2019 Acura NSX Hybrid Complete Service & Maintenance Schedule

The 2019 Acura NSX is a hybrid supercar that pairs a 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 (JNC1) with a three-motor Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system, producing 573 hp. Because this is a low-volume, hand-built supercar with a complex hybrid system, this guide is based on the 2019 Acura NSX Owner's Manual and official technical documentation . Unlike the original NSX, which required expensive timing belt changes, the 2019 NSX uses a durable maintenance-free timing chain .

> CRITICAL HYBRID & ENGINE NOTES:

> The 2019 Acura NSX uses a timing chain. You never need to replace a "timing belt" .

> Do not attempt DIY oil or filter changes. Specialized procedures are required. Have an authorized Acura NSX dealer perform this service .

Key Takeaways

• The NSX uses a Maintenance Minder system, NOT fixed odometer intervals. The vehicle's computer analyzes driving habits and displays specific codes (A, B, 1-7) when service is due. There is no traditional "every 30,000-mile" schedule .
• The NSX has a timing chain, NOT a belt. Unlike the classic NSX which required a costly 105,000-mile belt change, the 2019 model utilizes a maintenance-free timing chain designed to last the engine's lifetime .
• For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
• The NSX has severe service intervals for its hybrid components. If you drive in mountainous areas or track the car:
• Transmission fluid: Change every 20,000 miles (32,000 km)
• Twin Motor Unit (TMU) fluid: Change at 7,500 miles, then every 15,000 miles
• Brake fluid is time-sensitive. You must replace the brake fluid every 3 years regardless of mileage .
• Low and medium voltage services (oil changes, brakes, filters, tires, alignments) can be performed by independent shops. High voltage services (high voltage battery, cables, inverter) require specialized training—confirm capability before booking .

Engine & Drivetrain Specifications

The 2019 Acura NSX features a sophisticated twin-turbo hybrid powertrain.

The "No Timing Belt" Advantage

One of the biggest maintenance differences between the 2019 NSX and classic NSX models is the valvetrain. According to the official owner's manual: *"Unlike timing belts made of rubber materials, timing chain replacement is not required"* . This eliminates the need for expensive, recurring belt services. When planning your long-term budget, you can completely omit the "Timing Belt Replacement" line item .

Understanding the Maintenance Minder System (The "Service Schedule")

The 2019 Acura NSX does not have a traditional fixed‑mileage maintenance schedule. Instead, Acura employs a Maintenance Minder system that monitors vehicle operating conditions and calculates when service is required .

How the System Works

When the engine oil life reaches 15%, the system displays a service message. Do not let the oil life reach 0% .

How to Check Maintenance Minder

To display Maintenance Minder information:

1. Set the power mode to ON (do not start the engine)
2. Navigate through the driver information interface to the Maintenance Minder screen
3. The oil life percentage and due maintenance codes will display

Independent (Time-Based) Requirements (Outside the Minder)

The following requirements must be tracked independently of the Maintenance Minder system :

Maintenance Minder Codes (Main & Sub Codes)

The Maintenance Minder communicates service needs through alphanumeric codes. A code consists of a main item (A or B) optionally followed by sub‑item numbers (1 through 7) .

Main Item Codes (A, B)

Sub-Item Codes (1-7)

Example Code Combinations

Transmission & Clutch Fluid Service (9-Speed DCT)

The 2019 NSX is equipped with a 9-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (9DCT).

Severe Condition Requirement – Important for NSX Owners:

> *"Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds results in higher transmission temperature. This requires transmission fluid and clutch fluid changes more frequently than recommended by the Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your vehicle under this condition, have the transmission fluid and clutch fluid changed every 20,000 miles (32,000 km)."* — 2019 Acura NSX Owner's Manual

Critical Warning: Do NOT mix Acura ATF DW-1 with other transmission fluids. Using a transmission fluid other than Acura ATF DW-1 may adversely affect operation and durability, and damage the transmission. Damage caused by using non-equivalent fluid is not covered by warranty.

Twin Motor Unit (TMU) Service (AWD-Specific)

The NSX's Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system uses a Twin Motor Unit (TMU) for the front wheels.

Severe Condition Requirement – Critical for Track-Driven NSXs:

> *"Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds results in higher level of mechanical (Shear) stress to fluid. This requires Twin Motor Unit fluid changes more frequently than recommended by the Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your vehicle under these conditions, have the Twin Motor Unit fluid changed at 7,500 miles (12,000 km), then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)."* — 2019 Acura NSX Owner's Manual

Critical Warning: Do NOT mix Acura ATF DW-1 with other transmission fluids. Using non-equivalent fluid can damage the Twin Motor Unit and is not covered by warranty.

Engine Oil Change Guidance

Factory Requirements

How to Check Oil Level (2019 NSX Specific)

The 2019 NSX features an Oil Level Check Assist display :

1. Display the Oil Level Check Assist display on the driver information interface
2. Warm up the engine until all bars of the Warm-Up gauge are lit
3. Park on level ground in P
4. Idle the engine until all bars of the Idle Time gauge are lit
5. Wait for "Ready to Check Oil Level" message appears
6. Open the hatch and remove the right engine compartment cover
7. Remove the dipstick (orange), wipe clean, reinsert, then remove again
8. Level should be between the upper and lower marks
9. After checking, select a display other than the Oil Level Check Assist display

> NOTICE: Do not fill the engine oil above the upper mark. Overfilling can result in leaks and engine damage .

Owner Guidance

• The rate of oil consumption can be up to 1.05 US quart (1 liter) per 625 miles (1000 km) depending on how the vehicle is driven .
• Consumption is likely to be higher when the engine is new .
• Your Acura does not require any oil additives

Engine Coolant & Inverter Coolant Service

Owner Guidance:

• Do not use generic green coolant. Honda/Acura Type 2 coolant is specifically formulated for aluminum engine components.
• Do not add straight antifreeze or water; the factory coolant is premixed.
• Check the coolant level in the reserve tank when the engine and radiator are cold.
• The inverter coolant should be checked regularly and replaced by an authorized Acura NSX dealer.

Brake Fluid Replacement

Why it's critical: The NSX uses an advanced electro-hydraulic braking system with regenerative braking. Brake fluid is hygroscopic – it absorbs moisture from the air over time, lowering its boiling point and causing potential brake fade under hard braking.

Owner Guidance: A complete system flush is required. Topping off is not sufficient. Using non-Acura brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease system longevity.

> From the Owner's Manual: *"Independent of the Maintenance Minder information, replace the brake fluid every 3 years."*

Valve Clearance & Fuel System Inspection

Owner Guidance: The 3.5L twin-turbo V6 uses mechanical lifters (not hydraulic). While the manual states "adjust only if noisy," many Acura specialists recommend checking clearances at major service intervals regardless of noise – especially on turbocharged engines that see high thermal stress.

Drive Belt & Air Filters

Owner Guidance: Both filters can be replaced without special tools. A clogged engine air filter can reduce twin-turbo performance on the NSX's V6.

Severe Driving Conditions Summary (Track/Mountain)

The following severe condition requirements are explicitly stated in the 2019 NSX Owner's Manual:

Severe Conditions – Quick Reference

If you track your NSX or drive in mountainous areas:

• Transmission fluid + clutch fluid: Change at 20,000 miles (not when Minder says)
• TMU fluid: Change at 7,500 miles, then every 15,000 miles
• This is significantly more frequent than the standard Maintenance Minder schedule

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:

1. Set the power mode to ON (do not start the engine)
2. Navigate to the Maintenance Minder screen on the driver information interface
3. Press and hold the SEL/RESET button for about 10 seconds to enter reset mode
4. Select "Reset" or "All due items" and confirm
5. The oil life display returns to 100%

> Note: The dealer will reset the Maintenance Minder display after completing required maintenance service. If someone other than a dealer performs maintenance service, reset the Maintenance Minder display yourself.

Maintenance at a Glance ("Cheat Sheet")

Since the NSX uses the Maintenance Minder system, always follow your vehicle's displayed codes. The table below shows reference intervals based on the 2019 Owner's Manual:

Tires & Wearables (Specific to NSX)

The 2019 NSX comes stock with high-performance tires. Due to the staggered fitment (different sizes front to rear), tire rotation is not possible in the traditional sense (front to rear). You can only move tires side-to-side (swap left to right) if the directional tread pattern allows it .

• Check tire pressure monthly
• Inspect tire condition every 3,100 miles (5,000 km) (Sub-code 1)
• The NSX does not come with a spare tire; it includes a tire repair kit

Maintenance & Repair Flexibility

You do not need to take your 2019 Acura NSX exclusively to a dealership for service and repairs. Independent shops can perform many services :

• Low and medium voltage services (oil changes, brakes, filters, tires, alignments, wiper replacement, A/C service) can be performed by independent shops
• High voltage services (removing the high voltage safety plug, servicing high voltage cables, the power inverter, the electric machines/motors, the high voltage battery pack) require specialized training. Call ahead to confirm which high voltage services are offered
• The 2019 NSX high voltage battery may eventually need replacement. Worsening fuel economy may be related to a worn out or bad high voltage battery pack

Keep all receipts as proof of completion .

Long-Term Ownership Summary for the 2019 NSX

• No timing belt replacement EVER – the NSX uses a timing chain. This eliminates the expensive, recurring timing belt service required on classic NSX models . Focus your budget on the high-performance fluids.
• The Twin Motor Unit (TMU) fluid is a critical NSX-specific service. If you drive in mountains or on track, follow the severe interval: 7,500 miles, then every 15,000 miles.
• If you track your NSX, use the severe schedule:
• Transmission fluid + clutch fluid: every 20,000 miles
• Twin Motor Unit (TMU) fluid: 7,500 miles, then every 15,000 miles
• Brake fluid is time-sensitive, not mileage-sensitive. Replace it every 3 years regardless of minder.
• For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
• Use only specified fluids:
• Engine oil: SAE 0W-40 full synthetic
• DCT clutch fluid: Acura ATF DW-1 (do not mix)
• TMU fluid: Acura ATF DW-1 (do not mix)
• Brake fluid: Honda DOT 4 (DOT 3 also permitted; DOT 5 is NOT compatible)
• The 1.3 kWh lithium-ion battery has no scheduled maintenance interval. However, degradation is possible over time (8-10+ years). This is a long-term consideration for NSX ownership.
• Low and medium voltage services can be performed at independent shops like Firestone. High voltage services require specialized training—call ahead to confirm capability .
• Keep meticulous maintenance records. Save all receipts, especially for TMU fluid and transmission services. These records add significant value to this limited-production supercar .
• The 2019 NSX Owner's Manual is the final authority. If there is a discrepancy between this guide and your vehicle's display, follow the vehicle. The official Acura NSX Owner's Manual is available online through ProCarManuals and Auto User Guide .