Acura MDX 2012-2017 Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Follow

Acura MDX Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Follow – Complete Guide

The Acura MDX (2012–2017) is equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Follow, an advanced driver-assistance system that helps maintain a consistent speed while automatically adjusting the distance from the vehicle ahead. Unlike traditional cruise control, this system uses radar sensors to detect traffic and can slow down or even stop the vehicle when necessary.

This feature is especially useful for highway driving and traffic conditions, as it reduces driver fatigue and improves overall safety.

What is Adaptive Cruise Control in Acura MDX?

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) in the Acura MDX automatically maintains your selected speed and adjusts it based on the movement of the vehicle ahead. It ensures a safe following distance by braking or accelerating when needed.

Acura MDX ACC Controls and Buttons

  • MAIN Button: Turns the ACC system on or off.
  • RES/+ Switch: Increases speed or resumes the previously set speed.
  • SET/- Switch: Sets or decreases the desired speed.
  • CANCEL Button: Cancels the ACC operation.
  • Interval Button: Adjusts the following distance between vehicles.

Following Distance Settings in Acura MDX

The following distance varies depending on your speed setting:

Set Speed Short Middle Long Extra Long
50 mph (80 km/h) 83 ft / 25 m / 1.1 sec 110 ft / 33 m / 1.5 sec 154 ft / 47 m / 2.1 sec 204 ft / 62 m / 2.8 sec
65 mph (104 km/h) 100 ft / 31 m / 1.1 sec 137 ft / 42 m / 1.5 sec 200 ft / 61 m / 2.1 sec 265 ft / 81 m / 2.8 sec

How to Activate and Set Speed

  1. Press the MAIN button on the steering wheel to activate ACC.
  2. Accelerate to your desired speed.

Above 25 mph (40 km/h): Release the accelerator and press SET/- to lock the speed.

Below 25 mph (40 km/h): The Low Speed Follow feature allows the system to operate starting from 25 mph.

Adjusting Speed in ACC

Use the RES/+ switch to increase speed or the SET/- switch to decrease it. Each press changes speed slightly, while holding the switch adjusts speed more quickly.

Adjusting Following Distance

Press the Interval button to cycle through four distance settings: short, medium, long, and extra long. Choose a setting based on traffic conditions and personal comfort.

Switching to Standard Cruise Control

Press and hold the Interval button to switch from Adaptive Cruise Control to standard cruise control mode. Repeat the process to switch back.

Using Low Speed Follow in Traffic

In slow-moving traffic, the Acura MDX ACC system can automatically reduce speed and even bring the vehicle to a complete stop. When traffic starts moving again, you can resume driving by pressing the RES/+ or SET/- switch or by lightly pressing the accelerator.

System Alerts and Operation Behavior

  • The system may display a BRAKE warning if sudden braking is required.
  • If the vehicle ahead stops, your MDX will also stop automatically.
  • If no vehicle is detected ahead, the system may cancel automatically.

Canceling Adaptive Cruise Control

You can cancel ACC by pressing the CANCEL button, pressing MAIN, or applying the brake pedal. The system will turn off and the indicator will disappear.

When Should You Use ACC?

Adaptive Cruise Control in the Acura MDX is best used on highways or long, steady drives. It may not perform effectively in harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain or fog.

Safety Warnings

  • ACC has limited braking capability: Always be ready to apply brakes manually.
  • Do not rely completely on ACC: It is a driver-assist feature, not a self-driving system.
  • Never exit the vehicle while ACC is active: Ensure the gear is in Park (P) before leaving the vehicle.

Conclusion

The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system in the Acura MDX enhances driving comfort and safety by automatically managing speed and distance. When used correctly, it can make both highway and city driving significantly easier.

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