Acura RSX Manual Transmission Fluid Type

The Acura RSX manual transmission requires specific fluid types to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Using the correct transmission fluid is crucial for smooth shifting, proper lubrication, and protection against wear. Below are key sections covering fluid specifications, recommended brands, change intervals, procedures, and troubleshooting.

Recommended Fluid Specifications

Acura RSX manual transmissions require specific fluid types based on model year and transmission code.

Model Year	Transmission Code	Recommended Fluid
2002-2004	S1, S2	Honda MTF (Manual Transmission Fluid)
2005-2006	S3, S4	Honda MTF or equivalent synthetic
All Years	Base/Type-S	API GL-4 or GL-5 75W-90 (check manual)

NOTE: Always refer to your owner's manual for exact specifications.

Compatible Fluid Brands

Several brands offer compatible manual transmission fluids for Acura RSX.

Genuine Honda MTF: OEM recommended for optimal performance
Red Line MTL: Synthetic 70W-80 GL-4 gear oil
Royal Purple Synchromax: Synthetic manual transmission fluid
Amsoil Manual Transmission Fluid: Synthetic 5W-30
GM Synchromesh: Alternative for smoother shifting

WARNING! Avoid using automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in manual transmissions.

Fluid Change Intervals

Regular fluid changes maintain transmission health and performance.

Normal driving: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Severe conditions: Every 15,000 miles or 1 year
Racing/track use: Every 5,000-7,500 miles
First change: 15,000 miles for new transmission break-in

Tip: Change fluid more frequently if you experience hard shifting.

Transmission Fluid Capacity

The Acura RSX manual transmission holds approximately 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters) of fluid.

Transmission Type	Capacity	Drain/Fill Amount
5-speed Manual	2.2 quarts	1.8-2.0 quarts
6-speed Manual (Type-S)	2.2 quarts	1.8-2.0 quarts

Note: Complete drainage may not be possible; refill until fluid drips from fill hole.

Changing Procedure

Follow these steps to change manual transmission fluid safely.

Park on level surface and engage parking brake.
Locate drain plug (bottom) and fill plug (side) of transmission.
Place drain pan under transmission and remove drain plug.
Allow fluid to drain completely (15-20 minutes).
Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer.
Remove fill plug and pump new fluid until it drips from fill hole.
Reinstall fill plug with new washer and tighten securely.
Check for leaks and test drive vehicle.

CAUTION! Transmission fluid is hot after driving; wait for cooling.

Tools and Materials Needed

Proper tools ensure safe and efficient fluid change.

Fluid: 2 quarts Honda MTF or equivalent
Tools: 3/8" ratchet, 17mm socket, fluid pump
Safety: Jack stands, gloves, safety glasses
Supplies: Drain pan, shop towels, new drain/fill plug washers
Optional: Transmission fluid funnel, torque wrench

Checking Fluid Level

Regular fluid level checks prevent transmission damage.

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
Locate transmission fill plug on driver's side of transmission.
Remove fill plug; fluid should be level with bottom of fill hole.
If low, add fluid until it begins to drip from fill hole.
Reinstall fill plug and torque to 33 ft-lbs (45 Nm).

Note: There is no dipstick for manual transmission fluid checks.

Common Symptoms of Bad Fluid

Recognize when transmission fluid needs changing.

Symptom	Description
Hard shifting	Difficulty engaging gears, especially when cold
Grinding noises	Gear grinding during shifts
Transmission overheating	Burning smell from transmission area
Fluid contamination	Dark, dirty fluid with metal particles
Poor synchronization	Gears not engaging smoothly

Troubleshooting Transmission Issues

Address common transmission problems related to fluid.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Hard shifting in cold weather	Wrong fluid viscosity	Use recommended Honda MTF
Grinding 2nd/3rd gear	Worn synchronizers or bad fluid	Change fluid; inspect synchronizers
Transmission noise	Low fluid level	Check and fill to proper level
Fluid leaks	Worn seals or loose plugs	Replace seals and tighten plugs
Difficulty shifting	Contaminated fluid	Drain and replace with fresh fluid

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional diagnosis.

Warranty and Service Information

Acura RSX transmission warranty and service details. Manual transmission components typically covered under 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Using non-approved fluids may void warranty. For service, contact authorized Acura dealership or visit www.acura.com. Genuine Honda MTF available through Acura parts departments.