2002 Acura RSX Repair Manual

The 2002 Acura RSX is a sport compact coupe featuring a 2.0L i-VTEC engine, 5-speed manual or automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, and advanced suspension system. This repair manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, component replacement, and service specifications for the RSX Type-S and base models. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, engine repair, transmission service, electrical systems, suspension, brakes, and troubleshooting.

1. Maintenance Schedule 2. Engine Repair 3. Transmission Service 4. Electrical Systems 5. Suspension & Steering 6. Brake System 7. Cooling System 8. Fuel System 9. Exhaust System 10. Interior & Exterior 11. Troubleshooting

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Service Required
7,500 miles	Oil and filter change, tire rotation
15,000 miles	Air filter replacement, brake inspection
30,000 miles	Spark plug replacement, coolant flush
60,000 miles	Timing belt replacement, transmission fluid
90,000 miles	Fuel filter replacement, brake fluid flush

Engine Repair

K20A2/K20A3 i-VTEC engine service procedures and specifications.

Oil change: 4.5 quarts 5W-30 synthetic recommended
Spark plugs: NGK IZFR6K11 (Type-S) / NGK BKR6E-11 (Base)
Timing chain: Inspect tensioner and guides at 100,000 miles
Valve adjustment: Check every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before engine work. Use jack stands for safety.

Transmission Service

Manual and automatic transmission maintenance and repair.

Manual transmission fluid: Honda MTF 2.2 quarts
Automatic transmission fluid: Honda ATF-Z1 3.1 quarts
Clutch replacement: 180mm (Base) / 212mm (Type-S)
Shift linkage adjustment: Check for smooth operation

CAUTION! Use only recommended fluids to prevent damage.

Electrical Systems

Battery: 12V 51R, 410 CCA
Alternator: 80 amp output
Starter: 1.4 kW reduction type
Fuse box: Under dashboard and engine compartment
Wiring diagrams: Color-coded for easy troubleshooting

Suspension & Steering

Front MacPherson strut, rear double wishbone suspension system.

Front suspension: Strut replacement, control arm bushing, ball joints

Rear suspension: Toe arm adjustment, trailing arm bushing replacement

Steering: Power steering fluid type - Honda PSF, rack and pinion service

Alignment specs: Front camber -0°30' ± 1°, toe 0 ± 2mm

Brake System

Front disc brakes: 11.8 inch ventilated (Type-S) / 10.3 inch (Base)

Brake pad replacement: Front and rear specifications
Rotor minimum thickness: Front 22.0mm, rear 8.0mm
Brake fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, bleed every 2 years
ABS system: Diagnostic connector under dashboard

Tip: Always replace brake pads in axle sets.

Cooling System

Radiator capacity: 6.3 quarts with A/C

Coolant type: Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant
Thermostat: Opens at 180°F (82°C)
Water pump: Timing chain driven, replace with timing service
Radiator fan: Electric, check relay and motor operation

WARNING! Never open radiator when engine is hot.

Fuel System

Multi-port fuel injection system specifications.

Fuel pressure: 47-54 psi (key on, engine off)

Fuel filter: In-tank, replace every 60,000 miles

Injectors: 240cc/min (Base) / 310cc/min (Type-S)

Fuel pump: 155 lph capacity

Exhaust System

Stainless steel exhaust components and catalytic converter.

Interior & Exterior

Body panel replacement, interior trim, and electrical accessory service.

CAUTION! Use proper trim removal tools to avoid damage.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, fuel pump	Check battery voltage; listen for fuel pump prime; test starter
Poor acceleration	Clogged filter, sensor issues	Replace air filter; check MAF sensor; fuel pressure test
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace brake rotors; check calipers
Electrical issues	Fuses, grounds	Check all fuses; inspect ground connections; battery terminals
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat	Check coolant level; test thermostat; radiator cap pressure

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset ECU.

Service: Acura dealership or certified technician recommended