2003 Acura RSX Type S Manual

The 2003 Acura RSX Type S is a high-performance front-wheel drive sports coupe featuring a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine producing 200 horsepower, 6-speed manual transmission, sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, and premium interior features. Below are key sections for specifications, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Exterior Features 3. Interior Features 4. Engine & Performance 5. Controls & Instrument Panel 6. Driving Operation 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Systems 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical specifications for the 2003 Acura RSX Type S.

Specification	Description
Engine	2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Horsepower	200 hp @ 7400 rpm
Torque	142 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm
Transmission	6-speed manual
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Suspension	4-wheel independent
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Fuel Capacity	13.2 gallons
Curb Weight	2778 lbs
0-60 mph	6.7 seconds

Exterior Features

Premium exterior components and styling elements.

Projector beam headlights with auto-off feature
Power moonroof with tilt feature
16-inch alloy wheels with performance tires
Rear spoiler for improved aerodynamics
Fog lights integrated in front bumper
Body-colored power side mirrors

WARNING! Always check blind spots before changing lanes; mirrors have limited coverage.

Interior Features

Luxury interior amenities and comfort features.

Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
Sport seats with lateral support
Automatic climate control system
AM/FM stereo with 6-disc CD changer
Power windows with auto-up/down driver's window
Tilt and telescopic steering column
Cruise control with steering wheel controls

CAUTION! Adjust seats and mirrors before driving; ensure clear visibility.

Engine & Performance

Engine Type: 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Redline: 7900 rpm
VTEC Engagement: ~5800 rpm
Compression Ratio: 11.0:1
Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Recommended Fuel: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)
Limited-Slip Differential: Helical type for improved traction
Exhaust: Stainless steel with chrome tip

Controls & Instrument Panel

Dashboard layout and control functions. Instrument Cluster: Tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

Steering Wheel Controls: Cruise control, audio volume, mode selection.

Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, hazard lights, rear defogger. Gear Shift Pattern: 6-speed manual with reverse lockout. Warning Lights: Check engine, battery, oil pressure, ABS, airbag, security.

Driving Operation

Proper driving techniques and operational procedures.

Starting: Depress clutch fully, turn ignition key
Shifting: Smooth clutch engagement, match engine RPM
Braking: Progressive pressure, ABS pulsation normal during hard braking
VTEC Operation: Engine note changes noticeably around 5800 rpm
Reverse Gear: Push down on shift knob, then left and up
Cruise Control: Set speed above 25 mph using steering wheel controls

Tip: Allow engine to warm up before high-RPM operation.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Timing Chain: Inspection at 105,000 miles (non-replacement interval)
Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles
Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles

WARNING! Use only Honda/Acura recommended fluids; improper fluids may damage systems.

Safety Systems

Advanced safety features and protective systems. Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners, ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution, Vehicle Stability Assist, security system with immobilizer.

Care & Cleaning

Proper cleaning techniques to maintain vehicle appearance and value.

Exterior: Wash with automotive soap, wax every 3 months. Interior: Vacuum regularly, use leather cleaner for seats. Windows: Use automotive glass cleaner. Tires: Clean with mild soap, apply tire dressing.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners; avoid high-pressure washers near seals.

Warranty Information

Limited Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles. Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact Acura Client Service at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard shifting	Low transmission fluid	Check fluid level; use Honda MTF only
Check engine light	Multiple possible causes	Have system scanned for diagnostic codes
Rough idle	Dirty throttle body	Clean throttle body and IAC valve
VTEC not engaging	Low oil pressure/solenoid	Check oil level; test VTEC solenoid
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch disc	Inspect clutch system; replace if necessary

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset ECU if needed.

Service: 1-800-382-2238; www.acura.com