Acura RL Repair Manual

The Acura RL is a luxury sedan featuring advanced engineering with V6 engine configurations, sophisticated all-wheel drive systems, premium interior amenities, and comprehensive electronic systems. This repair manual covers essential maintenance procedures, troubleshooting guides, component specifications, and step-by-step repair instructions for professional technicians and DIY enthusiasts. Below are key sections covering safety protocols, system overviews, maintenance schedules, diagnostic procedures, and repair techniques.

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

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data: Engine configurations, dimensions, capacities, and performance metrics.

Specification	Description
Engine Type	3.5L V6 SOHC VTEC
Horsepower	290 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque	260 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Drivetrain	Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
Fuel Capacity	18.5 gallons
Curb Weight	3985 lbs
Wheelbase	110.2 inches
Braking System	4-wheel disc with ABS
Fuel Economy	16 city / 24 highway mpg

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals 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
Brake fluid flush: Every 3 years or 45,000 miles
Transmission fluid: Every 60,000 miles
Coolant replacement: Every 105,000 miles or 10 years
Spark plugs: Every 105,000 miles
Timing belt: Every 105,000 miles or 7 years

WARNING! Always use Acura-approved fluids and genuine parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Systems

Comprehensive guide to engine components, service procedures, and common repairs.

Engine removal and installation procedures
Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
Timing belt/chain replacement
Fuel system maintenance and injector service
Ignition system diagnosis and spark plug replacement
Cooling system flush and thermostat replacement
Exhaust system inspection and component replacement
Engine mount inspection and replacement

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before working on electrical components. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Transmission Type: 5-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Fluid Capacity: 3.1 quarts (drain and refill)
SH-AWD System: Electronic torque vectoring all-wheel drive
Differential Service: Fluid change every 30,000 miles
Transfer Case: Integrated with transmission assembly
Drive Axles: CV joint inspection and boot replacement
Transmission Control Module: Located under center console
Shift Solenoids: Accessible with transmission pan removal

Electrical Systems

Diagnosis and repair of electrical components, wiring diagrams, and system testing.

Battery: Located in trunk, 70Ah capacity. Alternator: 130 amp output. Starter: Gear reduction type.

Multiplex Control System: Controls body electrical functions via B-CAN and F-CAN networks. Power Distribution: Main fuse box under hood, secondary fuse panel in cabin. Lighting Systems: HID headlights with auto-leveling, LED tail lights. Audio/Navigation: Premium sound system with hard drive navigation.

Braking System

Service procedures for brake components, ABS diagnosis, and hydraulic system maintenance.

Brake pad and rotor replacement procedures
Caliper service and piston retraction
Brake fluid bleeding and system flush
ABS module diagnosis and component testing
Parking brake adjustment and cable replacement
Brake booster and master cylinder service

Tip: Always clean brake components with brake cleaner. Never reuse brake fluid.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension service, alignment specifications, and steering system repair.

Strut and shock absorber replacement
Control arm and bushing service
Stabilizer bar and link replacement
Wheel bearing inspection and replacement
Power steering pump and rack service
Alignment specifications and adjustment procedures
Tire pressure monitoring system reset
Suspension geometry measurements

WARNING! Use proper spring compression tools. Always replace fasteners to specified torque.

Heating & AC

Climate control system service, refrigerant handling, and component replacement.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior trim service, and accessory installation.

CAUTION! Follow proper procedures for airbag system service. Always disconnect battery and wait specified time.

Diagnostic Codes

OBD-II code retrieval, system monitoring, and code clearing procedures.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition/fuel	Check battery voltage; test starter; verify fuel pressure; scan for codes.
Rough idle	Vacuum leaks/plugs	Inspect vacuum lines; check spark plugs; clean throttle body; test MAF sensor.
Transmission slipping	Fluid level/solenoids	Check fluid level and condition; test shift solenoids; scan TCM for codes.
ABS light on	Sensors/modulator	Scan ABS codes; test wheel speed sensors; check tone rings; inspect wiring.
Overheating	Cooling system	Check coolant level; test thermostat; inspect water pump; bleed air from system.

Reset Procedures: Maintenance minder reset: Trip button + Select/Reset knob. TPMS reset: Button in glove box.

Technical Support: Acura Technical Information System: techinfo.acura.com