2002 Acura RSX Helms Manual

The 2002 Acura RSX Helms Manual is the official factory service manual covering the RSX model with 2.0L i-VTEC engine, available in Base and Type-S trims. This comprehensive manual includes detailed technical specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting guides, repair instructions, wiring diagrams, and component specifications for the complete vehicle system. Below are key sections for technical data, maintenance, repair procedures, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedules 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Body & Interior 9. Troubleshooting 10. Wiring Diagrams 11. Technical Service Bulletins

Vehicle Specifications

Complete technical specifications for the 2002 Acura RSX models including engine, transmission, chassis, and dimensions.

SpecificationDescription
Engine Type2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Horsepower160 hp (Base) / 200 hp (Type-S)
Torque141 lb-ft (Base) / 142 lb-ft (Type-S)
Transmission5-speed manual / 5-speed automatic
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brake System4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
SuspensionFront MacPherson strut, rear double wishbone
Wheelbase101.2 inches
Curb Weight2,744 lbs (Base) / 2,777 lbs (Type-S)
Fuel Capacity13.2 gallons

Maintenance Schedules

Factory recommended maintenance intervals and service procedures.

  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 chain inspection: 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 Systems

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and diagnostics.

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

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

Transmission

Brake System

Complete brake system service including ABS diagnostics and repair procedures.

Front Brakes: 11.8-inch ventilated discs, single-piston calipers. Rear Brakes: 10.2-inch solid discs, single-piston calipers.

Brake Pad Replacement: Detailed procedures for pad and rotor service. ABS Diagnostics: Using factory scan tool procedures. Brake Bleeding: Step-by-step bleeding sequence. Parking Brake: Cable adjustment and service.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension service with alignment specifications.

  1. Strut and shock absorber replacement procedures
  2. Control arm and bushing service
  3. Stabilizer bar and link replacement
  4. Wheel bearing service and replacement
  5. Power steering system diagnosis
  6. Alignment specifications and adjustment procedures

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

Complete electrical system diagnostics and repair procedures.

  1. Battery and charging system testing
  2. Starting system diagnosis
  3. Lighting system repair and bulb replacement
  4. Instrument cluster service
  5. Power window and door lock systems
  6. Audio and navigation system (if equipped)
  7. Climate control system operation

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical service. Use proper circuit protection.

Body & Interior

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

Troubleshooting

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues and performance problems.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, starter, fuel systemCheck battery voltage, fuel pressure, spark delivery
Poor accelerationClogged filter, sensor issuesInspect air filter, check MAP sensor, fuel pressure
Transmission shifting issuesFluid level, linkageCheck fluid level and condition, adjust shift linkage
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsMeasure rotor runout, replace if excessive
Electrical problemsGround connections, fusesCheck ground points, inspect fuse box

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems with connector locations and pinouts.

CAUTION! Use proper test equipment and follow safety procedures when working with electrical systems.

Technical Service Bulletins

Factory-issued service bulletins addressing common concerns and updated repair procedures specific to 2002 RSX models.

Copyright © 2002 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. All rights reserved. For technical support, contact Acura Client Relations at 1-800-382-2238 or visit techinfo.honda.com.

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