2002 Acura 3.5 RL Owners Manual

The 2002 Acura 3.5 RL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, automatic transmission, premium sound system, climate control, power accessories, advanced safety features, and comprehensive onboard computer systems. This manual covers vehicle operation, maintenance schedules, safety features, troubleshooting, and technical specifications for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Controls 4. Safety Features 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Technical Specifications 7. Driving Tips 8. Audio System 9. Climate Control 10. Emergency Procedures 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, power steering, ABS brakes, dual airbags, premium leather interior, power windows/locks/mirrors.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve VTEC
Transmission	4-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Airbags	Dual-stage front airbags
Seating	Leather-trimmed interior
Audio	AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player
Climate Control	Automatic climate control system
Power Features	Windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof
Security	Theft-deterrent system

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with dashboard indicators and controls.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h
Tachometer: Engine RPM display
Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS
Odometer: Total and trip distance

WARNING! Address warning lights immediately. Do not operate vehicle if red warning lights remain illuminated.

Operating Controls

Master vehicle operation for safe driving.

Starting: Insert key, press brake, turn to START position
Shifting: Move gear selector through P-R-N-D-3-2-1 positions
Steering: Tilt wheel adjustment lever located below steering column
Lighting: Headlight switch on left stalk; fog lights available
Cruise Control: SET/RESUME buttons on steering wheel
Wipers: Control on right stalk with intermittent settings

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake when parked on inclines.

Safety Features

Airbags: Dual-stage front airbags with occupant position detection
ABS: Anti-lock braking system prevents wheel lockup
Seat Belts: 3-point belts with emergency locking retractors
Child Safety: LATCH system for child seat installation
Security: Theft-deterrent system with remote entry
Visibility: Daytime running lights and rear defogger
Handling: Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system
Tires: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

Every 7,500 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation

Every 15,000 miles: Air filter replacement, brake inspection

Every 30,000 miles: Transmission fluid, coolant replacement

Every 60,000 miles: Spark plugs, timing belt replacement

Every 100,000 miles: Major service including all fluids and belts

Technical Specifications

Detailed vehicle specifications and capacities.

Category	Specification
Engine Type	3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve VTEC
Horsepower	225 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque	231 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission	4-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel Capacity	18.5 gallons
Fuel Requirement	Premium unleaded (91 octane)
Curb Weight	3,737 lbs
Wheelbase	115.1 inches
Length	195.1 inches
Width	71.7 inches

Driving Tips

Optimize your driving experience and fuel economy.

Accelerate smoothly and avoid rapid starts
Maintain proper tire pressure (32-35 PSI)
Use cruise control on highways for consistent speed
Avoid excessive idling to conserve fuel
Plan routes to minimize stop-and-go driving
Remove unnecessary weight from vehicle

Tip: Regular maintenance improves fuel efficiency and performance.

Audio System

Premium sound system operation and features.

Power: Press POWER button to turn system on/off
Source Selection: AM/FM, cassette, CD changer controls
Volume: Rotary knob or steering wheel controls
Presets: Store up to 18 AM/FM stations
Bass/Treble: Adjust sound quality via TONE button
CD Operation: 6-disc in-dash changer with random play
Cassette: Auto-reverse with Dolby noise reduction

WARNING! Adjust audio settings only when vehicle is stopped.

Climate Control

Automatic temperature control system operation.

Set desired temperature using temperature control dial. System automatically adjusts fan speed and air distribution. Use MODE button to select air outlet: Vent, Bi-Level, Floor, Floor/Defrost, Defrost. A/C button engages air conditioning. RECIRCULATION button controls fresh/recirculated air.

Emergency Procedures

Respond appropriately to vehicle emergencies.

Flat Tire: Use jack and spare tire from trunk. Engage hazard lights.

Dead Battery: Jump-start using proper procedure in manual.

Overheating: Turn off A/C, turn on heater, pull over safely.

Accident: Turn off engine, set parking brake, use emergency kit.

CAUTION! Keep emergency contact numbers and insurance information in vehicle.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition	Check battery connections; ensure gear in Park; try spare key.
Check engine light	Multiple causes	Have diagnostic code read at service center; check gas cap.
Poor fuel economy	Maintenance/driving	Check tire pressure; replace air filter; improve driving habits.
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have brakes inspected; replace rotors if necessary.
Electrical issues	Battery/alternator	Test battery and charging system; check connections.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA (1-800-862-2872)

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealership for all repairs