Acura RSX Owners Manual 2003

The Acura RSX 2003 is a sport compact coupe featuring a 2.0L i-VTEC engine, 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, premium audio system, power windows/locks/mirrors, air conditioning, dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, and keyless entry. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2.0L i-VTEC engine, 5-speed transmission options, premium audio system, power accessories, safety features.

Safety Information

Always wear seat belts and ensure all passengers are properly restrained.

1. Airbag Safety: Sit upright with seat properly adjusted; keep hands on steering wheel.
2. Child Safety: Use appropriate child restraints in rear seats only.
3. Braking: Allow greater following distance in adverse conditions.
4. Visibility: Keep windows clean and mirrors properly adjusted.

WARNING! Never place rear-facing child seats in front passenger seat with active airbag.

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with all gauges, indicators, and warning lights.

1. Tachometer: Engine RPM; redline at 6800 RPM.
2. Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph and km/h.
3. Fuel Gauge: Fuel level; refuel when low.
4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature.
5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS, airbag.

CAUTION! If any warning light illuminates while driving, pull over safely and investigate.

Specifications

• Engine: 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 160 hp @ 6500 rpm (Base), 200 hp @ 7400 rpm (Type-S)
• Torque: 141 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Base), 142 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm (Type-S)
• Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
• Fuel Capacity: 13.2 gallons
• Fuel Type: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)
• Curb Weight: 2778 lbs (manual), 2844 lbs (automatic)
• Brakes: Front disc/rear disc with ABS

Controls and Operation

Steering wheel controls: Audio, cruise control. Center console: Climate, audio, gear selector.

Key Functions: POWER (start/stop), LOCK/UNLOCK, TRUNK release, PANIC button.

Audio: Power/volume, source selection, track seek, bass/treble/fader/balance. Climate: Temperature control, fan speed, mode selection, A/C, recirculation. Lights: Headlight switch, fog lights, interior dimmer. Wipers: Intermittent, low, high, mist.

Driving Your RSX

Manual transmission: Smooth clutch operation, proper shifting technique. Automatic: Normal and SportShift modes.

1. Starting: Depress clutch (manual), foot on brake, turn key to START.
2. Shifting: Smooth gear changes; don't rest hand on shifter.
3. Braking: Progressive pressure; ABS may pulsate during hard braking.
4. Cornering: Smooth steering inputs; maintain proper tire pressure.

Tip: Allow engine to warm up before aggressive driving.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended service intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
2. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
3. Air Filter: Every 30,000 miles
4. Spark Plugs: Every 105,000 miles
5. Timing Belt: Every 105,000 miles
6. Brake Fluid: Every 3 years
7. Coolant: Every 10 years or 120,000 miles

WARNING! Use only Acura-approved fluids and genuine parts.

Audio System

AM/FM stereo with CD player, 6-speaker system.

1. Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off.
2. Source: Press AM/FM or CD to select source.
3. Seek: Press SEEK to find next strong station.
4. Presets: Store 6 AM and 12 FM stations.
5. CD Operation: Load CD, press CD button, use track controls.
6. Sound: Adjust bass, treble, fader, balance.
7. Clock: Set time via CLOCK button.

WARNING! Adjust audio settings only when vehicle is stopped.

Climate Control

Automatic temperature control system with air conditioning.

Emergency Procedures

Flat Tire: Use jack and spare tire in trunk. Jump Start: Connect cables properly to battery. Overheating: Turn off A/C, turn on heater, pull over safely.

CAUTION! Never attempt repairs on hot engine components.

Troubleshooting

Service: Contact Acura dealer or 1-800-TO-ACURA for assistance.