Acura 2002 RL Manual

The Acura 2002 RL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift, leather interior, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, power accessories, and advanced safety features including traction control and multiple airbags. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, automatic transmission, power windows/locks/mirrors, leather seats, moonroof, premium sound system.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.5L V6 SOHC VTEC engine
Transmission	5-speed automatic with SportShift
Seating	Leather-trimmed interior with power adjustments
Audio System	Premium 6-disc in-dash CD changer
Climate Control	Dual-zone automatic climate control
Safety	Dual front airbags, side airbags, ABS, traction control
Exterior	Power moonroof, automatic headlights
Interior	Wood grain trim, automatic dimming mirror
Fuel System	17.2 gallon fuel tank
Dimensions	195.5" length, 71.9" width, 56.7" height

Instrument Panel

Dashboard layout includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.

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. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS, airbag

WARNING! If any warning light illuminates while driving, stop the vehicle safely and investigate the cause.

Starting & Driving

Proper starting procedure and driving instructions.

1. Starting: Insert key, press brake pedal, shift to Park, turn ignition
2. Driving: Use SportShift for manual gear selection when desired
3. Braking: Apply steady pressure, ABS will prevent wheel lock-up
4. Parking: Engage parking brake on inclines

CAUTION! Never leave children unattended in vehicle. Always wear seat belts.

Specifications

• Engine: 3.5L V6 SOHC VTEC, 225 hp @ 5200 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed automatic with SportShift
• Fuel Economy: 18 city / 24 highway mpg
• Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS
• Suspension: 4-wheel independent double-wishbone
• Tires: P215/60R16 all-season
• Curb Weight: 3,748 lbs
• Towing Capacity: Not recommended

Controls & Features

Steering wheel controls, center console, and dashboard functions.

Steering Wheel: Audio controls, cruise control, telephone buttons (if equipped).

Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, hazard lights, traction control switch. Dashboard: Instrument panel illumination, trip computer, outside temperature display. Power Features: Windows, door locks, mirrors, seats with memory function.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
2. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
3. Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
4. Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
5. Coolant: Replace every 5 years or 60,000 miles

Tip: Use only Acura-approved fluids and genuine parts.

Audio System

Premium audio system operation and features.

1. Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off
2. CD Changer: Load up to 6 CDs in magazine
3. Radio: AM/FM tuner with preset stations
4. Sound Settings: Bass, treble, fade, balance controls
5. Steering Controls: Volume, station/track selection
6. Anti-Theft: Code security system

WARNING! Adjust audio settings only when vehicle is stopped for safety.

Climate Control

Dual-zone automatic climate control system operation.

Driver and passenger can set individual temperature preferences. System automatically adjusts fan speed and air distribution. Features include defrost, bi-level, and floor ventilation modes.

Safety Features

Multiple airbags, ABS brakes, traction control system.

CAUTION! Always wear seat belts. Children should be in appropriate child safety seats.

Emergency Procedures

Flat tire, dead battery, overheating, and accident procedures.

Emergency kit location: Trunk. Spare tire: Temporary compact spare. Emergency flashers: Red triangle button on dashboard. Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, security system	Check battery connections; ensure key is recognized
Check engine light	Various engine issues	Have system scanned for diagnostic codes
Poor fuel economy	Dirty air filter, tire pressure	Replace air filter; check tire inflation
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have brake system inspected
Electrical issues	Blown fuse	Check fuse box under dashboard

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset computer.

Service: 1-800-TO-ACURA; www.acura.com