Acura RSX Owners Manual

The Acura RSX is a sport compact car featuring a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, premium audio system, leather interior options, power windows/locks, cruise control, and advanced safety features including dual-stage airbags and ABS brakes. Below are key sections for vehicle operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting & Operating 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Features 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Driving Tips 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 2.0L i-VTEC engine, transmission options, interior features, exterior dimensions.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.0-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Transmission	6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
Horsepower	160 hp (base) / 210 hp (Type-S)
Seating Capacity	5 passengers
Curb Weight	Approx. 2,800 lbs
Fuel Capacity	13.2 gallons
Audio System	AM/FM/CD with 6 speakers
Climate Control	Manual or automatic available
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension	4-wheel independent

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with dashboard controls and indicators.

Speedometer: Displays vehicle speed in mph/kmh
Tachometer: Shows engine RPM
Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level
Temperature Gauge: Monitors engine coolant temperature
Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS
Odometer: Total and trip distance

WARNING! Never ignore warning lights; stop vehicle if red warning lights appear.

Starting & Operating

Proper procedures for starting, driving, and shutting down vehicle.

Starting: Insert key, depress clutch (manual), turn to START position
Shifting: Manual - use clutch pedal; Automatic - select gear position
Parking: Apply parking brake, shift to Park (auto) or gear (manual)
Turning off: Return to ACC position, remove key

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake on inclines.

Specifications

Engine: 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Power: 160 hp @ 6500 rpm (base), 210 hp @ 7800 rpm (Type-S)
Torque: 141 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (base), 143 lb-ft @ 7000 rpm (Type-S)
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 24 city / 31 highway (manual)
Dimensions: 172.4" L x 67.9" W x 55.1" H
Wheelbase: 101.2 inches
Tires: P205/55R16 all-season

Controls & Features

Steering wheel controls, audio system, climate control, power accessories.

Steering Wheel: Audio controls, cruise control buttons

Audio: AM/FM radio, CD player, auxiliary input (if equipped). Climate: Temperature control, fan speed, air distribution. Power: Windows, door locks, mirrors. Lighting: Headlight controls, fog lights, interior lighting.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
Air Filter: Every 30,000 miles
Spark Plugs: Every 105,000 miles
Timing Belt: Every 105,000 miles
Brake Fluid: Every 3 years

Tip: Follow severe service schedule for frequent short trips or extreme conditions.

Driving Tips

Optimize performance and fuel efficiency.

Accelerate smoothly for better fuel economy
Use engine braking on downhill grades
Maintain proper tire pressure
Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking
Use recommended fuel grade (premium for Type-S)

WARNING! Always wear seat belts and obey traffic laws.

Safety Features

Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, ABS brakes, vehicle stability assist, tire pressure monitoring system.

Care & Cleaning

Use mild soap and water for exterior; vacuum interior regularly. Protect leather with conditioner.

CAUTION! Avoid abrasive cleaners; do not use high-pressure washers near seals.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles. Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited miles. For service, contact Acura dealer or 1-800-TO-ACURA.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition	Check battery connections; ensure clutch depressed (manual); try different key position.
Poor acceleration	Fuel/air system	Check air filter; use premium fuel; inspect spark plugs.
Brake vibration	Rotors/pads	Inspect brake rotors for warping; check pad wear.
Electrical issues	Battery/alternator	Test battery voltage; check alternator output.
Transmission problems	Fluid/mechanical	Check transmission fluid level; inspect clutch (manual).

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset ECU if needed.

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