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 ''CHECK TPMS SYSTEM'' message with the indicator flashing (see page 458), the VSA system automatically turns on even if the VSA system is turned off by pressing the VSA OFF button. If this case, you cannot turn the VSA system off by pressing the VSA OFF button again. Without VSA, your vehicle will have normal braking and cornering ability, but it will not have VSA traction and stability enhancement. VSA Off Button VSA is turned on every time you start the engine, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the vehicle. In certain unusual conditions when your vehicle gets stuck in shallow mud or fresh snow, it may be easier to free it with the VSA temporarily switched off. When the VSA system is off, the traction control system is also off. You should only attempt to free your vehicle with the VSA off if you are not able to free it when the VSA is on. This switch is under the driver's side vent. To turn the VSA system on and off, press and hold it until you hear a beep. When VSA is off, the VSA off indicator comes on as a reminder. Press and hold the switch again. It turns the system back on. With the VSA off, the trailer stability assist function is also turned off (see page 498). Immediately after freeing your vehicle, be sure to switch the VSA on again. We do not recommend driving your vehicle with the VSA and traction control systems switched off. 474