1996 Acura RL 3.5 Manual

The 1996 Acura RL 3.5 is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, premium leather interior, advanced climate control system, power windows and locks, premium audio system, cruise control, and comprehensive safety features including dual airbags and ABS. Below are key sections for specifications, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Key Features 3. Instrument Panel 4. Operating Instructions 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Safety Systems 7. Audio System 8. Climate Control 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Vehicle Specifications

Technical details and performance characteristics of the 1996 Acura RL 3.5.

SpecificationDetails
Engine3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve
Horsepower210 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque224 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission4-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel SystemMulti-point fuel injection
Fuel Capacity18.5 gallons
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive
Suspension4-wheel independent double wishbone
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
Overall Length196.2 inches

Key Features

Premium amenities and advanced technologies included in the Acura RL 3.5.

Instrument Panel

Overview of dashboard controls and indicator lights.

Control/IndicatorFunction
SpeedometerVehicle speed in mph and km/h
TachometerEngine RPM
Fuel GaugeFuel level indicator
Temperature GaugeEngine coolant temperature
Check Engine LightEngine system warning
ABS LightAnti-lock brake system indicator
Airbag LightSupplemental restraint system status
Oil Pressure LightEngine oil pressure warning
Battery LightCharging system indicator

Operating Instructions

Basic vehicle operation and driving procedures.

  1. Starting: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn ignition to start position
  2. Transmission: Select P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), or SportShift manual mode
  3. Climate Control: Set desired temperature using AUTO function or manual controls
  4. Audio System: Power on, select source (radio/CD/cassette), adjust volume and tone
  5. Cruise Control: Press CRUISE button, accelerate to desired speed, press SET
  6. Headlights: Rotate switch for parking lights, headlights, or AUTO position

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Never leave children unattended in vehicle.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

ServiceIntervalDescription
Oil Change7,500 milesReplace engine oil and filter
Tire Rotation7,500 milesRotate tires and check pressure
Air Filter30,000 milesReplace engine air filter
Spark Plugs60,000 milesReplace spark plugs
Timing Belt105,000 milesReplace timing belt and tensioner
Brake Fluid30,000 milesReplace brake fluid
Coolant60,000 milesReplace engine coolant
Transmission Fluid30,000 milesReplace automatic transmission fluid

Safety Systems

Advanced safety features and their operation.

Audio System

Operation of the premium audio entertainment system.

  1. Power: Press POWER button to turn system on/off
  2. Volume: Rotate VOLUME knob or use steering wheel controls
  3. Source Selection: Press AM/FM, CD, or TAPE buttons to select audio source
  4. Radio Tuning: Use TUNE buttons or seek function for station selection
  5. CD Operation: Insert CD, press CD button, use track selection buttons
  6. Tone Controls: Adjust bass, treble, fade, and balance using audio menu
  7. Presets: Store up to 12 AM and 12 FM stations in memory

Climate Control

Dual-zone automatic climate control system operation.

ControlFunction
AUTOAutomatic temperature control
TEMPDriver and passenger temperature adjustment
FANManual fan speed control
MODEAir distribution selection
A/CAir conditioning on/off
RECIRCRecirculate interior air
DEFROSTFront windshield defogger
REAR DEFOGRear window defogger

Troubleshooting

Common issues and recommended solutions.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, fuel issueCheck battery connections, ensure adequate fuel
Poor accelerationClogged air filter, fuel systemReplace air filter, check fuel pressure
OverheatingLow coolant, thermostatCheck coolant level, inspect cooling system
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsInspect and resurface or replace brake rotors
Electrical issuesAlternator, batteryTest charging system, check battery voltage
Transmission issuesLow fluid, sensorCheck transmission fluid level and condition

Warranty Information

Factory warranty coverage and terms.

Note: Warranty terms may vary. Consult your Acura dealer for specific coverage details.

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