2003 Acura RSX Type S Owners Manual

The 2003 Acura RSX Type S is a high-performance sports coupe featuring a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine producing 200 horsepower, 6-speed manual transmission, sport-tuned suspension, front-wheel drive, leather-trimmed interior, premium audio system, power moonroof, and advanced safety features including dual-stage front airbags and side curtain airbags. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Identification 3. Instrument Panel 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Driving Your RSX 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC engine, 6-speed manual transmission, sport suspension, leather interior, premium audio, power accessories.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder, 200 hp @ 7400 rpm
Transmission	6-speed manual with short-throw shifter
Suspension	Sport-tuned 4-wheel independent
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Interior	Leather-trimmed seats, aluminum pedals
Audio	AM/FM/CD 6-speaker premium system
Climate Control	Automatic climate control system
Exterior	Projector beam headlights, rear spoiler
Safety	Dual-stage front airbags, side curtain airbags
Wheels	16-inch alloy wheels with performance tires

Vehicle Identification

Locate important identification numbers for registration and service.

VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Located on driver's side dashboard visible through windshield.
Engine Number: Stamped on engine block near transmission housing.
Transmission Number: Located on transmission case.
Color Code: Found on driver's door jamb sticker.

IMPORTANT! Keep these numbers secure for registration and insurance purposes.

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with gauges, indicators, and controls.

Tachometer: Engine RPM with redline at 8000 rpm
Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph and km/h
Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS
Multi-Information Display: Trip computer, outside temperature

CAUTION! Address warning lights immediately to prevent damage.

Specifications

Engine: 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 200 hp @ 7400 rpm
Torque: 142 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Fuel Capacity: 13.2 gallons
Fuel Requirement: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)
Curb Weight: 2778 lbs
Brakes: Ventilated front discs, solid rear discs with ABS
Wheels: 16x6.5-inch alloy
Tires: 205/55R16 89V

Controls and Operation

Master vehicle controls for optimal driving experience.

Steering Wheel: Tilt adjustment, audio controls, cruise control. Seats: 6-way manual driver adjustment, 4-way passenger. Climate: Automatic temperature control, rear defogger. Audio: AM/FM/CD with 6 speakers, seek/scan functions. Lighting: Auto-off headlights, fog lights, interior dimmer.

Driving: Clutch operation, gear selection, sport mode engagement. Comfort: Power windows, power door locks, power moonroof.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow 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 Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles

Tip: Use only Acura-approved fluids and genuine parts.

Driving Your RSX

Optimize performance and fuel economy with proper driving techniques.

Starting: Depress clutch, turn key, allow engine to warm up
Shifting: Smooth clutch engagement, proper gear selection
VTEC Engagement: Engine enters high-lift cam profile above 5800 rpm
Braking: Progressive pedal pressure, ABS operation during hard stops
Cornering: Sport suspension provides responsive handling
Fuel Economy: Achieve best mileage with moderate acceleration
Cruise Control: Set and adjust speed with steering wheel controls
Parking: Use parking brake on inclines

WARNING! Always wear seat belts and obey traffic laws.

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems protect occupants in various driving situations.

Feature	Function
Dual-Stage Airbags	Deploy with force appropriate to impact severity
Side Curtain Airbags	Head protection in side impacts
ABS Brakes	Prevent wheel lockup during hard braking
Security System	Theft deterrent with remote entry
Child Safety	Rear door child-proof locks
Emergency Tools	Jack, spare tire, tools in trunk

Care & Cleaning

Proper maintenance preserves appearance and value.

Exterior: Wash with car shampoo, wax every 3 months. Interior: Vacuum regularly, use leather cleaner for seats. Windows: Use glass cleaner with soft cloth. Wheels: Clean brake dust regularly to prevent damage.

CAUTION! Avoid abrasive cleaners; do not use high-pressure washers near seals.

Warranty Information

2003 Acura RSX Type S includes comprehensive warranty coverage.

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance: 4 years/50,000 miles
Emissions: 8 years/80,000 miles (specific components)

For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealership with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/clutch switch	Check battery connections; fully depress clutch
Hard shifting	Transmission fluid	Check fluid level; use Acura MTF
Check engine light	Multiple causes	Have system scanned at dealership
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have rotors resurfaced or replaced
Poor fuel economy	Driving habits/maintenance	Check air filter; moderate acceleration
Electrical issues	Battery/alternator	Test charging system; check battery age

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for all repairs

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA (1-800-862-2872)