Acura MDX (2020 year). Manual in english - page 37

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Maintenance Under the Hood

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Engine Coolant

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Engine Coolant

This coolant is premixed with 50% antifreeze and 50% water. Do not add any 
straight antifreeze or water.

We recommend you check the engine coolant level every time you refuel. Check the 
reserve tank first. If it is completely empty, also check the coolant level in the 
radiator. Add the engine coolant accordingly.

1. Make sure the engine and radiator are 

cool.

2.

Check the amount of coolant in the reserve 
tank.

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If the coolant level is below the 

MIN

 

mark, add the specified coolant until it 
reaches the 

MAX

 mark.

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Engine Compartment Cover

 P. 583

3.

Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

Specified coolant: Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2

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Reserve Tank

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Engine Coolant

NOTICE

Genuine Acura engine coolant is a 50/50 mixture of 
antifreeze and water that can withstand freezing at 
temperatures as low as about −31°F (−35°C). If your 
vehicle is consistently subjected to temperatures 
below this, the concentration of antifreeze in the 
coolant should be increased. Consult a dealer for 
details.

If Acura antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may 
use another major brand of non-silicate coolant as a 
temporary replacement. Check that it is a high quality 
coolant recommended for aluminum engines. 
Continued use of any non-Acura coolant can result in 
corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction 
or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled 
with Acura antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

Do not add rust inhibitors or other additives to your 
vehicle’s cooling system. They may not be compatible 
with the coolant or with the engine components.

3

WARNING

Removing the radiator cap while the 
engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray 
out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool 
down before removing the radiator cap.

MAX

MIN

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Engine Coolant

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1. Make sure the engine and radiator are 

cool.

2.

Remove the engine compartment cover.

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Engine Compartment Cover

 P. 583

3.

Turn the radiator cap 1/8 turn counter-
clockwise and relieve any pressure in the 
cooling system.

4.

Push down and turn the radiator cap 
counterclockwise to remove it.

5.

The coolant level should be up to the base 
of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.

6.

Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it 
fully.

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Radiator

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Radiator

NOTICE

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill 
any. Clean up any spills immediately; they can 
damage components in the engine compartment.

Radiator Cap

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Maintenance Under the Hood

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Transmission Fluid

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Transmission Fluid

Have a dealer check the fluid level and replace if necessary.

Do not attempt to check or change the automatic transmission fluid yourself.

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Automatic Transmission Fluid

Specified fluid: Acura ATF-TYPE 3.1 or higher

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Automatic Transmission Fluid

NOTICE

Do not mix Acura ATF-TYPE 3.1 (or higher) with 
other transmission fluids.

Using a transmission fluid other than Acura ATF-TYPE 
3.1 (or higher) may adversely affect the operation 
and durability of your vehicle’s transmission, and 
damage the transmission.
Any damage caused by using a transmission fluid that 
is not equivalent to Acura ATF-TYPE 3.1 (or higher) is 
not covered by Acura’s new vehicle limited warranty.

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Maintenance Under the Hood

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Brake Fluid

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Brake Fluid

The fluid level should be between the 

MIN

 

and 

MAX

 marks on the side of the reserve 

tank.

Refilling Window Washer Fluid

If the washer fluid is low, a message appears on the MID.
Pour the washer fluid carefully. Do not overflow the reservoir.

Specified fluid: Acura Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3

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Checking the Brake Fluid

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Brake Fluid

NOTICE

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your 
vehicle’s braking system and can cause extensive 
damage.

If the specified brake fluid is not available, you should 
use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid from a sealed 
container as a temporary replacement.

Using any non-Acura brake fluid can cause corrosion 
and decrease the longevity of the system. Have the 
brake system flushed and refilled with Acura Heavy 
Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

If the brake fluid level is at or below the 

MIN

 mark, 

have a dealer inspect the vehicle for leaks or worn 
brake pads as soon as possible.

Brake Reserve Tank

MIN

MAX

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Refilling Window Washer Fluid

NOTICE

Do not use engine antifreeze or a vinegar/water 
solution in the windshield washer reservoir.
Antifreeze can damage your vehicle’s paint. A 
vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield 
washer pump.

Use only commercially available windshield washer 
fluid.
Avoid prolonged use of hard water to prevent lime 
scale build up.

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Replacing Light Bulbs

Headlights

Headlights are LED type. Have an authorized Acura dealer inspect and replace the 
light assembly.

Front Turn Signal/Parking, Daytime Running and 
Front Side Marker Lights

Front turn signal/parking, daytime running and front side marker lights are LED type. 
Have an authorized Acura dealer inspect and replace the light assembly.

Fog Lights

*

Fog lights are LED type. Have an authorized Acura dealer inspect and replace the 
light assembly.

Side Turn Signal/Emergency Indicator Lights

Door mirror side turn lights are LED type. Have an authorized Acura dealer inspect 
and replace the light assembly.

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Headlights

The headlight aim is set by the factory, and does not 
need to be adjusted. However, if you regularly carry 
heavy items in the cargo area or tow a trailer, have 
the aiming readjusted at a dealer or by a qualified 
technician.

* Not available on all models

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Replacing Light Bulbs

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Brake Light and Rear Turn Signal Light Bulbs

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Brake Light and Rear Turn Signal Light Bulbs

When replacing, use the following bulbs.

1.

Remove the cover.

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Starting at the bottom, carefully pull the 
cover straight out, working upward until 
all pins are removed from their 
grommets.

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The grommets should remain in the 
body.

2.

Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove 
the bolts.

3.

Pull the light assembly out of the rear pillar.

Brake Light: 21 W
Rear Turn Signal Light: 21 W 

Bolts

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Replacing Light Bulbs

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Taillights/Rear Side Marker Lights

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4.

Turn the socket counter-clockwise and 
remove it. Remove the old bulb.

5.

Insert a new bulb.

6.

Slide the light assembly onto the guide on 
the body.

7.

Align the pins with the body grommets, 
then push in until they fully seat.

Taillights/Rear Side Marker Lights

Taillights/rear side marker lights are the LED type. Have an authorized Acura dealer 
inspect and replace the light assembly.

Bulb

Socket

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Replacing Light Bulbs

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Back-Up Light Bulbs

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Back-Up Light Bulbs

When replacing, use the following bulbs.

1.

Remove the cover by prying on the edge 
using a flat-tip screwdriver.

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Wrap the flat-tip screwdriver with a cloth 
to prevent scratches.

2.

Turn the socket counter-clockwise and 
remove it. Remove the old bulb.

3.

Insert a new bulb.

Taillights

Taillights are the LED type. Have an authorized Acura dealer inspect and replace the 
light assembly.

Back-Up Light: 21 W

Bulb

Socket

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Replacing Light Bulbs

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Rear License Plate Lights

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Rear License Plate Lights

Rear license plate lights are LED type. Have an authorized Acura dealer inspect and 
replace the light assembly.

High-Mount Brake Light

High-mount brake light is LED type. Have an authorized Acura dealer inspect and 
replace the light assembly.

Puddle Lights

*

Puddle lights are LED type. Have an authorized Acura dealer inspect and replace the 
light assembly.

* Not available on all models

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Checking and Maintaining Wiper Blades

Checking Wiper Blades

If the wiper blade rubber has deteriorated, it will leave streaks and the hard surfaces 
of the blade may scratch the window glass.

Changing the Front Wiper Blade Rubber

1.

Lift the driver side wiper arm first, then the 
passenger side.

2.

Pry on the edge of the lock tab using a flat-
tip screwdriver to push it up.
Wrap the flat-tip screwdriver with a cloth to 
prevent scratches.

3.

Slide the holder off the wiper arm.

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Changing the Front Wiper Blade Rubber

NOTICE

Avoid dropping the wiper arm onto the windshield, it 
may damage the wiper arm and/or the windshield.

Lock Tab

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Checking and Maintaining Wiper Blades

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Changing the Front Wiper Blade Rubber

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4.

Slide the wiper blade out of the holder by 
pulling the tabbed end out.

5.

Remove the retainers from the wiper blade 
that has been removed, and mount to a 
new wiper blade.

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Correctly align the wiper blade 
protrusion and the retainer grooves.

6.

Slide the new wiper blade onto the holder 
from the bottom end.

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The tab on the holder should fit in the 
indent of the wiper blade.

7.

Slide the holder onto the wiper arm, then 
push down the lock tab.

8.

Lower the passenger side wiper arm first, 
then the driver side.

Blade

Retainer

Blade

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Checking and Maintaining Wiper Blades

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Changing the Rear Wiper Blade Rubber

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Changing the Rear Wiper Blade Rubber

1.

Raise the wiper arm off.

2.

Slide the wiper blade out from the end with 
the indent.

3.

Remove the retainers from wiper blade and 
mount to a new rubber blade.

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Changing the Rear Wiper Blade Rubber

NOTICE

Avoid dropping the wiper arm, it may damage the 
rear window.

Blade

Retainer

Rubber

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Checking and Maintaining Wiper Blades

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Changing the Rear Wiper Blade Rubber

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4.

Slide the new wiper blade onto the holder.

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Make sure it is engaged correctly, then 
install the wiper blade assembly onto the 
wiper arm.

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Checking and Maintaining Tires

Checking Tires

To safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be of the proper type and size, in 
good condition with adequate tread, and properly inflated.

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Inflation guidelines

Properly inflated tires provide the best combination of handling, tread life, and comfort. 
Refer to the driver’s doorjamb label or specifications page for the specified pressure.

Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and 
are more likely to fail from overheating.

Overinflated tires make your vehicle ride harshly, are more prone to road hazards, 
and wear unevenly.

Every day before you drive, look at each of the tires. If one looks lower than the 
others, check the pressure with a tire gauge.

At least once a month or before long trips, use a gauge to measure the pressure in 
all tires, including the spare

*

. Even tires in good condition can lose 1–2 psi (10–20 

kPa, 0.1–0.2 kgf/cm

2

) per month.

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Inspection guidelines

Every time you check inflation, also examine the tires and valve stems.
Look for:

•

Bumps or bulges on the side or in the tread. Replace the tire if you find any cuts, 
splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace it if you see fabric or cord.

•

Remove any foreign objects and inspect for air leaks.

•

Uneven tread wear. Have a dealer check the wheel alignment.

•

Excessive tread wear.

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Wear Indicators

 P. 607

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Cracks or other damage around valve stem.

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Checking Tires

Measure the air pressure when tires are cold. This 
means the vehicle has been parked for at least three 
hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). If 
necessary, add or release air until the specified 
pressure is reached.

If checked when hot, tire pressure can be as much as 
4–6 psi (30–40 kPa, 0.3–0.4 kgf/cm

2

) higher than if 

checked when cold.

Have a dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent 
vibration while driving. New tires and any that have 
been removed and reinstalled should be properly 
balanced.

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WARNING

Using 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.

* Not available on all models

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Checking and Maintaining Tires

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Tire and Loading Information Label

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Tire and Loading Information Label

The label attached to the driver’s doorjamb provides necessary tire and loading 
information.

Tire Labeling

The tires that came on your vehicle have a 
number of markings. Those you should be 
aware of are described as shown.

Whenever tires are replaced, they should be replaced with tires of the same size.

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Tire and Loading Information Label

The tire and loading information label attached to the 
driver’s doorjamb contains:

a

The number of people your vehicle can carry.

b

The total weight your vehicle can carry. Do not 
exceed this weight.

c

The original tire sizes for front, rear, and spare.

d

The proper cold tire pressure for front, rear, and 
spare.

Label 
Example

Example

Tire Size

Tire 
Identification 
Number (TIN)

Maximum 
Tire Load

Maximum 
Tire Pressure

Tire Size

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Tire Sizes

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Tire Sizes

Following is an example of tire size with an 
explanation of what each component means.

P235/60R18 102V

P: Vehicle type (P indicates passenger vehicle).
235: Tire width in millimeters.
60: Aspect ratio (the tire’s section height as a 
percentage of its width).
R: Tire construction code (R indicates radial).
18: Rim diameter in inches.
102: Load index (a numerical code associated with 
the maximum load the tire can carry).
V: Speed symbol (an alphabetical code indicating the 
maximum speed rating).

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Checking and Maintaining Tires

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Tire Labeling

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The tire identification number (TIN) is a group of numbers and letters that look like 
the example in the side column. TIN is located on the sidewall of the tire.

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 to carry for a given 

inflation pressure.

Maximum Inflation Pressure

 – The maximum tire air pressure that the tire can 

hold.

Maximum Load Rating

 – Means the load rating for a tire at the maximum 

permissible inflation pressure for that tire.

Recommended Inflation Pressure

 – The cold tire inflation pressure recommended 

by the manufacturer.

Treadwear Indicators (TWI)

 – Means the projections within the principal grooves 

designed to give a visual indication of the degrees of wear of the tread.

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Tire Identification Number (TIN)

■

Glossary of Tire Terminology

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Tire Identification Number (TIN)

DOT B97R FW6X 2209

DOT: This indicates that the tire meets all 
requirements of the U.S. Department of 
Transportation.
B97R: Manufacturer’s identification mark.
FW6X: Tire type code.
22 09: Date of manufacture.

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