2002 Acura RL Repair Manual PDF

The 2002 Acura RL Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the Acura RL luxury sedan. This manual covers engine systems, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, body components, and routine maintenance procedures. Below are key sections for technical specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine System 4. Transmission 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Heating & AC 9. Body & Interior 10. Troubleshooting Guide 11. Safety Precautions

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 2002 Acura RL including engine, dimensions, capacities, and performance data.

Specification	Details
Engine Type	3.5L V6 SOHC VTEC
Horsepower	225 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque	231 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission	4-speed automatic
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Fuel Capacity	17.2 gallons
Curb Weight	3,781 lbs
Overall Length	195.1 inches
Wheelbase	114.6 inches
Brake System	4-wheel disc with ABS

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals and service procedures for optimal vehicle performance.

Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
Spark plug replacement: Every 105,000 miles
Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
Brake fluid: Every 3 years regardless of mileage
Coolant replacement: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years

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

Engine System

Detailed repair procedures for the 3.5L V6 engine including timing belt, valve adjustment, and component replacement.

Timing Belt Replacement: Required every 105,000 miles
Valve Clearance: Check and adjust every 105,000 miles
Ignition System: Spark plug gap 0.039-0.043 inches
Fuel System: Fuel pressure 45-50 psi
Cooling System: Thermostat opens at 180°F
Oil Capacity: 4.5 quarts with filter change

CAUTION! Engine must be cool before performing any maintenance to prevent burns.

Transmission

Automatic transmission service, fluid changes, and troubleshooting procedures.

Fluid type: Honda/Acura ATF-Z1
Fluid capacity: 2.9 quarts (drain and refill)
Fluid check: Engine running, transmission in Park
Shift solenoid testing: Resistance 12-25 ohms
Line pressure: 80-90 psi in Drive

Tip: Always check transmission fluid level with engine at operating temperature.

Brake System

Brake system maintenance including pad replacement, rotor service, and ABS diagnostics.

Component	Specification
Front Brake Pads	Minimum thickness 0.12 inches
Rear Brake Pads	Minimum thickness 0.12 inches
Front Rotors	Minimum thickness 0.94 inches
Rear Rotors	Minimum thickness 0.35 inches
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4

WARNING! Always replace brake components in axle sets for balanced braking performance.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, and steering system service.

Front suspension: Double wishbone design
Rear suspension: Multi-link design
Wheel alignment: Toe-in 0° ± 0.08°
Camber: Front -0°30' ± 0°45'
Caster: Front +3°00' ± 0°45'
Power steering fluid: Honda Power Steering Fluid
Strut replacement: Torque 47 lb-ft

Electrical System

Battery, charging system, starting system, and electrical component diagnostics.

Battery: 12V 60Ah
Alternator: 110 amps output
Starter: 1.4 kW
Fuse box locations: Underhood, under dashboard
Bulb types: Headlight 9006/9005, brake 7443
Battery cable torque: 9.8 lb-ft

CAUTION! Disconnect battery negative terminal before performing electrical work.

Heating & AC

Climate control system service, refrigerant specifications, and component replacement.

Refrigerant type: R-134a
Refrigerant capacity: 1.54 lbs
Compressor oil: ND-OIL 8
Blower motor resistance: 0.9-1.3 ohms
AC pressure: High 150-250 psi, Low 25-40 psi

WARNING! AC system contains high pressure refrigerant - service by qualified technician only.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior trim, and accessory installation procedures.

Door panel removal: Remove screws and clips carefully
Headliner replacement: Remove pillars and trim pieces
Seat removal: 14mm bolts, torque 33 lb-ft
Window regulator: Motor torque 80 lb-in
Exterior lighting: Lens replacement procedures

Troubleshooting Guide

Common problems and diagnostic procedures for the 2002 Acura RL.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, fuel pump	Check battery voltage, listen for fuel pump, test starter
Transmission slips	Low fluid, worn clutches	Check fluid level and condition, pressure test
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace rotors, check calipers
Electrical issues	Bad grounds, blown fuses	Check ground connections, test fuses and relays
AC not cooling	Low refrigerant, compressor	Check pressures, test compressor clutch

Diagnostic Tips: Always start with simplest solutions first - check fuses, fluid levels, and connections.

Safety Precautions

Important safety information for working on your Acura RL.

Always use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack
Wear safety glasses when working under vehicle
Disconnect battery before performing electrical work
Use proper tools for each procedure
Follow torque specifications precisely
Work in well-ventilated area when working with fluids
Keep fire extinguisher nearby when working on fuel system

Emergency: For technical support contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238