Acura RL Repair Manual Free

The Acura RL is a luxury sedan known for its advanced features, powerful V6 engine, and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. This free repair manual covers essential maintenance procedures, troubleshooting guides, and step-by-step repair instructions for various systems including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical, and more. Below are comprehensive sections for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Repair 4. Transmission Service 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Heating & AC 9. Body & Interior 10. Diagnostic Codes 11. Common Issues & Solutions

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical details for Acura RL models across different model years.

Specification	Details
Engine Type	3.5L V6 J35A8/VTEC
Horsepower	290-300 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque	260-270 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Drivetrain	Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brake System	4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension	Independent double-wishbone front/multi-link rear
Fuel Capacity	18.5 gallons
Curb Weight	3950-4100 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Transmission Fluid: Every 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid: Every 3 years or 45,000 miles
Coolant Replacement: Every 5 years or 105,000 miles
Spark Plugs: Every 105,000 miles
Timing Belt: Every 105,000 miles (if applicable)
Air Filter: Every 30,000 miles or as needed
Cabin Air Filter: Every 15,000-30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts and fluids for best performance. Follow safety procedures when working under vehicle.

Engine Repair

Comprehensive engine service procedures and troubleshooting.

Oil Change Procedure: Drain plug torque 29 lb-ft, filter torque 13 lb-ft
Spark Plug Replacement: Gap 0.039-0.043 inches, torque 13 lb-ft
Timing Belt Replacement: Align marks, tension properly
Valve Adjustment: Cold engine, intake 0.008-0.009 in, exhaust 0.010-0.011 in
Water Pump Replacement: Replace with timing belt service
Engine Mount Inspection: Check for cracks and deterioration

CAUTION! Engine components can be hot. Allow cooling before service. Use proper lifting equipment.

Transmission Service

Fluid Type: ATF-Z1 or equivalent
Fluid Capacity: 7.4 quarts (complete change)
Filter Replacement: Every 60,000 miles
Shift Solenoid Testing: Resistance 12-25 ohms at 68°F
Transmission Mounts: Inspect for wear during service
SH-AWD Service: Rear differential fluid change every 30,000 miles
Transfer Case: Fluid change every 30,000 miles

Brake System

Brake maintenance and repair procedures for optimal stopping performance.

Front Brakes: Rotor minimum thickness 0.94 in, pad wear limit 0.08 in

Rear Brakes: Rotor minimum thickness 0.39 in, pad wear limit 0.08 in

Brake Pad Replacement: Clean caliper slides, lubricate contact points

Rotor Resurfacing: Maximum discard thickness on label

Brake Bleeding: Use proper sequence - RR, LR, RF, LF

ABS System: Scan for codes if warning light illuminated

Suspension & Steering

Front suspension: Double wishbone with coil springs

Strut Replacement: Support vehicle properly, align after replacement
Ball Joint Inspection: Check for play and boot condition
Tie Rod Ends: Replace if play exceeds specifications
Wheel Alignment: Toe 0° ± 0.08°, Camber -0°30' ± 45'
Power Steering: Use genuine Honda PS fluid only
Stabilizer Links: Check for clunking noises over bumps

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension work.

Electrical System

Battery: 12V 70Ah, located in trunk

Battery Replacement: Maintain memory with backup power
Alternator Output: 13.5-14.5 volts at 2000 rpm
Starter Current Draw: Maximum 180 amps
Fuse Box Locations: Underhood, driver's side kick panel
Light Bulb Replacement: Headlights, taillights, interior lights
Wiring Diagrams: Available in professional service manual
Module Programming: May require Honda diagnostic system

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical work. Avoid short circuits.

Heating & AC

AC System: R134a refrigerant, capacity 17-19 oz

Compressor Oil: PAG 46, 5.0-5.5 oz for complete system

Body & Interior

Exterior: Panel alignment, paint codes, trim replacement

CAUTION! Use proper tools for trim removal to avoid damage.

Diagnostic Codes

OBD-II codes specific to Acura RL systems and subsystems.

Code	Description	Common Causes
P0300	Random Misfire	Spark plugs, coils, fuel injectors
P0420	Catalyst System Efficiency	O2 sensors, catalytic converter
P0715	Input/Turbine Speed Sensor	Sensor circuit, transmission issues
P1259	VTEC System Malfunction	VTEC solenoid, oil pressure
U0155	Lost Communication with Cluster	CAN bus communication error

Common Issues & Solutions

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Transmission shudder	Worn clutch packs	Transmission service or rebuild
Power steering leak	O-ring failure	Replace O-rings at pump and rack
Front brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace rotors
Electrical gremlins	Bad grounds	Clean and tighten ground connections
AC compressor noise	Failing compressor	Replace compressor and receiver drier

Reset Procedures: Battery disconnect for 10 minutes resets most systems

Technical Support: Acura dealer service departments or certified independent shops