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Acura RL 2nd Generation (KB1/KB2)

2005–2012 · KB1/KB2 · sedan

The 2nd-gen RL launched 2005 as the debut platform for SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive), capable of sending up to 70 percent of torque to the rear axle and 100 percent of that to a single wheel. J35A8 3.5L V6 (290hp) on KB1 (2005-2008); J37A2 3.7L V6 (300hp) on KB2 (2009-2012). 5-speed automatic on early cars, 6-speed automatic from 2011. Commercially overshadowed by the German competition; only 379 sold in 2012 before discontinuation.

Watch out: 5-speed automatic on KB1 cars has documented torque-converter wear under heavy use; ATF service with Honda Z1/DW-1 fluid is the standard mitigation. Low production volume in the final years means parts availability for trim and interior items can be inconsistent.

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.

  • Tire size245/50R17✓ VerifiedView
  • BatteryGroup 24 · 550 CCA min✓ VerifiedView
  • Tire pressure32 / 30 psi (front / rear)✓ VerifiedView
  • Oil filterParts in catalogShop
  • Cabin air filterParts in catalogShop
  • Wiper bladesNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Engine oilNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Engine 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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