Positioning:
Positioned as a premium compact crossover, offering a blend of performance (thanks to the turbocharger and SH-AWD) and Acura's luxury and reliability reputation.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Infiniti EX35, and Lexus RX.
Engine Highlight:
Unique offering of a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in its class at the time.
Drivetrain Highlight:
Availability of Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) for enhanced performance and handling.
Manual Advantage:
Provides licensed, OE-derived information for accurate repairs, surpassing the convenience and detail of older printed manuals.
Engine:
Complete service, repair, diagnostics, and overhaul of the 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 engine (K23A1).
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, front-wheel drive components, propeller shaft, rear differential, driveshafts, and hubs.
Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission (BDDA) service, repair, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS, EBD, VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) system components, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, power steering fluid, and alignment.
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, fuses, relays, body control modules (BCM), multiplexing, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system service, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and climate control module.
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof, and body repair procedures.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, impact sensors, and related diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, transmission fluid change, and belt inspections/replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine components, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical modules, and bodywork.
Diagnostics:
Use of diagnostic scan tools, live data interpretation, component testing, and system diagnosis for powertrain, chassis, and body electronics.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, fluid types, wear limits, and diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, or based on the Maintenance Minder system.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 3 years (recommended by Acura).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Check owner's manual or Maintenance Minder; typically around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on use.
Engine Oil:
0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil (API certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.4 US quarts (5.1 L) with filter change
Transmission Fluid:
Honda Genuine ATF DW-1
Coolant:
Honda Genuine All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (Blue)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 High-Temperature Brake Fluid
Turbocharger Lag:
Some owners reported noticeable turbo lag, a characteristic of this engine's tuning.
Oil Consumption:
Occasional reports of oil consumption; regular checks are advised.
Brake Wear:
As with many performance-oriented SUVs, brake pads and rotors can wear faster with aggressive driving.
Interior Rattles:
Some owners have noted interior trim rattles over time.
