How to turn on heads up display on Acura?
To turn on the HUD in most Acura models, locate the dedicated HUD control on the dash near the driver’s left side, press to activate, and then adjust height and brightness for comfortable viewing. Availability and exact controls can vary by model and year, so this guide covers quick-start steps and model-specific nuances for popular Acura SUVs and sedans. The core steps are simple: enable the HUD, then fine-tune position and brightness for your sightline.
Quick-start guide
Use these common steps to enable HUD in most Acura models. The exact location may vary by year and trim.
- Start the vehicle and ensure the engine is running or in accessory mode.
- Find the HUD control on the lower portion of the dash near the driver's side, often labeled HUD and accompanied by a small brightness knob.
- Press the HUD button to turn the display on. If it’s already on, press again to toggle off/on or use brightness to adjust legibility.
- Adjust the height with the vertical control so the image sits at eye level and does not block the road.
- Use the brightness knob to set visibility for current lighting conditions.
Once you’ve completed these steps, look through the windshield to confirm the HUD is projecting speed and other data. If it doesn’t appear, consult model-specific instructions below or check display settings in the infotainment system.
Model-specific guidance
TLX (2023–present)
TLX models locate the HUD controls on the driver-side dash, below the air vent cluster. You’ll typically see a dedicated HUD button plus brightness and height controls.
- Turn on the car and ensure the control is not blocked by sunglasses or dash objects.
- Press the HUD button to turn the display on.
- Use the height lever/dial to align the image with your line of sight.
- Turn the brightness dial to a comfortable level.
Note: Some trims require enabling HUD via Settings > Display on the infotainment screen before the physical HUD unit will project data. If you still don’t see anything, verify the model year supports HUD and that the system has not been turned off via a driving mode that disables the HUD.
MDX (2022–present)
In MDX, HUD is typically mounted on the dashboard ahead of the driver with a nearby control mounted on the left side of the dash. The control block includes a HUD button, plus a brightness knob and height adjustment.
- Start the engine and ensure the HUD control is accessible.
- Press the HUD button to activate the display.
- Adjust the height to place the image within your windshield area.
- Set brightness for current lighting conditions.
If the HUD does not display, check that the vehicle is in a mode that supports HUD (some driving modes or trim levels disable it), and confirm that the feature is installed on your vehicle.
RDX (2023–present)
RDX HUD controls are located on the left side of the dash, near the steering wheel, with a HUD button and a brightness knob. The height control is typically a small lever or wheel.
- Start the vehicle and locate the HUD controls.
- Press the HUD button to turn it on.
- Adjust the height using the vertical control until the display sits in a comfortable position.
- Rotate the brightness knob to enhance legibility without glare.
For some trims, you may also need to enable HUD in the infotainment settings: Settings > Displays > Head-Up Display, then ensure the feature is toggled on.
ILX (older models; HUD may be optional)
In older ILX models that support HUD, controls are typically on the left side of the dash with a HUD button and brightness control. Activation steps are consistent with other Acura models.
- Power the vehicle to an accessory or run state.
- Press the HUD button to enable the display.
- Adjust height and brightness for optimal visibility.
Because ILX models vary by year, if your HUD doesn’t appear, consult your owner’s manual or a dealer to confirm HUD availability for your specific VIN and trim.
Troubleshooting quick tips
If the HUD still won’t display, try these quick steps:
- Make sure the display setting in the infotainment system is set to show Head-Up Display data (some screens require enabling speedometer or navigation overlays).
- Verify there are no physical obstructions on the dash or glare from the instrument cluster.
- Check the vehicle owner’s manual for the exact HUD switch location for your year/model if you’re unsure.
In case of persistent issues, a dealer visit may be needed to verify the HUD hardware and software status.
Summary
Activating Acura’s head-up display is typically a matter of finding the dedicated HUD control on the driver’s dash, pressing it to turn on, and then using height and brightness adjustments to position the image for comfortable viewing. HUD availability varies by model and trim, and some vehicles may require enabling HUD in infotainment settings. By following the quick-start steps and consulting model-specific guidance, you should be able to enable and tune the HUD across most current Acura vehicles.
