2002 Acura 3.5 RL Repair Manual

The 2002 Acura 3.5 RL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, and advanced electronic systems. This comprehensive repair manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, component replacement, and system diagnostics for the 2002 model year. Below are key sections covering engine, transmission, electrical, suspension, brakes, and general maintenance procedures.

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 2002 Acura 3.5 RL luxury sedan.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance.

1. Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
2. Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
3. Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
4. Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
5. Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
6. Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles
7. Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts and fluids for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

Engine System

3.5L V6 engine maintenance and repair procedures.

1. Oil change procedure: Drain plug torque 29 lb-ft, filter torque 13 lb-ft
2. Spark plug replacement: Gap 0.039-0.043 inches, torque 13 lb-ft
3. Timing belt replacement: Requires special tools, follow precise alignment marks
4. Valve adjustment: Cold engine, intake 0.008-0.009 in, exhaust 0.010-0.011 in
5. Cooling system: Burp procedure required after service

CAUTION! Engine components operate at high temperatures; allow cooling before servicing.

Transmission

• Type: 5-speed automatic with SportShift
• Fluid Capacity: 3.1 quarts (drain and refill)
• Fluid Type: Honda ATF-Z1 or equivalent
• Filter Service: Replace with fluid change
• Shift Solenoids: Accessible after pan removal
• Diagnostic Port: Located under dashboard
• Common Issues: Shift flare between 2-3 gear, solenoid failures

Electrical System

Battery, charging, starting, and accessory systems.

Battery: 12V 60Ah, located in trunk. Alternator: 110 amp output. Starter: 1.4 kW reduction type.

Fuse boxes: Main under hood, secondary under dashboard. Relay center: Behind glove compartment. Wiring diagrams: Color-coded with standard Honda/Acura conventions. ECU locations: PCM behind glove box, other modules distributed throughout vehicle.

Brake System

Hydraulic brake system with ABS and traction control.

1. Brake pad replacement: Front 10mm bolts, rear 14mm bolts
2. Rotor specifications: Minimum thickness stamped on rotor
3. Brake bleeding sequence: RR, LR, RF, LF
4. ABS module: Diagnostic capable, requires scan tool for bleeding
5. Parking brake: Cable adjustment under center console

Tip: Always clean slide pins and apply silicone grease during brake service.

Suspension & Steering

Front double wishbone, rear multi-link suspension with power steering.

1. Strut replacement: Requires spring compressor tool
2. Ball joints: Check for play during tire rotation
3. Control arms: Bushings wear common at 80,000+ miles
4. Power steering: Uses Honda power steering fluid
5. Alignment specs: Camber -0°30' ± 45', Caster +3°00' ± 45', Toe 0°00' ± 0°12'
6. Wheel bearings: Press-fit, require special tools for replacement

WARNING! Always use proper spring compression tools; springs under extreme tension.

Heating & AC

Climate control system with automatic temperature control.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior trim, and electrical accessory repair.

CAUTION! Airbag system components require proper handling; disconnect battery and wait 3 minutes before service.

Diagnostic Procedures

OBD-II diagnostic port under dashboard. Flash codes available for some systems.

Troubleshooting Guide

Reset Procedures: Maintenance reminder reset via trip button sequence.

Technical Support: Acura dealer service departments or certified technicians recommended for complex repairs.