2008 Acura RDX Service Manual

The 2008 Acura RDX Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintenance, repair, and service procedures for the 2008 Acura RDX luxury compact SUV. This manual covers the 2.3L turbocharged i-VTEC engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, electronic systems, chassis components, and all major service procedures. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, technical specifications, service procedures, troubleshooting, and repair guidelines.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedules 3. Engine Service 4. Transmission Service 5. SH-AWD System 6. Brake System 7. Suspension & Steering 8. Electrical System 9. Body & Interior 10. Diagnostic Procedures 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for the 2008 Acura RDX including engine, transmission, dimensions, and performance specifications.

Specification	Description
Engine Type	2.3L DOHC i-VTEC turbocharged 4-cylinder
Horsepower	240 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	260 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift
Drivetrain	Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brake System	4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
Wheelbase	104.3 inches
Curb Weight	3,966 lbs
Fuel Capacity	17.8 gallons

Maintenance Schedules

Recommended service intervals and maintenance procedures for optimal vehicle 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
Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Every 105,000 miles
Brake fluid: Every 3 years regardless of mileage
Coolant replacement: Every 10 years or 120,000 miles

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

Engine Service

Detailed procedures for 2.3L turbocharged engine maintenance and repair.

Oil change procedure: Drain plug torque 29 lb-ft, filter torque 13 lb-ft
Spark plug replacement: NGK IZFR6K11, gap 0.028-0.031 inches
Timing chain inspection: Check tensioner and guides every 105,000 miles
Turbocharger service: Inspect wastegate and boost control system
Cooling system: Check radiator, hoses, and thermostat operation

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before performing service. Use proper lifting equipment.

Transmission Service

5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift maintenance procedures.

Fluid Type: Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 or equivalent
Fluid Capacity: 7.4 quarts (complete change)
Fluid Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles under severe conditions
Filter Replacement: With fluid change
Shift Solenoid Testing: Use HDS diagnostic system
Transmission Control Module: Located under center console

SH-AWD System

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system service and diagnostics.

System Components: Rear differential, rear drive unit, torque transfer unit, SH-AWD control unit.

Service: Check rear differential fluid (Acura Dual Pump Fluid II), inspect drive shafts, test torque transfer operation. Diagnostics: Use HDS to monitor wheel speed sensors, rear differential clutch pressure, and system performance.

Brake System

4-wheel disc brake system with ABS, VSA, and EBD maintenance.

Brake pad replacement: Front pads 10.9mm thick, rear pads 8.5mm thick
Rotor specifications: Front minimum thickness 26.0mm, rear 18.0mm
Brake fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, bleed every 3 years
ABS system: Test modulator and wheel speed sensors
Parking brake: Adjust cable tension as needed

Tip: Always replace brake pads and rotors in axle sets for optimal braking performance.

Suspension & Steering

MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension service.

Strut replacement: Torque mounting nuts to specification
Ball joint inspection: Check for play and boot condition
Wheel alignment: Front camber -0°30' ± 45', toe 0°00' ± 0°12'
Power steering: Use Honda Power Steering Fluid, check pump operation
Stabilizer links: Inspect for wear and replace as needed

WARNING! Always use proper spring compressors when servicing struts. Wear safety glasses.

Electrical System

Battery, charging, starting, and electronic control systems.

Component	Specification
Battery	12V, 55Ah, CCA 410A
Alternator	150A output
Starter	1.4 kW reduction type
Fuse Boxes	Underhood and under-dash locations
ECU Locations	Engine, transmission, SH-AWD, body control

Body & Interior

Body panel alignment, interior trim, and accessory service procedures.

Door adjustment: Hinge bolt torque specifications. Glass replacement: Windshield and side glass procedures. Seat service: Power seat motor replacement. Climate control: A/C system service, refrigerant capacity 17.6-19.4 oz R-134a.

Diagnostic Procedures

Using Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) for system diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Connect HDS to DLC under driver's side dash
Select vehicle model and year
Access specific system diagnostics
Read and clear DTCs
Perform system tests and adjustments
Record data for analysis

CAUTION! Follow all safety procedures when working with electronic systems.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine misfire	Spark plugs, coils, fuel system	Check spark plugs and coils; test fuel pressure; scan for codes.
Transmission shifting hard	Fluid level, solenoids	Check fluid level and condition; test shift solenoids; scan TCM.
SH-AWD warning light	System fault	Scan SH-AWD system for codes; check rear differential fluid.
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Measure rotor thickness and runout; replace if beyond specifications.
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator	Test battery and charging system; check grounds and connections.

Reset Procedures: Use HDS for system resets and adaptations.

Technical Support: Acura Technical Information System; authorized dealer network