2003 Acura RL Manual

The 2003 Acura RL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, leather interior, premium audio system, climate control, power accessories, and advanced safety features including dual-stage airbags and ABS. Below are key sections for features, maintenance, specifications, controls, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Specifications 4. Controls and Instrument Panel 5. Operating Instructions 6. Safety Features 7. Audio and Climate Control 8. Troubleshooting 9. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, leather-trimmed interior, power moonroof, automatic climate control, premium audio system.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.5L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift
Audio System	6-disc in-dash CD changer with 7 speakers
Climate Control	Dual-zone automatic temperature control
Seating	Leather-trimmed with 8-way power driver seat
Safety	Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, ABS
Exterior	Power moonroof, automatic headlights
Convenience	Power windows, locks, mirrors with auto-dimming

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
Brake fluid replacement: Every 3 years
Spark plug replacement: Every 105,000 miles
Timing belt replacement: Every 105,000 miles

WARNING! Use only recommended fluids and parts. Consult dealer for severe driving conditions.

Specifications

Engine: 3.5L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque: 231 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel Capacity: 18.0 gallons
Fuel Economy: 18 city / 26 highway mpg
Curb Weight: 3,681 lbs
Wheelbase: 114.6 inches
Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS

Controls and Instrument Panel

Instrument cluster includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.

Steering Wheel Controls: Audio controls, cruise control, hands-free telephone (if equipped).

Center Console: Climate control buttons, audio system controls, navigation system (if equipped), gear selector with SportShift.

Warning Lights: Check engine, battery, oil pressure, ABS, airbag, brake system.

Operating Instructions

Starting and driving procedures for optimal vehicle operation.

Starting: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn to START position
Transmission: Use D for normal driving, SportShift for manual control
Cruise Control: Set speed with SET button on steering wheel
Parking: Apply parking brake on inclines
Headlights: Rotate switch for parking lights, headlights, auto position

Tip: Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds before driving in cold weather.

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems designed for occupant protection.

System	Function
Dual-Stage Airbags	Deploy with force appropriate to impact severity
Side Airbags	Protect chest and head in side impacts
ABS	Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking
Vehicle Stability Assist	Helps maintain control during cornering
Security System	Theft-deterrent with remote entry

Audio and Climate Control

Premium audio and climate systems for comfort and entertainment.

Audio System: AM/FM stereo with 6-disc CD changer
Climate Control: Set desired temperature, system maintains automatically
Defrosters: Front and rear for visibility in all conditions
Steering Wheel Audio Controls: Volume, track selection, source change

Note: System automatically adjusts fan speed and air distribution.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery connections, ensure adequate fuel
Check engine light on	Engine management issue	Have system scanned for diagnostic codes
Poor fuel economy	Dirty air filter, tire pressure	Replace air filter, check tire inflation
Brake pedal pulsation	Warped rotors	Have brake system inspected
Audio system issues	Disc error, antenna	Clean CDs, check antenna connection

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for professional service.

Warranty Information

Basic warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles. Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles.

For warranty claims and service, contact your local Acura dealer or call 1-800-382-2238.