Market Segment:
Premium Mid-size SUV
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Acura owners seeking detailed repair guidance
Competitors 2008:
Lexus RX, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz ML-Class, Infiniti FX
Licensing:
Officially licensed, derived from OE materials
Convenience:
Instant online access, usable on multiple devices (PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet)
Value Proposition:
Cost savings compared to professional repair, comprehensive information
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostic procedures, electrical schematics, technical specifications
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (digital format, equivalent to a substantial printed manual)
Type:
Factory-licensed OE (Original Equipment) derived service and repair manual
Format:
Online access via web browser
Access Duration:
1 Year with option for renewal
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing system, lubrication, cooling
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, turbocharging (if applicable to specific variants)
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic), transfer case, axles, drive shafts, differentials
Suspension:
Front suspension, rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, linkages
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, ABS, VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, chassis components
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components
Chassis Electrical:
Power windows, power locks, mirrors, sunroof, wiper system
Infotainment And Navigation:
Audio system, navigation system, display unit, related wiring
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Component Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems
Diagnostic Testing:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools and interpreting data
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, connector pinouts
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Depth:
Complete factory-level service and repair information
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, alignment procedures, and assembly sequences
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver), 5-Star (Passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver), 5-Star (Passenger), 5-Star (Rear Passenger)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
Vsa:
Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control
ABS:
4-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Brake Assist:
Brake Assist System
Airbags:
Dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags (all rows)
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Latch:
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system
Audio System:
Premium Acura ELS Surround Sound System with 10 speakers (on higher trims), CD changer, AM/FM radio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio compatibility.
Navigation System:
Acura DVD-based Navigation System with voice recognition and Zagat Survey integration.
Rearview Camera:
Integrated rearview camera displayed on the navigation screen.
Parking Sensors:
Available front and rear parking sensors (Acura/ELS).
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth HandsFreeLink wireless telephone interface.
Usb Aux:
Available auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) under normal driving conditions. Refer to maintenance minder system.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as indicated by maintenance minder.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as indicated by maintenance minder.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles or as indicated by maintenance minder. Severe duty may require more frequent changes.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (iridium-tipped plugs).
Power Steering Fluid:
Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3
Coolant:
Honda Genuine All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (or equivalent blue coolant)
Sh-AWD System:
Potential for clunking or grinding noises from the rear differential/axles due to wear or lubrication issues. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise.
Vcm System:
While the 2008 MDX uses a 3.7L non-VCM engine, earlier generations or other Honda/Acura models with VCM experienced issues like oil consumption and spark plug fouling. This is less of a concern for the 2008 MDX's specific engine.
Timing Belt Vs Chain:
The J37A2 engine utilizes a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free and designed to last the life of the engine, unlike timing belts which require periodic replacement.
Acura Identity:
Luxury and performance division of Honda, established in 1986
Mdx First Generation:
Launched in 2000 as Acura's first SUV, based on the Honda Odyssey platform.
Mdx Second Generation 2007-2013:
Introduced for the 2007 model year, featuring a more powerful 3.7L V6 engine, SH-AWD, and a redesigned chassis.
2008 Updates:
The 2008 model year primarily refined the second-generation platform, building upon the major redesign from 2007.
Car And Driver Best Luxury SUV:
Frequently recognized by automotive publications for its performance and value.
Kbb Best Resale Value:
Acura models, including the MDX, have historically performed well in terms of resale value.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this generation can vary; consulting specific consumer reports data is advised.
