Acura RSX Type S Service Manual

The Acura RSX Type S is a high-performance compact sports coupe featuring a 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC engine producing 201 horsepower, 6-speed manual transmission, sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, and premium interior features. This service manual covers maintenance procedures, technical specifications, troubleshooting, and repair instructions for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine System 4. Transmission & Drivetrain 5. Suspension & Steering 6. Brake System 7. Electrical System 8. Body & Interior 9. Diagnostic Procedures 10. Safety Precautions 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data and performance metrics for the Acura RSX Type S.

SpecificationDescription
Engine2.0L K20A2 DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Horsepower201 hp @ 7800 rpm
Torque142 lb-ft @ 7000 rpm
Transmission6-speed manual with helical limited-slip differential
0-60 mph6.7 seconds
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension4-wheel independent with front/rear stabilizer bars
Wheelbase101.2 inches
Curb Weight2778 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

  1. Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
  3. Spark plug replacement: Every 105,000 miles
  4. Timing chain inspection: Every 60,000 miles
  5. Brake fluid flush: Every 3 years
  6. Coolant replacement: Every 120,000 miles or 10 years
  7. Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use premium unleaded fuel (91 octane or higher) for optimal performance.

Engine System

Detailed procedures for K20A2 i-VTEC engine maintenance and repair.

  1. Valve adjustment: Check every 30,000 miles
  2. VTEC system: Inspect solenoid and oil pressure switch
  3. Timing chain: Replace if excessive noise or wear detected
  4. Oil system: Use 5W-30 synthetic oil recommended
  5. Cooling system: Check radiator and hoses for leaks
  6. Exhaust system: Inspect headers and catalytic converter

CAUTION! Engine components operate at high temperatures; allow cooling before servicing.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Suspension & Steering

Front MacPherson strut with lower L-arms; rear double-wishbone setup.

Front Suspension: Coil springs, gas-filled shocks, 23mm stabilizer bar

Rear Suspension: Multi-link with trailing arms, 19mm stabilizer bar

Steering: Rack-and-pinion with vehicle speed-sensitive electric power steering

Alignment Specs: Front camber: -0°30' ± 45', Front toe: 0°00' ± 0°12', Rear camber: -1°00' ± 45'

Brake System

4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and Electronic Brake Distribution.

  1. Front brakes: 11.8-inch ventilated discs with single-piston calipers
  2. Rear brakes: 10.2-inch solid discs with single-piston calipers
  3. Brake pad replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles
  4. Rotor thickness: Minimum 0.94 inches front, 0.35 inches rear
  5. ABS module: Diagnostic connector under dashboard

Tip: Use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid; flush system every 3 years.

Electrical System

Comprehensive electrical system diagnostics and repair procedures.

  1. Battery: 12V 51Ah located in trunk
  2. Alternator: 80A output, inspect belt tension regularly
  3. Starter: 1.4kW reduction-type
  4. Fuse boxes: Under-hood and driver's side dashboard
  5. Lighting: H4 headlight bulbs, 9005 high beam, 9006 fog lights
  6. ECU: Located under passenger side dashboard
  7. Wiring diagrams: Available in separate electrical manual

WARNING! Disconnect battery before performing electrical work to prevent shorts.

Body & Interior

Body structure, interior components, and trim maintenance.

Diagnostic Procedures

Using OBD-II scanner for trouble code retrieval and system diagnostics.

CAUTION! Follow diagnostic procedures in sequence; do not skip steps.

Safety Precautions

Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Wear safety glasses during repairs. Use factory tools when specified. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine misfireFaulty spark plugs/coilsReplace spark plugs; test ignition coils; check fuel injectors.
Hard shiftingWorn synchros/fluidChange transmission fluid; inspect shift linkage; check clutch master cylinder.
VTEC not engagingSolenoid/oil pressureCheck VTEC solenoid operation; verify oil pressure; inspect wiring.
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsResurface or replace brake rotors; check caliper operation.
Electrical issuesGround connectionsClean and tighten ground points; check battery terminals.

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

Service: Contact Acura dealership or certified technician for complex repairs.

Acura RSX Type S Service Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025