1998 Acura 3.5 RL Owners Manual

The 1998 Acura 3.5 RL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, premium leather interior, dual-zone climate control, Bose audio system, power windows/locks/mirrors, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and comprehensive safety features. This manual covers operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, automatic transmission, luxury interior features, and advanced electronic systems.

Instrument Panel

The instrument panel provides comprehensive vehicle information and warning indicators.

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, ABS, airbag, battery, oil pressure
6. Odometer: Total and trip distance

WARNING! Address warning lights immediately to prevent vehicle damage.

Operating Controls

Familiarize yourself with all vehicle controls for safe operation.

1. Ignition: Start engine with key in ignition switch
2. Transmission: PRNDL gear selector with SportShift manual control
3. Steering Wheel: Tilt adjustment, audio controls
4. Power Windows: Master control on driver's door
5. Cruise Control: Set/resume/accelerate functions
6. Headlights: Automatic on/off with delay feature

CAUTION! Never shift to Park while vehicle is moving.

Maintenance Schedule

• Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
• Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
• Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles
• Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
• Timing Belt: Replace every 90,000 miles
• Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
• Coolant: Replace every 5 years
• Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles

Specifications

• Engine: 3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve
• Horsepower: 210 hp @ 5200 rpm
• Torque: 224 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic with SportShift
• Fuel Capacity: 18.5 gallons
• MPG: 18 city / 24 highway
• Wheelbase: 116.6 inches
• Length: 196.6 inches
• Curb Weight: 3,737 lbs
• Tires: P215/60R16 94V

Driving Instructions

Proper driving techniques ensure optimal performance and safety.

Starting: Ensure parking brake engaged, foot on brake, shift to Park or Neutral.

SportShift: Move gear selector to right for manual shifting up/down.

Braking: Apply steady pressure; ABS will pulse during hard braking.

Traction Control: Automatically engages to prevent wheel slip.

Safety Features

The 3.5 RL includes comprehensive safety systems for occupant protection.

1. Dual Airbags: Driver and front passenger
2. ABS: Prevents wheel lock-up during braking
3. Traction Control: Maintains grip on slippery surfaces
4. Side Impact Beams: Door reinforcement
5. Childproof Locks: Rear door safety feature
6. Security System: Anti-theft with remote entry

Tip: Always wear seat belts and ensure proper child restraint usage.

Audio System

Bose premium audio system with multiple source options.

1. Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off
2. Source Selection: AM/FM, CD, optional cassette
3. Volume: Rotary knob or steering wheel controls
4. Presets: Store 6 AM and 12 FM stations
5. CD Operation: Load disc, automatic play
6. Bass/Treble: Adjust sound quality
7. Fader/Balance: Control speaker output

WARNING! Adjust audio settings only when vehicle is stopped.

Climate Control

Dual-zone automatic climate control system.

1. Auto Mode: Set desired temperature, system adjusts automatically
2. Manual Control: Adjust fan speed, mode, temperature separately
3. Dual Zone: Driver and passenger can set different temperatures
4. Defrost: Front and rear window defoggers
5. A/C: Air conditioning for dehumidification and cooling

CAUTION! Do not block air vents; maintain clean cabin air filter.

Troubleshooting

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service and genuine parts.

Emergency: Keep roadside assistance number in vehicle.