2002 Acura RSX Service Manual

The 2002 Acura RSX is a sport compact coupe featuring a 2.0L i-VTEC engine, available in Base and Type-S trims with 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. This service manual covers maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair guidelines for engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and body components. Below are key sections for technical data, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, and diagnostic information.

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

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for 2002 Acura RSX models including engine, dimensions, and performance specifications.

Specification	Description
Engine Type	2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Displacement	1998 cc
Horsepower	160 hp (Base) / 200 hp (Type-S)
Torque	141 lb-ft (Base) / 142 lb-ft (Type-S)
Transmission	5-speed manual / 5-speed automatic
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel Capacity	13.2 gallons
Curb Weight	2747 lbs (Base) / 2778 lbs (Type-S)
Wheelbase	101.2 inches
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service 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 belt: Inspect every 60,000 miles, replace at 105,000 miles
Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles
Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles

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

Engine System

Service procedures for the K20A2/K20A3 i-VTEC engine components.

Engine Removal: Disconnect battery, drain coolant, remove accessories, support transmission
Valve Adjustment: Cold engine procedure with feeler gauge
Timing Chain: Inspection and replacement guidelines
Oil System: Capacity 4.2 quarts with filter, use 5W-30
Cooling System: Capacity 6.3 quarts, 50/50 coolant mixture
Fuel System: Fuel pressure 50-55 psi, injector service

Transmission

Manual and automatic transmission service procedures.

Manual Transmission: Fluid capacity 1.9L, use Honda MTF
Automatic Transmission: Fluid capacity 2.7L, use ATF-Z1
Clutch System: Pedal adjustment, hydraulic bleeding
Shift Linkage: Adjustment and lubrication
Differential: Service and fluid specifications

CAUTION! Use only specified transmission fluids to prevent damage.

Suspension & Steering

Front MacPherson strut and rear double wishbone suspension systems.

Component	Specification
Front Struts	Inspection and replacement procedure
Rear Shocks	Removal and installation steps
Control Arms	Bushing replacement and alignment
Steering Gear	Power steering fluid type and service
Wheel Alignment	Toe, camber, caster specifications

Brake System

4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Brake Pads: Front and rear pad replacement procedure
Rotors: Minimum thickness specifications and resurfacing
Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, bleeding procedure
ABS System: Diagnostic trouble codes and component testing
Parking Brake: Cable adjustment and service

WARNING! Always test brakes after service before road use.

Electrical System

Battery, charging, starting, and electronic control systems.

Battery: 12V 51R, testing and replacement
Alternator: Output 80A, voltage regulation
Starter: Removal and testing procedure
Fuses & Relays: Location and amperage specifications
ECU: Engine Control Unit diagnostics and programming
Lighting: Headlight, taillight, and signal light replacement

Body & Interior

Exterior and interior component service and repair.

Body Panels: Alignment and gap specifications
Doors & Windows: Regulator and motor replacement
Seats: Removal and track adjustment
Dashboard: Component access and removal
Climate Control: A/C service and heater core replacement

Troubleshooting

Common issues and diagnostic procedures.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, fuel pump	Check battery voltage, fuel pressure, spark
Poor acceleration	Clogged filter, sensor issues	Inspect air filter, MAF sensor, fuel pressure
Brake vibration	Warped rotors, worn pads	Measure rotor thickness, replace if below spec
Electrical issues	Faulty alternator, bad grounds	Test charging system, check ground connections
Transmission problems	Low fluid, worn components	Check fluid level and condition, scan for codes

Technical Data

Torque specifications and fluid capacities.

Spark Plugs: NGK IZFR6K11, torque 13 lb-ft
Oil Drain Plug: 33 lb-ft torque
Wheel Lug Nuts: 80 lb-ft torque
Engine Oil: 4.2 quarts with filter
Coolant: 6.3 quarts capacity
Transmission Fluid: 1.9L manual, 2.7L automatic

Safety Precautions

Important safety information for service procedures.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before electrical work. Use jack stands when lifting vehicle. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Follow proper fluid disposal procedures. Use factory service tools when specified.

Service Information: For technical assistance contact Acura Customer Service at 1-800-382-2238 or visit acura.com