2009 Acura RL Owners Manual

The 2009 Acura RL is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 3.7L V6 engine, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, voice-activated navigation system, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, premium audio system, leather interior, power moonroof, and advanced safety features including multiple airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and anti-lock braking system (ABS). Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, safety, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Controls and Features 4. Driving Guidelines 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Safety Features 7. Navigation System 8. Audio and Connectivity 9. Emergency Procedures 10. Specifications 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.7L V6 VTEC engine, SH-AWD system, 5-speed automatic transmission, power windows/locks/mirrors, automatic climate control, leather seats with power adjustment, steering wheel controls.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.7L V6 VTEC producing 300 hp
Transmission5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
DrivetrainSuper Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
SuspensionIndependent double-wishbone front and multi-link rear
SteeringVariable power-assisted rack-and-pinion
Fuel Capacity18.5 gallons (premium unleaded recommended)
Curb WeightApproximately 4,012 lbs
Seating Capacity5 passengers

Instrument Panel

Main components: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, multi-information display, warning lights, navigation screen, audio controls.

  1. Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h
  2. Tachometer: Displays engine RPM
  3. Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level
  4. Temperature Gauge: Shows engine coolant temperature
  5. Multi-Information Display: Trip computer, maintenance reminders, system messages
  6. Warning Lights: Various indicators for system status and alerts

WARNING! Always monitor warning lights while driving. Stop immediately if red warning lights illuminate.

Controls and Features

Access vehicle functions through steering wheel controls, center console, and instrument panel.

  1. Steering Wheel: Audio controls, cruise control, voice command button
  2. Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, navigation controls
  3. Door Controls: Power window switches, mirror adjustments, lock controls
  4. Seat Controls: Power seat adjustments, memory settings
  5. Lighting: Headlight controls, fog lights, interior lighting

CAUTION! Adjust seats and mirrors before driving. Ensure all controls are properly set.

Driving Guidelines

Maintenance Schedule

Follow scheduled maintenance for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

Regular Maintenance: Oil changes every 7,500 miles, tire rotation every 7,500 miles, air filter replacement every 30,000 miles, brake fluid replacement every 3 years.

Major Services: Timing belt replacement at 105,000 miles, transmission fluid change every 30,000 miles, coolant replacement every 120,000 miles.

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems protect occupants in various driving conditions.

  1. Airbags: Front, side, and side curtain airbags
  2. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA): Helps maintain control during cornering
  3. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking
  4. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Monitors tire pressure
  5. Security System: Anti-theft system with engine immobilizer

Tip: Always wear seat belts. Ensure all safety systems are functioning properly.

Navigation System

Voice-activated navigation with real-time traffic updates and points of interest.

  1. Power On: System initializes when vehicle is started
  2. Destination Entry: Use voice commands or touch screen
  3. Route Guidance: Follow visual and voice prompts
  4. Traffic Updates: Real-time traffic information (subscription may be required)
  5. Settings: Adjust display, voice guidance, and route preferences
  6. Map Updates: Available through Acura dealerships

WARNING! Program navigation only when vehicle is stopped. Pay attention to road conditions while driving.

Audio and Connectivity

Premium audio system with AM/FM radio, CD player, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Bluetooth HandsFreeLink: Pair phone for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Audio System: 10-speaker premium sound system with 6-disc CD changer. Auxiliary Input: Connect external audio devices. Steering Wheel Controls: Audio source selection, volume, track selection.

Emergency Procedures

Proper response to emergency situations and vehicle malfunctions.

Flat Tire: Use temporary spare tire and jack located in trunk. Dead Battery: Jump-start procedures outlined in manual. Overheating: Stop immediately if temperature warning light illuminates. Accident Procedures: Contact emergency services, use emergency flashers.

Specifications

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/security systemCheck battery connections; ensure key is recognized
Navigation screen blankSystem reset neededHold power button for 10 seconds to reset
Bluetooth not connectingPairing issueDelete old pairing and re-pair device
TPMS warning lightLow tire pressureCheck and adjust all tire pressures
Transmission shifting hardFluid level/temperatureCheck transmission fluid level and condition

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset electronic systems.

Service: Contact Acura dealership for professional service and warranty claims.

2009 Acura RL Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025