1996 Acura RL Owner's Manual

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

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, automatic transmission, power windows/locks, leather seats, climate control, premium sound system.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve
Transmission	4-speed automatic with SportShift
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Seating	Leather-trimmed interior
Audio System	AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD changer
Climate Control	Automatic temperature control
Power Features	Windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof
Safety	Dual airbags, ABS, side-impact protection
Fuel System	Multi-port fuel injection
Suspension	4-wheel independent double-wishbone

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with gauges, indicators, and controls.

1. Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h.
2. Tachometer: Displays engine RPM.
3. Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level.
4. Temperature Gauge: Shows engine coolant temperature.
5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brake system.
6. Odometer/Trip Meter: Tracks total and trip distance.

WARNING! Address warning lights immediately. Do not operate vehicle if temperature or oil pressure warnings activate.

Starting & Driving

Proper procedures for starting, shifting, and operating your vehicle.

1. Starting: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn to START position.
2. Shifting: Move shift lever through positions (P-R-N-D-3-2-1).
3. SportShift: Manual gear selection available in D position.
4. Parking: Apply foot brake, shift to P, set parking brake.
5. Cruise Control: Set speed with controls on steering wheel.

CAUTION! Always wear seat belts. Never shift from P or N without brake applied.

Specifications

• Engine: 3.5L V6, 210 hp @ 5200 rpm, 224 lb-ft torque @ 2800 rpm
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic with SportShift
• Fuel Capacity: 18.5 gallons
• Fuel Type: Premium unleaded recommended
• Dimensions: 196.2" L x 71.7" W x 55.7" H
• Curb Weight: 3,650 lbs
• Tires: P215/60R16 all-season
• Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS
• EPA Mileage: 18 city / 24 highway

Controls & Features

Master vehicle controls for optimal operation.

Steering Wheel: Audio controls, cruise control, tilt/telescopic adjustment.

Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, hazard lights, rear defogger.

Doors & Locks: Power door locks with remote keyless entry. Automatic door locking feature.

Seats: 8-way power adjustable driver seat with memory. Heated front seats.

Lighting: Automatic headlights, fog lights, interior dimmer control.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

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

Tip: Keep records of all maintenance services.

Safety Systems

Your Acura RL is equipped with multiple safety features.

1. Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags.
2. ABS: Anti-lock braking system prevents wheel lockup.
3. Seat Belts: 3-point belts with emergency locking retractors.
4. Child Safety: Rear door child-proof locks.
5. Security System: Anti-theft system with engine immobilizer.
6. Crash Protection: Side-impact door beams, crumple zones.

WARNING! Children under 12 should ride in back seat. Deactivate passenger airbag when using child seat.

Audio & Climate Control

Operating your entertainment and comfort systems.

Audio System: AM/FM stereo with cassette. Optional 6-disc CD changer. Power antenna.

Climate Control: Automatic temperature control with separate driver/passenger settings. Rear defogger with timer.

Steering Wheel Controls: Volume, station seek, mode selection.

Care & Cleaning

Proper care maintains your vehicle's appearance and value.

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, rinse thoroughly. Wax regularly. Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean leather with approved conditioner. Windows: Use glass cleaner without ammonia.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on interior surfaces. Avoid high-pressure car washes near seals.

Warranty Information

New Vehicle Limited Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain Limited Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles. Corrosion Perforation Limited Warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact your authorized Acura dealer. Keep maintenance records for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/security system	Check battery connections; ensure security light is off.
Check engine light	Multiple causes	Have system scanned for diagnostic codes.
Poor fuel economy	Maintenance/driving habits	Check air filter, tire pressure; avoid aggressive driving.
Transmission shifts hard	Fluid level/condition	Check transmission fluid level and color.
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Have brake rotors inspected and resurfaced/replaced.

Emergency: Keep roadside assistance number in vehicle: 1-800-382-2238

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for all repairs.