🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Acura

Model:

RDX

Year:

2009

Product Name:

2009 Acura RDX Service & Repair Manual

Chassis Code:

TB1 (First Generation)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact luxury crossover SUV.

Positioning Statement:

The 2009 RDX represents Acura's entry into the premium compact crossover segment, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology, notably its unique SH-AWD system.

Key Competitors:

BMW X3, Audi Q5, Lexus RX (smaller variants), Infiniti EX.

Performance Orientation:

Distinguished by its powerful turbocharged engine and the advanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, setting it apart from many competitors.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, licensed OE (Original Equipment) data for accurate diagnostics and repairs, empowering DIYers and professional technicians alike.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive OE service manuals)

Type:

Online Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Web-based access (accessible via PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet with internet connection and web browser)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full engine diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for the K23A1 turbo-charged engine.

Transmission:

Service and repair procedures for the 5-speed automatic transmission (BGXA).

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system servicing, including differentials and axle shafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement, and alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, and wheel assembly repair and adjustment.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system inspection, service, repair, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and electrical system troubleshooting.

Body:

Exterior body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and interior trim.

Climate Control:

Air conditioning (A/C) system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, and heater core service.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system servicing, seat belt inspection, and ABS diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and step-by-step diagnostic procedures.

Repair:

Detailed repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components.

Overhaul:

Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including component specifications and clearances.

Installation:

Component replacement and installation guides.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Accessibility:

Web-based, no downloadable file; requires continuous internet connection.

Print Availability:

Not a printable manual in the traditional sense. Content can be printed page by page if desired, but not a single downloadable PDF.

Binding:

N/A (online service)

Paper:

N/A (online service)

Access Period:

One year of access included, with options for discounted renewals.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

K23A1

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled

Displacement:

2.3 Liters (2300 cc)

Horsepower:

240 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

260 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher)

Turbo Details:

Variable Flow Turbocharger (VFT)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic

Transmission Code:

BGXA

Shift Logic:

Sequential SportShift paddle shifters

Drive System:

Available Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.7 inches

Width:

73.7 inches

Height:

65.2 inches

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches

Curb Weight FWD:

3,789 lbs

Curb Weight AWD:

3,957 lbs

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

29.5 cu ft

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

64.4 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver:

5-Star

NHTSA Front Passenger:

5-Star

IIHS Crashworthiness:

Top Safety Pick (for its year, though not formally awarded in subsequent years for this generation)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Vsa:

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags.

Active Head Restraints:

Active front head restraints

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available premium audio system with subwoofer, CD player, and auxiliary input jack.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system with voice recognition.

Rearview Camera:

Available rearview camera integrated with the navigation screen.

Bluetooth:

Available HandsFreeLink Bluetooth wireless telephone interface.

Key Tech:

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system actively distributes torque between the front and rear axles, and also between the left and right rear wheels for enhanced cornering stability and performance.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, based on driving conditions and Honda's Maintenance Minder system. Manual will specify detailed schedule.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect periodically, replace every 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on usage. Manual will detail specific intervals and conditions.

Engine Coolant Change:

Initial change at 7 years/105,000 miles, then every 5 years/75,000 miles. Refer to manual for exact procedure and coolant type.

Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-20, API certified, ILSAC GF-4 or higher (Honda Genuine or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid:

ATF-DW1 (Honda Genuine Automatic Transmission Fluid). Older specifications may have used Z1. Manual will confirm correct type.

Coolant:

Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (a blue ethylene glycol-based coolant).

Turbocharger Issues:

Potential for turbocharger lag, oil leaks, or premature failure if not properly maintained. Manual will cover turbo system diagnostics.

Sh-AWD System:

Requires specific maintenance for the SH-AWD system; fluid checks and potential replacement are critical. Manual details proper service.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Some K-series engines (including the K23A1) can develop cracks in the exhaust manifold due to heat cycles. Manual will cover inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Acura, Honda's luxury division, known for performance, reliability, and technological innovation.

First Generation:

Introduced for the 2007 model year, the 2009 RDX represents the early phase of its first generation.

Design Philosophy:

The first-generation RDX was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a sportier, more performance-oriented compact SUV than typical offerings.

Manufacturing Location:

East Liberty Auto Plant, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Award:

Achieved 'Good' ratings in IIHS frontal and side impact crash tests, contributing to its 'Top Safety Pick' status for the year.

Vehicle Review Consensus:

Praised for its strong turbocharged engine, engaging handling (especially with SH-AWD), and upscale interior, though noted for a firmer ride and less cargo space than some competitors.