Acura RL 2005-2012 Drivetrain Specifications
Acura RL 2005-2012

Acura RL 2005-2012 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2005-2012 Acura RL drivetrain system, including the SH-AWD system, transmission, differential, and driveshaft. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

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Drivetrain Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a detailed overview of the drivetrain specifications for the 2005-2012 Acura RL. It includes technical details, key components, and maintenance considerations. Use this guide to understand the vehicle's drivetrain system, identify components, and perform routine maintenance. Navigate through the sections to find specific information or use the search functionality to locate details quickly.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search functionality by entering keywords related to drivetrain components, such as 'transmission,' 'engine,' or 'drive type.'

Navigate through the document by selecting sections from the table of contents. Each section provides detailed information on specific drivetrain components, with subsections offering technical specifications and maintenance tips.

Key Specifications

Engine Type

3.5L V6 (2005-2008) / 3.7L V6 (2009-2012)

Horsepower

290 hp (3.5L) / 300 hp (3.7L)

Torque

258 lb-ft (3.5L) / 271 lb-ft (3.7L)

Transmission

5-speed automatic with manual mode

Drive Type

FWD / SH-AWD (select models)

Available Specifications

Engine Specifications

This section provides detailed information about the engine, including type, displacement, horsepower, torque, and fuel system details.

Engine Overview
  • 3.5L V6 engine (2005-2008)
  • 3.7L V6 engine (2009-2012)
  • Aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads
  • SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) design
  • VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
  • Dual-stage intake manifold
Performance Metrics
  • Horsepower: 290 hp @ 6,200 rpm (3.5L)
  • Horsepower: 300 hp @ 6,000 rpm (3.7L)
  • Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm (3.5L)
  • Torque: 271 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm (3.7L)
  • Redline: 6,800 rpm

Transmission Specifications

This section covers the transmission, including type, gears, and special features.

Transmission Overview
  • 5-speed automatic transmission
  • Sequential SportShift manual shift mode
  • Grade logic control
  • Lock-up torque converter
  • Electronic control unit (ECU) for smooth shifting

Drivetrain System

This section explains the drivetrain system, including drive type, all-wheel drive, and torque distribution.

Drive Type
  • Front-wheel drive (FWD)
  • Available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) on select models
  • Torque vectoring capability for improved handling
  • Electronic differential for optimal traction
  • Weight distribution: 61% front, 39% rear

Suspension and Steering

This section details the suspension and steering systems, including types and key features.

Suspension Overview
  • Double-wishbone front suspension
  • Multi-link rear suspension
  • Stabilizer bars front and rear
  • Coil springs and gas-filled shocks
  • Electronic suspension control
Steering System
  • Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering
  • Variable gear ratio steering
  • Steering wheel turns: 3.0 lock-to-lock
  • Turning radius: 36.7 feet
  • Electronic stability assist integration

Brakes and Tires

This section provides information on the braking system and tire specifications.

Brake System
  • 4-wheel disc brakes
  • ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
  • Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
  • Brake Assist
  • Front rotor size: 12.6 inches
  • Rear rotor size: 12.0 inches
Tire Information
  • Standard tire size: 17x8 inches
  • Optional tire size: 18x8 inches
  • Recommended tire pressure: 33 psi front, 34 psi rear
  • Tread depth: 10/32 inches
  • Wheel materials: Aluminum alloy

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
All-Wheel Drive
Configuration
SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)
Platform
Acura RL (KA9)
Material
Aluminum alloy engine block and cylinder heads
Location
Front-engine, all-wheel drive

Dimensions

Engine Block Length
203 mm (7.99 in)
Engine Block Width
190 mm (7.48 in)
Engine Block Height
231 mm (9.09 in)
Transmission Length
440 mm (17.32 in)
Transmission Width
250 mm (9.84 in)
Drivetrain Width
1,575 mm (62.01 in)
Driveshaft Length
2,300 mm (90.55 in)

Materials

Engine Block
Aluminum alloy with cast-in iron cylinder sleeves
Cylinder Heads
Aluminum alloy with dual overhead camshafts
Transmission Case
Aluminum alloy with steel reinforcement
Driveshaft
High-strength steel with CV joints
Axles
High-strength steel with splined ends

Features

Engine Features
  • 3.5L V6 (J35Z6)
  • 24-valve, SOHC with VTEC
  • Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)
  • Drive-by-wire throttle system
Transmission Features
  • 5-speed automatic with Grade Logic Control
  • Sequential SportShift paddle shifters
  • Lock-up torque converter
  • Electronic throttle control
Awd Features
  • SH-AWD with torque vectoring
  • Electronic clutch pack
  • Active torque distribution
  • Rear-wheel torque capacity up to 70%
Drivetrain Management
  • Integrated Dynamic System (IDS)
  • Electronic stability control
  • Traction control system
  • Motion adaptive steering

Safety Features

Stability Control
  • Electronic stability control
  • Vehicle stability assist
  • Traction control system
Braking System
  • 4-wheel disc brakes
  • ABS with electronic brake distribution
  • Brake assist
Structural integrity
Reinforced front subframe and drivetrain mounts

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Acoustic engine cover
  • Sound-insulating transmission tunnel
  • Active noise cancellation
Smooth Operation
  • Hydraulic engine mounts
  • Dual-mass flywheel
  • Helical gears in transmission
Isolation
Subframe-mounted drivetrain for reduced NVH

Accessories

Transmission Accessories
  • Transmission cooler
  • ATF temperature sensor
  • Transmission pan with drain plug
Drivetrain Accessories
  • Driveshaft center bearing
  • CV joint kit
  • Axle shaft seal kit
Engine Accessories
  • Engine oil cooler
  • Water pump with thermostat
  • Serpentine belt kit

Maintenance

Service interval
Normal conditions: every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km)
Service Items
  • Engine oil and filter change
  • Transmission fluid check
  • Drive belt inspection
  • Brake fluid check
  • CV joint inspection
  • Grease wheel bearings
Maintenance Notes
Severe conditions require more frequent servicing.

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 70,000
Years: 5
Coverage: Drivetrain components
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: Unlimited
Years: 5
Coverage: Perforation
Emissions Warranty
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Emissions control systems

Production Details

Manufacturer
Honda of America Mfg., Inc.
Manufacturing Process
  • Casting engine block and cylinder heads
  • Forging crankshaft and camshafts
  • CNC machining of critical components
  • Robotic assembly of transmission
  • Final assembly and testing
Quality Control
inspection: Dimensional checks, Leak testing, Performance testing
Testing: End-of-line testing for torque and power output
Certification: ISO/TS 16949:2002 certified
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycling of production materials
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing processes
  • Reduced emissions during production
Production Metrics
Production Run: 2005-2012
Units Produced: Approximately 50,000 units
Assembly Time: Approximately 24 hours per unit

Service Information for Drivetrain Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

5,000 to 7,500 miles
6 months
  • Engine oil and filter change
  • Transmission fluid level check
  • Drive belt inspection
  • Brake fluid level check
  • Inspection of CV joints and axle shafts

Normal conditions service interval.

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Transmission fluid change
  • Spark plug replacement
  • Fuel injector cleaning
  • Air filter replacement
  • Grease wheel bearings

Intermediate service interval.

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Engine coolant replacement
  • Drive belt replacement
  • Transmission pan gasket replacement
  • CV joint boot inspection
  • Driveshaft center bearing lubrication

Major service interval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the transmission type used in the 2005-2012 Acura RL?

The 2005-2012 Acura RL utilizes a 5-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter. It is designed to provide smooth and efficient power delivery from the engine to the drivetrain.

Q2

What is the engine displacement and drivetrain configuration of the Acura RL?

The Acura RL is equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine, producing 300 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain configuration is front-wheel drive (FWD), ensuring optimal traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Q3

What type of differential is used in the Acura RL drivetrain?

The Acura RL employs an open differential system, which allows for equal torque distribution to both front wheels, enhancing handling and performance on standard road conditions.

Q4

Are there any recommended maintenance intervals for the drivetrain components?

Acura recommends inspecting and servicing the drivetrain components every 30,000 miles. This includes checking the transmission fluid, differential, and drive shafts for wear and proper lubrication.

Q5

What is the maximum torque capacity of the Acura RL drivetrain?

The drivetrain of the Acura RL is designed to handle a maximum torque of 330 lb-ft, as generated by the 3.5L V6 engine, ensuring robust performance under various load conditions.

Q6

Can the Acura RL drivetrain support aftermarket modifications?

While the drivetrain can support some aftermarket modifications, such as enhanced transmission software, it is crucial to use genuine Acura parts and consult certified technicians to avoid voiding the warranty and ensuring safety.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Acura RL Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

Detailed guide on routine maintenance procedures for the drivetrain, including transmission, differential, and drive shafts.

Transmission Fluid Specifications

Coming Soon

Information on the recommended transmission fluid types and specifications for the 2005-2012 Acura RL.

Drivetrain Safety and Warranty Information

Coming Soon

Comprehensive overview of safety precautions and warranty implications related to the drivetrain components.

Acura RL Drivetrain Repair Procedures

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for repairing common drivetrain issues, including professional service recommendations.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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