2002 Acura RSX Type S Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity

The 2002 Acura RSX Type S is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission that requires specific fluid types and capacities for optimal performance. Proper fluid maintenance is essential for smooth shifting, gear protection, and transmission longevity. Below are key sections covering fluid specifications, capacity details, recommended fluids, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting.

1. Transmission Fluid Specifications 2. Fluid Capacity Details 3. Recommended Fluid Types 4. Fluid Change Procedure 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Tools and Materials Needed 7. Checking Fluid Level 8. Common Symptoms of Low Fluid 9. Troubleshooting Transmission Issues 10. Safety Precautions 11. Warranty and Support

Transmission Fluid Specifications

The 2002 Acura RSX Type S manual transmission requires specific fluid types to ensure proper lubrication and performance.

Specification	Details
Transmission Type	6-speed manual
Fluid Type	Honda MTF or equivalent synthetic manual transmission fluid
Viscosity	SAE 10W-30 or manufacturer-specific MTF
API Classification	GL-4 or GL-5 (check manufacturer recommendations)
Color	Typically amber when new, darkens with use

Fluid Capacity Details

Proper fluid capacity is crucial for transmission operation and longevity.

Total Capacity: Approximately 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Drain and Refill: Approximately 1.9 quarts (1.8 liters)
Fluid Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (whichever comes first)
Overfill Limit: Do not exceed specified capacity

NOTE: Capacity may vary slightly depending on transmission condition and drain method.

Recommended Fluid Types

Using the correct transmission fluid is essential for optimal performance.

Honda Genuine MTF: Recommended by manufacturer
Equivalent Synthetic MTF: Must meet Honda specifications
Alternative Options: Synthetic manual transmission fluids meeting GL-4/GL-5 standards
Avoid: Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) or incorrect viscosity fluids

WARNING! Using incorrect fluid can cause transmission damage and void warranty.

Fluid Change Procedure

Step-by-step guide for manual transmission fluid replacement.

Park on level surface and engage parking brake
Locate transmission drain plug (bottom) and fill plug (side)
Place drain pan under transmission
Remove fill plug first to ensure drain plug can be removed
Remove drain plug and allow fluid to drain completely
Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer
Refill with recommended fluid until it reaches fill hole
Reinstall fill plug with new washer
Check for leaks and test drive

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for transmission fluid.

Service	Interval	Notes
Fluid Inspection	Every 15,000 miles	Check for leaks and fluid condition
Fluid Change	Every 30,000 miles	Complete drain and refill
Transmission Service	Every 60,000 miles	Comprehensive inspection
Severe Service	More frequent	For racing or heavy use

Tools and Materials Needed

Essential tools for transmission fluid service.

Fluid: 2 quarts Honda MTF or equivalent
Tools: 3/8" ratchet, extensions, 17mm socket for plugs
Drain Pan: Minimum 3-quart capacity
Fluid Pump: For easy refilling
Safety Gear: Gloves, safety glasses
Jack Stands: For safe vehicle lifting
New Washers: Drain and fill plug washers

Checking Fluid Level

Proper procedure for checking manual transmission fluid level.

Park vehicle on level surface
Clean area around fill plug
Remove fill plug (17mm)
Fluid should be at bottom of fill hole
If low, add fluid until it begins to overflow
Reinstall fill plug with new washer
Torque to specification (33 lb-ft)

CAUTION! Vehicle must be level for accurate fluid level check.

Common Symptoms of Low Fluid

Signs indicating transmission fluid may be low or contaminated.

Symptom	Description
Difficult Shifting	Hard to engage gears, grinding noises
Transmission Noise	Whining or grinding sounds during operation
Gear Slippage	Gears pop out or don't stay engaged
Fluid Leaks	Visible fluid under transmission area
Burning Smell	Overheated fluid odor

Troubleshooting Transmission Issues

Common transmission problems and solutions.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Hard shifting	Low fluid, wrong fluid type	Check level, use correct fluid
Grinding gears	Worn synchronizers, low fluid	Inspect synchronizers, check fluid
Fluid leaks	Worn seals, loose plugs	Replace seals, tighten plugs
Transmission noise	Low fluid, bearing wear	Check fluid level, inspect bearings
Gear slippage	Worn gears, linkage issues	Inspect gears, adjust linkage

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures when working with transmission fluid.

Wear protective gloves and safety glasses
Work in well-ventilated area
Use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack
Allow transmission to cool before servicing
Dispose of used fluid properly at recycling center
Clean spills immediately to prevent slips

WARNING! Transmission fluid can be hot and cause burns. Always allow cooling time.

Warranty and Support

Warranty information and technical support resources.

Original warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles basic, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain. Transmission fluid service does not typically void warranty when performed according to specifications. For technical support contact Acura Customer Service at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com. Always consult professional mechanic for complex transmission issues.