Control System
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Acura MDX, 2012 Acura MDX, 2011 Acura MDX, and 2010 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The SH-AWD control system consists of an SH-AWD control unit, the PCM, the VSA modulator-control unit, along with various sensors and switches that detect the steering angle, the lateral G force, the yaw, and the vehicle speed. A fluid temperature sensor is located on the rear differential. The control units exchange information via the CAN communication lines. The SH-AWD control unit has a self-diagnostic function. If a malfunction is detected, the SH-AWD control unit turns on the SH-AWD indicator in the gauge control module, and the system goes into fail-safe mode. When in fail-safe mode, the vehicle disables the SH-AWD differential. The vehicle defaults to front wheel drive and reduces engine torque to suit the driving conditions.