Acura RSX Owners Manual 2002

The 2002 Acura RSX is a sport compact coupe featuring a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine, available in Base and Type-S trims with 5-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Key features include power windows/locks, premium audio system, dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, and sport-tuned suspension. Below are essential sections for operation, maintenance, safety, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Controls and Features 4. Driving Position Memory 5. Audio System 6. Climate Control 7. Driving 8. Maintenance 9. Technical Specifications 10. Safety Features 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 2.0L i-VTEC engine, 5-speed manual/automatic transmission, power accessories, sport suspension.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Horsepower	160 hp (Base) / 200 hp (Type-S)
Transmission	5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
Fuel Capacity	13.2 gallons
Seating Capacity	5 passengers
Curb Weight	2,746 lbs (Base) / 2,777 lbs (Type-S)
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension	4-wheel independent
Audio System	AM/FM stereo with CD player
Air Conditioning	Manual climate control system

Instrument Panel

Main gauges and indicators: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h.
Tachometer: Displays engine RPM with redline indicator.
Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level with low fuel warning light.
Temperature Gauge: Monitors engine coolant temperature.
Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS, airbag indicators.

WARNING! If any warning light illuminates while driving, pull over safely and check the issue immediately.

Controls and Features

Steering wheel controls, center console, power accessories operation.

Steering Wheel: Audio controls, cruise control (if equipped).
Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, gear selector.
Power Windows: Master switch on driver's door.
Power Door Locks: Central locking system.
Mirror Controls: Power adjustable side mirrors.

CAUTION! Adjust controls only when vehicle is stationary for safety.

Driving Position Memory

Memory Function: Stores driver's seat and mirror positions (if equipped).
Setting Memory: Adjust position, press SET button, then press memory button 1 or 2.
Recalling Memory: Press and hold desired memory button until movement stops.
Key Fob Memory: Positions can be linked to specific key fobs.

Audio System

AM/FM stereo with CD player, 6 speakers, optional premium sound system.

Basic Operation: POWER/VOLUME knob, BAND selector, TUNE knob, CD slot.

Radio: Press BAND to switch between AM/FM. Use TUNE or SEEK to find stations. CD: Insert disc label-side up. Press CD button. Use FF/REW to skip tracks. Audio Settings: BASS, TREBLE, FADER, BALANCE controls. Clock: Hold CLOCK button, adjust with TUNE knob.

Climate Control

Manual temperature control system with ventilation modes.

Turn fan control knob to desired speed (1-4).
Set temperature control to desired comfort level.
Select air distribution mode: Face, Face/Floor, Floor, Floor/Defrost, Defrost.
Use A/C button for dehumidification and cooling.
Use recirculation button for quick cooling or outside air exclusion.

Tip: Use defrost setting to quickly clear windshield fog or frost.

Driving

Starting, shifting, braking, and performance characteristics.

Starting: Insert key, press clutch (manual), turn to START position.
Manual Transmission: Fully depress clutch when shifting gears.
Automatic Transmission: Select gear with brake pedal depressed.
Braking: Apply steady pressure; ABS will pulsate during hard braking.
Parking: Apply parking brake on inclines.
Fuel Economy: Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).

WARNING! Always wear seat belts and ensure passengers are properly restrained.

Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance intervals and basic service procedures.

Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles. Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles. Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles. Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles. Fluid Checks: Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid monthly.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Displacement: 1998 cc
Compression Ratio: 9.7:1 (Base) / 11.0:1 (Type-S)
Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Front Suspension: Independent MacPherson strut
Rear Suspension: Independent double wishbone
Steering: Rack-and-pinion with power assist
Turning Circle: 36.1 feet
Fuel Economy: 24 city / 31 highway (manual transmission)

Safety Features

Dual-stage front airbags, side impact protection, anti-lock brakes, child seat anchors.

Feature	Description
Front Airbags	Dual-stage deployment based on impact severity
Seat Belts	3-point ELR/ALR with pretensioners
ABS	4-wheel anti-lock braking system
Side Impact	Door beam reinforcement
Child Safety	LATCH system in rear seats
Security System	Theft-deterrent with remote entry

CAUTION! Children under 12 should ride in rear seats with proper restraints.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition	Check battery connections; ensure clutch depressed (manual); try jump start.
Poor acceleration	Fuel/air system	Check air filter; fuel quality; spark plugs.
Brake vibration	Rotor warping	Have brake rotors inspected and resurfaced or replaced.
Steering pull	Alignment/tires	Check tire pressure; have wheel alignment performed.
Electrical issues	Battery/alternator	Test battery and charging system; check fuses.

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

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA