1998 Acura RL 3.5 Owners Manual

The 1998 Acura RL 3.5 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 operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Vehicle Overview

Key features: 3.5L V6 engine, automatic transmission, luxury interior with leather seats, power windows/locks/mirrors, dual-zone climate control, premium sound system.

Instrument Panel

Main components: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights, information display.

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, ABS
6. Information Display: Trip computer, outside temperature

WARNING! If any warning light illuminates while driving, stop safely and check the vehicle.

Operating Controls

Steering wheel controls, gear selector, climate controls, audio controls.

1. Ignition: Insert key and turn to start position
2. Gear Selector: P-R-N-D4-D3-2-1 positions
3. SportShift: Manual shifting capability
4. Cruise Control: Set/resume/accelerate functions
5. Power Windows: Master control on driver's door
6. Power Mirrors: Adjust from driver's door panel

CAUTION! Always come to complete stop before shifting between P, R, and D positions.

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
• Fuel Type: Premium unleaded recommended
• Tire Size: P215/60R16
• Curb Weight: 3,638 lbs

Driving Tips

Optimal driving techniques for fuel efficiency and vehicle longevity.

1. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking
2. Use cruise control on highways for better fuel economy
3. Shift to lower gears when descending steep hills
4. Allow engine to warm up in cold weather
5. Check tire pressure monthly for optimal performance

Tip: Regular maintenance improves fuel efficiency and extends vehicle life.

Safety Features

Dual airbags, ABS, side-impact beams, child safety locks.

1. Airbags: Driver and front passenger dual-stage airbags
2. ABS: Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking
3. Seat Belts: 3-point belts for all seating positions
4. Child Safety: Rear door child-proof locks
5. Security System: Anti-theft system with remote

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Children under 12 should ride in back seat.

Audio System

AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD changer controls.

1. Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off
2. Volume: Rotate knob or use steering wheel controls
3. Source Selection: AM/FM/TAPE/CD buttons
4. Presets: Store 6 stations per band
5. CD Changer: Load up to 6 discs in trunk unit
6. Tone Controls: Bass, treble, balance, fader

Note: CD changer located in trunk for disc storage.

Climate Control

Dual-zone automatic climate control system operation.

1. Auto Mode: Set desired temperature and system auto-adjusts
2. Manual Controls: Fan speed, mode selection, temperature
3. Dual Zone: Driver and passenger can set different temperatures
4. Defrost: Front and rear window defogger controls
5. A/C: Air conditioning for dehumidification and cooling

Tip: Use recirculation mode for faster cooling in hot weather.

Troubleshooting

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service and repairs.

Emergency: Roadside assistance available through Acura.