Acura RSX Type S Manual Transmission Fluid

The Acura RSX Type S is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission that requires specific transmission fluid for optimal performance and longevity. Using the correct fluid type and following proper maintenance procedures is essential for smooth shifting, gear protection, and transmission durability. Below are key sections covering fluid specifications, replacement procedures, maintenance intervals, and troubleshooting.

1. Recommended Fluid Specifications 2. Fluid Capacity 3. Replacement Procedure 4. Maintenance Intervals 5. Tools and Materials Required 6. Checking Fluid Level 7. Troubleshooting Common Issues 8. Performance Considerations 9. Safety Precautions 10. Warranty Information 11. Technical Support

Recommended Fluid Specifications

Acura recommends specific transmission fluids for the RSX Type S manual transmission to ensure proper lubrication and performance.

Fluid TypeSpecification
Honda MTFGenuine Honda Manual Transmission Fluid
AlternativeGM Synchromesh Friction Modified
Viscosity75W-80 or 75W-85
API RatingGL-4 or higher
ColorAmber to light brown
BaseSynthetic or semi-synthetic

Fluid Capacity

The transmission fluid capacity for Acura RSX Type S 6-speed manual transmission.

NOTE: Capacity may vary slightly depending on transmission condition and drain method.

Replacement Procedure

Step-by-step guide for manual transmission fluid replacement.

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
  2. Locate transmission drain plug (bottom) and fill plug (side).
  3. Place drain pan under transmission drain plug.
  4. Remove fill plug first to ensure proper drainage.
  5. Remove drain plug and allow fluid to drain completely.
  6. Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer.
  7. Refill with recommended fluid until it reaches fill hole.
  8. Reinstall fill plug with new washer and torque to specification.

WARNING! Transmission fluid may be hot after driving. Wear protective gloves and eyewear.

Maintenance Intervals

Recommended service intervals for transmission fluid maintenance.

ServiceInterval
Fluid InspectionEvery 15,000 miles
Fluid ChangeEvery 30,000 miles
Complete FlushEvery 60,000 miles
Transmission ServiceEvery 100,000 miles

NOTE: Severe driving conditions may require more frequent service intervals.

Tools and Materials Required

Essential tools and materials for transmission fluid service.

Checking Fluid Level

Proper procedure for checking manual transmission fluid level.

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure transmission is cool.
  2. Locate transmission fill plug on driver's side of transmission.
  3. Clean area around fill plug to prevent contamination.
  4. Remove fill plug - fluid should be at bottom of fill hole.
  5. If fluid drips out, level is adequate.
  6. If no fluid drips, add fluid until it reaches fill hole.
  7. Reinstall fill plug with new washer and torque to spec.

CAUTION! Do not overfill transmission as this can cause seal damage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common transmission fluid-related problems and solutions.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Hard shiftingOld/wrong fluidReplace with Honda MTF
Grinding noiseLow fluid levelCheck and fill to proper level
Fluid leaksWorn seals/plugsReplace seals and crush washers
Poor cold shiftingWrong viscosityUse recommended 75W-80 fluid
Transmission overheatingFluid breakdownReplace fluid and inspect clutch

Performance Considerations

How transmission fluid affects RSX Type S performance.

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures when working with transmission fluid.

  1. Always work in well-ventilated area
  2. Use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack
  3. Wear protective gloves and eyewear
  4. Allow transmission to cool before servicing
  5. Dispose of used fluid properly at recycling center

WARNING! Transmission fluid is slippery - clean spills immediately to prevent falls.

Warranty Information

Warranty coverage and requirements for transmission maintenance.

Acura warranty requires use of approved fluids and following recommended service intervals. Using non-approved fluids may void transmission warranty coverage. Keep records of all maintenance services for warranty verification.

Technical Support

Resources for additional assistance and information.

NOTE: For complex transmission issues, consult qualified Acura technician.

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