Acura NSX (2017 year). Manual - part 23

357

Driving

Refueling

Fuel Information

■

Fuel requirement

Use of lower octane gasoline can cause occasional metallic knocking noise in the 
engine and will result in decreased engine performance.
We recommend that you use a pump octane of 93 or higher to maximize the 
performance of the engine.
Use of gasoline with a pump octane less than 91 can lead to engine damage.

■

Top tier detergent gasoline

Because the level of detergency and additives in gasoline vary in the market, Acura 
endorses the use of “TOP 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 will, in most cases, identify their gasoline as having met 
“TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline” standards at the retail location. This fuel is 
guaranteed to contain the proper level of detergent additives and be free of metallic 
additives. The proper level of detergent additives, and absence of harmful metallic 
additives in gasoline, help avoid build-up of deposits in your engine and emission 
control system.

For further important fuel-related information for your vehicle, or on information on 
gasoline that does not contain MMT, visit Acura Owners at owners.acura.com. In 
Canada, visit www.acura.ca for additional information on gasoline. For more 
information on top tier gasoline, visit www.toptiergas.com.

■

Fuel tank capacity: 15.6 US gal (59.0 liters)

Unleaded premium gasoline, pump octane number 91 or higher

1

Fuel Information

NOTICE

We recommend quality gasoline containing 
detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and 
engine deposits. In addition, in order to maintain 
good performance, fuel economy, and emissions 
control, we strongly recommend the use of gasoline 
that does NOT contain harmful manganese-based 
fuel additives such as MMT, if such gasoline is 
available.

Use of gasoline with these additives may adversely 
affect performance, and cause the malfunction 
indicator lamp on your instrument panel to come on. 
If this happens, contact an authorized Acura NSX 
dealer for service.
Some gasoline today is blended with oxygenates such 
as ethanol. Your vehicle is designed to operate on 
oxygenated gasoline containing up to 15% ethanol 
by volume. Do not use gasoline containing methanol. 
If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try 
another service station or switch to another brand of 
gasoline.

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Refueling

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How to Refuel

Driving

How to Refuel

Your fuel tank is not equipped with a fuel fill cap. You can insert the filler nozzle 
directly into the filler neck. The tank seals itself again when you pull out the filler 
nozzle.

1. Stop your vehicle with the service station 

pump on the left side of the vehicle in the 
rear.

2. Turn off the power system.
3. Press the fuel fill door release button.

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The fuel fill door opens.

4. Place the end of the filler nozzle on the 

lower part of filler opening, then insert it 
slowly and fully.

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Make sure that the end of the filler 
nozzle goes down along with the filler 
pipe.

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Keep the filler nozzle level.

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When the tank is full, the filler nozzle will 
click off automatically.

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After filling, wait about five seconds 
before removing the filler nozzle.

5. Shut the fuel fill door by hand.

1

How to Refuel

The fuel filler opening is designed to accept only 
service station filler nozzles for refueling. Use of 
smaller diameter tubes (e.g., to siphon fuel for other 
uses) or other non-service station devices can 
damage the area in and around the filler opening.

The filler nozzle automatically stops to leave space in 
the fuel tank so that fuel does not overflow as a result 
of changes in air temperature.

If the fuel nozzle keeps turning off when the tank is not 
full, there may be a problem with the pump’s fuel vapor 
recovery system. Try filling at another pump. If this does not 
fix the problem, consult an authorized Acura NSX dealer.

Do not continue to add fuel after the nozzle has 
automatically stopped. Additional fuel can exceed 
the full tank capacity.

If you have to refuel your vehicle from a portable 
container, use the funnel provided with your vehicle.

2 Refueling from a Portable Fuel Container P. 451

3

WARNING

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. 
You can be burned or seriously injured 
when handling fuel.

• Turn the power system off, and keep 

heat, sparks, and flame away.

• Handle fuel only outdoors.
• Wipe up spills immediately.

Press

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359

Driving

Fuel Economy and CO

2

 Emissions

Improving Fuel Economy and Reducing CO

2

 

Emissions

Achieving fuel economy and reducing CO

2

 emissions is dependent on several 

factors, including driving conditions, load weight, idling time, driving habits, and 
vehicle condition. Depending on these and other factors, you may not achieve the 
rated fuel economy of this vehicle.

You can optimize your fuel economy with proper maintenance of your vehicle. 
Always maintain your vehicle in accordance with the messages displayed on the 
driver information interface.
• Use the recommended viscosity engine oil, displaying the API Certification Seal.
• Maintain the specified tire pressure.
• Do not load the vehicle with excess cargo.
• Keep your vehicle clean. A buildup of snow or mud on your vehicle’s underside 

adds weight and increases wind resistance.

■

Maintenance and Fuel Economy

1

Improving Fuel Economy and Reducing CO

2

 Emissions

Direct calculation is the recommended method to 
determine actual fuel consumed while driving.

In Canada, posted fuel economy numbers are 
established following a simulated test. For more 
information on how this test is performed, please visit 
http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/

Miles driven

Gallons of 

fuel

Miles per 

Gallon

100

L per 100 km

Liters of 

fuel

Kilometers 

driven

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360

Driving

Turbo Engine Vehicle

Handling Precautions

The turbocharger is a high-precision device designed to obtain greater horsepower 
by delivering a large volume of compressed air into the engine using a turbine driven 
by the engine’s exhaust gas pressure.

• When the engine is cold just after starting, avoid hard or sudden 

acceleration.

• Always replace the engine oil and engine oil filter according to the 

Maintenance Minder

TM

.

The turbine rotates at very high speeds over 100,000 rpm and its temperature 
reaches over 1,292°F (700°C). It is lubricated and cooled by engine oil.
If you fail to replace the engine oil and filter at the scheduled distance or interval, 
deteriorated engine oil may cause failure such as sticking and abnormal noise of the 
turbine bearing.

1

Turbo Engine Vehicle

The scheduled maintenance intervals for replacing 
the engine oil and filter is indicated on the 
Maintenance Minder

TM

. Follow the information of 

when to replace them.

2 Maintenance Minder

TM

 P. 365

2 Recommended Engine Oil P. 376

The temperature gauge needle is at the 

 mark 

when you restart the engine after driving under high 
load conditions such as at high speed or in hilly 
terrain. This is normal. The gauge needle goes down 
after you idle or drive the vehicle for about one 
minute.

H

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361

Maintenance

This chapter discusses basic maintenance.

Before Performing Maintenance

Inspection and Maintenance ............ 362
Safety When Performing Maintenance .... 363
Parts and Fluids Used in Maintenance 

Service ........................................... 364

Maintenance Minder

TM

..................... 365

Maintenance Under the Hood and Hatch

Maintenance Items Under the Hood and 

Hatch ............................................. 371

Opening the Hatch .......................... 373
Opening the Hood ........................... 374
Engine Compartment Cover............. 375
Recommended Engine Oil ................ 376
Oil Check ......................................... 377
Adding Engine Oil ............................ 380

Cooling System................................ 382
Inverter Coolant............................... 384
Transmission Fluids .......................... 385
Brake Fluid....................................... 386
Refilling Window Washer Fluid......... 386

Replacing Light Bulbs ....................... 387
Checking and Maintaining Wiper Blades.... 390
Checking and Maintaining Tires

Checking Tires ................................. 393
Tire and Loading Information Label ..... 394
Tire Labeling .................................... 394
DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)...... 396
Wear Indicators................................ 398
Tire Service Life ................................ 398
Tire and Wheel Replacement............ 399

Tire Rotation.................................... 400
Winter Tires ..................................... 401
Cold Weather Driving ...................... 402

12-Volt Battery ................................. 403
Remote Transmitter Care

Replacing the Button Battery ........... 404

Climate Control System Maintenance .... 405
Cleaning

Interior Care .................................... 406
Exterior Care.................................... 408

Accessories and Modifications

Accessories ...................................... 412
Modifications................................... 413

Storage.............................................. 414

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Before Performing Maintenance

Inspection and Maintenance

For your safety, perform all listed inspections and maintenance to keep your vehicle 
in good condition. If you become aware of any abnormality (noise, smell, insufficient 
brake fluid, oil residue on the ground, etc.), have your vehicle inspected by an 
authorized Acura NSX dealer. (Note, however, that service at an authorized Acura 
NSX dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect.)

■

Daily inspections

Perform inspections before long distance trips, when washing the vehicle, or when 
refueling.

■

Periodic inspections

• Check the brake fluid level monthly.

2 Brake Fluid P. 386

• Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects.

2 Checking and Maintaining Tires P. 393

• Check the operation of the exterior lights monthly.

2 Replacing Light Bulbs P. 387

• Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every six months.

2 Checking and Maintaining Wiper Blades P. 390

■

Types of Inspection and Maintenance

1

Inspection and Maintenance

Maintenance, replacement, or repair of 
emissions control devices and systems may be 
done by any automotive repair establishment or 
individuals using parts that are “certified” to 
EPA standards.

According to state and federal regulations, failure to 
perform maintenance on the maintenance main 
items marked with # will not void your emissions 
warranties. However, all maintenance services should 
be performed in accordance with the intervals 
indicated by the driver information interface.

2 Maintenance Service Items P. 368

If you want to perform complex maintenance tasks 
that require more skills and tools, you can purchase a 
subscription to the Service Express website at 
www.techinfo.honda.com.

2 Authorized Manuals P. 463

If you want to perform maintenance yourself, make 
sure that you have the necessary tools and skills first.
After performing maintenance, update the records in 
the separate maintenance booklet.

U.S. models

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Before Performing Maintenance

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Safety When Performing Maintenance

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Safety When Performing Maintenance

Some of the most important safety precautions are given here.
However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in 
performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform 
a given task.

• To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames 

away from the 12-volt battery, all fuel related parts, and all High Voltage system 
related parts.

• Never leave rags, towels, or other flammable objects under the hood and hatch.

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Heat from the engine and exhaust can ignite them causing a fire.

• To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not 

gasoline.

• Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with the 12-volt 

battery or compressed air.

• Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and can kill you.

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Operate the engine only when there is sufficient ventilation.

• The vehicle must be in a stationary condition.

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Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground, the parking brake is set, and 
the power system is turned off.

• Be aware that hot parts can burn you.

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Make sure to let the power system, including the engine and exhaust system, 
cool thoroughly before touching vehicle parts.

• Be aware that moving parts can injure you.

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Do not activate the power system unless instructed, and keep your hands and 
limbs away from moving parts.

■

Maintenance Safety

■

Vehicle Safety

1

Safety When Performing Maintenance

3

WARNING

Improperly maintaining this vehicle or 
failing to correct a problem before driving 
can cause a crash in which you can be 
seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection and 
maintenance recommendations according 
to the schedules in this owner’s manual.

3

WARNING

Failure to properly follow maintenance 
instructions and precautions can cause you 
to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and 
precautions in this owner’s manual.

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Before Performing Maintenance

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Parts and Fluids Used in Maintenance Service

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Parts and Fluids Used in Maintenance Service

The use of Acura genuine parts and fluids is recommended when maintaining and 
servicing your vehicle. Acura genuine parts are manufactured according to the same 
high quality standards used in Acura vehicles.

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Maintenance Minder

TM

Select the Maintenance Minder to see maintenance items that are due soon and to 
see the percentage of life remaining in the engine oil.

When the engine oil life is less than 15%, a Maintenance Minder message will 
appear every time you set the power mode to ON, reminding you to bring your 
vehicle to an authorized Acura NSX dealer for service.

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Maintenance Minder

TM

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To Use Maintenance Minder

TM

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To Use Maintenance Minder

TM

Certain maintenance items due soon, along with the estimated remaining oil life, 
appear on the driver information interface.
You can view them on the Maintenance Minder screen at any time.
1. Set the power mode to ON.
2. Roll the right selector wheel until the engine oil life appears on the driver 

information interface.

■

Displaying the Engine Oil Life and Maintenance Items

1

Displaying the Engine Oil Life and Maintenance Items

Based on the engine operating conditions and oil 
age, the remaining engine oil life is calculated and 
displayed as a percentage.

There is a list of maintenance main and sub items you 
can view on the driver information interface.

2 Maintenance Service Items P. 368

Displayed Engine Oil 

Life (%)

Calculated Engine Oil 

Life (%)

100

100 to 91

90

90 to 81

80

80 to 71

70

70 to 61

60

60 to 51

50

50 to 41

40

40 to 31

30

30 to 21

20

20 to 16

15

15 to 11

10

10 to 6

5

5 to 1

0

0

Remaining Engine Oil Life

Maintenance Service Items

Right Selector Wheel

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Maintenance Minder

TM

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To Use Maintenance Minder

TM

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The system message indicator (

) comes on along with the Maintenance Minder message.

■

Maintenance Minder Messages on the Driver Information 
Interface

Maintenance Message

Oil Life Display

Explanation

Information

Service Due Soon

15 %

The engine oil life indicator starts to appear 
along with other due-soon maintenance item 
codes when the remaining oil life drops to 15 
percent. Once you switch the display by 
rolling the right selector wheel, this message 
will go off.

The engine oil is approaching the end 
of its service life.

Service Due Now

5 %

The remaining engine oil life is 5 to 1 
percent. Roll the right selector wheel to 
switch to another display.

The engine oil has almost reached 
the end of its service life, and the 
maintenance items should be 
inspected and serviced as soon as 
possible.

Service Past Due

Negative Distance

The engine oil life has passed its service life, 
and a negative distance appears after driving 
over 10 miles (U.S. models) or 10 km 
(Canadian models). Roll the right selector 
wheel to switch to another display.

The engine oil life has passed.
The maintenance items must be 
inspected and serviced immediately.

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Maintenance Minder

TM

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To Use Maintenance Minder

TM

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■

Maintenance Service Items

1

Maintenance Service Items

•

Independent of the Maintenance Minder 
information, replace the brake fluid every 3 years.

•

Inspect idle speed every 160,000 miles (256,000 
km).

•

Adjust the valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 if 
they are noisy.

•

Inspect direct injection + port injection fuel system 
every 3 years or service item B is indicated.

•

Inspect tire condition every 3,100 miles (5,000 km).

Maintenance Minder Message

System Message 
Indicator

Main Item

Sub Items

*1: If a message SERVICE does not appear more than 12 months after the display is reset, change the 

engine oil every year.

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty.

CODE

Maintenance Main Items

A

●

Replace engine oil

*1

B

●

Replace engine oil

*1

 and oil filter

●

Inspect front and rear brakes

●

Check expiration date for temporary tire repair kit 
bottle

●

Inspect tie rod ends, steering gearbox, and boots

●

Inspect suspension components

●

Inspect driveshaft boots

●

Inspect brake hoses and lines (Including ABS/VSA)

●

Inspect all fluid levels and condition of fluids

●

Inspect exhaust system

#

●

Inspect fuel lines and connections

#

●

Inspect direct injection + port injection fuel system

*2: If you drive in dusty conditions, replace the air cleaner element every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
*3: If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air from industry and 

from diesel-powered vehicles, replace the dust and pollen filters every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 
every year.

*4: Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds results in higher transmission temperature. 

This requires transmission fluid and clutch fluid changes more frequently than recommended by the 
Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your vehicle under this condition, have the transmission 
fluid and clutch fluid changed every 20,000 miles (32,000 km).

*5: Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds results in higher level of mechanical (Shear) 

stress to fluid. This requires Twin Motor Unit fluid changes more frequently than recommended by the 
Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your vehicle under these conditions, have the Twin Motor 
Unit fluid changed at 7,500 miles (12,000 km), then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km). 

CODE

Maintenance Sub Items

1

●

Inspect tire condition

2

●

Replace air cleaner element

*2

●

Replace dust and pollen filters

*3

3

●

Replace transmission fluid

*4

●

Replace clutch fluid

*4

4

●

Replace spark plugs

●

Inspect valve clearance

●

Inspect Active Exhaust Valve function

●

Replace Intake Sound Control

5

●

Replace engine coolant

6

●

Replace Twin Motor Unit fluid

*5

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Maintenance Minder

TM

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To Use Maintenance Minder

TM

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Reset the Maintenance Minder display if you have performed the maintenance 
service.

1. Set the power mode to ON.
2. Roll the right selector wheel until the engine oil life appears on the driver 

information interface.

3. With all doors closed, press and hold the right selector wheel for more than 10 

seconds to enter the reset mode.

4. Select All Due Items with the right selector wheel, then press the right selector 

wheel.

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The displayed maintenance items disappear, and the engine oil life display 
returns to 100%.

To cancel the oil life reset mode, select Cancel with the right selector wheel, then 
press the right selector wheel.

■

Resetting the Display

1

Resetting the Display

NOTICE

Failure to reset the Maintenance Minder

TM

 display 

after a maintenance service results in the system 
showing incorrect maintenance intervals, which can 
lead to serious mechanical problems.

An authorized Acura NSX dealer will reset the 
Maintenance Minder

TM

 display after completing the 

required maintenance service. If someone other than 
an authorized Acura NSX dealer performs 
maintenance service, reset the Maintenance 
Minder

TM

 display yourself.

Right Selector 
Wheel

Using the driver information interface

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Maintenance Minder

TM

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To Use Maintenance Minder

TM

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1. Set the power mode to ON.
2. Select 

 on the audio/information screen.

3. Select Settings.
4. Select Vehicle, then Maintenance Info.
5. Select Reset.

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A confirmation message appears on the screen.

6. Select Reset.

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The engine oil life display returns to 100%.

To cancel the oil life reset mode, select Cancel.

Using the audio/information screen

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Maintenance Under the Hood and Hatch

Maintenance Items Under the Hood and Hatch

Hood

Brake Fluid 
(Black Cap)

Washer Fluid 
(Black Cap)

12-Volt Battery

Inverter Coolant 
Filler Tank

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Maintenance Under the Hood and Hatch

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Maintenance Items Under the Hood and Hatch

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Hatch

Engine Oil Fill Cap

Engine Coolant 
Reserve Tank Cap

Engine Oil Dipstick 
(Orange)

Engine Coolant 
Reserve Tank

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