Acura MDX User Manual
Table of Contents
2009 MDX
Introduction..................................4
Manual Overview............................4
System Overview ............... ..... ..... ...4
Accessories Precautions ..................5
Important Safety Information..........5
Map Overview.................................6
Current Street....................................6
Verified/Unverified Street..................6
User Agreement............................8
Getting Started ...........................10
System Controls ................. ..... ..... .10
Voice Control Basics.....................13
Using the Voice Control System...... 14
Improving Voice Recognition.......... 14
Selecting an Item (Button) on the
Screen.........................................15
Selecting an Item in a List.............15
Entering Information.....................16
System Start-up ............................17
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® .......18
Remote Keyless Entry Setting ......18
Map Screen Legend.......................20
Map Screen Description................21
Zoom In/Out........ ............................. 21
Map Scrolling .................................. 21
Displaying Current Location.........21
Traffic Display Legend..................22
Real-Time Traffic Display.............23
Viewing Flow Data..........................23
Viewing Incident Reports.................24
System Function Diagram.............26
Entering a Destination .............. 27
By Address ....................................28
Selecting the State or Province........28
Selecting the City.............................28
Selecting the Street ..........................30
Entering the Street Number ............. 32
By Address Book ..........................32
Adding Addresses to the Personal
Address Book................................33
By Places .......................................33
Finding the Place by Category........34
Finding the Place by Name..............38
Finding the Place by Phone
Number.........................................38
Finding the Place by Zagat 2008.....39
By Intersection...............................40
Selecting the State or Province........40
Selecting the City.............................40
Selecting the Street ..........................42
By Previous Destinations...............44
By Map Input.................................45
Showing the Map of Current
Position......................................... 45
Showing the Map of City..................46
Showing the Map of State ................47
Showing the Map of Continental
USA............................................... 48
By Today’s Destinations................48
Editing Today’s Destinations List....49
Adding Destinations to the List........ 49
By Go Home .................................50
Driving to Your Destination ..... 51
Driving to Your Destination..........51
Calculate Route to Screen..............51
Changing Routing Method ..............52
Viewing the Routes........... ................53
Viewing the Destination Map..........54
Map Screen....................................54
Route Line........................................54
Map Screen Legend .........................55
Guidance Screen............................56
Guidance Screen Legend................. 56
Distance and Time to
Destination..................................57
Map Menu......................................57
Voice Guidance Prompts................. 58
Direction List.................................58
EXIT INFO
(Freeway Exit Information)..........59
Split-Screen Guidance ..................60
Map Scale ......................................61
Map Orientation ............................62
00X31-STX-8200
Navigation System 1
Table of Contents
2009 MDX
Destination Icon ............................62
Various Other Icons.......................63
Landmark Icons .............................. 63
Incident Icons ................................. 63
Showing Icons on the Map............... 66
Icon Options ................................... 66
Going Off the Route......................68
Off-road Tracking .........................68
Viewing/Saving the Current
Location ..................................... 69
Pop-Ups and Disclaimers..............70
Changing the Route ......................71
Change Route By Screen ................. 71
Cancel Current Route...................... 71
Change Routing Method.................. 71
Detour.............................................. 72
Avoid Streets.................................... 72
Search Waypoint on Route ..............72
Delete Waypoint ..............................73
Back to Current Route...... ...............73
Changing Your Destination...........74
Find Nearest (Voice command).......74
Go Home (Voice command) ............ 74
Using Interface Dial to Change
Destination...................................74
Entering a Destination from the Menu
Screen (while en route) ................ 75
Continue Trip Screen ....................75
AcuraLink Messages .....................76
Information Features ................ 77
Information Screen........................77
Messages........................................77
Cellular Phonebook .......................77
Calendar ........................................ 77
Entering Your Schedule.... ...............78
Calculator.......................................79
Unit Conversion............................... 79
Voice Command Help...................80
Map Legend...................................81
Key to Zagat Ratings.....................81
Roadside Assistance......................82
System Setup.............................. 83
Setup Mode....................................83
Setup Screen (first)........................83
Brightness .......................................83
Contrast .......................................... 84
Black Level ...................................... 84
Volume .................. .......................... 84
Interface Dial Feedback .................84
Guidance Prompts ..........................84
Setup Screen (second) ...................85
Personal Information .....................85
Address Book...................................86
Home Address .................................89
PIN Number ....................................89
Previous Destinations......................90
Basic Settings ................................91
Units (mile or km) ............. ..............91
Voice Recognition Feedback ..........91
Routing & Guidance .....................92
Rerouting ........................................92
Unverified Area Routing .................93
Edit Avoid Area................................ 97
Edit Waypoint Search Area .............99
Guidance Mode .............................100
Clock Adjustment .......................100
Auto Daylight ............................ ....101
Auto Time Zone ........................... .. 101
Daylight Saving Time (DST) Selection
(Change DST Schedule) .............102
Time Adjustment ...........................102
Vehicle.........................................102
Off-road Tracking .........................102
Correct Vehicle Position................103
Color............................................104
Map Color ..................................... 104
Menu Color ..................... ..............105
Switching Display Mode
Manually.....................................105
Switching Display Mode
Automatically..............................106
AcuraLink/Messages ...................108
2 Navigation System
Table of Contents
2009 MDX
System Information.....................108
Rearview Camera .......................108
Rearview Camera Brightness
Adjustment..................................109
System Initialization.................110
System Initialization....................110
Entering the Security Code..........110
GPS Initialization ........................111
Map Matching .............................111
System Limitations...................112
Database Limitations ...............114
Client Assistance.......................116
Reporting Errors..........................116
Acura Automobile Client
Services ....................................116
Visiting Your Dealer ...................117
Obtaining a Navigation Update
DVD .........................................118
Changing the DVD......................118
PC Card .......................................119
Coverage Areas.........................120
Map Coverage .............................120
U.S. Detailed Coverage Areas.......120
Canada Detailed Coverage
Areas .......................................... 125
Operation in Alaska and
Hawaii.......................................134
Alaska ............................................ 134
Hawaii............................................ 134
Information Screen Differences.....135
Shipping a Vehicle To or From
Hawaii........................................ 136
Frequently Asked Questions... 137
Troubleshooting....................... 145
Glossary.................................... 147
Glossary.......................................147
Voice Command Index............ 150
Global Commands......... ..... ..... ....150
Navigation General Commands...150
Navigation Display Commands...151
Find Place Commands.................152
Climate Control Commands........153
Temperature Voice Commands...154
Radio Voice Commands..............155
CD Voice Commands..................155
DVD Voice Commands
(for 6-Disc Changer).................156
MP3/WMA Voice Commands
(for 6-Disc Changer).................156
Single CD Voice Commands
(for DVD Player)......................157
Single DVD Voice Commands
(for DVD Player)......................158
Single MP3/WMA Voice Commands
(for DVD Player)......................158
Rear Radio Voice Commands .....159
Rear CD Voice Commands
(for 6-Disc Changer).................160
Rear DVD Voice Commands
(for 6-Disc Changer).................161
Rear MP3/WMA Voice Commands
(for 6-Disc Changer).................161
Rear Single CD Voice Commands
(for DVD Player)......................162
Rear Single DVD Voice Commands
(for DVD Player)......................162
Rear Single MP3/WMA Voice
Commands
(for DVD Player)......................163
Information Screen Voice
Commands................................164
Setup Screen (first)
Commands................................164
On-Screen Commands.................165
On-Screen Spelling Assist..............165
Index ......................................... 169
Navigation System 3
Introduction
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Manual Overview
The manual is divided into the
following sections:
• Getting Started - A basic introduction
that discusses the controls and how to
communicate with the system.
• Entering a Destination - How to enter
an address or locate a point of interest
(POI).
• Driving to Your Destination - An
explanation of the map features,
guidance, and cautions.
• Information Features - Messages,
Cellular Phonebook, Calendar,
Calculator, Voice Command Help,
Map Legend, Key to Zagat Ratings,
and Roadside Assistance.
• System Setup - How to set up and
tailor the system for your personal
use and use the Address Book.
The back of this manual contains:
• Map Coverage (page 120)
• Cities with Traffic Coverage
(page 133)
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
(page 137)
• Troubleshooting Guide (page 145)
• Glossary of Terms (page 147)
• Voice Command List (page 150)
• Operation Specific to Alaska and
Hawaii (page 134)
System Overview
Your navigation system is a highly
sophisticated location system with voice
control that uses satellites and a map
database to show you where you are and
to help guide you to a desired
destination.
The navigation system receives signals
from the global positioning system
(GPS), a network of 24 satellites in orbit
around the earth. By receiving signals
from several of these satellites, the
navigation system can determine the
latitude, longitude, and elevation of
your vehicle. In addition, a gyroscopic
yaw sensor and a vehicle speed sensor
in your vehicle keep track of the
direction and speed of travel at all times.
4 Navigation System
Introduction
2009 MDX
Main Menu
The navigation system applies this
location, direction, and speed
information to the maps and calculates a
route to the destination you enter. As
you drive to that destination, the system
provides map and voice guidance.
The navigation system is easy to use.
The locations of many places of
business and entertainment are already
entered in the system. You can select
any of them as a destination by using the
Interface Dial or voice control.
There are several ways to enter a
destination, such as by point of interest
(POI), by address, by phone number,
and by selecting it from the map. The
last 50 destinations are saved for reuse
at a later date. The system also allows
you to store a home address to simplify
returning home from your destination.
Accessories Precautions
If you have front or side window tinting
installed, be aware that if the tint has
metallic properties, it can seriously
degrade or prevent GPS reception. This
is because the GPS antenna is located
under the dashboard.
If you plan to install electronic
components, such as radar detectors,
vehicle tracking devices, remote
starters, additional amplifiers, or other
audio components, ensure that they are
not located near the navigation control
unit under the driver’s seat, near the
navigation display in the dashboard, or
near the GPS antenna under the
dashboard. Signal noise emanating from
these devices can cause intermittent
disruption of the navigation system.
Important Safety Information
The navigation system can distract your
attention from the road if you focus on
the screen or operate the system’s
controls while driving.
Enter as much information as possible
into the system before you begin
driving, or when the vehicle is stopped.
Then, as you drive, listen to the audio
instructions and use voice commands
when possible.
Navigation System 5
Introduction
2009 MDX
Main Menu
WARNING
Using the navigation system
while driving can take your
attention away from the road,
causing a crash in which you
could be seriously injured or
killed.
Follow all operating instructions
and safety information in this
manual.
While driving, do not look at the screen
or operate the system controls for more
than a second or so at a time, and only
after deciding you can do so safely. Pull
to the side of the road if you need more
time to look at the screen or operate the
controls.
The navigation system is designed to
provide route information to help you
reach your destination. However, this
route guidance may sometimes conflict
with current road conditions such as
street closures, road construction,
detours, and out-of-date map data.
Additionally, the system itself has
certain limitations (see page 112).
Therefore, you must verify the audio
and visual route information provided
by the system by carefully observing the
roadway, signs and signals, etc. If you
are unsure, proceed with caution.
Always use your own good judgment,
and obey traffic laws while driving.
Map Overview
Current Street
The current street on which your vehicle
is appears at the bottom of the map
screen (see page 20). A message saying
“Not on a digitized road” may appear
instead when you drive half a mile away
from a mapped road. For more details,
see Off-road Tracking on page 68.
Verified/Unverified Street
Your navigation system has two kinds
of streets: verified (dark colored) and
unverified (light colored). The
differences between the two types of
streets are contrasted in the chart on
page 7.
“Unverified” Road
“Verified” Road
6 Navigation System
When
2009 MDX
Main Menu
displayed
Street color
Map quality
Routing
differences
Cautions
Guidance
voice
Time and
distance
“to go”
Verified streets (dark colored) Unverified streets (light colored)
These roads are found within metropolitan areas, and
include interstate freeways and major roads connecting
cities.
Shown on daytime map screen as black or red, such as
interstate freeways.
The database vendor has verified these streets.
Information like turn restrictions, average speed, and
whether it is a one-way street have been gathered and
used when creating your route to a destination.
While driving to your destination, the displayed route
line is solid blue. The system provides voice and map
guidance to your destination.
There are no pop-up boxes urging extra caution during
a route. However, because roads constantly change,
you are urged to use common sense, and always obey
posted traffic restrictions.
Voice guidance issues instructions such as “In a halfmile, make a right turn.”
The time and distance “to go,” displayed while en route
to a destination, is based on the average speed and
distance for the roads used for your route.
Introduction
These roads are found in rural areas, and typically include
residential streets away from the center of a town.
Shown on the daytime map screen as light brown.
These streets have not been verified by the database vendor.
The system does not contain information on one-way streets,
turn restrictions, or the road’s average speed. They are shown
on the map for reference and may have errors in map location,
naming, and address range.
Your route line is either a blue dotted “vector line,” or a dashed
pink/blue line. For information on selecting this option, and the
routing differences, see Unverified Area Routing on page 93.
Regardless of whether the user chooses route guidance, there
are cautionary screens before and during the route urging the
user to be extra cautious, and obey all traffic restrictions. See
Unverified Area Routing on page 93.
The phrase “if possible” is added to each guidance instruction.
For example: “In a half-mile, make a right turn, if possible.”
Because the average speed of these roads is not known, the time
and distance “to go” is based on a fixed average speed of
25 mph for these roads.
Navigation System 7
User Agreement
2009 MDX
Main Menu
In using this DVD “Satellite Linked
Navigation System” (the “DVD”),
which includes HONDA MOTOR CO.,
LTD. software, ALPINE
ELECTRONICS, INC. software,
NAVTEQ database contents, INFO
USA CORPORATION database,
ZAGAT SURVEY database contents,
and ZENRIN CO. database contents
(hereinafter referred to as “Licensors”),
you are bound by the terms and
conditions set forth below.
By using your copy of the DVD, you
have expressed your Agreement to the
terms and conditions of this Agreement.
You should, therefore, make sure that
you read and understand the following
provisions. If for any reason you do not
wish to be bound by the terms of this
Agreement, please return the DVD to
your dealer.
• The DVD may not be copied,
duplicated, or otherwise modified, in
whole or in part, without the express
written permission of the Licensors.
• The DVD may not be transferred or
sublicensed to any third party for
profit, rent or loan, or licensed for
reuse in any manner.
• The DVD may not be decompiled,
reverse engineered or otherwise
disassembled, in whole or in part.
• The DVD may not be used in a
network or by any other manner of
simultaneous use in multiple systems.
• The DVD is intended solely for
personal use (or internal use where
the end-user is a business) by the
consumer. The DVD is not to be used
for commercial purposes.
• The Licensors do not guarantee to the
client that the functions included in
the DVD meet the specific objectives
of the user.
• Licensor shall not be responsible for
any damages caused by the use of the
DVD to the actual user or to any third
party.
• The warranty on the DVD shall not
extend to an exchange or refund due
to misspelling, omission of letters, or
any other cosmetic discrepancy in the
contents of the DVD.
• The right to use the DVD shall expire
either when the user destroys the
DVD or software, or when any of the
terms of this Agreement are violated
and the Licensors exercise the option
to revoke the license to use the DVD
or software.
8 Navigation System
User Agreement
2009 MDX
Main Menu
• The terms and conditions hereof
apply to all subsequent users and
owners as well as to the original
purchaser.
• The logos of oil companies, hotels,
and convenience stores are displayed
for your information and
convenience, and in no way imply
any sponsorship, approval or
endorsement of these companies, or
their products. The logos are
trademarks of their respective
owners.
The user shall indemnify and save
harmless the Licensors, and their
officers, employees and agents, from
and against any claim, demand or
action, irrespective of the nature of the
cause of the claim, demand or action,
alleging loss, costs, expense, damages
or injuries (including injuries resulting
in death) arising out of the use or
possession of the DVD or software.
Use, duplication, or disclosure of this
DVD by or on behalf of the United
States government is subject to
“Restricted Rights” as set forth at FAR
52.227-14, -19 or DFARS 252.2277013, as applicable. Manufacturers are
the Licensors, including HONDA
MOTOR CO., LTD., 2-1-1 Minami
Aoyama Minato-Ku Tokyo 107-8556
JAPAN., Alpine Electronics, Inc., 20-1
Yoshima Kogyodanchi, Iwaki,
Fukushima 970-1192 JAPAN.,
NAVTEQ Corporation, 222
Merchandise Mart, Suite 900, Chicago,
IL, 60654, INFO USA
CORPORATION, 5711 South 86th
Circle, Omaha, NE 68127.,
Zagat Survey, LLC, 4 Columbus Circle,
New York, NY, 10019., and ZENRIN
CO., LTD., 1-1-1 Muromachi,
Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka
803-8630, JAPAN.
Navigation System 9
Getting Started
Driver
s Temperature
Driver
s Temperature
2009 MDX
Main Menu
System Controls
Driver’s Temperature
Driver
’s Temperature
Time (set by navigation system)
Driver
’s Temperature
Screen
Passenger’s Temperature
Lower Display
MAP/GUIDE button
CANCEL button
MENU button
INFO button
Interface Dial/
ENTER button
SETUP button
Display mode
button
AUDIO button
MAP/GUIDE button
Displays the map. When en route,
switches between the map and
guidance screens. See page 20 or 55.
CANCEL button
Cancels the current screen and returns to
the previous screen display.
NOTE:
The NAVI BACK button on the
steering wheel performs the same basic
function.
MENU button
Displays the Enter destination by
screen. When en route, displays the
Change route by screen. See page 27.
INFO button
Displays the screen for selecting
Message, Cellular Phonebook,
Calendar, Calculator, Voice
Command Help, Map Legend, Key
to Zagat Ratings, and Roadside
Assistance. See page 77.
SETUP button
Displays the Setup screen to change
and update information in the system.
See page 83.
10 Navigation System
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Display Mode button
Switches the display between Day
mode, Night mode, and OFF. See
page 105.
AUDIO button
Press to display the audio screen.
For more information on audio system
features, see the Audio section of the
vehicle Owner’s manual.
Other buttons
See the vehicle Owner’s manual.
Interface Dial/ENTER button
Knob
The Interface Dial moves left, right,
up, and down. Use the Interface Dial
to look around a displayed map. Moving
the Interface Dial up or down can also
be used to scroll up or down a page in a
list. You can also rotate the Interface
Dial knob to move the highlighting
around the display or to scroll through a
list. After making a selection in a menu
or list, push in on the Interface Dial
(ENTER button) to enter the selection
into the system.
ENTER
Selector
In almost all cases, you can enter a
selection into the system by pushing in
on the Interface Dial.
When you are displaying a map, rotating
the Interface Dial knob allows you to
change the scale. Rotating it clockwise
reduces the scale, showing less area
with greater detail. Rotating it
counterclockwise increases the scale,
showing more area with less detail.
Navigation System 11
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Screen
All selections and instructions are
displayed on the screen. The Display is
not a “touch screen” - you enter
information into the system either by
voice or by using the Interface Dial.
Clean the screen with a soft, damp cloth.
You may use a mild cleaner intended for
use on liquid crystal displays (LCDs).
Harsher chemicals may damage the
screen.
NOTE:
Whenever you shift to R (Reverse), the
rear view behind the vehicle is shown on
the navigation system screen. See
page 108.
Lower Display
Shows a summary of the audio and
climate control information, as well as
the time. This summary is helpful as a
confirmation when adjusting audio or
climate by voice.
The audio summary consists of the radio
band, frequency, and volume. For XM
radio, a brief description of the station
and current music is displayed.
The climate status consists of the
driver’s and passenger’s temperature,
fan speed, ON/OFF (A/C), and vent
setting. The time is automatically set by
the navigation system. Settings can be
adjusted in Set up (see Time Adjustment
on page 102).
12 Navigation System
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Voice Control Basics
Your vehicle has a voice control system
that allows hands-free operation of most
of the navigation system functions. You
can also control the audio system and
the climate control system. The voice
control system uses the NAVI TALK
and NAVI BACK buttons on the
steering wheel and a microphone near
the map lights on the ceiling.
HFL TALK
button
HFL BACK
button
NAVI TALK
button
NAVI BACK
button
NOTE:
While using the voice control system, all
of the speakers (except the RES
headphones) are muted.
Navi/HFL
Microphone (On the ceiling)
NAVI TALK button
This button activates the voice control
system. Press and release it when you
want to give a voice command. See
Voice Command Index on page 150 for
a list of voice commands.
NAVI BACK button
This button has the same function as the
CANCEL button. When you press and
release it, the display returns to the
previous screen. When the previous
screen appears, the system replays the
last prompt. This button is enabled for
the navigation system commands only.
However, it can be used to cancel an
audio or climate control voice command
up to one second after the command
confirmation.
NOTE:
•On the Enter phone number screen,
you can delete the entered number
entirely by pushing the NAVI BACK
button.
•The NAVI TALK and NAVI BACK
buttons are deactivated while using
the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®
feature. See your vehicle Owner’s
manual and the official website
(www.acura.com/handsfreelink) for
information on this system.
Navigation System 13
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Using the Voice Control System
You should use the voice control system
as much as possible, and consider
manual entry using the Interface Dial
as a backup method of entry.
Most of the system’s functions can be
controlled by voice commands activated
with the NAVI TALK button. To
control your navigation system by
voice:
• Press and release the NAVI TALK
button.
• Wait for the beep.
• Give a voice command.
Once the microphone picks up your
command, the system changes the
display in response to the command and
prompts you for the next command.
Using the NAVI TALK button, answer
the prompts as required.
If the system does not understand a
command or you wait too long to give a
command, it responds with “Pardon,”
“Please repeat,” or “Would you say
again.” If the system cannot perform a
command or the command is not
appropriate for the screen you are on, it
sounds a beep.
Anytime you are not sure of what voice
commands are available on a screen,
you can always say “Help” at any
screen. The system can then read the list
of commands to you.
When you speak a command, the system
generally either repeats the command as
a confirmation or asks you for further
information. If you do not wish to hear
this feedback, you can turn it off.
However, hearing the feedback will
familiarize you with the way the system
expects commands to be phrased. See
the Voice Recognition Feedback
setting in Setup.
If you hear a prompt such as “Please use
the Interface Dial to...” or “Please
choose an area with the Interface Dial,”
the system is asking for input that
cannot be performed using the voice
control system.
Improving Voice Recognition
To achieve optimum voice recognition
when using either the navigation or
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® voice
control system, the following guidelines
should be followed:
NOTE:
Make sure the correct screen is
displayed for the voice command that
you are using. See Voice Command
Index on page 150.
• Lower the A/C fan speed during
voice recognition operation, and
adjust the airflow from both the
dashboard and side vents so they do
not blow against the microphone on
the ceiling.
14 Navigation System
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
• Close the windows and the sunroof.
• If more than one person is speaking at
the same time, the system may
misinterpret your command.
• After pressing and releasing the
NAVI TALK button, wait for the
beep, then give a voice command.
• Give a voice command in a clear,
natural speaking voice without
pausing between words.
• If the system cannot recognize your
command because of background
noise, speak louder.
• If you are still having trouble with the
voice control system, refer to Voice
Command Help on the
Information screen.
Selecting an Item (Button)
on the Screen
On most screens, there are items that
can be selected (like buttons with titles
such as OK or Return). To select an
item on any screen, do one of the
following:
• Use the voice control system and say
the name of the desired item. Almost
all selectable items on the screen,
including some listed items, are
recognized by the voice control
system.
• Move the highlighting to the desired
item with the Interface Dial or its
knob, then push in on the Interface
Dial.
Tip:
If items are grayed out, this means that
they cannot be selected.
Selecting an Item in a List
To scroll through a list, do one of the
following:
• Rotate the Interface Dial knob to
scroll one item at a time.
• Use the voice control system to scroll
page by page. For example, to scroll
up, say “Up” or “Previous.” To scroll
down, say “Next” or “Down.”
• Move the Interface Dial up or down
to scroll through the list page by
page.
If you cannot find the desired name, or
have made an error, return to the
previous screen by pressing the
CANCEL or the NAVI BACK button.
To select the desired item in the list, do
one of the following:
• Use the voice control system, and say
the item number of the desired item.
• Rotate the Interface Dial knob to
move the highlighting to the item,
then push in on the Interface Dial.
Navigation System 15
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Entering Information
When the system needs input from you,
the display changes to a screen similar
to the one at the right. You can then use
the displayed letters, numbers, or
symbols to enter information. You can
enter your keyboard input in either of
the following ways:
• Say the desired letter, number, or
symbol on the screen if you are
entering a City or Street name.
• Move the highlighting to the desired
letter, number, or symbol by rotating
the Interface Dial knob, then push
in on the Interface Dial.
Each entered letter will appear at the top
of the display. Move the Interface Dial
right to enter a space between words. If
necessary, move it to the left to delete
an entry.
When entering an address, the system
searches the database for words that
match the letters you are entering.
As a result, you will notice that some
letters are no longer available.
When the system finds only one entry that matches, it completes the name entry for
you. If the system finds more than one entry that matches your input, a list of these
matches is displayed.
Tip:
When entering a name of a city, street, or place, or if you are unsure of the spelling
of the name, enter the letters that you are sure of, then move the Interface Dial up
to select LIST. The system will display a list of names that most closely match your
input.
NOTE:
The voice command names that can be used for each letter are shown below. For
additional keyboard symbols, see page 165.
Say Or say “...” Say Or say “...” Say Or say “...” Say Or say “...”
A Alpha/Apple
B Bravo/Boy I India/Igloo P Papa/Paul W Whiskey/William
C Charlie J Juliet/John Q Quebec/Queen X X-ray
D Delta/Dog K Kilo/King R Romeo/Robert Y Yankee/Yellow
E Echo/Edward L Lima/Larry S Sierra/Sam Z Zulu/Zebra
F Foxtrot/Frank M Mike/Mary T Tango/Tom Enter
G Golf/George N November/Nancy U Uniform/Uncle
H Hotel/Henry O Oscar V Victor
16 Navigation System
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
System Start-up
When you turn the ignition to ON (II), it
takes several seconds for the navigation
system to boot up.
The first screen to appear is the
navigation system globe screen. The
screen then changes to the Disclaimer
screen:
NOTE:
•The OK button does not appear
immediately. It appears after the
software is loaded.
• The symbol is explained on
page 18.
Read this disclaimer carefully so you
understand it before continuing. Push in
on the Interface Dial to select OK, and
the map screen will appear on the
display. The “OK” cannot be activated
by voice.
If you do not push in on the Interface
Dial, the screen will go dark after 30
seconds. To return to the Disclaimer
screen, press any navigation or voice
control button.
NOTE:
If you do not select OK, and then enter
the Set up or Information screen, some
items are not available and will show up
as darkened buttons (grayed out). See
System Function Diagram on page 26.
If you have entered any Calendar
reminders, they are displayed after you
select OK.
The Calendar reminder screen
remains displayed until you select OK
or Remind Later by rotating the
Interface Dial knob and pushing in
on the Interface Dial, or press the
CANCEL button.
If you select OK and push in on the
Interface Dial, the reminder will not
show up again. If you wish to have the
reminder show up again later in the day,
select Remind Later and push in on
the Interface Dial.
Navigation System 17
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
If you press the CANCEL button, the
message will be displayed the next time
you start the vehicle.
NOTE:
The system will display the current
message and any older or previously
unread messages, with the newest
message listed first.
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink
If you have a Bluetooth-compatible cell
phone that is paired, then CALL on the
Calculate route to screen is enabled.
When you select CALL, the system
dials the number shown on the screen. If
CALL is not available (grayed out), and
your phone is paired, then make sure the
phone has service or that HFL is not in
use; press the HFL BACK button.
For more information on Bluetooth®
HandsFreeLink®, see the vehicle
Owner’s manual and the official website
(www.acura.com/handsfreelink).
®
Remote Keyless Entry
Setting
When you unlock the door and enter the
vehicle, the Multi-Information Display
(MID) in the gauge assembly welcomes
you with one of the following displays:
“Welcome Driver 1,” “Welcome Driver
2,” or just “Welcome.” The vehicle
senses the driver number based on
which Remote Keyless Entry is used to
unlock the vehicle. If both drivers
approach the vehicle with remotes, the
welcome display and related settings are
based on which remote the vehicle
senses first.
NOTE:
• If both remotes come within range
simultaneously, the “Welcome”
display may be unpredictable.
• If only “Welcome” is displayed, then
all Setup settings revert to factory
defaults, and all personal data (such
as Address Book or Calendar) are not
available.
18 Navigation System
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
The navigation system uses the driver
number (as recognized by the MID) to
personalize the navigation system. For
example, if Driver 1 unlocks the
vehicle, the “Driver 1” Personal
Address Book and other navigation
settings are automatically loaded when
the vehicle is started. There is no way to
change from one driver’s settings to the
other’s while driving.
Throughout this manual, the icon
is used to indicate features that
are dependent on the “Driver number”
as displayed on the MID “Welcome”
display.
When the Remote Keyless Entry is
deliberately unlinked (as when giving
the key to a valet), the MID will display
“Welcome.” Then the following occurs:
• Some settings (e.g., the Personal
Address Book and the Calendar
Information feature) are not
selectable (buttons grayed out).
• Setup values (like volume,
brightness, etc.) may be changed but
are not remembered the next time you
restart the vehicle.
NOTE:
The vehicle Owner’s manual has
additional information regarding
linking and unlinking for the Remote
Keyless Entry.
Navigation System 19
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Map Screen Legend
Map Orientation
(see page 62)
“North Up”
“Heading Up”
GPS Signal Strength
: Best Reception
: Good Reception
Missing: Poor/No Reception
Vehicle Position
(see page 69)
(Use voice command
“Display the current location,” or
use the Interface Dial to show
current location.)
Current Street
(see page 6)
Current Map Scale
(see page 61)
Map Scale Adjustment
(Mile or km per half-inch appears only when you
zoom in or out by rotating the Interface Dial knob.)
NOTE:
See Map Legend on the Information screen for further explanation.
“Breadcrumbs”
(see Off-road Tracking on page 68)
Streets
(see Map Overview on page 6)
Interstates or Freeways
Verified Streets
Unverified Streets
Map Menu
(see page 57)
(Push in on the Interface Dial to view.)
Landmark Icon - Generic (see page 63)
Honda Dealer
Hospital
Grocery Store
Gas Station
Hotel/Lodging
Parking Garage
Freeway Exit Information
Incident Icon
Accident / Incident (other)
Construction
One-Way Traffic Icon (1/20 mile scale
only) (see page 63)
Map Features
: Park
: Hospital
: Shopping Mall
: Golf Course
: Airport/Stadium/Business
NOTE:
If you move the Interface Dial over an area (map
features shown above), the na me is displayed on
the screen.
Acura Dealer
School
Restaurant
ATM
Parking Lot
Post Office
Weather
: W ater Area
: Cemetery
: University
: Indian Reservation
20 Navigation System
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Map Screen Description
Zoom In/Out
Rotate the Interface Dial knob to
change the map scale. Zooming in
increases the detail, while zooming out
gives you a wide area view. After
changing the scale, give the system a
few moments to update the display.
Map Scrolling
To view other map areas, move the
Interface Dial left, right, up, or down.
The map will shift in that direction. To
return the map to your current location,
press either the MAP/GUIDE, the
CANCEL, or the NAVI BACK button.
Displaying Current Location
You can see the current address,
latitude, longitude, and elevation at any
time by doing one of the following:
• Use the voice control system and say
“Display current location.”
• Push in on the Interface Dial, select
Show Icon on Map, push in on the
Interface Dial again, and then move
the Interface Dial left to select the
CURRENT LOCATION.
The Current location screen will
appear on the display.
NOTE:
• Save is not available when the
keyless remotes are unlinked (guest
mode).
• The elevation will not appear when
the system is temporarily lacking
proper GPS information. The system
elevation may not agree wit h
elevations shown on roadside
elevation signs, and may fluctuate
plus or minus 100 feet or more.
You can save the current location in
your Address Book by doing one of the
following:
• Use the voice control system and say
“Save current position.”
• Push in on the Interface Dial. The
system will prompt you to save the
address. Select Save, and then push
in on the Interface Dial again.
Select Return to return to the previous
screen.
Navigation System 21
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Traffic Display Legend
Viewing Incident Details:
To view the incident details, use the
Interface Dial to position the cursor
(round red circle) over an incident icon
and push in.
Incident Icons
Accident / Incident (other)
Construction
Weather
Incident Icon Update Details:
• Typically M–F, 5:00 AM – 7:00
PM (varies by metropolitan area)
• Continuously updated
Message Icon
Indicates that you have a message. View
messages by pushing in on the Interface Dial.
See page 76.
Hearing Incident Details:
To have the message read to you, push in on
the Interface Dial a second time.
Map Scale
Traffic flow and incident icons are
only displayed for the following
scales: 1/2, 1, 2, 5 mile (or 800 m,
1600 m, 3 km, 8 km).
NOTE:
When driving to a destination on freeways that have traffic flo w data, the route line is
used to display moderate and heavy traffic flow status instead of the colored bands
on the side of the road. The route line color indicates the following conditions:
• Free Flow Traffic - a section of the blue route line will be bordered with a light
green line (this may be difficult to see)
• Moderate Traffic Flow - a section of the route line will change from blue to
orange
• Heavy Traffic Flow - a section of the route line will change from blue to red
• Unknown Traffic Flow - a section of the route line is blue
22 Navigation System
To return to current position, say or select
Return.
Traffic Flow Data
(using bands parallel to the road)
Heavy traffic: 0 – 24 mph
(approx.)
Moderate traffic: 25 – 45 mph
(approx.)
Free flow traffic: 45+ mph
(approx.)
(shown for both sides of the freeway where
available)
Traffic Flow Data Update Details:
• Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Continuously updated
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Real-Time Traffic Display
The navigation screen can display upto-the-minute traffic information when
available, including flow (traffic speed),
accidents, and construction on freeways
in more than 40 major metro areas. See
page 133 for a list of the current U.S.
cities that offer traffic information.
The display of traffic flow and incidents
on your map screen is optional and can
be turned On/Off by selecting the
“Traffic” icon on the Icon bar
(see Showing Icons on the Map on
page 66).
The current metropolitan areas that have
traffic coverage can be seen on
page 133. For more current metro
coverage information, go to
www.acura.com/realtimetraffic. This
link offers additional information on
real-time information, including the
following:
• The latest list of metro areas that have
NavTraffic
• Detailed coverage information for
each metro area showing what roads
have traffic speed, traffic icons, or
both
• An XM NavTraffic demonstration
• Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
NOTE:
Real-Time Traffic relies on a satellite
signal. It will not work correctly in
Hawaii and Alaska.
Viewing Flow Data
Traffic flow data is displayed as colored
bands on either side of the freeway (see
Traffic Display Legend on page 22).
The different colored bands represent
the average road speeds as determined
by under-road sensors.
While driving to your destination on a
road that has traffic flow data, your
route line color is used to display the
traffic flow data. This means that when
the map scale is set to one of the traffic
scales (1/2 through 5 mile scale), your
blue route line may appear as alternating
orange, red, or blue segments (see
Traffic Display Legend on page 22).
NOTE:
A blue route line segment on a freeway
can mean one of two things:
• Under-road sensors, GPS probes,
cell phone probes, and other methods
used to collect traffic speed
information indicate free flow traffic.
• The road has no sensors, and traffic
conditions are unknown (they could
be congested).
Navigation System 23
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Naturally, only roads with these sensors
or probes will show traffic information.
The amount of flow data varies
considerably from one city to another.
This map display is refreshed
continuously. You can only view traffic
information in the city where you are
located.
NOTE:
• Traffic flow and incident icons are
displayed on the 1/2, 1, 2, and 5 mile
scales (800 m, 1600 m, 3 km, 8 km
scales).
• Not all freeways within a
metropolitan area have traffic flow
data (colored bands on the side of the
freeways) - this is normal, and you
cannot assume that a lack of data
implies no traffic.
• Not all cities have traffic flow
information. See cities listed on
page 133.
• Due to freeway maintenance and
construction, traffic flow may be
available only for one side of a road,
or be missing entirely for some
portion of the freeway.
• The displayed traffic flow may
disagree with information from other
audio or Internet-based traffic
displays.
• If traffic flow is not showing, verify
that the “TRAFFIC” selection for the
Icon Bar is ON, and that the icon
options for traffic are both ON (see
page 66).
Viewing Incident Reports
Incident reports appear as small
diamond or circle-shaped icons (see
Traffic Display Legend on page 22 for
examples). There are three ways to view
traffic incidents:
• By voice control, say “Display traffic
incidents.”
• Select “Traffic Incidents” from the
Map menu.
• Select an incident icon from the map
screen.
NOTE:
The first method is recommended
because it works on any scale and
requires the minimum input.
Listing Traffic Incidents by Voice
Control
From the map screen (any scale), s ay
“Display traffic incidents” or “Display
traffic list.” A list of all incidents within
the metro traffic area will be displayed.
Incidents are listed by distance from
your current position outward in all
directions. To view an incident’s details,
select an incident from the list, and push
in on the Interface Dial.
24 Navigation System
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
Listing Traffic Incidents from the
Map Menu
Select Traffic Incidents from the Map
menu. A list of all incidents within the
metro traffic area will be displayed. See
Map Menu on page 57 .
No Traffic Incidents within 30 Miles
If you say “Display traffic incidents” or
select
Traffic Incidents
incidents within 30 miles of your current
location, the following screen will be
displayed.
, but there are no
Selecting an Incident Icon from the
Map Screen
Zoom in or out so that you are between
the 1/2 and 5 mile scales. (The map
must be on the 1/2 to 5 mile scales to
view the incident icons.) To view the
details of a specific incident, use the
Interface Dial to position the cursor
(round red circle) over the incident icon
you are interested in. Then push in on
the Interface Dial to view a pop-up
box summary describing the incident.
To see and hear the incident details,
push in on the Interface Dial a second
time. To return to your current position
map screen, say or select Return. To
continue viewing incidents in your
“scrolled to” location, press the
CANCEL button.
NOTE:
• Incident reports may be displayed on
roads that have no traffic flow data
available.
• Freeway incident reports can lag
behind the actual incident, or remain
displayed after an incident has
cleared. This is normal, and is
dependent on the reporting agency
and the speed at which the data is
updated.
• The displayed incidents may conflict
with information from other audio or
Internet-based traffic information
displays.
Navigation System 25
Getting Started
2009 MDX
Main Menu
System Function Diagram
This diagram shows the navigation
system features, starting at the center
and working outward in layers. The
navigation program starts at “Key ON,”
and then displays the globe screen
(blue). If OK is selected on the
Disclaimer screen, the functions in the
yellow segments of the diagram become
available in the Setup and Information
screens. The white segments of the
diagram are available anytime, even if
you do not select OK.
The items above the map screen show
various methods to begin driving to
your destination (orange). You are
provided with map/voice guidance,
routing cautions, and a direction list.
While driving to your destination, use
the voice control system as much as
possible to interact with the navigation,
audio, and climate control systems
(green).
VOICE:
"HELP"
(ALL)
S
D
N
A
M
M
O
C
E
C
I
O
V
NUMERIC RATI NG
(pg. 82)
COST (pg. 81)
ENTER (pg. 78)
LIST (pg. 77)
MATH (pg. 79)
CONVERT (pg. 79)
LIST (pg. 81)
SELECT CATEGORY
IMPORT, SEARCH, DELETE (pg. 77)
VOICE:
"MENU" (to
(pg. 71)
change route)
VOICE:
SCREEN"
(pg. 77)
"INFORMATION
(pg. 150)
M
(
INFO
SCREEN (pg. 164)
AUDIO (pg. 155 - 164)
CLIMATE CONTROL
(pg. 153, 154)
KEY TO ZAGAT
RATINGS
CALENDAR
CALCULATOR
MAP LEGEND
MESSAGE
(pg. 77)
NAVI, AUDIO,
CLIMATE (pg. 77)
t
h
CALL (pg. 82)
"HOW FAR OR LONG
TO THE DESTINATION?"
V
I
R
D
E
C
I
-
O
V
/
P
A
VOICE:
(pg. 50)
"GO HOME"
PHONEBOOK
VOICE HELP
ROADSIDE
ASSISTANCE
SELECT BAND/
FREQUENCY
F
o
r
e
m
o
v
e
h
i
c
VOICE:
(pg. 151)
G
N
I
A
D
I
U
G
SELECT A
DESTINATION
INTERFACE DIAL
T
-
BUTTON
INFO
(pg. 77)
CD
VOL BALANCE
FUNCTIONS
r
e
i
n
f
l
e
O
w
C
N
WITH
(pg. 74)
E
H
SELECTED
AUDIO
BUTTON
(pg. 11)
OTHER
AUDIO
o
r
m
n
e
T
E
M
S
I
D
E
H
T
BRIGHTNESS
r
VOICE:
"DISPLAY (OR SAVE)
CURRENT LOCATION"
(pg. 69)
U
O
Y
O
N
I
T
U
O
R
,
VOICE: "FIND
NEAREST..."
ATM , ETC.
(pg. 152)
C
S
P
A
E
L
A
C
E
D
N
I
M
E
R
R
C
S
R
E
M
I
A
L
E
C
B
O
L
KEY
G
ON
OK
NOT
REAR CAMERA (REVERSE)
ZOOM IN/OUT
a
t
i
o
n
,
s
e
'
s
m
a
n
u
a
R
G
R
N
D
R
E
S
C
e
l
D
C
A
E
E
A
R
S
(
p
g
.
E
N
R
E
E
OK
NOT
SELECTED
BLACK LEVEL (pg. 84)
.
E
U
T
DESTINATION
N
(
1
7
)
(
p
g
.
1
7
N
SCREEN
SETUP
(FIRST)
CONTRAST (pg. 84)
VOICE:
"WHAT TIME
IS IT?"
(pg. 150)
S
T
I
O
N
S
VOICE:
"MENU" FOR
ENTER
SCREEN
(pg. 27)
p
g
.
2
)
PRESS
OK
SETUP
BUTTON
SYSTEM INFO.
BRIGHTNESS (pg. 83)
VOLUME (pg. 84)
(pg. 155 - 164)
I
N
A
,
D
I
R
AFTER RESTART
0
)
-
(pg. 83)
COLOR
ACURALINK
GUIDE. PROMPTS (pg. 84)
INTERFACE DIAL (pg. 84)
VOICE:
"AUDIO"
T
I
E
C
DESTINATION
(RESUME)
(pg. 76)
ADJUSTMENT
VEHICLE
MESSAGES (pg. 108)
VERSION (pg. 108)
O
T
I
O
CONTINUE
TO THE
GUIDANCE
CLOCK
MENU COLOR (pg. 104)
VOICE:
CLIMATE
FAN, TEMP
(pg. 153, 154)
WAYPOINTS
-
S
L
I
S
T
)
VOICE:
(pg. 61, 151)
VOICE:
(pg. 64, 151)
VIEW TRAFFIC
PERSONAL
BASIC
DAYLIGHT SAV. (pg. 102)
OFF-ROAD TRACKING
CORRECT VEHICLE
POSITION (pg. 103)
ENTER
(pg. 73)
(pg. 23)
UNITS MI/KM (pg. 91)
VOICE RECOG. FEEDBACK
UNVERIFIED (pg. 93)
AVOID AREAS (pg. 97)
TIME ZONE (pg. 101)
(pg. 68, 102)
N
N
"ZOOM IN/ZOOM OUT"
"HIDE/DISPLAY ICONS"
ROUTING
MAP COLOR (pg. 104)
TRAFFIC
VIEW
(pg. 23)
ADD BOOK (pg. 86)
PINs (pg. 85)
(pg. 91)
26 Navigation System
Entering a Destination
2009 MDX
Main Menu
When you press the MENU button, the
display changes to:
Address (see page 28)
This selection requires you to enter the
city (and possibly the state) and the
address that you want to go to.
Address Book (see page 32)
This selection allows you to select a
stored address. The system can store up
to a combined total of 200 Driver 1 and
Driver 2 addresses.
Places (see page 33)
The system has been programmed with
the locations of many businesses, parks,
hospitals, etc. This selection lets you
search these by category, name, phone
number, or Zagat 2008 (for restaurants).
Intersection (see page 40)
This selection allows you to enter the
names of two intersecting streets in a
city. This is useful if you know the
general location of your destination, but
not the exact address.
Previous Destinations (see page 44)
When you enter a destination with any
of the available selections (except
Address Book and Go Home), the
last 50 destinations are saved by the
system. Use this selection to choose a
destination again.
NOTE:
If Previous Destinations is grayed
out, there are no Previous Destinations
entered.
Map Input (see page 45)
This selection allows you to point to a
destination on the map using the
Interface Dial. This allows you to
enter a destination or address that may
not be listed in the database.
Today’s Destinations (see page 48)
You can enter and sort up to five
destinations and store them in the
Today’s Destinations list. You can then
use the Today’s Destinations selection.
NOTE:
If Today’s Destinations is grayed
out, there are no Today’s Destinations
entered.
Go Home (see page 50)
This selection allows you to select your
home or a common place as a
destination.
NOTE:
If you have no home address entered,
the system prompts you for one.
Navigation System 27
Entering a Destination
2009 MDX
Main Menu
By Address
After you select Address from the
Enter destination by screen, the
display changes to:
Tip:
• When entering an address by voice, it
is more efficient to say the city name
first, then the street name.
• When entering an address by the
Interface Dial, it is usually easier to
enter the street first. A city or cities
that the street appears in will be
displayed. For your convenience, you
do not have to enter both city and
street.
NOTE:
• If you find that your city is not listed,
it may be part of a larger
metropolitan area. Try entering the
street first.
• Prior to departure, you can set areas
to avoid. The system then includes
them in its calculations for the
destination you have entered. See
Edit Avoid Area on page 97.
Selecting the State or Province
The state you are in is displayed at the
top of the screen. If your desired
destination is in another state, select
CHANGE STATE by moving the
Interface Dial down.
The display then changes to the Select
a state screen. Use the voice control
system and say the name of the state, or
rotate the Interface Dial knob to
select the state.
Selecting the City
This is helpful if the street runs through
several cities, and you know what city
includes the street. The city you are in is
displayed on the screen. If the city you
want is displayed on the screen, say
“Select current city.” If your desired
destination is in another city, say or
enter that city.
By Voice Control:
Say “City” on the Find address by
screen, and the display changes to the
Say city name screen. Say the city
name and the searching will begin.
NOTE:
To improve voice recognition when
saying the city name, pronounce the
syllables as clearly as possible.
28 Navigation System
Entering a Destination
2009 MDX
Main Menu
To enter the city name by voice spelling,
say or select CHANGE TO SPELL
MODE on the Say city name screen,
and the display will change to the Enter
city name screen.
Say the city name by saying individual
letters, or words that represent the
letters, one at a time.
The system has a talk back function. If
your spoken letter is not recognized, the
system will talk back to you. For
example, if you say “E” but the system
does not recognize the command, it will
ask you, “Please select the number of
the input letter from the list,” and the
following pop-up box will appear:
You should select a letter by saying the
number.
Alternatively, to improve voice
recognition, you can say “Echo” or
“Edward” instead of “E.” See page 16
for a list of available words for each
letter.
By Interface Dial:
Select City, and the display then
changes to the Enter city name screen.
Use the Interface Dial to enter the
name of the city.
The system will display a list of city
names, with the closest match to the
name you entered at the top of the list.
Select the number (1-6) of the desired
city from the list.
Navigation System 29
Entering a Destination
2009 MDX
Main Menu
If the system does not find an exact
match, select LIST when you finish
entering the name of the city. Most of
the cities and towns for that state are
listed.
Listings of cities and towns in the nondetailed coverage area may have an
asterisk “*” next to their names. If you
select one, a pop-up box is displayed
saying, “No detailed street data...”, and
a street address cannot be entered (see
Map Coverage on page 120). Try
entering the street first, and then select
the city if available.
Select View Dest. Map and use the
Interface Dial to select an icon,
approximate area, or street you wish to
choose as your destination. Otherwise, a
central location of the city will be
selected. If you select a point of interest
(POI) or road in an unverified area, you
may or may not have routing in these
areas. See Map Overview on page 6.
Selecting the Street
By Voice Control:
After you have selected the city, or if
you say “Street” on the Find address
by screen, the display changes to the
Say street name screen. Say the street
name and the searching will begin.
To enter the street name by voice
spelling, say or select CHANGE TO
SPELL MODE on the Say street
name screen, and the display will
change to the Enter street name
screen.
Say the street name by saying individual
letters or numbers, or words that
represent the letters, one at a time.
30 Navigation System
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