2002 Acura RL Service Manual

The 2002 Acura RL Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintenance, repair, and service procedures for the 2002 Acura RL luxury sedan. This manual covers engine systems (3.5L V6), transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, body components, and diagnostic procedures. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, technical specifications, repair procedures, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine System 4. Transmission 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Heating & A/C 9. Body & Interior 10. Diagnostic Procedures 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

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

SpecificationDescription
Engine Type3.5L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower225 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque231 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission4-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel Capacity18.0 gallons
Curb Weight3,781 lbs
Wheelbase114.6 inches
Overall Length195.1 inches
Brake System4-wheel disc with ABS
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals and service requirements.

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

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

Engine System

Service procedures for the 3.5L V6 engine including component locations and repair instructions.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt replacement procedure
  4. VTEC system diagnosis and repair
  5. Fuel system service and injector replacement
  6. Ignition system maintenance
  7. Cooling system service

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Use proper lifting equipment for engine removal.

Transmission

Brake System

Complete brake system service including ABS diagnostics and repair procedures.

Front Brakes: 11.1-inch ventilated discs, dual-piston calipers. Rear Brakes: 11.1-inch solid discs, single-piston calipers.

Brake Pad Replacement: Front and rear pad replacement procedures. Rotor Service: Measurement specifications and machining limits. ABS System: Wheel speed sensor testing, modulator service, bleeding procedures. Parking Brake: Cable adjustment and service.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and power steering system service.

  1. Front suspension: MacPherson strut replacement and alignment
  2. Rear suspension: Multi-link system service
  3. Steering gear: Power steering pump and rack service
  4. Wheel alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures
  5. Shock absorber: Replacement and inspection

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

Complete electrical system wiring diagrams, component locations, and testing procedures.

  1. Battery: Testing and replacement procedures
  2. Charging System: Alternator testing and replacement
  3. Starting System: Starter motor service
  4. Lighting Systems: Headlight, taillight, and interior light service
  5. Power Accessories: Window, lock, and seat motor service
  6. Instrument Cluster: Gauge testing and replacement
  7. Wiring Diagrams: Complete electrical schematics

WARNING! Disconnect battery before performing electrical repairs to prevent short circuits and component damage.

Heating & A/C

Climate control system service including refrigerant handling and component replacement.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior trim service, and glass replacement procedures.

CAUTION! Use proper safety equipment when working with airbag systems and glass components.

Diagnostic Procedures

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) code retrieval and system testing procedures.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignition/fuelCheck battery voltage; test ignition system; verify fuel pressure.
Poor accelerationFuel filter/air filterReplace fuel filter; inspect air filter; check throttle position sensor.
Transmission slippageFluid level/solenoidsCheck fluid level and condition; test shift solenoids; scan for DTCs.
Brake vibrationRotor warpageMeasure rotor thickness and runout; machine or replace rotors.
Electrical issuesGround connectionsInspect and clean ground connections; test battery and charging system.

Reset Procedures: Maintenance minder reset, DTC clearing procedures.

Technical Support: Acura dealer service department or certified technician recommended for complex repairs.

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