2005 Acura RL Repair Manual

The 2005 Acura RL Repair Manual provides comprehensive service and repair information for the 2005 Acura RL luxury sedan. This manual covers all major systems including the 3.5L V6 J35A8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, SH-AWD system, electrical systems, suspension, brakes, HVAC, and body components. Below are key sections for maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, specifications, and repair instructions.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Repair 4. Transmission Service 5. SH-AWD System 6. Electrical Systems 7. Brake System 8. Suspension & Steering 9. HVAC System 10. Body & Interior 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical specifications for the 2005 Acura RL.

SpecificationDescription
Engine3.5L J35A8 V6 SOHC VTEC
Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque256 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
DrivetrainSuper Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS and EBD
Suspension4-wheel independent double wishbone
Fuel Capacity18.5 gallons
Curb Weight3,968 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals and procedures.

  1. Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
  3. Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
  4. Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
  5. Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
  6. Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
  7. Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts and fluids for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

Engine Repair

Service procedures for the 3.5L V6 J35A8 engine.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt replacement procedure
  4. VTEC system diagnosis and repair
  5. Fuel system service and injector replacement
  6. Ignition system maintenance
  7. Cooling system service

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Use proper lifting equipment for engine removal.

Transmission Service

SH-AWD System

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system maintenance and repair.

System Components: Rear differential, rear drive units, electronic control unit, wheel speed sensors.

Service: Rear differential fluid change (every 15,000 miles), drive unit inspection, sensor testing, system calibration. Diagnostics: Use Acura diagnostic system for SH-AWD codes and system performance tests.

Electrical Systems

Wiring diagrams, component locations, and repair procedures.

  1. Battery and charging system testing
  2. Starter motor and alternator replacement
  3. Lighting system repair (headlights, taillights, interior)
  4. Power window and door lock systems
  5. Audio and navigation system service
  6. Climate control system electrical components

Tip: Always reference wiring diagrams before performing electrical repairs.

Brake System

Disc brake service and ABS system maintenance.

  1. Brake pad and rotor replacement procedures
  2. Brake fluid bleeding and system flush
  3. ABS module and wheel speed sensor service
  4. Parking brake adjustment
  5. Brake booster and master cylinder replacement
  6. Brake line inspection and replacement

WARNING! Always test brake system after service. Use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and steering system.

  1. Strut and shock absorber replacement
  2. Control arm and ball joint service
  3. Stabilizer bar and link replacement
  4. Wheel bearing and hub assembly service
  5. Power steering system service
  6. Wheel alignment specifications and procedures

CAUTION! Always use proper jack stands when working under vehicle. Torque all suspension bolts to specification.

HVAC System

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service.

Components: Compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, heater core. Service: A/C system evacuation and recharge, compressor replacement, blend door actuator service, climate control module programming.

Body & Interior

Exterior and interior component repair procedures.

Body: Panel replacement, paint codes, glass replacement. Interior: Dashboard components, seat repair, trim removal, sunroof service.

Note: Reference body repair manual for collision repair procedures.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, starter, fuel systemCheck battery voltage, test starter, verify fuel pressure
Transmission slippingLow fluid, worn clutch packsCheck fluid level and condition, test line pressure
ABS warning lightWheel sensor, ABS moduleScan for codes, test wheel sensors, check wiring
SH-AWD warningDifferential, drive unitsCheck fluid levels, scan system for codes
A/C not coolingRefrigerant, compressorCheck refrigerant pressure, test compressor clutch

Diagnostic Tools: Use Acura/Honda diagnostic system for accurate troubleshooting.

Technical Support: Contact Acura technical assistance for complex issues.

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