1998 Acura RL Service Manual

The 1998 Acura RL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, automatic transmission, advanced suspension system, comprehensive safety features, and sophisticated electronic systems. This service manual provides detailed information for maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine System 4. Transmission 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Heating & AC 9. Body & Interior 10. Diagnostic Procedures 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Complete technical specifications for the 1998 Acura RL luxury sedan.

SpecificationDetails
Engine Type3.5L SOHC V6
Horsepower210 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque224 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission4-speed automatic
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive
Fuel SystemProgrammed fuel injection
Brake System4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension4-wheel independent
Fuel Capacity18 gallons
Curb Weight3,650 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance.

  1. Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  3. Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
  4. Spark plug replacement: Every 105,000 miles
  5. Timing belt replacement: Every 105,000 miles
  6. Brake fluid replacement: Every 3 years
  7. Coolant replacement: Every 5 years or 60,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts for replacements. Follow all safety procedures when working on your vehicle.

Engine System

Detailed service procedures for the 3.5L V6 engine.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt replacement procedure
  4. Fuel system maintenance and repair
  5. Ignition system service
  6. Cooling system maintenance
  7. Exhaust system service

CAUTION! Engine components operate at high temperatures. Allow engine to cool completely before beginning service.

Transmission

Brake System

Service procedures for the 4-wheel disc brake system with ABS.

Front Brakes: 11.1-inch ventilated discs, dual-piston calipers. Rear Brakes: 11.1-inch solid discs, single-piston calipers.

Brake Pad Replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace when worn to 1mm. Rotor Service: Minimum thickness 20.5mm front, 8.5mm rear. ABS System: Wheel speed sensors, modulator unit, control unit diagnostics. Brake Bleeding: Use proper sequence - RR, LR, RF, LF.

Suspension & Steering

Front: Double wishbone with coil springs. Rear: Multi-link with coil springs.

  1. Strut and shock absorber replacement
  2. Control arm and ball joint service
  3. Stabilizer bar and link replacement
  4. Wheel alignment specifications
  5. Power steering system service
  6. Tire pressure monitoring system

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

Comprehensive electrical system diagnostics and repair.

  1. Battery: 12V, 60Ah maintenance-free
  2. Alternator: 100 amp output capacity
  3. Starter motor: Reduction gear type
  4. Fuse box locations and amperage ratings
  5. Wiring diagrams and connector locations
  6. Lighting system troubleshooting
  7. Power window and lock systems
  8. Instrument cluster diagnostics

WARNING! Disconnect battery before performing electrical work to prevent short circuits.

Heating & AC

Climate control system service and repair procedures.

AC System: R134a refrigerant, 1.54 lbs capacity. Compressor: Variable displacement type. Heater Core: Replacement procedure. Blower Motor: Three-speed operation. Control Head: Automatic climate control diagnostics. Evaporator and Condenser: Service and replacement.

Body & Interior

Body panel alignment, interior component service, and trim procedures.

CAUTION! Use proper tools for trim removal to avoid damage to clips and fasteners.

Diagnostic Procedures

How to access and interpret diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

OBD-II Connector: Located under dashboard. Code Retrieval: Use scan tool or jumper method. System Monitors: Continuous and non-continuous monitors. Live Data: Sensor readings and system parameters. Clear Codes: Proper procedure after repairs.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, starter, fuel systemCheck battery voltage, fuel pressure, spark
Poor accelerationFuel filter, air filter, sensorsReplace filters, check MAF and TPS sensors
Transmission slipsLow fluid, worn clutchesCheck fluid level and condition, pressure test
Brake vibrationWarped rotors, worn padsResurface or replace rotors, replace pads
Electrical issuesBad grounds, blown fusesCheck ground connections, inspect fuse box

Reset Procedures: Maintenance reminder, ECU reset, transmission adaptation.

Service Support: Contact Acura dealer or certified technician for complex repairs.

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