Acura RSX 02-06 Service Manual

The Acura RSX 02-06 Service Manual provides comprehensive maintenance and repair information for the 2002-2006 Acura RSX models. This manual covers engine systems (K20A2/K20A3), transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and routine maintenance procedures for both base and Type-S variants. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission 5. Suspension & Steering 6. Brake Systems 7. Electrical Systems 8. Body & Interior 9. Troubleshooting 10. Service Procedures 11. Technical Bulletins

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical specifications for Acura RSX 2002-2006 models.

Specification	Base Model	Type-S Model
Engine	K20A3 2.0L I4	K20A2 2.0L I4
Horsepower	160 hp @ 6500 rpm	200 hp @ 7400 rpm
Torque	141 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm	142 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm
Transmission	5-speed manual/automatic	6-speed manual
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection	Programmed Fuel Injection
Brakes Front	Ventilated discs	Ventilated discs
Brakes Rear	Solid discs	Solid discs
Suspension Front	MacPherson strut	MacPherson strut
Suspension Rear	Double wishbone	Double wishbone
Fuel Capacity	13.2 gallons	13.2 gallons

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

Every 7,500 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation
Every 15,000 miles: Air filter inspection/replacement, brake inspection
Every 30,000 miles: Spark plug replacement, coolant replacement
Every 60,000 miles: Timing chain inspection, transmission fluid change
Every 100,000 miles: Comprehensive inspection of all systems

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts for replacement. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Systems

Detailed service procedures for K20 series engines.

Engine Removal: Requires disconnection of all ancillary systems, support of transmission
Valve Adjustment: Cold engine procedure with feeler gauges
Timing Chain: Self-adjusting hydraulic tensioner system
Fuel System: Service pressure: 50-55 psi
Ignition System: Direct ignition system with individual coils
Cooling System: Capacity: 6.3 quarts with Honda Type 2 coolant

Transmission

Service procedures for manual and automatic transmissions.

Manual Transmission: Fluid capacity: 2.2 quarts Honda MTF
Automatic Transmission: Fluid capacity: 2.9 quarts Honda ATF-Z1
Clutch Replacement: Pedal free play: 0.4-0.8 inches
Shift Linkage: Adjustment procedures for precise shifting

CAUTION! Use only specified transmission fluids to prevent damage.

Suspension & Steering

Maintenance and repair of chassis components.

Component	Service Procedure	Torque Specifications
Strut Replacement	Remove wheel, brake line bracket, upper mount	Upper nut: 40 lb-ft
Control Arms	Inspect bushings, ball joints for wear	Ball joint nut: 36 lb-ft
Stabilizer Bar	Check links and bushings	Link nuts: 40 lb-ft
Power Steering	Fluid type: Honda Power Steering Fluid	Reservoir cap: Hand tight

Brake Systems

Service procedures for hydraulic and mechanical brake components.

Brake Pad Replacement: Remove caliper, compress piston, install new pads
Rotor Service: Minimum thickness: Front 0.87 in, Rear 0.35 in
Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, replace every 3 years
Bleeding Procedure: RR, LR, RF, LF sequence

WARNING! Always bleed brakes after any hydraulic system service.

Electrical Systems

Diagnosis and repair of electrical components.

Battery: 12V 50Ah, located in engine compartment
Charging System: Alternator output: 80A
Starter System: Draw test: 180A maximum
Lighting: Headlight: 55W H1, Parking: 5W
Fuse Boxes: Under-dash and engine compartment locations

Body & Interior

Service procedures for body components and interior systems.

Door Panel Removal: Remove screws, carefully pry clips
Seat Removal: Disconnect battery, remove bolts, disconnect electrical
Dashboard Components: Radio, climate control removal procedures
Exterior Trim: Proper removal techniques to avoid damage

Troubleshooting

Common issues and diagnostic procedures.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine misfire	Faulty spark plugs, coils, or fuel injectors	Perform compression test, check ignition components
Hard shifting	Low fluid, worn synchronizers	Check fluid level, inspect shift linkage
Brake vibration	Warped rotors, stuck calipers	Measure rotor runout, inspect caliper slides
Electrical issues	Bad grounds, corroded connections	Check ground points, clean battery terminals
Noise from suspension	Worn bushings, bad struts	Inspect all suspension components for wear

Service Procedures

Step-by-step repair instructions for common services.

Oil Change: Drain plug torque: 29 lb-ft, Filter: 12 lb-ft
Spark Plug Replacement: Gap: 0.039-0.043 in, Torque: 13 lb-ft
Timing Chain Service: Special tools required for proper alignment
Brake Service: Caliper bracket bolts: 65 lb-ft
Wheel Alignment: Specifications: Camber -0°30' ± 45', Toe: 0°00' ± 10'

Technical Bulletins

Manufacturer updates and common issues.

TSB 03-001: Revised shift linkage adjustment procedure
TSB 04-012: Updated PCM calibration for cold start issues
TSB 05-008: Brake pedal feel improvement kit
TSB 06-015: Revised valve adjustment specifications

Service Support: 1-800-382-2238; www.acura.com