2013 Acura RDX Repair Manual

The 2013 Acura RDX Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of the 2013 Acura RDX luxury crossover SUV. This manual covers the 3.5L V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive system, electrical systems, suspension, brakes, and all major components. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, engine repair, transmission service, electrical systems, and troubleshooting procedures.

1. Maintenance Schedule 2. Engine System 3. Transmission & Drivetrain 4. Electrical System 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Heating & AC 8. Body & Interior 9. Diagnostic Procedures 10. Technical Specifications 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Service IntervalRequired Maintenance
7,500 milesOil and filter change, tire rotation, fluid inspection
15,000 milesReplace air filter, inspect brakes, check suspension
30,000 milesReplace engine coolant, inspect drive belts
60,000 milesReplace spark plugs, transmission fluid, brake fluid
105,000 milesReplace timing belt, water pump, coolant

Engine System

3.5L V6 J35 engine specifications and repair procedures.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt replacement (recommended at 105,000 miles)
  4. Fuel system service and injector replacement
  5. Ignition system and spark plug replacement

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before engine service. Use proper lifting equipment for engine removal.

Transmission & Drivetrain

6-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system service.

  1. Transmission fluid change procedure
  2. Transfer case service and fluid replacement
  3. Differential service and maintenance
  4. Drive shaft inspection and replacement
  5. Transmission control module programming

CAUTION! Use only Honda ATF-DW1 transmission fluid. Improper fluid can damage transmission.

Electrical System

Brake System

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake distribution.

Front Brakes: 12.6-inch ventilated discs, dual-piston calipers

Rear Brakes: 13.1-inch solid discs, single-piston calipers

Brake Pad Replacement: Remove wheels, caliper bolts, replace pads, compress pistons, reassemble. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, replace every 3 years.

Suspension & Steering

MacPherson strut front suspension, multi-link rear suspension, electric power steering.

  1. Strut replacement and alignment procedures
  2. Control arm and bushing replacement
  3. Stabilizer bar and link replacement
  4. Wheel alignment specifications
  5. Power steering system service

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Heating & AC

Automatic climate control system with dual-zone temperature control.

  1. AC compressor replacement and refrigerant charging
  2. Heater core replacement procedure
  3. Blower motor and resistor replacement
  4. AC system evacuation and recharge
  5. Climate control module programming

WARNING! AC system contains high-pressure refrigerant. Use proper recovery equipment.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior component service, and electrical accessory repair.

Diagnostic Procedures

Using diagnostic tools and interpreting trouble codes for efficient repair.

OBD-II Port: Located under driver's dashboard

Diagnostic Tools: Honda HDS recommended for advanced diagnostics

Common Codes: P0300 (random misfire), P0420 (catalyst efficiency), U0155 (lost communication with instrument panel)

Technical Specifications

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, starter, fuel pumpCheck battery voltage, test starter, listen for fuel pump
Transmission slippingLow fluid, worn clutchesCheck fluid level and condition, scan for codes
ABS warning lightWheel speed sensorScan for specific wheel sensor code, inspect wiring
OverheatingCoolant leak, thermostatPressure test system, check thermostat operation
Electrical issuesBattery, alternator, groundsLoad test battery and alternator, inspect ground connections

Reset Procedures: Battery disconnect for 10 minutes to reset ECU

Technical Support: Acura Technical Information System (TIS) or authorized dealer

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