2002 Acura RL Manual

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

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical details: Engine, transmission, dimensions, and performance specifications.

Specification	Description
Engine	3.5L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower	225 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque	231 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Fuel Capacity	18 gallons
Curb Weight	3,781 lbs
Overall Length	195.1 inches
Wheelbase	114.6 inches
Braking System	4-wheel disc brakes with ABS

Exterior Features

External components and styling elements.

1. Projector beam headlights with auto-off feature
2. Power moonroof with tilt and slide functions
3. Heated power side mirrors with integrated turn signals
4. Alloy wheels: 16-inch 5-spoke design
5. Automatic climate control sensor in front grille

NOTE: Regular cleaning preserves exterior finish. Use automotive-specific cleaning products.

Interior Features

Comfort and convenience features inside the cabin.

1. Leather-trimmed seats with 8-way power adjustment for driver
2. Dual-zone automatic climate control system
3. Bose 6-speaker audio system with CD player
4. Power windows with auto-up/down driver's window
5. Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
6. Woodgrain-style interior trim
7. Automatic dimming rearview mirror

CAUTION! Avoid spilling liquids on electronic controls.

Instrument Panel

• Speedometer: 150 mph maximum reading
• Tachometer: 8,000 rpm redline
• Fuel Gauge: With low fuel warning light
• Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
• Warning Lights: Check engine, ABS, airbag, oil pressure
• Information Display: Outside temperature, trip computer
• Controls: Climate, audio, cruise control on steering wheel

Driving Operation

Operating procedures for normal driving conditions.

Starting: Insert key, press brake pedal, shift to Park or Neutral, turn ignition.

SportShift Operation: Move gear selector to SportShift gate, push forward to upshift, pull back to downshift.

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA): Automatically activates during loss of traction. VSA OFF button disables system.

Cruise Control: SET button engages, RES/ACCEL increases speed, CANCEL disengages.

Climate Control System

Dual-zone automatic temperature control operation.

1. Press AUTO for automatic temperature control
2. Adjust driver and passenger temperatures separately
3. Use MODE button to select vent positions
4. Fan speed adjusts automatically in AUTO mode
5. Defrost: Press front defroster button for quick windshield clearing

Tip: System works most efficiently with windows closed.

Audio System

Bose audio system with AM/FM radio and CD player.

1. Power: Press POWER button to turn system on/off
2. Source Selection: Use AM/FM or CD buttons
3. Volume: Rotate knob or use steering wheel controls
4. Presets: Store 6 AM and 12 FM stations
5. CD Operation: Insert CD, system automatically plays
6. Audio Settings: Adjust bass, treble, fader, balance

WARNING! Adjust audio settings only when vehicle is stopped.

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems and protective features.

Dual-stage front airbags: Deploy based on impact severity. Side airbags: Protect front occupants in side impacts. ABS: Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking. Seat belts: 3-point ELR/ALR with pretensioners.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

Oil change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months. Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles. Air filter: Replace every 30,000 miles. Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years. Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles.

CAUTION! Follow scheduled maintenance to maintain warranty coverage.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, faulty starter	Check battery connections; jump start if needed
Check engine light on	Engine management issue	Have system scanned for diagnostic codes
Poor fuel economy	Dirty air filter, tire pressure	Replace air filter; check tire inflation
Brake pedal pulsation	Warped rotors	Have brake rotors inspected and resurfaced
CD player skipping	Dirty or damaged CD	Clean CD; try different disc

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service. Warranty: 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty.