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Acura RL 1st Generation (KA9)

1996–2004 · KA9 · sedan

First-gen RL (originally branded 3.5RL) replaced the Acura Legend for the 1996 model year and ran through 2004 on chassis KA9. Powered by the 3.5L C35A1 V6 at 225 hp driving the front wheels through a 4-speed automatic. Notable as the last Acura model not to use Honda's VTEC variable valve timing. The KA9 was succeeded by the 2nd-gen RL (KB1) with SH-AWD for 2005.

Watch out: The 4-speed automatic on these cars has the same documented failure pattern as other Honda V6 automatics of the era; a transmission service campaign covered many of them. Climate control display pixel failure and worn driver-seat bolsters are common age-related issues. C-series timing belt service is critical; the engine is interference.

What your RL takes

The parts and fluids that fit this generation. Specs we publish are confirmed against two independent sources; the rest fill in as we verify them.

  • Wiper blades22" driver · 19" passenger✓ VerifiedView
  • BatteryGroup 24 · 550 CCA min✓ VerifiedView
  • Tire pressure30 psi✓ VerifiedView
  • Oil filterParts in catalogShop
  • Tire sizeNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Engine oilNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Engine air filterNot catalogued yetFind yours
  • Cabin air filterNot catalogued yetFind yours
  • Spark plugsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Headlight bulbsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • CoolantNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Brake fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Transmission fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Key fob batteryNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Power steering fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Differential fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Serpentine beltNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Brake padsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Wheel fitmentNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Brake rotorsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • ThermostatNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • A/C refrigerantNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Fuel filterNot catalogued yetFind yours soon

Full clubhouse — owner Garage Lineage, common problems, year-by-year notes, and product picks — is on the build list.

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