Acura MDX (2020 year). Manual in english - page 38

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Checking and Maintaining Tires

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DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

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DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

The tires on your vehicle meet all U.S. Federal Safety 
Requirements. All tires are also graded for treadwear, traction, 
and temperature performance according to Department of 
Transportation (DOT) standards. The following explains these 
gradings.

Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall 
between tread shoulder and maximum section width.

The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear 
rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a 
specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 
would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the 
government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance 
of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, 
and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in 
driving habits, service practices and differences in road 
characteristics and climate.

■

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

■

Treadwear

1

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

For example:

Treadwear 200
Traction AA
Temperature A

All passenger car tires must conform 
to Federal Safety Requirements in 
addition to these grades.

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Checking and Maintaining Tires

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DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

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The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. 
Those grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement 
as measured under controlled conditions on specified 
government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked 
C may have poor traction performance.

The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, 
representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its 
ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions 
on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high 
temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and 
reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire 
failure. 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.

■

Traction

■

Temperature

1

Traction

Warning: The traction grade 
assigned to this tire is based on 
straight-ahead braking traction tests, 
and does not include acceleration, 
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak 
traction characteristics.

1

Temperature

Warning: The temperature grade for 
this tire is established for a tire that is 
properly inflated and not 
overloaded. Excessive speed, 
underinflation, or excessive loading, 
either separately or in combination, 
can cause heat buildup and possible 
tire failure.

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Checking and Maintaining Tires

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Wear Indicators

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Wear Indicators

The groove where the wear indicator is 
located is 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) shallower than 
elsewhere on the tire. If the tread has worn so 
that the indicator is exposed, replace the tire. 

Worn out tires have poor traction on wet 
roads.

Tire Service Life

The life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including driving habits, road 
conditions, vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and 
environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).

In addition to regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is 
recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach five 
years old. All tires, including the spare

*

, should be removed from service after 10 

years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear.

Example of a Wear 
Indicator mark

* Not available on all models

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Checking and Maintaining Tires

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Tire and Wheel Replacement

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Tire and Wheel Replacement

Replace your tires with radials of the same size, load range, speed rating, and 
maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall). Using tires of a 
different size or construction can cause certain vehicle systems such as the ABS and 
Vehicle Stability Assist

®

 (VSA

®

) system to work incorrectly.

It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that isn’t possible, replace the 
front or rear tires in pairs.

If you replace a wheel, only use TPMS specified wheels approved for your vehicle.
Make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.

1

Tire and Wheel Replacement

3

WARNING

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.

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Checking and Maintaining Tires

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Tire Rotation

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Tire Rotation

Rotating tires according to the maintenance messages on the MID helps to distribute 
wear more evenly and increase tire life.

■

Tires without rotation marks

Rotate the tires as shown here.

■

Tires with rotation marks

Rotate the tires as shown here.

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Tire Rotation

Tires with directional tread patterns should only be 
rotated front to back (not from one side to the other).
Directional tires should be mounted with the rotation 
indication mark facing forward, as shown below.

Front

Rotation Mark

Front

Front

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Checking and Maintaining Tires

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Winter Tires

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Winter Tires

If driving on snowy or frozen roads, mount all season marked 

M+S

 tires, snow tires, 

or tire chains; reduce speed; and maintain sufficient distance between vehicles when 
driving.

Be particularly careful when operating the steering wheel or brakes to prevent 
skidding.

Use tire chains, snow tires, or all season tires when necessary or according to the law.

When mounting, refer to the following points.

For winter tires:

•

Select the size and load ranges that are the same as the original tires.

•

Mount the tires to all four wheels.

For tire chains:

•

Install them on the front tires only.

•

Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, we strongly recommend using the 
chains listed below:

•

Follow the chain manufacturer’s instruction when installing. Mount them as 
tightly as you can.

•

Check that the chains do not touch the brake lines or suspension.

•

Drive slowly.

Cable-type: SCC Cable Chain Super Z LT - ZT735

Cable-type: SCC Cable Chain Super Z6 - SZ435

1

Winter Tires

NOTICE

Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly 
installed can damage your vehicle’s brake lines, 
suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are 
hitting any part of the vehicle.

When tire chains are mounted, follow the chain 
manufacturer’s instructions regarding vehicle 
operational limits.

If your vehicle is equipped with summer tires, be 
aware that these tires are not designed for winter 
driving conditions. For more information, contact a 
dealer.

3

WARNING

Using the wrong chains, or not properly 
installing chains, can damage the brake 
lines and cause a crash in which you can be 
seriously injured or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s 
manual regarding the selection and use of 
tire chains.

Models with 245/60R18 105H tires

Models with 245/50R20 102H tires

Models with 265/45R20 104H tires

Models with 265/45R20 104V tires

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Battery

Checking the Battery

The condition of the battery is monitored by a 
sensor located on the negative terminal of the 
battery. If there is a problem with this sensor, 
the multi-information display (MID) will 
display a warning message. If this happens, 
have your vehicle inspected by a dealer.

Check the battery terminals for corrosion 
monthly.

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected or goes dead:

•

The audio system is disabled.

2

Audio System Theft Protection

 P. 236

•

The clock resets.

2

Clock

 P. 138

Charging the Battery

*

Disconnect both battery cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system. 
Always disconnect the negative (–) cable first, and reconnect it last.

1

Battery

WARNING: 

Battery post, terminals, 

and related accessories contain lead 
and lead compounds.

Wash your hands after handling.

When you find corrosion, clean the battery terminals 
by applying a baking powder and water solution. 
Clean the terminals with a damp towel. Cloth/towel 
dry the battery. Coat the terminals with grease to 
help prevent future corrosion.

When replacing the battery, the replacement must be 
of the same specifications.
Consult a dealer for more information.

3

WARNING

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen 
gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to 
explode with enough force to kill or 
seriously hurt you.

When conducting any battery 
maintenance, wear protective clothing and 
a face shield, or have a skilled technician do 
it.

Battery

* Not available on all models

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Battery

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Charging the AGM Battery

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Charging the AGM Battery

*

AGM labeled batteries like those installed in your vehicle require a compatible 
charger to be properly charged. Damage to the battery can result if the battery is 
charged improperly or with the wrong equipment. For more information on how to 
charge your vehicle’s AGM battery, consult a dealer.

1

Battery

The battery installed in this vehicle is specifically 
designed for a model with Auto Idle Stop.
Using a battery other than this specified type may 
shorten the battery life, and prevent Auto Idle Stop 
from activating. If you need to replace the battery, 
make sure to select the specified type. Ask a dealer 
for more details.

Models with Auto Idle Stop

* Not available on all models

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Remote Transmitter Care

Replacing the Button Battery

If the indicator does not come on when the button is pressed, replace the battery.

1.

Remove the built-in key.

2.

Remove the upper half of the cover by 
carefully prying on the edge with a coin.

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Wrap a coin with a cloth to prevent 
scratching the transmitter.

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Remove carefully to avoid losing the 
buttons.

3.

Make sure to replace the battery with the 
correct polarity.

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Replacing the Button Battery

NOTICE

An improperly disposed of battery can damage the 
environment. Always confirm local regulations for 
battery disposal.

Replacement batteries are commercially available or 
at a dealer.

3

WARNING

CHEMICAL BURN HAZARD
The battery that powers the remote 
transmitter can cause severe internal burns 
and can even lead to death if swallowed.
Keep new and used batteries away from 
children.
If you suspect that a child has swallowed 
the battery, seek medical attention 
immediately.

Models without remote control engine start system

Battery type: CR2032

Battery

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Remote Transmitter Care

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Replacing the Button Battery

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If the indicator does not come on when the button is pressed, replace the battery.

1.

Remove the built-in key.

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As a convenience, lightly place masking 
tape over the remote buttons to hold 
them in place.

2.

Remove the upper half of the cover by 
carefully prying on the edge with a coin.

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Wrap a coin with a cloth to prevent 
scratching the transmitter.

3.

Press down on the center of the assembly 
and remove the battery.

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When removing the button battery, be 
careful not to touch parts around it.

4.

Make sure to replace the battery with the 
correct polarity.

Models with remote control engine start system

1

Replacing the Button Battery

NOTICE

The Remote transmitter is equipped with two 
batteries: A standard replaceable CR2032 coin 
button battery and an integral non-replaceable 
rechargeable battery. To prevent permanent damage 
to the rechargeable battery, replace the CR2032 
battery every three to four years.

Models with remote control engine start system

Battery type: CR2032

Battery

615

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Remote Control and Wireless Headphone Care

*

Replacing the Battery

If it takes several pushes on the remote control buttons to operate the rear 
entertainment system, replace the battery.

1.

Remove the cover.

2.

Make sure to replace the battery with the 
correct polarity.

■

Remote Control

Models with Rear Entertainment System

1

Replacing the Battery

NOTICE

An improperly disposed of battery can damage the 
environment. Always confirm local regulations for 
battery disposal.

Replacement batteries are commercially available or 
at a dealer.

Make sure to replace all the batteries at once.

3

WARNING

CHEMICAL BURN HAZARD

The battery that powers the remote control 
can cause severe internal burns and can 
even lead to death if swallowed.
Keep new and used batteries away from 
children.

If you suspect that a child has swallowed 
the battery, seek medical attention 
immediately.

Battery type: BR3032

* Not available on all models

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Remote Control and Wireless Headphone Care

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Replacing the Battery

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If there is no sound coming from the wireless headphone, replace the battery.

1.

Remove the screw.

2.

Open the cover.

3.

Make sure to replace the battery with the 
correct polarity.

■

Wireless Headphone

Battery type: AAA

Cover

Battery

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Climate Control System Maintenance

Air Conditioning

To ensure proper and safe operation, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE 
J2845) recommends that the refrigerant system only be serviced by trained and 
certified technicians.

Never repair or replace the air conditioning evaporator (cooling coil) with one 
removed from a used or salvaged vehicle.

New replacement mobile air conditioning evaporators must be certified (and 
labeled) as meeting SAE Standard J2842.

Dust and Pollen Filter

The climate control system is equipped with a dust and pollen filter that collects 
pollen, dust, and other debris in the air. The Maintenance Minder

TM

 messages will let 

you know when to replace the filter.

We recommend that you replace the dust and pollen filter sooner when using your 
vehicle in areas with high concentrations of dust.

U.S. models

1

Air Conditioning

NOTICE

Vented refrigerant is harmful to the environment.
To avoid refrigerant from venting, never replace the 
evaporator with one removed from a used or 
salvaged vehicle.

Refrigerant in your vehicle’s air conditioning system is 
flammable and can be ignited during servicing if 
proper procedures are not followed.

The air conditioner label is found under the hood:

2

Safety Labels

 P. 75

2

Specifications

 P. 676

1

Dust and Pollen Filter

If the airflow from the climate control system 
deteriorates noticeably, and the windows fog up 
easily, the filter may need to be replaced. Please 
contact a dealer for replacement.

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Cleaning

Interior Care

Use a damp cloth with a mixture of mild detergent and warm water to remove dirt. 
Use a clean cloth to remove detergent residue.

Use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean the seat belts. 
Let the belts air dry. Wipe the openings of the seat belt anchors using a clean cloth.

■

Cleaning Seat Belts

1

Interior Care

Do not spill liquids inside the vehicle. Electrical 
devices and systems may malfunction if liquids are 
splashed on them.

Do not use silicone based sprays on electrical devices 
such as audio devices and switches. Doing so may 
cause the items to malfunction or cause a fire inside 
the vehicle.
If a silicone based spray is inadvertently used on 
electrical devices, consult a dealer.

Depending on their composition, chemicals and 
liquid aromatics may cause discoloration, wrinkles, 
and cracking to resin-based parts and textiles.
Do not use alkali solvents or organic solvents such as 
benzene or gasoline.

After using chemicals, make sure to gently wipe them 
away using a dry cloth.
Do not place used cloths on top of resin based parts 
or textiles for long periods of time without washing.

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Cleaning

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Interior Care

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Wipe using a glass cleaner.

The front and second row passenger’s floor 
mats hook over floor anchors, which keep 
them from sliding forward. To remove a mat 
for cleaning, turn the anchor knobs to the 
unlock position. When reinstalling the mat 
after cleaning, turn the knobs to the lock 
position.

Do not put additional floor mats on top of 
the anchored mats.

To properly clean leather:

1.

Use a vacuum or soft dry cloth first to remove any dirt or dust.

2.

Clean the leather with a soft cloth dampened with a solution comprised of 90% 
water and 10% neutral soap.

3.

Wipe away any soap residue with a clean damp cloth.

4.

Wipe away residual water and allow leather to air dry in the shade.

■

Cleaning the Window

■

Floor Mats

1

Cleaning the Window

Wires are mounted to the inside of the rear window. 
Wipe along the same direction as the wires with a 
soft cloth so as not to damage them.

Be careful not to spill fluids, such as water or glass 
cleaner, on or around the cover of both the front 
sensor camera and the rainfall/light sensor

*

.

2

Automatic Operation (automatic lighting 
control)

 P. 173

2

Automatic Intermittent Wipers

*

 P. 180

2

Front Sensor Camera

 P. 487

1

Floor Mats

If you use any floor mats that were not originally 
provided with your vehicle, make sure they are 
designed for your specific vehicle, fit correctly, and 
are securely anchored by the floor anchors.
Position the rear seat floor mat properly. If they are 
not properly positioned, the floor mat can interfere 
with the front seat functions.

Lock

Unlock

■

Maintaining Genuine Leather

1

Maintaining Genuine Leather

It is important to clean or wipe away dirt or dust as 
soon as possible. Spills can soak into leather resulting 
in stains. Dirt or dust can cause abrasions in the 
leather. In addition, please note that some dark 
colored clothing can rub onto the leather seats 
resulting in discoloration or stains.

* Not available on all models

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Cleaning

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Exterior Care

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Exterior Care

Dust off the vehicle body after you drive.
Regularly inspect your vehicle for scratches on painted surfaces. A scratch on a 
painted surface can result in body rust. If you find a scratch, promptly repair it.

Wash the vehicle regularly. Wash more frequently when driving in the following 
conditions:

•

If driving on roads with road salt.

•

If driving in coastal areas.

•

If tar, soot, bird droppings, insects, or tree sap are stuck to painted surfaces.

•

Make sure to follow the instructions indicated on the automated car wash.

•

Fold in the door mirrors.

•

For models equipped with automatic intermittent wipers, turn the wipers off.

■

Washing the Vehicle

■

Using an Automated Car Wash

1

Washing the Vehicle

Do not spray water into the air intake vents. It can 
cause a malfunction.

Do not spray water onto the capless unit when the 
fuel fill door is open. It can cause damage to the fuel 
system or engine.

Air Intake Vents

1

Using an Automated Car Wash

When using an automated car wash that pulls the 
vehicle through with a conveyor, make sure vehicle is 
in car wash mode.

2

If you want to keep the transmission in 

(

N

 

position [car wash mode]

 P. 476