Acura RSX 5 Speed Manual

The Acura RSX with 5-speed manual transmission is a sport compact coupe featuring a 2.0L i-VTEC engine, front-wheel drive, responsive manual gearbox, sport-tuned suspension, premium interior features, and Honda/Acura reliability. Below are key sections for specifications, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Specifications 3. Transmission Operation 4. Interior Controls 5. Driving Tips 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Common Issues 8. Safety Features 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2.0L i-VTEC engine, 5-speed manual transmission, sport suspension, leather-wrapped steering wheel, premium audio system, power windows/locks, keyless entry.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Transmission	5-speed manual with short-throw shifter
Horsepower	160-200 hp (depending on trim)
Suspension	Sport-tuned independent front/rear
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Steering	Power-assisted rack-and-pinion
Interior	Leather seats, aluminum pedals, moonroof
Audio	AM/FM/CD with 6-speaker system
Climate Control	Automatic temperature control
Safety	Dual front airbags, side-impact beams

Specifications

Engine: 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Horsepower: 160 hp (Base) / 200 hp (Type-S)
Torque: 141 lb-ft (Base) / 142 lb-ft (Type-S)
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Suspension: Independent front MacPherson strut, rear double wishbone
Brakes: Ventilated front discs, solid rear discs with ABS
Fuel Capacity: 13.2 gallons
Fuel Economy: 24 city / 31 highway (estimated)
Curb Weight: 2,770 - 2,870 lbs

Transmission Operation

Proper manual transmission operation for optimal performance and longevity.

Starting: Press clutch fully, shift to neutral, start engine
First gear: Clutch in, shift to 1st, gradual clutch release with throttle
Shifting up: Clutch in, shift to next gear, smooth clutch release
Downshifting: Clutch in, shift to lower gear, rev-match if needed
Reverse: Come to complete stop, clutch in, shift to reverse
Parking: Set parking brake, shift to reverse or 1st gear

WARNING! Do not rest hand on shifter while driving. Avoid riding the clutch.

Interior Controls

Dashboard and center console controls for optimal vehicle operation.

Instrument Cluster: Tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights

Center Console: Shifter, climate controls, audio system, hazard lights, traction control

Steering Wheel: Cruise control, audio controls, tilt adjustment

Doors/Windows: Power window switches, power lock controls, mirror adjustments

Driving Tips

Optimize your driving experience with proper manual transmission techniques.

Smooth shifting: Practice clutch-throttle coordination
Rev-matching: Blip throttle during downshifts for smoother transitions
Hill starts: Use parking brake for assistance on steep inclines
Engine braking: Use lower gears for controlled deceleration
Optimal shift points: 3,000-6,000 RPM depending on driving conditions

Tip: Regular practice improves manual driving skills and vehicle longevity.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance for 5-speed manual transmission and related components.

Oil Changes: Every 5,000-7,500 miles with synthetic oil
Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
Clutch Inspection: Every 15,000 miles
Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years
Coolant: Replace every 60,000 miles
Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Timing Chain: Inspection at 100,000 miles
Air Filter: Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles

Common Issues

Known issues with Acura RSX 5-speed manual transmission models.

Third gear grind: Common in high-mileage vehicles
Clutch wear: Premature wear with aggressive driving
Synchro issues: May require transmission fluid change
Shift linkage: May need adjustment over time
Throw-out bearing: Noisy operation indicates replacement needed

CAUTION! Address transmission issues promptly to avoid costly repairs.

Safety Features

Standard safety equipment and features for driver and passenger protection.

Feature	Description
Airbags	Dual-stage front airbags
ABS	4-wheel anti-lock braking system
Brake Assist	Emergency braking support
Side Impact	Reinforced door beams
Security System	Factory alarm with immobilizer
Child Safety	LATCH system for child seats

Warranty Information

Standard Acura warranty coverage for RSX models.

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance: 4 years/50,000 miles

Extended warranties available through Acura dealerships.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Difficulty shifting	Low transmission fluid	Check and refill transmission fluid
Grinding gears	Worn synchros	Replace transmission fluid; inspect synchros
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch disc	Replace clutch assembly
Vibration in gear	Motor mounts	Inspect and replace motor mounts
Stuck in gear	Shift linkage	Adjust or replace shift linkage
Noise when engaging	Throw-out bearing	Replace throw-out bearing

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional diagnosis and repair

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