Acura MDX Hybrid (2017 year). Manual - part 15

232

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Before Driving

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Driving Preparation

Driving

• Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll under the 

seats.

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They can interfere with the driver’s ability to operate the pedals, the operation 
of the seats, or the operation of the sensors under the seats.

• Everyone in the vehicle must fasten their seat belt.

2 Fastening a Seat Belt P. 40

• Make sure that the indicators in the instrument panel come on when you start the 

vehicle, and go off soon after.

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Always have a dealer check the vehicle if a problem is indicated.

2 Indicators P. 78

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Before Driving

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Maximum Load Limit

Continued

Driving

Maximum Load Limit

The maximum load for your vehicle is 1,173 lbs (532 kg).

The maximum load for your vehicle is 1,005 lbs (456 kg).
See the Tire and Loading Information label attached to the driver’s 
doorjamb.

This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and 
accessories, and the tongue load if you are towing a trailer.

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit -
(1) Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and 

cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your 
vehicle’s placard.

(2) Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers 

that will be riding in your vehicle.

(3) Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers 

from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

1

Maximum Load Limit

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):
The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all 
occupants, all accessories, all cargo.

2 Specifications P. 432

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR):
The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle axle.

2 Specifications P. 432

3

WARNING

Overloading or improper loading 
can affect handling and stability 
and cause a crash in which you 
can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other 
loading guidelines in this manual.

Models with bench seat

Models with captain seat

Label Example

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Before Driving

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Maximum Load Limit

Driving

(4) The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and 

luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount 
equals 1,400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in 
your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load 
capacity is 650 lbs.
(1,400 - 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.)

(5) Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being 

loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the 
available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4.

(6) If 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.

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Before Driving

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Maximum Load Limit

Driving

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.

Load Limits Example

Example1

Max Load 

1,173 lbs 

(532 kg)

Passenger Weight 

150 lbs x 2 = 300 lbs 

(68 kg x 2 = 136 kg)

Cargo Weight 

873 lbs 

(396 kg)

Example2

Max Load 

1,173 lbs 

(532 kg)

Passenger Weight 

150 lbs x 5 = 750 lbs 

(68 kg x 5 = 340 kg)

Cargo Weight 

423 lbs 

(192 kg)

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236

Driving

Towing a Trailer

Your vehicle is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void your 
warranties.

Towing Your Vehicle

Your vehicle is not designed to be towed behind a motor home. If your vehicle needs 
to be towed in an emergency, refer to the emergency towing information.

2 Emergency Towing P. 427

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Driving

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

General Information

Your vehicle has been designed primarily for use on pavement, however, its higher 
ground clearance allows you to occasionally travel on unpaved roads. It is not 
designed for trail-blazing, or other challenging off-road activities.

If you decide to drive on unpaved roads, you will find that it requires somewhat 
different driving skills and that your vehicle will handle somewhat differently than it 
does on pavement. Pay attention to the precautions and tips in this section, and get 
acquainted with your vehicle before leaving the pavement.

Important Safety Precautions

To avoid loss of control or rollover, be sure to follow all precautions and 
recommendations:
• Be sure to store cargo properly and do not exceed your cargo load limits.

2 Maximum Load Limit P. 233

• Whenever you drive, make sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts.
• Keep your speed low, and never go faster than the conditions allow.
• It’s up to you to continually assess the situation and drive within the limits.

1

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Failure to operate your vehicle correctly might result 
in a crash or a rollover.

2 Important Handling Information P. 34
2 Precautions While Driving P. 245

Spinning the tires can also damage the SPORT 
HYBRID Super Handling-All Wheel Drive

TM

 system.

3

WARNING

Improperly operating this vehicle on or the 
off pavement can cause a crash or rollover 
in which you and your passengers could be 
seriously injured or killed.

• Follow all instructions and guidelines in 

this owner’s manual.

• Keep your speed low, and don’t drive 

faster than conditions permit.

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

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Avoiding Trouble

Driving

Avoiding Trouble

• Check Out Your Vehicle before you leave the pavement and make sure that all 

scheduled maintenance has been completed. Pay special attention to the 
condition of the tires, and check the tire pressures.

• Remember the route you choose presents limits (too steep or bumpy), you have 

limits (driving skill and comfort), and your vehicle has limits (traction, stability, and 
power). Failing to recognize these limits will likely put you and your passengers in 
a hazardous situation.

• Accelerating and Braking should be done slowly and gradually. Trying to start 

or stop too fast can cause a loss of traction and you could lose control.

• Avoiding Obstacles and Debris in the road reduces the likelihood of a rollover 

or damage to your suspension or other components.

• Driving on Slopes increases your risk of a rollover, particularly if you attempt to 

drive across a slope that is too steep. Going straight up or down a slope is usually 
the safest. If you can’t clearly see all conditions or obstacles on a slope, walk it 
before you drive it. If there is any doubt whether you can safely pass, don’t try it. 
Find another route. If you get stuck when climbing, do not try to turn around. 
Back down slowly following the same route you took up the hill.

• Crossing a Stream - Avoid driving through deep water. If you encounter water 

in your route (a small stream or large puddle, for example), evaluate it carefully 
before going ahead. Make sure it is shallow, flowing slowly, and has firm ground 
underneath. If you are not sure of the depth or the ground, turn around and find 
another route. Driving through deep water can also damage your vehicle. The 
water can get into the transmission and differential, diluting the lubricant and 
causing an eventual failure. It can also wash the grease out of the wheel bearings.

• If You Get Stuck, carefully go in the direction that you think will get you 

unstuck. Do not spin the tires as this will only make things worse and could 
damage the transmission. If you are unable to free yourself, your vehicle will need 
to be towed. Front and rear tow hooks are provided for this purpose.

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Continued

Driving

When Driving

Turning on the Power

1. Make sure the parking brake is applied.

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The electric parking brake indicator 
comes on for 15 seconds when you press 
the electric parking brake switch.

2. Depress the brake pedal.

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Make sure the transmission is in 

(

P.

1

Turning on the Power

Keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal when 
starting the power system.
The engine is harder to start in cold weather and in 
thinner air found at altitudes above 8,000 feet (2,400 
meters).

When turning on the power system in cold weather, 
turn off all electrical accessories such as the lights, 
climate control system, and rear defogger in order to 
reduce 12-volt battery drain.

If you live in a region where winter is extremely cold, 
an engine block heater and transmission clutch 
actuator heater will improve starting and warming of 
the engine. Consult a dealer for details.

If the exhaust system sounds abnormal or you can 
smell exhaust gas inside the vehicle, have your vehicle 
checked by a dealer. There may be a problem with 
the engine or exhaust system.

Brake Pedal

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When Driving

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Turning on the Power

240

Driving

3. Press the POWER button without 

depressing the accelerator pedal.

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The Ready To Drive message appears 
on the multi-information display (MID).

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If the High Voltage battery is fully 
charged, the gasoline engine may not 
start.

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If the High Voltage battery charge level is 
low, the gasoline engine starts.

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When the ambient temperature is 
extremely low, the vehicle does not move 
until certain conditions are met.
A warning message appears instead of 
Ready To Drive.

2 Multi-Information Display (MID) 

Warning and Information Messages 
P. 99

You can turn the power system off when the vehicle is completely stopped.
1. Select 

(

P.

2. Press and hold the POWER button.

1

Turning on the Power

Bring the keyless access remote close to the POWER 
button if the battery in the keyless access remote is 
weak.

2 If the Keyless Access Remote Battery is 

Weak P. 405

The power system may not activate if the keyless 
access remote is subjected to strong radio waves.
Do not hold the POWER button to start the power 
system.
If the power system does not start, wait at least 30 
seconds before trying again.

The immobilizer system protects your vehicle from 
theft.
If an improperly coded key (or other device) is used, 
the power system does not activate.

2 Immobilizer System P. 158

When you turn the power system on, you may feel 
the brake pedal slightly sink down. This is normal.

■

Stopping the Power System

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When Driving

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Turning on the Power

Driving

You can remotely turn the power system on using the two-way keyless access 
remote from extended distances.

■

To turn the power system on

The power system is on for up to 10 minutes without you starting the vehicle.
To extend the time for another 10 minutes during the first 10 minutes, press the 

 button, then press and hold the 

 button.

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The amber LED blinks, then the green LED comes back on if a 10-minute 
extension request was transmitted successfully.

After pressing the (lock) button, wait for the green LED to blink. This indicates that 
the all the doors and the tailgate are locked. 

■

Remote Engine Start with Vehicle Feedback

1

Remote Engine Start with Vehicle Feedback

WARNING: 

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic and can 

rapidly accumulate in closed or even partly enclosed 
areas.
Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill 
you.
Never use the remote engine starter with the vehicle 
parked in a garage or other areas with limited 
ventilation.

Remote Engine Start run timer extension
The power system is on for another 10 minutes from 
the time of extension request. The max time is 20 
minutes, if the extension request is made after 10 
minutes of first 10 minutes.

The vehicle may start in EV mode depending on High 
Voltage battery conditions.

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If the High Voltage battery is fully charged, the 

gasoline engine may not start.

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If the High Voltage battery charge level is low, the 

gasoline engine starts.

Press the 

 button, then press and hold 

the  

button.

Amber LED: Blinks when any button is pressed.

Continues to blink 
during a vehicle 
self check until the 
power system is 
turned on.

Go within the range, 
and try again.

Green LED: Comes on while 
the power system is on.

Red LED: Blinks when the 
remote is out of the keyless 
access system range.

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When Driving

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Turning on the Power

242

Driving

■

To turn the power system off

Press and hold the 

 button 

for one second.

Go within the range, 
and try again.

Amber LED: Blinks when any 
button is pressed.

Red LED:

●

Comes on for one second to let you know 
that the power system is turned off.

●

Blinks when the remote is out of the 
keyless access system range. The power 
system will not be turned off.

1

Remote Engine Start with Vehicle Feedback

If there are buildings and obstacles between your 
vehicle and the remote, the range will be reduced.
This distance may vary by external electrical 
interference.
The power system may not be turned on by the 
remote engine start if:

•

You have disabled a remote engine start setting 
using the multi-information display (MID).

•

The power mode is not in VEHICLE OFF (LOCK).

•

The gear is in a position other than 

(

P.

•

The hood is open, or any door or the tailgate is 
unlocked.

•

You have already used the remote twice to turn the 
power system on.

•

Another registered keyless access remote is in the 
vehicle.

•

There is any antenna failure.

•

Door is unlocked with the built-in key.

•

The engine oil pressure is low.

•

The engine coolant temperature is extremely high.

•

The telematics unit malfunctions.

•

The security system alarm is not set.

Before turning the power system on, make sure to 
check the door lock status using the remote. When 
you press the 

 button, wait for the green LED to 

blink. If the red LED turns on, the doors and tailgate 
did not lock, and the power system is not turned on.

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When Driving

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Turning on the Power

Driving

1

Remote Engine Start with Vehicle Feedback

While the power system is on, the vehicle will 
automatically precondition inside the vehicle.
When it is warm outside:

•

The air conditioning is activated in recirculation 
mode.

•

The seat ventilation is activated

*

.

When it is cold outside:

•

The defroster is activated at a moderately warm 
temperature.

•

The rear defogger and door mirror heaters are 
activated.

•

The seat heaters and heated steering wheel are 
activated

*

.

2 Heated Steering Wheel

*

 P. 211

2 Front Seat Heaters and Seat 

Ventilation

*

 P. 212, 213

* Not available on all models

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When Driving

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Turning on the Power

244

Driving

1. Depress the brake pedal and press the POWER button simultaneously.

2. Keeping your right foot on the brake pedal, press the 

 button. Select 

(

R 

when reversing.

3. With the parking brake applied, release the brake pedal and gently depress the 

accelerator pedal.

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Make sure the electric parking brake indicator goes off.

2 Parking Brake P. 299
2 If the Transmission System Indicator Blinks along with the Warning Message 

P. 416

■

Hill start assist system

Hill start assist keeps the brake engaged briefly to help prevent the vehicle from 
rolling on inclines as you move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator.

Change the gear position to 

(

D or 

(

S when facing uphill, or 

(

R when facing 

downhill, then release the brake pedal.

■

Starting to Drive

1

Starting to Drive

The power system is turned off when the gear 
position is changed from 

(

P before the POWER 

button is pressed. Follow the step 1 when starting to 
drive.

You can also release the parking brake by pulling the 
electric parking brake switch while depressing the 
brake pedal.
When facing downhill, you can start your vehicle 
more smoothly by manually releasing it with the 
electric parking brake switch than by releasing it with 
the accelerator pedal.

When the power system was started using the two-way 
keyless access remote

When the power system was started using the two-way keyless access remote

When the power system was started in any case

D/S

1

Hill start assist system

Hill start assist may not prevent the vehicle from 
rolling downhill on a very steep or slippery slope, and 
will not operate on small inclines.

Hill start assist is not a replacement for the parking 
brake.

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When Driving

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Precautions While Driving

Driving

Precautions While Driving

Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. 
To prevent rollovers or loss of control:
• Take corners at slower speeds than you would with a passenger vehicle.
• Avoid sharp turns and abrupt maneuvers whenever possible.
• Do not modify your vehicle in any way that you would raise the center of gravity.
• Do not carry heavy cargo on the roof.

Never carry more than 165 lbs (75 kg) of cargo on the roof rack (Acura accessory).

Avoid driving in deep water and on flooded roads. This can damage the engine, 
driveline, or cause electrical component failure.

If there is a strong impact with something under the vehicle, stop in a safe location. 
Check the underside of the vehicle for damage or any fluid leaks.

■

Driving Guidelines for Your Utility Vehicle

■

In Rain

■

Other Precautions

1

Precautions While Driving

NOTICE

Do not select a shift button while pressing the 
accelerator pedal. You could damage the 
transmission.

NOTICE

If you repeatedly turn the steering wheel at an 
extremely low speed, or hold the steering wheel in 
the full left or right position for a while, the electric 
power steering (EPS) system heats up. The system 
goes into a protective mode, and limits its 
performance. The steering wheel becomes harder 
and harder to operate. Once the system cools down, 
the EPS system is restored. Repeated operation under 
these conditions can eventually damage the system.

If the power mode is set to ACCESSORY while 
driving, the power system will shut down and all 
steering and brake power assist functions will stop, 
making it difficult to control the vehicle.

Do not press the 

(

N button, as you will lose 

regenerative braking (and acceleration) performance.

During the first 600 miles (1,000 km) of operation, 
avoid sudden acceleration or full throttle operation so 
as not to damage the engine or powertrain.

Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles (300 km). 
You should also follow this when the brake pads are 
replaced.

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When Driving

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Dual Clutch Transmission

Driving

Dual Clutch Transmission

As with a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle with an automatic transmission, 
this vehicle will creep.
Keep the brake pedal firmly depressed when stopped.

Quickly depressing the accelerator pedal while driving uphill may cause the 
transmission to drop to a lower gear, unexpectedly increasing vehicle speed. Depress 
the accelerator pedal carefully, especially on slippery roads and curves.

■

Creeping

■

Kickdown

1

Driving Guidelines for Your Utility Vehicle

Failure to operate your vehicle correctly might result 
in a crash or a rollover.

2 Important Handling Information P. 34
2 Precautions While Driving P. 245

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When Driving

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Shifting

Continued

Driving

Shifting

Change the gear position in accordance with your driving needs.

■

Shift button positions

1

Shifting

To prevent malfunction and unintended 
engagement:

•

Do not spill any liquids on or around shift buttons.

•

Do not place or drop any objects on or around shift 
buttons.

•

Do not let passengers or children operate the shift 
buttons.

You may occasionally find that it takes longer than 
usual for the vehicle to start moving when you select 

(

R, release the brake pedal, and/or depress the 

accelerator pedal. This may occur when the High 
Voltage battery level is extremely low, and does not 
indicate a vehicle malfunction.

3

WARNING

The vehicle can roll away if left unattended 
without confirming that Park is engaged.

Always keep your foot on the brake pedal 
until you have confirmed that 

(

P

 is shown 

on the gear position Indicator.

Park
Used when parking or starting the power 
system

Reverse
Used when reversing

Neutral
Used when idling

Drive
Used for:

●

Normal driving (gears change between 1st 
and 7th automatically)

●

Temporarily driving in the sequential 
mode

Drive (S)
Used for:

●

Automatically changing gears between 1st 
and 6th (6th gear is used only at high 
speed)

●

Driving in the sequential mode

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