2002 Acura RL 3.5 Manual

The 2002 Acura RL 3.5 is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), dual-zone automatic climate control, Bose audio system, leather interior, power moonroof, and comprehensive safety features including front and side airbags. Below are key sections for specifications, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Key Features 3. Instrument Panel 4. Driving Operation 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Audio and Climate Control 7. Safety Systems 8. Tire Information 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Vehicle Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the 2002 Acura RL 3.5 luxury sedan.

SpecificationDetails
Engine3.5L SOHC V6
Horsepower225 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque231 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive
Fuel Capacity18 gallons
Fuel TypePremium unleaded (91 octane)
Curb Weight3,781 lbs
Overall Length195.1 inches
Wheelbase114.6 inches

Key Features

Premium features and technologies included in the 2002 Acura RL 3.5.

Instrument Panel

Overview of dashboard controls and indicators.

Control/IndicatorFunction
SpeedometerVehicle speed in mph
TachometerEngine RPM
Fuel GaugeFuel level indicator
Temperature GaugeEngine coolant temperature
VSA IndicatorVehicle Stability Assist status
Check Engine LightEngine system warning
ABS IndicatorAnti-lock Brake System status
Security IndicatorAnti-theft system activation

Driving Operation

Proper operation procedures for optimal performance and safety.

  1. Starting: Insert key, press brake pedal, shift to Park, turn ignition
  2. Sequential SportShift: Move gear selector to manual gate for manual shifting
  3. Cruise Control: Set speed with SET/DECEL button on steering wheel
  4. VSA System: Automatically activates; button on dashboard to turn off
  5. Parking Brake: Pull lever to engage; press button and lower to release

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Never shift from Park without brake pedal depressed.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal vehicle performance.

ServiceIntervalDetails
Oil Change7,500 miles or 12 monthsUse premium 5W-20 motor oil
Tire Rotation7,500 milesFront to rear rotation pattern
Air Filter30,000 milesReplace engine air filter
Spark Plugs105,000 milesReplace all six spark plugs
Timing Belt105,000 milesReplace timing belt and water pump
Transmission Fluid30,000 milesDrain and refill automatic transmission fluid
Brake Fluid3 yearsReplace brake fluid regardless of mileage

Audio and Climate Control

Operation of entertainment and comfort systems.

Bose Audio System: 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, cassette player. Steering wheel controls for volume and station selection. Automatic volume adjustment with vehicle speed.

Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic temperature control. Separate driver and passenger temperature settings. Automatic mode maintains set temperature. Defrost settings for front and rear windows.

Safety Systems

Comprehensive safety features and their operation.

Tire Information

Tire specifications and maintenance guidelines.

Tire SpecificationDetails
SizeP215/55R16 93V
Pressure (Front)32 psi (cold)
Pressure (Rear)32 psi (cold)
Spare TireTemporary compact spare
Spare Pressure60 psi
Rotation PatternFront to rear (same side)

CAUTION! Check tire pressure monthly when tires are cold. Do not exceed maximum pressure listed on sidewall.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and recommended solutions.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, security systemCheck battery connections; ensure security light is off
Check engine light onVarious engine issuesHave system scanned for diagnostic codes
Transmission shifts hardLow fluid, needs serviceCheck transmission fluid level and condition
VSA light onSystem faultCheck brake fluid level; have system diagnosed
CD player errorDisc issue, mechanical problemTry different CD; clean laser lens if needed
Climate control not coolingLow refrigerant, compressor issueHave AC system checked for leaks and charge

Warranty Information

Factory warranty coverage for the 2002 Acura RL 3.5.

For warranty claims and service: Contact your local Acura dealer or call Acura Client Relations at 1-800-382-2238.

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