1996 Acura 3.5 RL Owners Manual

The 1996 Acura 3.5 RL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, automatic transmission, advanced safety systems, premium audio system, climate control, power accessories, and sophisticated electronic systems. Below are key sections for vehicle operation, maintenance, features, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting & Operating 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Features 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Safety Systems 8. Audio & Climate Control 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, power steering, ABS brakes, dual airbags, power windows/locks/mirrors, automatic climate control, premium audio system.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve
Transmission4-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
AirbagsDriver and front passenger SRS
SteeringPower-assisted rack-and-pinion
Suspension4-wheel independent double-wishbone
Fuel Capacity18.5 gallons
Seating Capacity5 passengers
Curb WeightApproximately 3,650 lbs

Instrument Panel

Main gauges and indicators: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

  1. Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph and km/h
  2. Tachometer: Engine RPM
  3. Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator
  4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
  5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brake, ABS, SRS
  6. Odometer/Trip Meter: Total and trip distance

WARNING! If any warning light remains on while driving, stop vehicle safely and investigate cause.

Starting & Operating

Starting procedure and basic vehicle operation.

  1. Ensure parking brake is engaged
  2. Insert key into ignition
  3. Press brake pedal
  4. Turn key to START position
  5. Release key when engine starts
  6. Disengage parking brake
  7. Select gear with shift lever
  8. Accelerate gradually

CAUTION! Never leave vehicle unattended with engine running. Always set parking brake when parked.

Specifications

Controls & Features

Dashboard controls and vehicle features operation.

Steering Wheel: Tilt adjustment, cruise control, audio controls. Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, hazard lights. Doors: Power windows, power locks, power mirrors. Lighting: Headlight control, fog lights, interior lighting.

Climate: Automatic temperature control, defrost settings, air circulation. Audio: AM/FM stereo with cassette, CD changer compatible, 6 speakers. Seats: Power adjustable driver seat, lumbar support, heated seats (optional).

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals and procedures.

  1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  3. Air Filter: Every 30,000 miles
  4. Spark Plugs: Every 105,000 miles
  5. Timing Belt: Every 105,000 miles
  6. Brake Fluid: Every 3 years
  7. Coolant: Every 5 years or 60,000 miles
  8. Transmission Fluid: Every 30,000 miles

Tip: Always use genuine Acura parts for optimal performance and warranty protection.

Safety Systems

Active and passive safety features description and operation.

  1. SRS Airbags: Driver and front passenger
  2. ABS Brakes: Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking
  3. Seat Belts: 3-point front and rear with pretensioners
  4. Child Safety: Rear door child-proof locks
  5. Security System: Anti-theft system with remote
  6. Lighting: Automatic headlights, high-mounted brake light
  7. Visibility: Intermittent wipers, rear defogger

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Children under 12 should ride in back seat. Never disable airbags.

Audio & Climate Control

Entertainment and comfort system operation.

Audio System: AM/FM stereo cassette player, 6 speakers, automatic volume control. Climate Control: Automatic temperature control, dual zone, air filtration, rear defogger.

Care & Cleaning

Vehicle exterior and interior cleaning recommendations.

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, dry with soft cloth. Wax regularly. Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean leather with approved cleaner, use glass cleaner for windows.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on paint or interior surfaces. Avoid high-pressure washers near seals.

Warranty Information

New Vehicle Limited Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain Limited Warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles. Corrosion Perforation Limited Warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealer. Acura Client Relations: 1-800-382-2238.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignition/fuelCheck battery connections; ensure in Park; check fuel level.
OverheatingCoolant level/thermostatCheck coolant level; inspect for leaks; check radiator fan.
Brake warning lightParking brake/fluid levelRelease parking brake fully; check brake fluid level.
Electrical issuesBattery/alternatorTest battery voltage; check alternator output.
Transmission issuesFluid level/solenoidsCheck transmission fluid level and condition.

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for professional service.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-382-2238

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