2004 Acura RSX Repair Manual

The 2004 Acura RSX is a sport compact car featuring a 2.0L i-VTEC engine, available in Base and Type-S trims with manual or automatic transmission options. This comprehensive repair manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, component replacement, and technical specifications for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, engine repair, transmission service, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, and troubleshooting.

1. Maintenance Schedules 2. Engine System 3. Transmission 4. Electrical System 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Heating & AC 8. Body & Interior 9. Technical Specifications 10. Troubleshooting

Maintenance Schedules

Regular maintenance intervals and service requirements for optimal performance.

Service Interval	Required Maintenance
7,500 miles	Oil and filter change, tire rotation
15,000 miles	Air filter replacement, brake inspection
30,000 miles	Spark plugs, coolant flush, transmission fluid
60,000 miles	Timing belt, water pump, brake fluid flush
100,000 miles	Major service including all fluids and belts

Engine System

K20A2/K20A3 i-VTEC engine repair and maintenance procedures.

Oil change procedure: Drain plug location, filter replacement, capacity 4.5 quarts
Spark plug replacement: NGK IZFR6K11 for Type-S, torque 13 lb-ft
Timing chain service: Inspection and replacement guidelines
Cooling system: Radiator flush, thermostat replacement
Fuel system: Fuel filter replacement, injector cleaning

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before working on electrical components. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission

5-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmission service.

Manual transmission: Fluid type MTF, capacity 1.9 quarts
Automatic transmission: Fluid change procedure, filter replacement
Clutch replacement: Flywheel inspection, hydraulic system bleeding
Shift linkage adjustment: Proper gear engagement setup
Differential service: Fluid type and capacity specifications

CAUTION! Use only recommended transmission fluids to prevent damage.

Electrical System

Battery: 12V 51R, replacement procedure
Alternator: Output 80A, testing and replacement
Starter: Removal and installation steps
Fuse boxes: Locations under dash and engine bay
Wiring diagrams: Color-coded schematics for troubleshooting
Lighting: Headlight, taillight bulb replacement

Brake System

Front and rear brake service including ABS components.

Front brakes: Disc brake pad replacement, rotor specifications. Rear brakes: Drum or disc depending on trim level. ABS: Module location and diagnostic procedures.

Brake fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, bleeding procedure, master cylinder replacement.

Suspension & Steering

Front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension service.

Strut replacement: Spring compressor required
Control arms: Bushings and ball joint inspection
Steering rack: Power steering fluid type and bleeding
Wheel alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures
Tire specifications: 205/55R16 standard, 215/45R17 Type-S

Tip: Always replace suspension components in pairs for balanced handling.

Heating & AC

Climate control system maintenance and repair.

AC refrigerant: R134a, capacity 17-19 oz
Compressor replacement: Belt tension and electrical connections
Heater core: Dash removal procedure for replacement
Blower motor: Location under passenger side dash
AC charging: Proper vacuum and recharge procedure

WARNING! AC system contains high pressure refrigerant - use proper safety equipment.

Body & Interior

Exterior and interior component repair and replacement.

Body panels: Replacement procedures for fenders, doors, bumper covers. Interior: Dashboard components, seat removal, trim pieces. Glass: Windshield and window replacement guidelines.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 2.0L K20A3 (Base) 160hp, K20A2 (Type-S) 200hp
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
Fuel system: Multi-point fuel injection
Brakes: Front disc, rear disc/drum with ABS
Suspension: Independent front and rear
Dimensions: 172.4" length, 67.5" width, 55.1" height
Weight: 2,777 lbs (Base), 2,828 lbs (Type-S)

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, fuel pump	Check battery voltage, listen for fuel pump prime, test starter
Rough idle	Spark plugs, vacuum leaks	Replace plugs, check for vacuum leaks, clean throttle body
Transmission grinding	Low fluid, synchros	Check fluid level, inspect clutch, rebuild transmission if needed
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace rotors, check calipers
AC not cooling	Refrigerant leak, compressor	Check pressure, leak test, replace compressor if faulty

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

Service: Contact Acura dealer or certified technician for complex issues.