2003 Acura 3.5 RL Owners Manual

The 2003 Acura 3.5 RL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, premium leather interior, dual-zone climate control, Bose audio system, power moonroof, and advanced safety features including dual front airbags, side airbags, and anti-lock brakes. Below are key sections for vehicle operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Controls 4. Maintenance Schedule 5. Specifications 6. Driving Guidelines 7. Audio System 8. Climate Control 9. Safety Features 10. Emergency Procedures 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, power windows/locks, leather seats, dual-zone climate control, Bose audio system.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.5L V6 SOHC engine with VTEC
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift
Seating	Leather-trimmed interior with 5-passenger capacity
Audio System	Bose 6-speaker system with CD player
Climate Control	Dual-zone automatic climate control
Power Features	Windows, door locks, moonroof
Safety	Dual front airbags, side airbags, ABS
Exterior	Automatic headlights, fog lights
Interior	Woodgrain trim, auto-dimming mirror
Fuel System	17.2 gallon fuel tank

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with gauges, indicators, and warning lights.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h.
Tachometer: Displays engine RPM.
Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level.
Temperature Gauge: Shows engine coolant temperature.
Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS, airbag.
Odometer/Trip Meter: Tracks total and trip distance.

WARNING! If any warning light illuminates while driving, stop safely and check the vehicle.

Operating Controls

Power on vehicle; adjust seats, mirrors, and steering wheel.

Starting: Insert key, press brake, turn to START position.
Transmission: Shift lever with P-R-N-D-4-3-2-1 positions.
Steering Wheel: Adjust tilt for comfort and visibility.
Seat Adjustment: Power controls for position, lumbar, and height.
Mirrors: Power adjustable side mirrors with defroster.

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake when parked on inclines.

Maintenance Schedule

Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months.
Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles.
Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles.
Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles.
Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years.
Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles.

Specifications

Engine: 3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve VTEC
Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque: 231 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel Capacity: 17.2 gallons
MPG: 18 city / 26 highway
Dimensions: 195.1" L x 71.7" W x 55.7" H
Curb Weight: 3,681 lbs
Tires: P215/60R16 all-season
Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS

Driving Guidelines

Proper driving techniques for optimal performance and safety.

Warm up engine for 30 seconds before driving.
Use SportShift for manual gear selection when desired.
Maintain proper tire pressure (32 PSI).
Use recommended premium unleaded fuel.
Engage parking brake on inclines.

Tip: Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking for better fuel economy.

Audio System

Bose 6-speaker audio system with AM/FM radio and CD player.

Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off.
Volume: Rotate VOLUME knob or use steering wheel controls.
Source: Press AM/FM or CD to select audio source.
CD Operation: Insert CD, press CD button, use track selection.
Presets: Store up to 12 AM and 12 FM stations.
Bass/Treble: Adjust sound quality in audio settings.
Steering Controls: Volume and source selection on wheel.

WARNING! Adjust audio settings only when vehicle is stopped.

Climate Control

Dual-zone automatic climate control system.

Auto Mode: Set desired temperature, system adjusts automatically.
Manual Mode: Adjust fan speed, temperature, and air distribution.
Defrost: Press defrost button for windshield clearing.
Rear Defogger: Press to clear rear window.
Recirculation: Use for quick cooling or avoiding outside odors.

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems for occupant protection.

Dual-stage front airbags
Side airbags for front occupants
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control System
Automatic seat belt tensioners
Child safety door locks
LATCH system for child seats
Security system with immobilizer

Emergency Procedures

Steps to take in case of emergencies.

Flat Tire: Use jack and spare tire in trunk.
Dead Battery: Use jumper cables following proper procedure.
Overheating: Turn off A/C, turn on heater, stop safely.
Accident: Turn on hazard lights, check for injuries, call 911.
Keys Locked In: Use spare key or call roadside assistance.

Emergency Kit: Keep flashlight, first aid kit, and warning triangles in vehicle.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery connections; ensure adequate fuel; try jump start.
Check engine light	Various engine issues	Have diagnostic code read at service center.
Poor fuel economy	Tire pressure, driving habits	Check tire pressure; avoid aggressive driving.
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have brakes inspected and resurfaced/replaced.
Transmission issues	Low fluid, sensor problems	Check transmission fluid level; have system scanned.
Electrical problems	Battery, alternator	Test battery and charging system.
Overheating	Coolant leak, thermostat	Check coolant level; inspect for leaks.

Service: Contact Acura dealer or 1-800-TO-ACURA for assistance.