Market Position:
The 2005 Acura RL was positioned as Acura's flagship sedan, targeting the premium luxury segment with advanced technology and performance, particularly its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with established luxury sedans from German and Japanese manufacturers, including the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, and Lexus GS.
Key Features:
Standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), powerful V6 engine, sophisticated interior, advanced safety features, and a focus on performance and technology.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive service, repair, diagnostic, and maintenance information for the 2005 Acura RL.
Page Count:
Estimated 1000+ pages (based on typical factory service manual scope).
Manual Type:
Official Factory Service Manual Software (digitized OE materials)
Format:
Online Access Software
Systems Covered:
Engine (J35A8), Drivetrain (SH-AWD), Transmission (5-Speed Automatic), Brakes (ABS, EBD, VSA), Steering (Power), Suspension (Front Double Wishbone, Rear Multi-Link), Electrical System (including CAN bus, lighting, charging, starting), HVAC System, Body & Chassis, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Restraint Systems, SRS, Climate Control.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems are included.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, diagnosis and troubleshooting of all systems, component removal and installation, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretations, repair procedures for mechanical and electrical components, body repair, lubrication points, fluid changes.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Comprehensive lists of DTCs, their definitions, and step-by-step diagnostic procedures.
Technical Depth:
Factory-level technical depth, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, specifications, and illustrations.
Primary Engine:
3.5L SOHC VTEC V6 (J35A8)
Horsepower:
290 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque:
291 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 96.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Engine Management:
ECU controlled ignition and fuel injection, Drive-by-Wire throttle system.
Emissions Control:
Close-coupled catalytic converters, EGR system.
Standard:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sequential SportShift
Optional:
N/A (5-Speed Automatic was standard on all trims).
Features:
Integrated with SH-AWD system, adaptive shift control.
Fluid Type:
Honda ATF-Z1 (or equivalent specification approved for Honda transmissions).
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 3.1 quarts (3.0 L) for change, 7.1 quarts (6.7 L) total.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver & Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (Driver & Passenger)
Active Features:
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Passive Features:
Dual-stage front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), active front head restraints, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Infotainment:
Bose audio system with AM/FM, CD player (6-disc in-dash changer available on some trims), and navigation system (optional).
Driver Assistance:
Key driver assistance features include SH-AWD, VSA, ABS, EBD, traction control. Advanced features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) were introduced later in the RL's lifecycle, but not standard for 2005.
Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on audio and navigation. Bluetooth hands-free calling was introduced later.
Lighting:
High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights standard, Xenon headlights available on some trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 7,500 miles or 12 months (or as indicated by the Maintenance Minder system).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or 4 years (severe service may require more frequent changes).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at 105,000 miles (if using standard Iridium spark plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 US quarts (5.2 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Type 2) - blue colored
Brake Fluid Type:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
Honda Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent approved for Honda vehicles).
Sh AWD Differential Fluid:
Specific Acura proprietary differential fluid for the rear differential. Front differential uses standard GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil. Manual will specify exact part numbers.
Known Issues:
Occasional reports of power steering pump whine, VSA/ABS system faults (often sensor related), and HVAC blower motor failures. Differential fluid in SH-AWD can require specific attention for longevity. The manual would detail diagnosis and repair for these.
Brand Heritage:
Acura, Honda's luxury division, established in 1986, known for reliability, performance, and technological innovation.
Model Evolution:
The 2005 model year marks the second generation of the Acura RL, introduced for the 2005 model year. This generation represented a significant redesign over the first generation (1996-2004).
Production Location:
Saitama Prefecture, Japan
