2002 Acura RSX Repair Manual PDF

The 2002 Acura RSX Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of the Acura RSX model. This manual covers engine systems (K20A2/K20A3), transmission (5-speed manual/5-speed automatic), suspension, brakes, electrical systems, body components, and diagnostic procedures. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, troubleshooting, and technical data.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Repair Procedures 4. Transmission Service 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Body & Interior 9. Diagnostic Codes 10. Technical Data 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for 2002 Acura RSX models including Type-S and base model variations.

Specification	Description
Engine Type	2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Horsepower	160 hp (base) / 200 hp (Type-S)
Transmission	5-speed manual / 5-speed automatic
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brake System	4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
Suspension	Front MacPherson strut, rear double wishbone
Wheel Size	16-inch alloy wheels
Fuel Capacity	13.2 gallons
Curb Weight	2,744 lbs (base) / 2,777 lbs (Type-S)
Overall Length	172.4 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Timing chain: Inspect every 60,000 miles
Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles
Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles (automatic)

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

Engine Repair Procedures

Step-by-step instructions for common engine repairs and maintenance tasks.

Valve adjustment: Required every 105,000 miles
Timing chain replacement: Follow specific torque sequence
VTEC system service: Check solenoid and oil pressure
Oil pump replacement: Requires oil pan removal
Water pump service: Replace with timing chain service
Intake manifold removal: Disconnect throttle body and sensors
Exhaust system: Header and catalytic converter replacement

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work.

Transmission Service

Manual Transmission: Fluid capacity 1.9L MTF
Automatic Transmission: Fluid capacity 2.7L ATF-Z1
Clutch Replacement: Pedal adjustment and bleeding procedure
Shift Linkage: Adjustment and bushing replacement
Differential Service: Fluid change and seal replacement
Transmission Removal: Support engine during procedure
Gear Ratios: Type-S: 3.267 (1st), 2.130 (2nd), 1.517 (3rd)

Brake System

Complete brake system service including pads, rotors, calipers, and ABS components.

Front Brakes: Rotor diameter 11.8 inches, Pad thickness specification 10mm new/1mm minimum

Rear Brakes: Rotor diameter 10.2 inches, Parking brake adjustment procedure

ABS System: Wheel speed sensor testing, ABS modulator service, Bleeding procedure with scan tool

Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended, Fluid capacity 0.6L

Suspension & Steering

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

Strut replacement: Requires spring compressor tool
Control arm bushing: Press fit procedure
Ball joint replacement: Torque to 40 ft-lbs + 90°
Wheel alignment: Camber -0°30' ± 45', Toe 0°00' ± 12'
Power steering: Fluid type PSF, Pump replacement
Stabilizer bar: Link and bushing replacement

Tip: Always replace suspension components in pairs for optimal handling.

Electrical System

Wiring diagrams, component locations, and electrical troubleshooting procedures.

Battery: 12V 51R, CCA 410 amps
Alternator: 80 amps output, Testing procedure
Starter motor: Removal and installation
Fuse box: Under-hood and interior locations
Lighting systems: Headlight adjustment procedure
ECU locations: Main ECU under dash
Sensor testing: MAP, TPS, CKP, CMP specifications

WARNING! Disconnect battery before servicing electrical components.

Body & Interior

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

Diagnostic Codes

OBD-II trouble codes specific to 2002 Acura RSX and diagnostic procedures.

Common Codes: P0135 (HO2S heater), P0300 (random misfire), P0420 (catalyst efficiency)

CAUTION! Always verify codes with live data before component replacement.

Technical Data

Torque specifications, fluid capacities, and special service tools required.

Spark Plug Torque: 13 ft-lbs
Wheel Lug Nut Torque: 80 ft-lbs
Oil Capacity: 4.5 quarts with filter
Coolant Capacity: 6.3 quarts
Compression Ratio: 9.8:1 (base) / 11.0:1 (Type-S)
Service Tools: Crankshaft pulley holder, Camshaft alignment tool

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine misfire	Spark plugs, coils, fuel injectors	Check compression, spark, fuel delivery
Hard shifting	Transmission fluid, shift solenoid	Check fluid level and quality, test solenoids
Brake vibration	Warped rotors, worn components	Resurface or replace rotors, check calipers
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator, grounds	Load test battery, check charging system
Overheating	Thermostat, water pump, radiator	Pressure test system, check coolant flow

Reset Procedures: ECU reset by disconnecting battery for 10 minutes

Technical Support: Acura dealer service department or certified technician