Acura RL 1996-2004 3.5L Engine Specifications
Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 3.5L V6 engine in the 1996-2004 Acura RL. Includes performance data, maintenance guidelines, and repair procedures.
1996-2004 Acura RL 3.5L Engine Specifications Specifications
This document provides a comprehensive overview of the 3.5L engine specifications for the 1996-2004 Acura RL. It includes detailed technical information, maintenance guidelines, and key performance metrics. Use this guide to understand the engine's capabilities, maintenance requirements, and troubleshooting tips. Navigate through the sections to find specific information or use the quick reference for key specifications.
How to Use
To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords such as 'horsepower', 'torque', 'oil capacity', or 'maintenance schedule'.
Navigate through the sections by scrolling or using the table of contents. Each section is divided into subsections for easier access to detailed information.
Key Specifications
Horsepower
210 HP @ 5,200 RPM
Torque
231 lb-ft @ 2,800 RPM
Displacement
3.5L (3471 cc)
Fuel Capacity
18.5 gallons (70 liters)
Curb Weight
3,847 lbs (1,745 kg)
Available Specifications
Engine Overview
This section provides a general overview of the 3.5L engine, including its configuration, performance capabilities, and key features.
Engine Overview
This section provides a general overview of the 3.5L engine, including its configuration, performance capabilities, and key features.
Engine Configuration
- 3.5L V6 engine
- SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) design
- 24 valves
- VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
- Aluminum alloy engine block and cylinder heads
Performance Specifications
- Horsepower: 210 HP @ 5,200 RPM
- Torque: 231 lb-ft @ 2,800 RPM
- Redline: 5,500 RPM
- Fuel type: Premium unleaded gasoline
- Fuel injection: Multi-point fuel injection
Key Features
- Dual-stage intake manifold
- Variable valve timing
- High-flow intake system
- Low-emission catalyst
- Immobilizer system
Maintenance Schedule
This section outlines the recommended maintenance schedule for the 3.5L engine, including service intervals and procedures.
Maintenance Schedule
This section outlines the recommended maintenance schedule for the 3.5L engine, including service intervals and procedures.
Oil and Filter
- Oil capacity: 4.5 quarts (4.25 liters)
- Recommended oil viscosity: 5W-20
- Oil change interval: Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
- Filter type: Cartridge-style oil filter
- Recommended filter: Acura Genuine or equivalent
Tire and Brake Maintenance
- Tire rotation interval: Every 7,500 miles
- Brake fluid change interval: Every 30,000 miles
- Recommended tire pressure: 33 PSI (front), 34 PSI (rear)
- Brake pad replacement: Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles
- Rotors: Inspect every 15,000 miles
Other Services
- Spark plug replacement: Every 30,000 miles
- Timing belt inspection: Every 60,000 miles
- Drive belt replacement: Every 90,000 miles
- Cabin air filter replacement: Every 15,000 miles
- Engine air filter replacement: Every 15,000 miles
Technical Specifications
This section provides detailed technical specifications for the 3.5L engine, including dimensions, weights, and fluid capacities.
Technical Specifications
This section provides detailed technical specifications for the 3.5L engine, including dimensions, weights, and fluid capacities.
Engine Dimensions
- Length: 22.2 inches (564 mm)
- Width: 20.6 inches (523 mm)
- Height: 24.8 inches (630 mm)
- Weight: Approximately 340 lbs (154 kg)
- Center of gravity: Optimized for stability
Fluid Capacities
- Engine oil: 4.5 quarts (4.25 liters)
- Coolant: 3.5 gallons (13.25 liters)
- Transmission fluid: 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters)
- Brake fluid: 0.5 quarts (0.47 liters)
- Power steering fluid: 0.5 quarts (0.47 liters)
Electrical System
- Battery type: Maintenance-free 51R
- Cold cranking amps: 500 CCA
- Alternator output: 90 amps
- Starter motor: 1.2 kW
- Fuses: Blade-type fuses
Troubleshooting Common Issues
This section provides guidance on diagnosing and addressing common issues with the 3.5L engine.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
This section provides guidance on diagnosing and addressing common issues with the 3.5L engine.
Low Oil Pressure
- Check oil level and top off if necessary
- Inspect oil filter for proper installation
- Check for oil leaks
- Replace oil pump if faulty
- Flush oil passages if clogged
Overheating Engine
- Check coolant level and top off
- Inspect radiator for blockages
- Check for leaks in hoses or water pump
- Replace thermostat if stuck closed
- Flush and refill coolant system
Rough Engine Idle
- Check for vacuum leaks
- Inspect spark plugs and replace if fouled
- Check ignition coil condition
- Inspect fuel injectors for clogging
- Check idle air control valve
Upgrades and Modifications
This section outlines popular upgrades and modifications for the 3.5L engine, including performance enhancements and aesthetics.
Upgrades and Modifications
This section outlines popular upgrades and modifications for the 3.5L engine, including performance enhancements and aesthetics.
Performance Upgrades
- Cold air intake installation
- Cat-back exhaust system upgrade
- Performance spark plugs
- ECU tuning for increased power
- Suspension upgrades for improved handling
Aesthetic Modifications
- Engine dress-up kits
- Aluminum skid plate
- Carbon fiber engine cover
- Custom engine bay lighting
- Powder-coated engine components
Warranty and Reliability
This section provides information on the factory warranty and reliability aspects of the 3.5L engine.
Warranty and Reliability
This section provides information on the factory warranty and reliability aspects of the 3.5L engine.
Factory Warranty
- Basic warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Rust perforation warranty: 5 years
- Battery warranty: 3 years
- Accessories warranty: 1 year
Reliability Overview
- Known for durability and longevity
- Low maintenance costs compared to competitors
- High mileage potential (200,000+ miles)
- Few reported major issues
- Strong resale value
Common Wear Parts
- Timing belt: Replace every 90,000 miles
- Water pump: Replace every 60,000 miles
- Drive belts: Replace every 90,000 miles
- Spark plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
- Brake pads: Replace every 30,000 to 50,000 miles
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
- Check for any outstanding recalls
- Review TSBs for specific issues
- Address any software updates
- Inspect for any factory-issued repairs
- Consult a dealer for warranty claims
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Engine Specifications
Overview
- Type
- V6
- Configuration
- Aluminum alloy
- Platform
- Acura RL (KA9)
- Material
- Aluminum alloy block and heads
- Location
- Longitudinal front-engine
Dimensions
- Length
- 18.9 in (480 mm)
- Width
- 14.2 in (360 mm)
- Height
- 12.2 in (310 mm)
- Weight
- Approx 370 lbs (168 kg)
- Displacement
- 3.5L (3471 cc)
- Bore
- 3.5 in (89 mm)
- Stroke
- 3.66 in (93 mm)
- Oil Capacity
- 6 quarts (5.7 liters)
Materials
- Cylinder Block
- Aluminum alloy with cast iron sleeves
- Cylinder Head
- Aluminum alloy with dual overhead camshafts
- Pistons
- High-strength aluminum alloy
- Crankshaft
- Forged steel
- Camshaft
- Steel alloy
Features
- Fuel System
-
- Multi-point fuel injection
- Electronic fuel injection system
- Returnless fuel system
- Valvetrain
-
- Single overhead camshaft (SOHC)
- 24 valves
- Variable valve timing (VTEC)
- Cooling System
-
- Water-cooled
- Electric cooling fan
- Thermostat-controlled
- Exhaust System
-
- Dual exhaust
- Stainless steel exhaust manifold
- Catalytic converter
- Ignition
-
- Electronic ignition
- Coil-on-plug ignition
- Knock sensor
Safety Features
- Engine Immobilizer
- Yes
- Driver Airbag
- Standard
- Passenger Airbag
- Standard
- Anti-Theft System
-
- Keyless entry
- Alarm system
- Engine immobilizer
Comfort Features
- Climate Control
-
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Air conditioning
- Heater
- Audio System
-
- Premium audio system
- CD player
- Cassette player
- Speakers
- Power Accessories
-
- Power windows
- Power door locks
- Power mirrors
- Remote keyless entry
- Seating
-
- Leather-trimmed seats
- Heated seats
- Power-adjustable seats
Accessories
- Engine Accessories
-
- Alternator
- Starter motor
- Coolant pump
- interior Accessories
-
- Cruise control
- Steering wheel controls
- Cup holders
- Exterior Accessories
-
- Power moonroof
- Fog lights
- Alloy wheels
Maintenance
- Service interval
-
- Miles: 5,000 miles, Months: 6 months, Items: Oil change,Tire rotation,Brake inspection,Battery check,Fluid level inspection, Note: Regular maintenance interval
- Miles: 30,000 miles, Months: 36 months, Items: Air filter replacement,Spark plug replacement,Drive belt inspection,Suspension inspection,Exhaust system inspection, Note: Intermediate service interval
- Miles: 60,000 miles, Months: 60 months, Items: Timing belt replacement,Water pump replacement,Fuel injector cleaning,Transmission fluid change,Coolant flush, Note: Major service interval
- Maintenance Notes
-
- Use synthetic oil
- Check tire pressure monthly
- Inspect wiper blades every 6 months
- Replace cabin air filter every 15,000 miles
Warranty
- Basic Warranty
- Miles: 50,000 milesYears: 4 yearsCoverage: Bumper-to-bumper
- Powertrain Warranty
- Miles: 70,000 milesYears: 5 yearsCoverage: Engine, transmission, and drivetrain
- Corrosion Warranty
- Miles: Unlimited milesYears: 5 yearsCoverage: Perforation
- Accessories Warranty
- Miles: 50,000 milesYears: 4 yearsCoverage: Dealer-installed accessories
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Casting
- Machining
- Assembly
- Testing
- Quality Control
- inspection: Final inspection on production lineTesting: Performance and durability testingCertifications: ISO 9001, ISO 14001
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycling of materials
- Energy-efficient manufacturing
- Emission reduction
- Production Metrics
- Units Produced: Over 100,000 unitsProduction Years: 1996-2004Plant Location: Japan
Service Information for 3.5l engine Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component
- Oil change
- Tire rotation
- Brake inspection
- Battery check
- Fluid level inspection
Regular maintenance interval
- Air filter replacement
- Spark plug replacement
- Drive belt inspection
- Suspension inspection
- Exhaust system inspection
Intermediate service interval
- Timing belt replacement
- Water pump replacement
- Fuel injector cleaning
- Transmission fluid change
- Coolant flush
Major service interval
Common Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What is the horsepower and torque output of the 3.5L engine in the 1996-2004 Acura RL?
What is the horsepower and torque output of the 3.5L engine in the 1996-2004 Acura RL?
The 3.5L V6 engine in the 1996-2004 Acura RL produces 210 horsepower at 5,200 RPM and 224 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 RPM. This engine is designed for smooth power delivery and optimal performance.
Q2 What type of oil and oil capacity does the 3.5L engine require?
What type of oil and oil capacity does the 3.5L engine require?
The 3.5L engine requires 5W-30 synthetic or conventional motor oil. The oil capacity is approximately 4.5 quarts (including the oil filter). Always refer to the owner's manual for specific recommendations and ensure the oil meets API certification standards.
Q3 What is the recommended spark plug gap for the 3.5L engine?
What is the recommended spark plug gap for the 3.5L engine?
The recommended spark plug gap for the 3.5L engine is 0.044 inches (1.1 mm). Use NGK or Denso spark plugs specifically designed for this engine to ensure proper ignition and performance.
Q4 How often should the timing belt be replaced on the 3.5L engine?
How often should the timing belt be replaced on the 3.5L engine?
The timing belt on the 3.5L engine should be replaced every 90,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Failure to replace the timing belt can result in severe engine damage due to interference design.
Q5 What is the compression ratio of the 3.5L engine?
What is the compression ratio of the 3.5L engine?
The 3.5L engine has a compression ratio of 9.8:1. This ratio is optimized for a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for premium unleaded gasoline.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
3.5L Engine Service Manual
Coming SoonOfficial service manual for the 3.5L engine, covering maintenance, repair procedures, and technical specifications.
Timing Belt Replacement Guide
Coming SoonStep-by-step guide for replacing the timing belt on the 3.5L engine, including tools required and safety precautions.
Oil and Fluid Specifications
Coming SoonDetailed information on recommended oil types, capacities, and fluid specifications for the 3.5L engine.
Spark Plug Replacement Tutorial
Coming SoonTutorial on replacing spark plugs for the 3.5L engine, including gap settings and torque specifications.
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Technical Information
- All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
- Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
- Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
- If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.
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