Acura RSX Owner Manual

The Acura RSX is a sport compact car featuring a high-revving i-VTEC engine, available in Base and Type-S trims with manual or automatic transmissions. Key features include sport-tuned suspension, premium audio system, leather interior (Type-S), moonroof, advanced safety systems, and performance-oriented engineering. Below are essential sections covering operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Controls and Instruments 3. Starting and Driving 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Audio and Connectivity 7. Safety Features 8. Troubleshooting 9. Warranty Information

Vehicle Overview

Key components: i-VTEC engine, sport suspension, power windows/locks, keyless entry, climate control, premium audio system.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.0L i-VTEC 4-cylinder (160hp Base / 200hp Type-S)
Transmission	5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
Suspension	Front MacPherson strut, rear double wishbone
Brakes	4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
Interior	Leather seats (Type-S), power moonroof, automatic climate control
Audio	AM/FM/CD with 6 speakers (7 with premium)
Safety	Dual front airbags, side airbags, security system

Controls and Instruments

Dashboard layout: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

Steering wheel controls: Audio controls, cruise control
Center console: Climate controls, audio system, hazard lights
Instrument panel: Warning lights (check engine, oil pressure, battery)
Seat adjustments: Manual height adjustment, lumbar support

WARNING! Always check warning lights before driving. Address any illuminated warnings immediately.

Starting and Driving

Proper starting procedure and driving techniques.

Manual transmission: Depress clutch, start engine, select gear
Automatic transmission: Foot on brake, select drive mode
i-VTEC engagement: Higher RPM range for optimal power
Fuel economy tips: Smooth acceleration, proper gear selection

CAUTION! Allow engine to warm up before aggressive driving. Never exceed redline RPM.

Specifications

Engine: 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 160 hp (Base) / 200 hp (Type-S)
Torque: 141 lb-ft (Base) / 142 lb-ft (Type-S)
Transmission: 5-speed manual/automatic
Fuel Capacity: 13.2 gallons
Fuel Type: Premium unleaded recommended
Tire Size: 205/55R16 (Base) / 215/45R17 (Type-S)
Curb Weight: 2,746 lbs (Base) / 2,777 lbs (Type-S)

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Service	Interval	Description
Oil Change	7,500 miles	Synthetic oil recommended
Tire Rotation	7,500 miles	Maintain even tire wear
Air Filter	15,000 miles	Engine air filter replacement
Spark Plugs	105,000 miles	Iridium plugs standard
Timing Chain	Inspection only	No scheduled replacement

Audio and Connectivity

Audio system operation and connectivity features.

Radio: AM/FM tuner with presets
CD player: Single disc, MP3 compatible
Auxiliary input: Available for external devices
Speaker system: 6-speaker standard, 7-speaker premium

Tip: Use premium audio files for best sound quality. Keep CD lens clean.

Safety Features

Active and passive safety systems.

Airbags: Dual front and side airbags
ABS: Anti-lock braking system
Security system: Factory alarm with immobilizer
Child safety: Rear door child locks
LATCH system: Child seat anchors

WARNING! Always wear seatbelts. Ensure proper child seat installation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/security system	Check battery connections; ensure key is recognized
Check engine light	Various systems	Have diagnostic code read at service center
Poor performance	Fuel/air filters	Replace air filter; check fuel quality
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have brakes inspected and resurfaced
Electrical issues	Battery/alternator	Test charging system; check battery health

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service. Use genuine Acura parts.

Warranty Information

Standard warranty coverage: 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Rust-through coverage: 5-year/unlimited mileage. Maintain service records for warranty claims. For assistance, contact Acura Client Relations at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com.