Acura MDX 2012-2017 BLUETOOTH®HANDSFREELINK® Car Owner Manuals

Acura MDX 2012-2017 BLUETOOTH®HANDSFREELINK®

Acura MDX Bluetooth HandsFreeLink – Pairing, Calling & Messaging Guide

The Acura MDX Bluetooth HandsFreeLink system allows drivers to connect their smartphones for hands-free calling, audio streaming, and messaging. This feature enhances driving safety by minimizing the need to handle your phone while on the road.

In this guide, you will learn how to pair your phone, make calls using different methods, and use advanced features like voice commands and messaging in your Acura MDX.

How to Pair a Phone with Acura MDX Bluetooth

Before using Bluetooth calling or media features, you must connect your phone to the system. Pairing can only be completed when the vehicle is stationary.

1. Press SETTINGS on the display.
2. Select Phone Settings.
3. Choose Bluetooth Device List or Connect Phone.
4. Select Add Bluetooth Device.
5. Enable Bluetooth discovery mode on your phone.
6. Select your phone when it appears on the screen.
   If not visible, search for HandsFreeLink manually on your phone.
7. Confirm the pairing code displayed on both devices.
8. Enable Phone Synchronization when prompted.

Note: Using handheld devices while driving may be restricted by law. Always follow local regulations.

How to Make Calls in Acura MDX

You can place calls using multiple methods depending on your preference.

Dialing a Phone Number

Enter a full phone number manually using the system interface.

Using Voice Commands

1. Press the Talk button on the steering wheel.
2. Say “Dial” followed by the phone number.
3. The system will automatically place the call.

Using the Menu System

This method is available when the vehicle is not in motion.

1. Press PHONE.
2. Press MENU.
3. Select Dial.
4. Enter the number and confirm to call.

Using the Touchscreen (ODMD)

1. Select Shortcuts.
2. Tap Phone.
3. Select Dial.
4. Enter the number and tap the call icon.

Using Contacts (Phonebook)

Once your phone is paired, contacts can be synced automatically. Make sure synchronization is enabled during setup.

Voice Command Method

1. Press the Talk button.
2. Say “Call” followed by the contact name.

Menu Method

1. Press PHONE.
2. Press MENU.
3. Select Phonebook.
4. Choose a contact to call.

Speed Dial Setup in Acura MDX

You can store up to 20 frequently used contacts for quick access.

1. Press PHONE.
2. Press MENU.
3. Select Speed Dial and choose New Entry.
4. Select how you want to add the contact.
5. Optionally, assign a voice command for quick dialing.

Once saved, speed dial contacts can be accessed through shortcuts or voice commands.

Using Speed Dial & Call History

Voice Command

1. Press the Talk button.
2. Say “Call” and the saved name.

Using Display Controls

1. Press the Pick-Up button.
2. Scroll through speed dial or call history.
3. Select a contact to call.

Using the Screen Menu

1. Press PHONE → MENU.
2. Select Speed Dial or Call History.
3. Choose a contact to call.

Text Messaging & Email Features

The Acura MDX supports limited messaging features depending on phone compatibility. You can receive messages and respond using preset replies.

Select Active Messaging Account

1. Press SETTINGS.
2. Select Phone Settings.
3. Select Select Account.
4. Choose text or email account.

Reading & Replying to Messages

1. Select Read when a notification appears.
2. The system displays and reads the message aloud.

To respond, select Reply and choose a predefined message. You can also call the sender directly.

Siri Eyes Free Integration

If an iPhone is connected, you can use Siri without touching your phone.

• Press and hold Talk button: Activates Siri.
• Press Back button: Exits Siri mode.

Example voice commands:

• Call a contact
• Read messages
• Find nearby places

Important Notes

• Some Siri features may not display on the vehicle screen.
• Functionality depends on your phone and installed apps.
• For audio playback, switch to Bluetooth audio mode.

Siri and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

Conclusion

The Bluetooth HandsFreeLink system in the Acura MDX provides a safe and convenient way to stay connected while driving. By understanding its features and using voice commands effectively, you can enhance both safety and convenience on the road.