cover from the fuse box. The secondary fuse box is on the passenger - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 574
BLOWN BLOWN FUSE PULLER 3. Check each of the large fuses in the under-hood fuse boxes by looking through the top at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screwdriver. 4. Check the smaller fuses in the under-hood fuse boxes and rear fuse box, and all the fuses in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 575
vehicle without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the accessory the chances of damaging the electrical system. If you do not have a - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 576
40 A 40 A 40 A 40 A － 60 A 40 A 60 A 50 A Circuits Protected Main fuse Not Used ADSᤳ2 SH-AWD Rear Blower Motor ABS VSA Trailer Main Power Seats, Driver's Position Memory System, Subwoofer, Telescopic Steering Wheel Front Heated Seat, TPMS, Moonroof, Driver's Lumbar Support － Fog Lights, Front Blower - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 577
Fuse Locations SECONDARY UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX No. 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 22 Amps. 20 A 30 A 30 A 30 A 7.5 A 15 A 15 A 7.5 A Circuits Protected Fog Lights Headlight Washerᤳ Condenser Fan Cooling Fan A/C Clutch Left Headlight Low Right Headlight Low Small Lights (Interior) REAR FUSE BOX ᤳ: Canadian - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 578
SH-AWD Circuits Protected STS ODS Auxiliary (Holder2) Auxiliary (Holder1) No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Amps. 7.5 A 10 A 15 A 20 A 10 A 7.5 A 10 A 20 A 15 A 15 A 30 A 10 A 20 A Auxiliary (Holder2) Circuits Protected TPMS Driver's Lumbar Support Motor Moonroof Front Heated Seats Audio Interior - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 579
lever rearward. If the fuel fill door release button does not work, use the release lever inside the rear fuse box lid in the cargo area. Towing with only two tires on the ground will damage parts of the allwheel-drive system. Your vehicle should be transported on a flat-bed truck or trailer - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 580
sand, mud, or snow, call a towing service to pull it out (see the previous page). For very short distances, such as freeing the vehicle, you can use the detachable towing hook that mounts on the anchors in the front and rear bumpers. Front COVER Rear COVER 1. Remove the cover, put cloth on the edge - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 581
for straight, flat ground towing only. Do not tow at an angle. The tow hook should not be used to tow the vehicle onto a flat bed. Do not use it as a tie down. Front TOWING HOOK 2. Remove the towing hook and wheel nut wrench located behind the cargo area cover on the driver's side. 3. Screw the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 582
Numbers ...576 Specifications ...578 DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles) ...581 Tire Labeling ...583 Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) － Required Federal Explanation ...585 Emissions Controls ...587 Three Way Catalytic Converter ...589 Emissions Testing...590 Technical Information 575 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 583
warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your vehicle. The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard. You can see it by looking through the windshield on the driver's side. It is also on the certification label attached to the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 584
Identification Numbers The engine number is stamped into the engine block. It is on the front. The transmission number is on a label on top of the transmission. ENGINE NUMBER Technical Information AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER 577 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 585
Height Wheelbase Track Capacities Fuel tank Engine coolant Changeᤳ1 Total Engine oil Changeᤳ2 Including filter Without filter Total Automatic Change transmission Total fluid Rear Change differential Total fluid Transfer Change assembly Total fluid Windshield U.S. vehicles washer Canadian reservoir - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 586
Tailgate lights Vanity mirror lights Door lights Glove box light Foot light Battery Capacity High Lowᤳ1 60 W (HB3) 35 W (D2S) 60 W (HB3) 3 CP 21 W (Amber) 3 CP LEDᤳ2 LED the fuse box lid. See page 569 and 570 or the fuse box cover. Water-cooled, 4-stroke SOHC VTEC V6 gasoline engine 3.54 x 3.78 in - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 587
/55R18 105Hᤳ1 P255/50R19 103Hᤳ2 T165/80D17 104M 32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2) 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2) Pressure Front/Rear Spare ᤳ1: MDX, Technology Package, and U.S. Technology Package with Entertainment models ᤳ2: U.S. Advance Package, Advance Package with Entertainment, and Canadian Elite - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 588
Vehicles) The tires on your vehicle car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to these grades. Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 589
. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. Warning: The temperature grade for - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 590
of the same size. Following is an example of tire size with an explanation of what each component means. P255/50R19 103H P － Vehicle type (P indicates passenger vehicle). 103 － Load index (a numerical code associated with the maximum load the tire can carry). H － Speed symbol (an alphabetical code - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 591
Tire Labeling FW6X － Tire type code. 2202 － Date of manufacture. Year Week Glossary of Tire Terminology Cold Tire Pressure － The tire air pressure when the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). Load Rating － Means the maximum load that a tire is rated - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 592
label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.) As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes the tire to - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 593
for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 594
poisonous gas. The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Actᤳ sets standards for automobile is on page 514. ᤳ In Canada, Acura vehicles comply with the Canadian emission requirements, as into the engine and burned. Evaporative Emissions Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 595
should use only new Acura replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your vehicle. The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your vehicle. Read your warranty manual for more information. This - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 596
NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Acura part or its equivalent. The three way catalytic converter any combustible materials that come near it. Park your vehicle away from high grass, air pollution, and can impair your engine's performance. Follow these guidelines to protect your vehicle - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 597
Readiness Codes If you take your vehicle for an emissions test shortly after the battery has been disconnected or gone dead, it may not pass the test. This is because of certain ''readiness codes'' that must be set in the onboard diagnostics for the emissions systems. These codes are erased when the - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 598
Testing 7. Select a nearby lightly traveled major highway where you can maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph (80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20 minutes. Drive on the highway in D. Do not use the cruise control. When traffic allows, drive for 90 seconds without moving the accelerator pedal. (Vehicle - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 599
592 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 600
Warranty and Client Relations Client Service Information...Warranty Coverages ...Reporting Safety Defects ...Authorized Manuals ...594 595 596 597 Warranty and Client Relations 593 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 601
Canada Inc. Acura Client Services 180 Honda Boulevard Markham, ON L6C 0H9 Tel: 1-888-9-ACURA-9 Fax: 1-877 services your vehicle Date of purchase Odometer reading of your vehicle Your name, address, and telephone number A detailed description of the problem Name of the dealer who sold the vehicle - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 602
to the 2012 warranty manual that came with your vehicle. warranties cover your vehicle's emissions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read your warranty booklet for exact information. Replacement Parts Limited Warranty － covers all Acura replacement parts against - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 603
.gov. In Canada If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform Honda Canada Inc. and you may also inform Transport Canada. If Transport Canada receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 604
Description 2010-2012 Acura MDX Service Manual 2010-2011 Acura MDX Electrical Troubleshooting Manual 2008 Acura MDX Body Repair Manual 2012 Acura MDX Owner's Manual 2012 Acura MDX Navigation System Owner's Manual 2012 Acura MDX Maintenance Journal 2012 Acura MDX Advance Technology Guide Order Form - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 605
Accessory Power Sockets ...177 AC Power Outlet ...178 Active Damper System ...484 Active Head Restraints ...152 AcuraLink® (U.S. models only) ...402 Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) ...348 Additives, Engine Oil ...518 Adjusting the Steering Wheel ...134 Advanced Airbags ...31 Airbag (SRS) ...10, 27 Air - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 606
Service Information ...594 Climate Control System ...182 Clock ...309 Code, Audio System ...308 CO in the Exhaust ...61, 587 Cold Weather, Starting in ...442 Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) ...463 Compact Spare Tire ...550 Compass Operation ...342 Console Compartment ...175 Consumer - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 607
Prevention ...141 DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles) ...581 Driver and Passenger Safety ...5 Driving ...439 Economy ...428 Driving Guidelines ...440 Driving Position Memory System ...168 Driving with the Paddle Shifters ...447 Dust and Pollen Filter ...534 DVD Player ...313 DVD Player Error - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 608
Fumes ...61 Exhaust Gas Recirculation System ...588 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat Belts by ...19 F Fan, Interior ...185 Features ...181 Filters Dust and Pollen ...534 Oil ...518 Flashers, Hazard Warning ...132 Flat Tire, Changing a ...551 Floor Mats ...535 Fluids Automatic Transmission ...523 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 609
-Low Beam Switch ...128 HomeLink® Universal Transceiver ...363 Hood, Opening and Closing the ...426 Horn ...4, 125 I Identification Number, Vehicle ...576 Ignition Keys ...136 Switch ...139 Timing Control System ...588 Immobilizer System ...138 Important Safety Precautions ...6 INDEX CONTINUED V - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 610
Panel ...67 ABS (Anti-lock Brake) ...70, 462 Active Damper System ...77, 484 Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) ...75 A/T Temp ...72 Blind Spot Information System (BSI) ...76 Brake (Parking and Brake System) ...69, 564 Charging System ...69, 562 Collision Mitigation Braking System™ ...75 Cruise Control - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 611
Locks Anti-theft Steering Luggage, Storing (cargo) ...433 M Maintenance Vehicle Break-in ...422 NOTICE, Explanation of ...i Numbers, Identification ...576 O Octane Requirement, Gasoline ...422 Odometer ...81 Odometer, Trip ...81 Off-Highway Driving Guidelines ...500 Oil Change, How to ...518 Change - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 612
Flash Memory Device ...287 Playing Disc ...203 Playing Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Audio (Models with navigation system) ...250 Playing the AM/FM Radio ...193, 213 Playing the XM® Radio ...197, 226 Pollen Filter ...534 Power Seat Adjustments ...149 Power Socket Locations ...177 Power Steering Fluid ...526 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 613
Safety Defects, Reporting ...596 Safety Features ...8 Airbags System ...341 Security System Indicator ...77 Sensors Driver's Seat Position Sensor ...31 Front Passenger's Weight Sensors ...31 Impact Sensors ...27 Serial Number ...576 Service Intervals ...507 Service Station Procedures ...424 SH-AWD - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 614
Battery ...558 State Emissions Testing ...590 Steam Coming from Engine ...560 Steering Wheel Adjustments ...134 Anti-theft Column Lock ...139 Buttons ...305, 345 Position Memory ...168 Stereo Sound System ...192, 212 Storage Compartment ...175 Storing Your Vehicle ...548 Sunglasses Holder ...176 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 615
Changing ...551 Towing A Trailer ...487 Emergency Wrecker ...572 Equipment and Accessories ...492 Trailer Loading ...488 Trailer Towing Tips ...496 Weight Limit ...487 TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System Mirror ...Vehicle Capacity Load ...Vehicle Dimensions ...Vehicle Identification Number ... - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 616
473 VSA OFF Button ...474 VSA OFF Indicator ...71 VSA System Indicator ...71 Vehicle Storage ...548 Ventilation ...189 VIN ...576 Viscosity, Oil Cleaning ...126 Defroster ...186 Washers ...126, 522 Wipers, Windshield Changing Blades ...536 Operation ...126 Rear Windshield Wiper and Washer ...127 - 2012 Acura MDX | Owner's Manual - Page 617
(see page 517). Oil change capacity (including filter): 4.5 US qt (4.3 L) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Acura ATF DW-1 (automatic transmission fluid) (see page 524). Rear Differential Fluid: Use Acura All-Wheel Drive Fluid (DPSF) only. Capacity: SH-AWD differential case 2.6 US qt (2.5 L) Transfer
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 |
 |
2012 MDX
Owner’s Manual
(Unlinked)
This document does not contain hyperlinks and may be formatted for printing instead of web use.
This is due to changes
in content and specifications of the vehicle that happen throughout the model year.
This manual will be replaced with a
hyperlinked version at the end of the model year.
P/N 00X31-STX-
© 2011 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. - All Rights Reserved
6501