brake fluid Acura RDX 2009 Owner's Manual

If it stays on after you have fully
released the parking brake while
the engine is running, or if it
comes on while driving, it can
indicate a problem in the brake
system. You will also see a
‘‘BRAKE FLUID LOW’’ or
‘‘CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM’’
message on the multi-inf ormation
display. For more inf ormation, see
page .
This indicator has two f unctions: The brake system indicator (amber)
normally comes on f or a f ew seconds
when you turn the ignition switch to
the ON (II) position. If the indicator
is still on or comes on again af ter the
engine starts, there is a problem in
the brake system including the
electric vacuum pump. If this
happens, have your vehicle checked
by your dealer. For more inf ormation,
see page .
You will also see a ‘‘CHECK BRAKE
SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-
inf ormation display (see page ).
Itcomesonwhenyouturnthe
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position. It is a reminder to check
the parking brake. Driving with
the parking brake not f ully
released can damage the brakes
and tires.
If you drive without releasing the
parking brake, a beeper will sound,
and you will also see a ‘‘RELEASE
PARKING BRAKE’’ message on the
multi-inf ormation display (see page ). 2.
1.
384
383
77 77
Instrument Panel Indicators
Parking Brake and
Brake System
Indicator (Red)Brake System
Indicator (A mber)
Inst rument s and Cont rols
65
U.S. Canada
U.S. Canada
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This section explains why it is
important to keep your vehicle well
maintained and how to f ollow basic
maintenance saf ety precautions.
This section also includes
instructions on how to read the
maintenance minder messages on
the multi-information display, and
instructions f or simple maintenance
tasks you may want to take care of
yourself .
If you have the skills and tools to
perf orm more complex maintenance
tasks on your vehicle, you may want
to purchase the service manual. See
page f or inf ormation on how to
obtain a copy, or see your dealer.......................
Maintenance Saf ety .326
....................
Maintenance Minder .327
..............................
Fluid Locations .335
........................
Adding Engine Oil .336
.................
Required Engine Oil .336
Changing the Engine Oil and ...........................................
Filter .338
..............................
Engine Coolant .340
....................
Windshield Washers .342
....
Automatic Transmission Fluid .343
....................................
Brake Fluid .345
....................
Power Steering Fluid .346
.............................................
Lights .347
................
Cleaning the Seat Belts .354
.....................................
Floor Mats .354
..............................
Audio Antenna .355
.....................................
Intercooler .355
..................
Dust and Pollen Filter .355
.................................
Wiper Blades .356
...........................................
Wheels .359
...............................................
Tires .360
...................
Checking the Battery .366
.............................
Vehicle Storage .368
413
Maintenance
Maint enance
325
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Î
Î
Ì Ì
Ì
Î
Maintenance Minder
334
:
If the message ‘‘SERVICE DUE NOW’’ 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 on page.
Independent of the maintenance items in the information display, 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 only if they are noisy.
NOTE: 1:
333
Maintenance Main Items
Replace engine oil
Replace engine oil and oil filter
Inspect front and rear brakes
Check parking brake adjustment
Inspect these items: Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots
Suspension components
Driveshaft boots
Brake hoses and lines (including ABS)
All fluid levels and condition of fluids
Exhaust system
Fuel lines and connections Maintenance Sub Items
Rotate tires
Replace air cleaner element If you drive in dusty conditions, replace
every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Replace dust and pollen filter If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high
concentrations of soot in the air from industry and
from diesel-powered vehicles, replace every 15,000
miles (24,000 km).
Inspect drive belt
Replace transmission and transfer fluid Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle
speeds or trailer towing results in higher
transmission and transfer temperatures. This
requires transmission and transfer fluid changes
more frequently than recommended by the
Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your
vehicle under these conditions, have the transmission
and transfer fluid changed at 60,000 miles
(100,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Replace spark plugs
Inspect valve clearance
Replace engine coolant
Replace rear differential fluid Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle
speeds or trailer towing results in higher level of
mechanical (shear) stress to fluid. This requires
differential fluid changes more frequently than
recommended by the Maintenance Minder. If you
regularly drive your vehicle under these conditions,
have the differential fluid changed at 7,500 miles
(12,000 km), then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
A
B
Symbol
Symbol
1
2
3
4
5
61
1
Maintenance Minder
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Fluid Locations
Maint enance
335
AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION
FLUID DIPSTICK
(Yellow loop)
BRAKE FLUID
(Black cap)
ENGINE OIL
DIPSTICK
(Orange loop)
ENGINE OIL
FILL CAP
WASHER FLUID
(Blue cap)
POWER STEERING
FLUID
(Red cap)
ENGINE
COOLANT
RESERVOIR
RADIATOR CAP
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Always use Honda Heavy Duty
Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not
available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 f luid, f rom a sealed
container, as a temporary
replacement.
Using any non-Honda brake f luid can
cause corrosion and decrease the lif e
of the system. Have the brake
system f lushed and ref illed with
Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid
DOT 3 as soon as possible.
Brake f luid marked DOT 5 is not
compatible with your vehicle’s
braking system and can cause
extensive damage.The f luid level should be between
theMINandMAXmarksontheside
of the reservoir. If the level is at or
below the MIN mark, your brake
system needs attention. Have the
brake system inspected f or leaks or
worn brake pads.
Check the f luid level in the brake
f luid reservoir monthly.
Replace the brake f luid every 3 years,
independent of mileage.
Brake Fluid
Maint enance
345
MAX
MIN
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If the f luid level is low, take your
vehicle to a dealer, and have the
brake system inspected f or leaks or
worn brake pads.
However, if the brake pedal does not
f eel normal, you should take
immediate action. A problem in one
part of the system’s dual circuit
design will still give you braking at
two wheels. You will f eel the brake
pedal go down much f arther bef ore
the vehicle begins to slow down, and
you will have to press harder on the
pedal.Slow down by shif ting to a lower
gear, and pull to the side of the road
when it is saf e. Because of the long
distance needed to stop, it is
hazardous to drive the vehicle. You
should have it towed, and repaired as
soon as possible (see
on page ).
You will also see a ‘‘CHECK BRAKE
SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-
inf ormation display (see page ). If you must drive the vehicle a short
distance in this condition, drive
slowly and caref ully.
If the ABS indicator and the VSA
system indicator come on with the
brake system indicator, have your
vehicle inspected by your dealer
immediately.
The brake system indicator (red)
normallycomesonwhenyouturn
the ignition switch to the ON (II)
position, and as a reminder to check
the parking brake. It will stay on if
you do not f ully release the parking
brake.
If the brake system indicator (red)
comes on while driving, the brake
f luid level is probably low. Press
lightly on the brake pedal to see if it
f eels normal. If it does, check the
brake f luid level the next time you
stop at a service station (see page
).
You will also see a ‘‘BRAKE FLUID
LOW’’ message on the multi-
inf ormation display (see page ). 77391
345 77
Brake System Indicator
Emergency
Towing
Brake System
Indicator (Red)
T aking Care of t he Unexpect ed
383
Canada
U. S.
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CONT INUED
....................................
Accessories .281
ACCESSORY (Ignition Key
.....................................
Position) .122
............
Accessory Power Sockets .154
................
Active Head Restraints .134
......................................
AcuraLink .237
....................
Additives, Engine Oil .337
.......................
Additives, Gasoline .272
.............
Adjusting the Sound .186,217
.....
Adjusting the Steering Wheel .119
........
Adjust Outside Temperature .74
......
Adjust Outside Temp. Display .89
...........................
Advanced Airbags .27
...............................
Airbag (SRS) .9,23
..............
Air Conditioning System .160
.........................................
Usage .161
.......................
Air Pressure, Tires .361
......................................
Antif reeze .340
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
...............................
Indicator .64,305
...................................
Operation .305
..............
Anti-thef t, Audio System .232
Anti-thef t Steering Column
............................................
Lock .122 ........................................
Armrests .135
..............................
Audio Antenna .355
................................
Audio System .168
............................
Auto Door Lock .101
.........................
Auto Door Unlock .109
.
Automatic Lighting Off Feature .115
...
Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners .21
..............
Automatic Transmission .293
..........................
Capacity, Fluid .396
...............
Checking Fluid Level .343
Driving with the Paddle
...................................
Shif ters .297
.......................................
Shif ting .293
Shif t Lever Position
...............................
Indicators .293
................
Shif t Lever Positions .294
....................
Shif t Lock Release .296
......................
Auxiliary Input Jack .220
Battery
Charging System ...........................
Indicator .63,381
............................
Jump Starting .377
..............................
Maintenance .366 ............................
Specif ications .397
..............................
Bef ore Driving .271
....................................
Belts,Seat.8,19
.........................
Beverage Holders .153
.......
Bluetooth
HandsFreeLink.250
..................................
Booster Seats .53
Brakes
...........
Anti-lock System (ABS) .305
.............
Break-in, New Linings .272
....................
Bulb Replacement .350
...........................................
Fluid .345
.......................................
Parking .147
......
System Indicator (Red) .65,383
System Indicator
...........................
(Amber) .65,384
..........................
System Design .304
........................
Wear Indicators .304
.............................
Braking System .304
.................
Break-in, New Vehicle .272
Brightness Control,
...............................
Instruments .117
Index
A
B
INDEX
I
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.........................
Emergency Brake .147
....................
Emergency Flashers .118
.......................
Emissions Controls .403
........................
Emissions Testing .406
Engine
............
Adding Engine Coolant .340
Coolant Temperature
.................................
Gauge .73,76
.........................
If It Won’t Start .375
Malf unction Indicator
................................
Lamp .63,382
.........................
Oil Lif e Display .327
........
Oil Pressure Indicator .63,381
..............
Oil, What Kind to Use .336
...............................
Overheating .379
............................
Specif ications .396
............................
Speed Limiter .295
.......................................
Starting .292
.
Evaporative Emissions Controls .403
.......
Exhaust Emissions Controls .404
...............................
Exhaust Fumes .56
Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat
........................................
Belts by .17 ...............
Gas Mileage, Improving .278
.........................................
Gasoline .272
.....................
AVG. Fuel A/B .73,75
.....................
Low Fuel Indicator .66
...........................................
Gauge .71
.............................
INST. Fuel .73,75
................
Octane Requirement .272
........................
Tank, Ref ueling .273
................
Gas Station Procedures .273
...................................
Fan, Interior .162
.........................................
Features .159
....................
Filling the Fuel Tank .273
Filters
.........................
Dust and Pollen .355
...............................................
Oil .338
...........
Flashers, Hazard Warning .118
...................
Flat Tire, Changing a .371
.....................................
Floor Mats .354
Fluids
..........
Automatic Transmission .343
..........................................
Brake .345
..........................
Power Steering .346
..................
Windshield Washer .342
..............
Folding Rear Seat Down .135
........................
Four-way Flashers .118
Front Airbags
............................
Driver’s Side .9,25
.....................
Passenger’s Side .9,25
......................
Front Door Pockets .152
Front Seat
....................................
Adjusting .131
.......................................
Heaters .138 .................................................
Fuel .272
.....................
AVG. Fuel A/B .73,75
......................
Fill Door and Cap .273
.....................
Low Fuel Indicator .66
...........................................
Gauge .71
.............................
INST. Fuel .73,75
................
Octane Requirement .272
...............................
Oxygenated .273
........................
Tank, Ref ueling .273
.....
Tighten Fuel Cap Message .274
...............................
Fuel Economy .278
..............................
Fuse Locations .389
.....................
Fuses, Checking the .386
Index
F
G
IV
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...................
Neutral Gear Position .294
..................
New Vehicle Break-in .272
.....................
Normal Shif t Speeds .300
...................
NOTICE, Explanation of .i
...............
Numbers, Identif ication .394 .......................
Minder Indicator .73,75
Owner’s Maintenance ...................................
Checks .333
..........................................
Saf ety .326
.
Malf unction Indicator Lamp .63,382
...............................
Meters, Gauges .71
.....................................
Meter Setup .86
..
Adjust Outside Temp. Display .89
.......
Elap. Time Reset Condition .93
....................
Language Selection .87
Trip A&Avg. Fuel Reset with
.......................................
Ref uel .91
........................
Mirrors, Adjusting .143
...............
Modif ying Your Vehicle .282
.......................................
Moonroof .141
.............
Multi-Inf ormation Display .72
............
Panel Brightness Control .117
........................
Park Gear Position .294
...........................................
Parking .303 ...............................
Parking Brake .147
Parking Brake and Brake
......
System Indicator (Red) .65,383
...............................
Parking Lights .114
..
Parking Over Things that Burn .303
....
Passenger Airbag Of f Indicator .32
.............................
PGM-FI System .404
Playing the XM
Satellite
..........................................
Radio .228
...................................
Pollen Filter .355
........................
Power Door Locks .123
...............................
Power Sockets .154
....................
Power Steering Fluid .346
............................
Power Windows .139
.........
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts .17
........................
Preparing to Drive .291
.........
Protecting Adults and Teens .11
...
Additional Safety Precautions .18
.....
Advice f or Pregnant Women .17
...
Octane Requirement, Gasoline .272
...................................
Odometer .73,74
....................
Of f -Highway Driving .321
Oil
........................
Change, How to .338
......................
Change, When to .327
......................
Checking Engine .276
..............
Pressure Indicator .63,381
Selecting Proper Viscosity
......................................
Chart .336
.........
ON (Ignition Key Position) .122
Onboard Ref ueling Vapor
....................................
Recovery .403
......................
Optional Cargo Net .287
............................
Outside Mirrors .143
...............
Outside Temperature .73,74
....................
Overheating, Engine .379
....
Owner’s Maintenance Checks .333
CONT INUED
Index
INDEX
N O
P
VII
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Service Inf ormation Summary
Gasoline:
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Required Engine Oil;Power Steering Fluid:
Brake Fluid:
Tire Pressure (measured cold):
SpareTirePressure:
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Rear Differential Fluid:
Transfer Assembly Fluid:
Premium unleaded gasoline,
pump octane number of 91 or
higher.
Honda Power Steering Fluid
preferred, or another brand of
power steering fluid as a
temporary replacement. Do not
use ATF (see page ).
Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid
DOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 or
DOT 4 brake fluid as a temporary
replacement (see page ).
32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm
)
Honda Genuine ATF-Z1
(Automatic Transmission Fluid)
(see page ).
Always use Mobil 1
5W-30 or an
equivalent oil that meets the
Acura HTO-06 standard.
60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm
)
18.0 US gal (68
)
Oil change capacity (including
filter): 5.0 US qt (4.7
) Front/Rear:
Use Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) only.
Capacity:
SH-AWD differential case
SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90 viscosity
hypoid gear oil, API service
classified GL4 or GL5 only. 2.8 US qt (2.7
) 346
345
343
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