2002 Acura 3.5 RL Owner's Manual

The 2002 Acura 3.5 RL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, premium leather interior, advanced climate control system, premium audio system, power windows/locks/mirrors, moonroof, traction control, ABS brakes, dual front airbags, and comprehensive onboard computer system. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting and Operating 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Audio and Climate Systems 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, automatic transmission, leather interior, climate control, premium audio, power accessories.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.5L V6 SOHC engine with VTEC
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
InteriorLeather-trimmed seats with heating
Audio SystemPremium 6-speaker system with CD player
Climate ControlDual-zone automatic climate control
Power FeaturesWindows, locks, mirrors, moonroof
SafetyDual front airbags, ABS, traction control
InstrumentationComprehensive gauge cluster with onboard computer
LightingAutomatic headlights with delay-off feature
SecurityTheft-deterrent system with remote entry

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with dashboard controls and indicators.

  1. Speedometer and tachometer: Primary driving instruments.
  2. Fuel and temperature gauges: Monitor vehicle status.
  3. Warning lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brake system.
  4. Information display: Trip computer, outside temperature, system messages.

WARNING! Always pay attention to warning lights; address immediately if illuminated.

Starting and Operating

Proper procedures for starting, driving, and shutting down vehicle.

  1. Starting: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn to START position.
  2. Driving: Select gear with shift lever, use SportShift for manual control.
  3. Parking: Apply foot brake, shift to PARK, set parking brake.
  4. Shutting down: Ensure vehicle stationary, turn key to LOCK position.

CAUTION! Never leave vehicle running unattended. Always engage parking brake on inclines.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Steering wheel controls: Audio, cruise control. Center console: Climate, audio, navigation (if equipped).

Audio Controls: Power, volume, source selection, track seek, preset stations. Climate Controls: Temperature adjustment, fan speed, mode selection, rear defogger. Cruise Control: Set, resume, cancel, speed adjustment. Memory Seats: Two-position memory for driver seat and mirrors.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  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. Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
  5. Coolant: Replace every 5 years or 60,000 miles
  6. Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles

Tip: Follow severe service schedule if driving in extreme conditions.

Audio and Climate Systems

Premium audio with AM/FM/CD player and automatic climate control.

  1. Audio: Power on/off, volume control, source selection, preset stations.
  2. CD operation: Load disc, track selection, random play.
  3. Climate: Auto mode maintains set temperature, manual override available.
  4. Defogging: Use front and rear defoggers for clear visibility.

WARNING! Adjust audio volume and climate settings only when vehicle is stationary.

Safety Features

Dual front airbags, ABS brakes, traction control, security system.

Care & Cleaning

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, avoid abrasive cleaners. Interior: Vacuum regularly, use leather conditioner.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure washers near seals. Avoid silicone-based products on interior surfaces.

Warranty Information

4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealership. For support, visit www.acura.com or contact 1-800-382-2238.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/security systemCheck battery connections; ensure security light is off.
Poor fuel economyMaintenance/driving habitsCheck tire pressure; replace air filter; avoid aggressive driving.
Unusual noisesWorn componentsInspect brakes, suspension; check for loose components.
Warning lights onSystem malfunctionsCheck owner's manual for specific light meaning; visit dealer.
Electrical issuesBattery/fusesCheck battery charge; inspect fuse box for blown fuses.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset computer systems.

Service: 1-800-382-2238; www.acura.com

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