2026 maintenance schedule
2026 Acura Integra Complete Service & Maintenance Schedule
The 2026 Acura Integra represents the return of a legendary nameplate, offered in sedan form with a choice of two powertrains: a standard 1.5L...
Last updated
June 22, 2026
Reviewed for service schedule clarity.
The 2026 Acura Integra represents the return of a legendary nameplate, offered in sedan form with a choice of two powertrains: a standard 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (CVT) and a high-performance 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (6-speed manual or CVT) for the Integra Type S (refer to your specific model's Owner's Manual for exact engine verification).
This guide provides the complete factory service schedule based on the 2026 Acura Integra Owner's Manual, including the Maintenance Minder system, fluid specifications, critical service intervals, and severe-condition requirements .
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Integra uses the Maintenance Minder system instead of fixed odometer intervals . The vehicle's computer monitors driving conditions (speed, temperature, time, and driving habits) and displays alphanumeric codes (A, B, 1-7, 9) when specific services are due. There is no traditional "every 30,000-mile" service schedule.
- The 1.5L and 2.0L turbo engines use timing chains, NOT belts. Unlike older Acura V6 models that required timing belt replacement, both the L15 and K20 engines in the 2026 Integra utilize timing chains that require no scheduled replacement. Code 4 covers only spark plugs and valve clearance inspection .
- Premium fuel (91 octane or higher) is recommended for the 1.5L engine and required for the 2.0L Type S to achieve rated horsepower and prevent engine knock.
- Brake fluid replacement is strictly time-sensitive. If a Maintenance Minder indicator does not appear within 36 months after the previous reset, replace the brake fluid every 3 years regardless of mileage .
- Major periodic service should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
- Transmission fluid intervals differ by transmission type. For CVT models driven regularly in mountainous/low-speed conditions, change CVT fluid every 25,000 miles (40,000 km). For manual transmission models under the same conditions, change every 37,500 miles (60,000 km) .
- Service at a dealer is not mandatory to maintain warranty coverage. Maintenance may be performed by any qualified automotive repair establishment or individual using certified parts. According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on items marked # will not void your emissions warranties .
Engine & Drivetrain Overview
The 2026 Acura Integra is available with multiple powertrain configurations:
| Specification | Integra (Base) | Integra Type S |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (L15) | 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder (K20C1) |
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 320 hp |
| Torque | 192 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT (standard) or 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Fuel requirement | Premium recommended (91 octane) | Premium required (91 octane) |
Timing Chain vs. Belt: Both the L15 and K20C1 engines use timing chains that do not require periodic replacement. Code 4 on the Maintenance Minder applies only to spark plugs and valve clearance inspection—not timing belt replacement .
Understanding the Maintenance Minder System
The 2026 Acura Integra does not have a traditional fixed‑mileage maintenance schedule. Instead, Acura employs a Maintenance Minder system that monitors vehicle operating conditions (engine temperature, speed, time, and driving habits) and calculates when service is required .
How the System Works
When the oil life reaches 15%, a wrench symbol and system message indicator illuminate on the driver information interface, and the system displays alphanumeric codes indicating exactly which services are due .
| Oil Life Remaining | Message Displayed | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| 15% | Maintenance Due Soon | Service should be scheduled soon; engine oil is approaching end of life |
| 5% | Maintenance Due Now | Maintenance should be performed immediately |
| 0% | Maintenance Past Due | Service is overdue – schedule immediately. Negative distance appears after driving beyond limit |
Oil Life Percentage Table
The system displays the calculated remaining engine oil life in percentages :
| Displayed Oil Life (%) | Calculated Range (%) |
|---|---|
| 100 | 100-91 |
| 90 | 90-81 |
| 80 | 80-71 |
| 70 | 70-61 |
| 60 | 60-51 |
| 50 | 50-41 |
| 40 | 40-31 |
| 30 | 30-21 |
| 20 | 20-16 |
| 15 | 15-11 |
| 10 | 10-6 |
| 5 | 5-1 |
| 0 | 0 |
Viewing Maintenance Minder Information
To display Maintenance Minder information :
- Set the power mode to ON (do not start the engine)
- Rotate the right selector wheel until the Maintenance Minder screen appears
- The oil life percentage and due maintenance codes will display on the interface
Independent (Time-Based) Requirements
The following requirements apply independently of the Maintenance Minder system :
| Requirement | Interval |
|---|---|
| Engine oil change (max time) | If no Maintenance Minder message appears within 12 months after display reset, change engine oil at least once per year |
| Brake fluid replacement | If no Maintenance Minder indicator appears within 36 months after item 7 display reset, replace brake fluid every 3 years |
| Valve adjustment | Adjust valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 only if they are noisy |
| Major periodic service | Generally every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (≈18,600 miles) |
Fallback Time Requirements Summary
| Condition | Required Action |
|---|---|
| No maintenance message within 12 months of reset | Change engine oil at least once per year |
| No item 7 indicator within 36 months of reset | Replace brake fluid every 3 years |
| Driving in dusty conditions | Replace air cleaner element every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) |
| Driving in urban areas with high soot | Replace dust/pollen filter every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) |
Maintenance Minder Codes
The Maintenance Minder communicates service needs through alphanumeric codes. A code consists of a main item (A, B, 0, or 9) optionally followed by sub‑item numbers (1 through 7) .
Main Item Codes (A, B, 0, 9)
| Code | Required Service |
|---|---|
| A | Replace engine oil |
| B | Replace engine oil and oil filter; inspect front and rear brakes; check parking brake adjustment; check expiry date for tire repair kit bottle; inspect tie rod ends, steering gearbox, and boots; inspect suspension components; inspect driveshaft boots; inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS/VSA); inspect all fluid levels and condition of fluids; inspect exhaust system#; inspect fuel lines and connections# |
| 0 | Replace engine oil (Canadian models - alternate code) |
| 9 | Service front and rear brakes; check expiration date for tire repair kit bottle |
Sub-Item Codes (1-7)
| Code | Service Description | Notes / Severe Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rotate tires | Standard tire rotation |
| 2 | Replace air cleaner element; replace dust and pollen filter; inspect drive belt | If you drive in dusty conditions, replace air cleaner element every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) . If you drive in urban areas with high soot concentrations, replace dust/pollen filter every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) |
| 3 | Replace transmission fluid | Driving in mountainous areas at very low speeds requires more frequent changes. See severe conditions below |
| 4 | Replace spark plugs; inspect valve clearance | NOTE: Timing belt replacement does NOT apply to Integra (timing chain engine). Adjust valves only if noisy during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 |
| 5 | Replace engine coolant | Standard coolant replacement interval |
| 7 | Replace brake fluid | Every 3 years (36 months) regardless of mileage. If no item 7 indicator appears within 36 months after reset, replace brake fluid at that time |
Example Code Combinations
| Displayed Code | Services Required |
|---|---|
| A1 | Oil change + tire rotation |
| B2 | Oil/filter change + comprehensive inspection + air filters + drive belt inspection |
| A3 | Oil change + transmission fluid replacement |
| B7 | Comprehensive service + brake fluid replacement |
| 9 | Brake service + tire repair kit check |
Engine Oil Change Guidance
Factory Requirements
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Recommended oil | SAE 0W‑20 premium-grade synthetic oil with API Certification Seal (1.5L); SAE 5W‑30 for 2.0L (per owner's manual) |
| Oil change trigger | Maintenance Minder code A, B, or 0 (typically when oil life reaches 15%) |
| Maximum time interval | If no service indicated within 12 months, change oil at least once per year |
| Oil filter | Replace at every oil change (code B includes filter change) |
How to Check Oil Level
- Park on level ground and wait at least 3 minutes after engine shutdown
- Ensure the radiator fan is stopped before inspecting the engine compartment
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe completely clean
- Reinsert fully, then remove again
- Oil level should be between the upper and lower marks
Owner Guidance
- Acura Genuine Motor Oil is recommended, though any synthetic oil of the same viscosity grade and API certification is acceptable
- Do not press the engine cover forcibly, as this may damage the engine cover and component parts
- Your Acura does not require any oil additives
- Check the engine oil level at least once per month
Safety Precautions Before Any Maintenance
Before performing any maintenance :
- Vehicle must be stationary – park on level ground, set the parking brake, engine off
- Ensure radiator fan is stopped – the fan may operate even when power mode is in VEHICLE OFF
- Let engine and exhaust cool thoroughly before touching any parts (hot parts can burn you)
- Do not start the engine unless instructed – keep hands and limbs away from moving parts
- Do not open the hood while Auto Idle Stop function is activated
Transmission Service (CVT vs. Manual)
The 2026 Integra is available with either a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or a 6-speed manual transmission. Service requirements differ.
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | CVT (standard on 1.5L models) |
| Specified fluid | Acura CVT Fluid (HCF-2) exclusively |
| Standard interval | Follow Maintenance Minder code 3 |
| Severe mountain driving interval | 25,000 miles (40,000 km) |
Critical Warning: Using any transmission fluid other than Acura CVT fluid can damage the transmission. Do not use automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in a CVT. Any resulting damage is not covered under warranty .
> Severe condition: If you regularly drive your vehicle in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds, this results in higher transmission temperature. Under this condition, have the transmission fluid changed every 25,000 miles (40,000 km) .
6-Speed Manual Transmission
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | 6-speed manual (available on 1.5L; standard on Type S 2.0L) |
| Specified fluid | Acura Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) |
| Standard interval | Follow Maintenance Minder code 3 |
| Severe mountain driving interval | 37,500 miles (60,000 km) |
> Severe condition: For manual transmission models regularly driven in mountainous areas at very low speeds, have the transmission fluid changed every 37,500 miles (60,000 km) .
Spark Plug Replacement
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Replacement trigger | Maintenance Minder code 4 |
| Inspect valve clearance | Code 4; adjust only if noisy during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 |
| Timing belt replacement | Not applicable – Integra uses timing chain |
| Typical interval | 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions |
Owner Guidance: The Integra's turbocharged engines place additional stress on spark plugs. If you notice rough idle, reduced fuel economy, or hesitation before the Maintenance Minder indicates replacement, have the plugs inspected early. Use only OEM-specified spark plugs (NGK or Denso equivalents).
Engine Coolant Service
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Replacement trigger | Maintenance Minder code 5 |
| Coolant type | Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (premixed 50/50) |
| Checking level | Check coolant level in the reserve tank at each fuel fill |
Owner Guidance: Do not add straight antifreeze or water; the factory coolant is premixed. If Acura coolant is unavailable, a major brand of non‑silicate coolant may be used as a temporary replacement; return to Genuine Acura coolant as soon as possible. Turbocharged engines place additional thermal stress on cooling system components—inspect hoses regularly for swelling or cracking.
Brake Fluid Replacement
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Replacement trigger | Maintenance Minder code 7, or if no code 7 appears within 36 months after reset |
| Specified fluid | Acura Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 |
| Temporary substitute | DOT 3 or DOT 4 from a sealed container |
| DOT 5 warning | NOT compatible – never use DOT 5 fluid (silicone-based) |
Why it's critical: Brake fluid is hygroscopic – it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture lowers the fluid's boiling point (potential brake fade under hard braking) and promotes internal corrosion of the brake system (calipers, master cylinder, ABS modulator).
Owner Guidance: A complete system flush (draining old fluid from each caliper) is required. Topping off the reservoir is not sufficient. Check the brake fluid level monthly and keep between MIN and MAX marks. Code 9 also indicates service front and rear brakes .
Drive Belt Inspection
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Inspection trigger | Maintenance Minder code 2 (inspect drive belt) |
| Replacement | Replace if cracked, frayed, glazed, or making a squealing noise on startup |
Owner Guidance: The Integra uses a serpentine drive belt that powers the alternator, air conditioning compressor, and other accessories. Most drive belts last between 60,000 and 90,000 miles, but the Maintenance Minder indicates when inspection is needed.
Air Filters (Engine & Cabin)
| Filter | Replacement Trigger | Severe Conditions Note |
|---|---|---|
| Engine air cleaner element | Maintenance Minder code 2 | If you drive in dusty conditions, replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) regardless of Maintenance Minder |
| Cabin air filter (dust and pollen filter) | Maintenance Minder code 2 | If you drive in urban areas with high soot concentrations (industry, diesel vehicles), replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) |
Owner Guidance: Both filters are inexpensive and can be replaced without special tools. The cabin air filter is typically located behind the glove box; replacing it annually improves interior air quality and HVAC performance. A clogged engine air filter can reduce fuel economy and turbocharger performance.
Resetting the Maintenance Minder Display
After performing the required maintenance service, the engine oil life display must be reset. Failure to reset results in the system showing incorrect maintenance intervals, which can lead to serious mechanical problems.
Reset Procedure :
- Set the power mode to ON (do not start the engine)
- Rotate the right selector wheel until the Maintenance Minder screen appears
- Press and hold the appropriate button (usually the SEL/RESET button) to enter reset mode
- Select Reset using the selector wheel
- The oil life display returns to 100%
> Note: The dealer will reset the engine oil life display after completing required maintenance service. If someone other than a dealer performs maintenance service, reset the engine oil life display yourself.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
The 2026 Integra is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that monitors each tire's pressure individually.
| Indicator Behavior | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Solid / Steady on | One or more tires is significantly under-inflated | Stop as soon as possible, check tire pressures, and inflate to proper level |
| Flashing (blinks for ~1 minute then stays steady) | System malfunction within TPMS itself | Have system inspected by dealer; often occurs after tire/wheel replacement |
> Note: The TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance—it is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger the TPMS warning .
Monthly & Pre-Drive Checks
As outlined in the 2026 Integra Owner's Manual, perform these checks regularly :
| Frequency | Check Item |
|---|---|
| Monthly | Brake/Clutch fluid level |
| Monthly | Tire pressure (including spare); examine tread for wear and foreign objects |
| Monthly | Exterior lights operation |
| Every 6 months | Wiper blade condition |
| Pre-drive / Before long trips | Engine oil level; windshield washer fluid; tires for damage; fluid leaks under vehicle |
Daily inspections should be performed :
- Before long-distance trips
- When washing the vehicle
- When refueling
Severe Driving Conditions
The Maintenance Minder system automatically adapts to driving conditions, but the following severe condition requirements apply independently of the Maintenance Minder and are explicitly stated in the Owner's Manual :
| Condition | Required Action |
|---|---|
| Mountain driving at very low speeds (CVT) | Change CVT fluid every 25,000 miles (40,000 km) |
| Mountain driving at very low speeds (Manual) | Change manual transmission fluid every 37,500 miles (60,000 km) |
| Dusty driving conditions | Replace air cleaner element every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) |
| Urban driving with high soot concentration | Replace dust/pollen filter every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) |
| No service message for 12 months | Change engine oil regardless of mileage |
| No brake fluid indicator (item 7) for 36 months | Replace brake fluid every 3 years |
Major Periodic Service Interval
For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
Scheduled Maintenance Summary
Since the Integra uses the Maintenance Minder system instead of fixed intervals, the table below shows reference intervals—always follow your vehicle's displayed Maintenance Minder codes:
| Component | Reference Interval | Maintenance Minder Code |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 7,500-10,000 miles / max 12 months | A, B, or 0 |
| Tire rotation | Every 7,500-10,000 miles | 1 |
| Engine air filter | 30,000 miles (15,000 miles dusty conditions) | 2 |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000-30,000 miles | 2 |
| CVT fluid | Standard; 25,000 miles (mountain driving) | 3 |
| Manual transmission fluid | Standard; 37,500 miles (mountain driving) | 3 |
| Spark plugs | 60,000-100,000 miles | 4 |
| Valve clearance | Inspect during A/B services; adjust only if noisy | 4 |
| Engine coolant | Every 60,000-120,000 miles | 5 |
| Brake fluid | Every 3 years (time-based, independent of codes) | 7 |
| Brake service | As indicated | 9 |
| Major periodic service | Every 2 years or 18,600 miles | Independent |
Long‑Term Ownership Summary
- No timing belt replacement required: The Integra uses timing chains on both engine options. This eliminates the expensive 7‑year/105,000‑mile belt replacement required on older Acura V6 models. Code 4 applies only to spark plugs .
- Follow the Maintenance Minder, not arbitrary fixed schedules: The system adapts to your driving habits. Trust the codes displayed on your dashboard. However, note that oil should be changed at least once per year even if no code appears .
- Premium fuel is recommended/required: Acura recommends 91‑octane premium fuel for the 1.5L engine and requires it for the 2.0L Type S for optimal performance and to prevent engine knock.
- Transmission fluid intervals are severity-dependent: Mountain/low-speed driving requires much shorter intervals—25,000 miles (40,000 km) for CVT; 37,500 miles (60,000 km) for manual .
- Brake fluid is strictly time-critical: Replace every 3 years regardless of mileage or Maintenance Minder codes. If item 7 does not appear within 36 months of reset, replace it at that time .
- Use Acura-specified fluids: CVT fluid (Acura CVT/HCF-2), coolant (Type 2), and brake fluid (DOT 3) are critical for proper operation. Using non-spec fluids can cause damage not covered by warranty.
- Valves require attention only if noisy: Adjust valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 only if they are noisy .
- Service anywhere, keep records: Maintenance may be done by any qualified automotive repair establishment or individual using EPA-certified parts. This does not void your warranties. According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on items marked with # will not void your emissions warranties. All maintenance services should be performed in accordance with the intervals indicated by the driver information interface .
- Reset the Maintenance Minder after service: Failure to reset results in incorrect maintenance intervals .
- Parts and fluids: The use of Acura Genuine Parts and fluids is recommended. Acura Genuine Parts are manufactured according to the same high quality standards used in Acura vehicles .
Maintenance questions
2026 Acura Integra FAQs
How often should I change the oil in my 2026 Acura Integra?+
Follow the Maintenance Minder system. When code A, B, or 0 appears (typically when oil life reaches 15%), service is due. If no service is indicated within 12 months after display reset, change the oil at least once per year . The 1.5L engine uses SAE 0W‑20 premium-grade synthetic oil; the 2.0L Type S uses SAE 5W‑30 (verify with your owner's manual).
Does the 2026 Acura Integra have a timing belt or timing chain?+
It has a timing chain on both engine options. The 1.5L (L15) and 2.0L (K20C1) engines do not require periodic timing belt replacement. Code 4 on the Maintenance Minder applies only to spark plugs and valve clearance inspection .
How often should I change the transmission fluid?+
Follow Maintenance Minder code 3. However, if you regularly drive in mountainous areas at very low speeds :
- CVT models: Change fluid every 25,000 miles (40,000 km)
- Manual transmission models: Change fluid every 37,500 miles (60,000 km)
How often should I replace the brake fluid?+
If a Maintenance Minder indicator does not appear within 36 months after the display for item 7 is reset, replace the brake fluid every 3 years . Use Acura Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3.
What fuel does the 2026 Acura Integra require?+
The 2.0L Type S requires premium unleaded (91 octane or higher). The 1.5L engine recommends premium for optimal performance, though regular may be used with reduced performance.
How often should I replace the air filters in dusty conditions?+
If you drive in dusty conditions, replace the engine air cleaner element every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) regardless of the Maintenance Minder. For urban areas with high soot concentrations, replace the cabin dust/pollen filter at the same interval .
Can I service my Integra at an independent shop without voiding the warranty?+
Yes. Maintenance may be done by any qualified automotive repair establishment or individuals using EPA-certified parts. According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on items marked with # will not void your emissions warranties. Service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect .
How do I reset the Maintenance Minder after an oil change?+
Set power mode to ON (do not start the engine). Rotate the right selector wheel until the Maintenance Minder screen appears. Press and hold the SEL/RESET button, select "Reset," and confirm. The oil life returns to 100% .
What do the Maintenance Minder codes mean?+
- A, 0: Replace engine oil
- B: Replace engine oil and filter + comprehensive inspections
- 1: Rotate tires
- 2: Air filters + drive belt inspection
- 3: Transmission fluid
- 4: Spark plugs + valve clearance (timing belt does NOT apply)
- 5: Engine coolant
- 7: Brake fluid (every 3 years)
- 9: Service front and rear brakes
When should the spark plugs be replaced?+
Spark plugs are replaced when Maintenance Minder code 4 appears. The typical interval is approximately 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Valve clearance should be inspected at the same time but adjusted only if they are noisy .
How often should major periodic service be performed?+
For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
How do I check the engine oil level?+
Park on level ground, wait at least 3 minutes after engine shutdown, and ensure the radiator fan is stopped. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert fully, remove again, and check that the level is between the upper and lower marks .
What are the severe condition intervals for transmission fluid?+
Mountain driving at very low speeds requires more frequent changes:
- CVT: 25,000 miles (40,000 km)
- Manual: 37,500 miles (60,000 km)
How often should I check my tire pressure?+
Check tire pressure monthly, including the spare, and examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. The TPMS will alert you to significant under-inflation but is not a substitute for regular manual checks .
What safety precautions should I take before maintenance?+
Always park on level ground, set the parking brake, and ensure the engine is off. Make sure the radiator fan is stopped (it may operate even when power mode is VEHICLE OFF). Let the engine and exhaust cool thoroughly before touching. Do not start the engine unless instructed, and keep hands and limbs away from moving parts .