2001 maintenance schedule
2001 Acura NSX Service Schedule & Maintenance Guide
The 2001 Acura NSX is the final iteration of the first-generation NSX, powered by the legendary 3.2L V6 (C32B) engine producing 290 horsepower.
Last updated
May 27, 2026
Reviewed for service schedule clarity.
The 2001 Acura NSX is the final iteration of the first-generation NSX, powered by the legendary 3.2L V6 (C32B) engine producing 290 horsepower. The 2001 model features the fixed-headlight facelift design, available as either a coupe or NSX-T targa. As a hand-built exotic with a mid-engine layout, its maintenance requirements are exacting. Your car is now over 20 years old, so time-based maintenance (rubber seals, belts, and hoses) is just as critical as mileage .
> CRITICAL ENGINE WARNING: The C32B is an interference engine that uses a timing belt (not a chain). If the belt breaks, the pistons will strike the valves, causing catastrophic engine damage and potentially totaling the car financially . Replacement is mandatory, not optional.
Key Takeaways
- The NSX uses a timing belt (NOT a chain) on an interference engine. Replacement is required at 105,000 miles or 7 years . The factory refers to a "105,000-mile tune-up interval" . This is the single most critical maintenance item—failure destroys the engine.
- Canadian owners and those with short trips must follow the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule . The Normal schedule is only for ideal highway driving.
- Brake fluid replacement is time-sensitive, not mileage-sensitive. Independent of the maintenance schedule, replace brake fluid every 3 years.
- For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
- By age, your 2001 NSX should have had its timing belt replaced in 2008, 2015, and 2022. If history is unknown, do it immediately. The 7-year rubber degradation interval is explicitly confirmed by NSX specialists .
- The official owner's manual and service manual are available online . A free PDF version can be found through manual resources like ManualsDir .
Engine & Drivetrain Specifications
The 2001 NSX represents the facelift generation with the larger displacement engine and fixed-headlight design.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.2L V6 (C32B1), DOHC VTEC |
| Horsepower | 290 hp @ 7,100 rpm |
| Torque | 224 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm |
| Redline | 8,000 rpm |
| Fuel requirement | Premium (91 octane or higher) |
| Engine oil capacity (with filter) | 5.0 liters (5.3 quarts) |
| Coolant capacity | 16.0 liters (16.9 quarts) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 18.5 gallons (70 liters) |
Engine Architecture: The C32B features titanium connecting rods and forged pistons. Replacement engines are exceptionally rare and expensive—this makes proper maintenance financially mandatory.
Official Service Manual: The official 2001 NSX Service Manual is available from Helm Inc., covering the complete maintenance schedule, specifications, engine, transaxle, steering, suspension, brakes, and electrical systems.
Selecting the Correct Maintenance Schedule
The 2001 NSX Owner's Manual provides two maintenance tracks .
Severe Driving Conditions (Use This Schedule)
Select the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule if you regularly drive under any of these conditions:
| Condition | Trigger |
|---|---|
| Short trips | Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) per trip |
| Sub-freezing short trips | Driving less than 10 miles (16 km) per trip when below freezing |
| Hot weather operation | Driving in extremely hot climates (over 90°F / 32°C) |
| Stop-and-go traffic | Extensive idling or long periods of low-speed driving |
| Mountain driving | Driving on hilly or mountainous roads |
| Dusty or salted roads | Driving on roads treated with salt or in dusty conditions |
> Canadian owners must follow the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule .
Service Codes Defined
The 2001 NSX Owner's Manual organizes maintenance around letter-coded service items (A, B, C, D, and E) .
| Code | Services to be Performed |
|---|---|
| A | Replace engine oil. Rotate tires. |
| B | Replace engine oil filter. Inspect front/rear brakes. Check parking brake adjustment. Inspect tie rod ends, steering gearbox, boots, suspension, driveshaft boots, brake hoses/lines (including ABS). Check all fluid levels, condition, leaks. Inspect cooling system hoses, exhaust system, fuel lines. |
| C | Replace air cleaner element. Inspect and adjust drive belts. Replace dust and pollen filter. |
| D | Replace automatic transmission fluid (if equipped). |
| E | Replace manual transmission fluid (if equipped). |
Factory Maintenance Schedule
The 2001 NSX Owner's Manual provides two maintenance schedules. The following Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule is required for Canadian owners and recommended for U.S. owners driving under severe conditions . Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first.
| Distance / Time | Required Service Items | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 7,500 mi | A | Replace oil |
| 15,000 mi / 1 yr | A, B | Oil + comprehensive inspection |
| 22,500 mi | A | Oil change |
| 30,000 mi / 2 yrs | A, B, C | Oil + inspection + air filters/drive belts |
| 37,500 mi | A | Oil change |
| 45,000 mi / 3 yrs | A, B | Oil + inspection |
| 52,500 mi | A | Oil change |
| 60,000 mi / 4 yrs | A, B, C | Oil + inspection + filters |
| 67,500 mi | A | Oil change |
| 75,000 mi / 5 yrs | A, B | Oil + inspection |
| 82,500 mi | A | Oil change |
| 90,000 mi / 6 yrs | A, B, C | Major service |
| 90,000 mi | Replace brake fluid | Independent of mileage |
| 97,500 mi | A | Oil change |
| 105,000 mi / 7 yrs | A, B | Oil + inspection |
| 105,000 mi | Replace timing belt, inspect water pump | CRITICAL |
| 105,000 mi | Check idle speed | — |
| 105,000 mi | Replace spark plugs | 105,000-mile tune-up |
| 105,000 mi | Inspect valve clearance | Adjust only if noisy |
| 112,500 mi | A | Oil change |
| 120,000 mi / 8 yrs | A, B, C | Major service |
| 120,000 mi | Replace fuel filter | — |
| 120,000 mi | Replace manual transmission fluid | — |
| 120,000 mi | Replace engine coolant | First time at 120,000 miles or 10 years |
| 120,000 mi | Replace brake fluid | Independent of mileage |
Independent Maintenance Requirements (Outside the Schedule)
The following requirements apply independently of the mileage schedule :
| Requirement | Interval |
|---|---|
| Check engine oil and coolant | At each fuel stop |
| Brake fluid replacement | Every 3 years (independent of mileage) |
| Engine coolant (first replacement) | 120,000 miles or 120 months (10 years) then every 60,000 miles or 60 months (5 years) |
| Manual transmission fluid | As indicated in schedule |
| Valve clearance | Inspect at 105,000 miles; adjust only if noisy |
| Tire inflation | Check monthly |
| Major periodic service | Every 2 years or 30,000 km (≈18,600 miles) |
Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule
If you do not drive under any of the "severe" conditions listed above and are not a Canadian owner, follow this schedule. However, for a 2001 NSX, the Severe schedule is recommended for most owners .
| Distance | Service Items |
|---|---|
| 7,500 mi | A |
| 15,000 mi | A, B |
| 22,500 mi | A |
| 30,000 mi | A, B, C |
| 37,500 mi | A |
| 45,000 mi | A, B |
| 60,000 mi | A, B, C |
| 75,000 mi | A, B |
| 90,000 mi | A, B, C |
| 105,000 mi | A, B, plus timing belt, spark plugs, valve inspection |
| 120,000 mi | A, B, C |
Timing Belt – The Most Critical Service
The C32B engine requires timing belt replacement on a strict schedule. This is the single most important maintenance item for the 2001 NSX .
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Interference engine—belt failure destroys the engine |
| Replacement interval (Normal) | 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first |
| Severe condition interval | If regularly operated in ambient temperatures under -20°F or above 110°F: 60,000 miles |
| Water pump | Replace with timing belt—driven by the timing belt |
| 105,000-mile tune-up | Factory-advertised major service interval |
Why Timing Belt Replacement Is Critical
The C32B is an interference engine: the pistons occupy the same space as the valves at certain points. If the timing belt breaks, the pistons will strike the open valves. The result is bent valves, damaged pistons, and typically requires complete engine replacement—often $10,000-$20,000.
The timing belt is made of rubber, which deteriorates with time; it can dry out and crack regardless of mileage . The 2001 NSX has a 7-year replacement recommendation . For a 2001 NSX, the 7-year mark passed in 2008—meaning the belt should have been replaced multiple times by now.
> *"Those of us with the '97-03 NSX know that the recommendation is to change it every 105K miles or every 7 years, whichever comes first."* — NSX Prime
The Age Factor – Critical for 2001 NSX Owners
For a 2001 NSX in 2025, the age factor is paramount. The 7-year interval means:
| Replacement Window | Year (based on 7-year interval) |
|---|---|
| First replacement | 2008 |
| Second replacement | 2015 |
| Third replacement | 2022 |
| Fourth replacement | 2029 (future) |
If the timing belt has never been replaced, it is drastically overdue. A 2001 NSX in 2025 is 24 years old—the belt should have been replaced at 7 years (2008), 14 years (2015), and 21 years (2022).
NSX Prime owner discussion confirms this critical age consideration: *"While you are well under the miles constraint, you are living on borrowed time with respect to how old your NSX is. Your call, but a t-belt job is a lot less expensive than replacing bent valves."*
Timing Belt Replacement – The "Full Job"
When replacing the timing belt, replace these components simultaneously :
| Component | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Timing belt | Replace (Dayco or OE) |
| Water pump | Replace (driven by timing belt) |
| Timing belt tensioner | Replace |
| Drive belts | Replace (serpentine/accessory belt) |
| Cooling system hoses | Replace all (7-year interval matches timing belt) |
| Engine coolant | Flush and replace (already drained for water pump) |
| Spark plugs | Replace (due at 105,000-mile service) |
| Valve clearance | Inspect and adjust |
> *"When you change the timing belt, it's a good time to change all the cooling system hoses. The seven-year interval is appropriately long, and doing it with the timing belt serves as a reminder to do so. And there are parts and labor savings in doing the water pump and hoses at the same time (since the coolant is flushed only once)."* — NSX Prime
Engine Oil Change Guidance
Factory Requirements
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Recommended oil | SAE 5W-30 premium-grade detergent oil |
| Capacity (with filter) | 5.0 liters (5.3 quarts) |
| Check frequency | At each fuel stop (every time you fill up) |
| Change interval (Severe) | Every 7,500 miles (A service) |
| Change interval (Normal) | Every 7,500 miles (A service) |
How to Check Oil Level
- Park on level ground and wait at least 3 minutes after engine shutdown
- Pull out the dipstick (located in the mid-engine compartment)
- Wipe completely clean, reinsert fully, then remove again
- Oil level should be between the upper and lower marks
Owner Guidance
- Check the engine oil level each time you fill the fuel tank
- Check the engine coolant level in the reserve tank at each fuel stop
- Acura Genuine Motor Oil or any quality synthetic of the same viscosity is acceptable
- For track-driven NSXs, many owners use slightly thicker viscosity for better high-temperature protection
Transmission Service
The 2001 NSX is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission (standard) or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
6-Speed Manual Transmission
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fluid type | Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) |
| Replacement interval | As indicated in schedule (severe: every 60,000-90,000 miles recommended) |
| Capacity | Approximately 3.0-3.5 quarts |
Owner Guidance: The NSX 6-speed manual is legendary for its precision. Use only Honda MTF for optimal shift feel.
Clutch Fluid: The clutch fluid shares the brake fluid reservoir (manual transmission). Check the level monthly and flush with brake fluid every 3 years.
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fluid type | Honda ATF-Z1 (now ATF-DW1) |
| Replacement interval | Code D service (as indicated in schedule) |
| Capacity | Approximately 6.5 quarts (dry) |
Spark Plug Replacement
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Replacement interval | 105,000 miles |
| Type | Iridium or platinum (OEM-specified NGK or Denso) |
| Quantity | 6 plugs |
Replace spark plugs during the timing belt service—the labor overlaps. Valve clearance should be inspected and adjusted at the same time .
Engine Coolant Service
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| First replacement | 120,000 miles or 120 months (10 years) |
| Subsequent replacement | Every 60,000 miles or 60 months (5 years) thereafter |
| Coolant type | Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (blue, premixed 50/50) |
| Check frequency | At each fuel stop (reserve tank) |
Owner Guidance: Do not use generic green coolant. Honda Type 2 coolant is specifically formulated for aluminum engine components. The NSX's mid-engine layout makes the cooling system critical—maintain it meticulously. Coolant replacement is often done with the timing belt service since the water pump replacement requires draining the system .
Brake Fluid Replacement
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Specified fluid | Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 |
| Replacement requirement | Every 3 years, independent of mileage |
| Check frequency | Monthly |
| DOT 5 warning | NOT compatible – never use DOT 5 fluid |
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.
Owner Guidance: A complete system flush (draining old fluid from each caliper) is required. Topping off the reservoir is not sufficient.
Clutch Fluid: For manual transmission NSXs, the clutch hydraulic system uses the same brake fluid reservoir. Check clutch fluid level monthly and flush at the same 3-year intervals.
Drive Belt & Air Filters
| Component | Replacement Trigger |
|---|---|
| Engine air cleaner element | Code C service (30,000 miles) |
| Drive belts | Code C service (inspect and adjust) |
Owner Guidance: The drive belts should be replaced during timing belt service since they must be removed to access the timing belt . A failed drive belt will cause loss of power steering (if equipped) and battery charging—replace at the 7-year interval with the timing belt.
Valve Clearance Inspection
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Inspection interval | 105,000 miles |
| Adjustment | Adjust valves only if they are noisy during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 |
Owner Guidance: The C32B uses mechanical lifters (not hydraulic). Valve clearances should be checked every major service. Tight exhaust valves can lead to burned valves—this is especially important on a high-revving engine like the NSX. From the manual: *"Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy"* .
Specifications (cold engine):
- Intake: 0.15-0.19 mm (0.006-0.007 in)
- Exhaust: 0.17-0.21 mm (0.007-0.008 in)
Major Periodic Service
For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) . This comprehensive service should include:
- Full fluid inspection and replacement as needed
- Brake system inspection
- Suspension and steering component inspection
- Cooling system hose inspection
- Vacuum line inspection (critical for idle quality on the C32B)
Monthly & Pre-Drive Checks
From the 2001 NSX Owner's Manual :
| Frequency | Check Item |
|---|---|
| Each fuel stop | Engine oil level |
| Each fuel stop | Engine coolant level (reserve tank) |
| Monthly | Tire inflation and condition |
| Monthly | Brake fluid level |
| Monthly | Exterior lights operation |
| Monthly | Clutch fluid level (manual transmission) |
Scheduled Maintenance Summary
The table below summarizes the reference intervals for the 2001 NSX:
| Component | Reference Interval | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 7,500 miles or 12 months (Severe) | Check level each fuel fill |
| Tire rotation | 7,500 miles | Part of A service |
| Air cleaner element | 30,000 miles (Code C) | — |
| Drive belts | Inspect every 30,000 miles | Replace during timing belt service |
| Transmission fluid (manual) | As indicated in schedule | Use Honda MTF |
| Transmission fluid (auto) | As indicated in schedule | Use Honda ATF-DW1 |
| Brake fluid | Every 3 years (independent of mileage) | Complete system flush required |
| Engine coolant | First: 120,000 miles or 10 years; then: 60,000 miles or 5 years | Honda Type 2 blue only |
| Spark plugs | 105,000 miles | With timing belt service |
| Timing belt & water pump | 105,000 miles or 7 years | Most critical service |
| Valve clearance | Inspect at 105,000 miles; adjust only if noisy | Mechanical lifters |
| Fuel filter | As indicated in schedule | — |
| Major periodic service | Every 2 years or 18,600 miles | Comprehensive inspection |
Long-Term Ownership Summary for the 2001 NSX
- The timing belt is not negotiable – and ensure the water pump and hoses are replaced. The C32B engine will self-destruct if the belt breaks. Replace when due (105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first) . For a 2001 NSX with unknown history, replace it immediately. Also replace all cooling system hoses during this service .
- Brake fluid must be replaced every 3 years regardless of mileage—track this independently. The 2001 NSX has no digital Maintenance Minder for this—manual tracking required.
- Time-based maintenance matters—even if the car is driven infrequently, fluids degrade and rubber components deteriorate. A 2001 NSX is now 24 years old. Age-based replacement is critical for:
- Timing belt (should have been replaced at 2008, 2015, and 2022)
- Brake fluid (every 3 years)
- Coolant (every 5-10 years)
- Cooling system hoses (replace with timing belt)
- The C32B engine is unique and expensive. Replacement engines are rare and costly—$10,000-$20,000+. Preventive maintenance, especially the timing belt, is financially mandatory.
- Valve clearance should be inspected at 105,000 miles or if the engine sounds noisy . The C32B uses mechanical lifters that can go out of adjustment over time.
- Use Acura-specified fluids:
- Engine oil: SAE 5W-30
- Transmission (manual): Honda MTF only
- Transmission (auto): Honda ATF-DW1 only
- Coolant: Honda Type 2 blue only
- Brake/Clutch fluid: Honda DOT 3 only
- The NSX is a hand-built exotic. For major services (timing belt, valve adjustment), find a reputable specialist with NSX experience. The official 2001 NSX Service Manual is available from Helm Inc.
- Keep maintenance records. Save all receipts, especially for timing belt service. These records add significant value to this collectible vehicle.
- The 2001 Owner's Manual is the final authority. Free PDF versions are available online through ManualsDir and other manual resources . The maintenance schedule starts on page 167 of the owner's manual .
Maintenance questions
2001 Acura NSX FAQs
Does the 2001 Acura NSX have a timing belt or timing chain?+
It has a timing belt. The 3.2L V6 (C32B) uses a rubber timing belt. This is an interference engine: if the belt breaks, the valves and pistons will collide, destroying the engine .
When should the timing belt be replaced?+
At 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first . For a 2001 NSX with unknown service history, replace it immediately.
How often should I change the oil in my 2001 NSX?+
Check the engine oil level at each fuel stop . Under the Severe schedule (recommended), change oil every 7,500 miles (or as indicated by A/B service codes). Use SAE 5W-30 premium-grade oil. Capacity is 5.0 liters with filter.
How often should the brake fluid be replaced?+
Every 3 years, independent of mileage. Use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3.
What type of transmission fluid does the 2001 NSX use?+
- Manual transmission: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
- Automatic transmission: Honda ATF-Z1 (now ATF-DW1)
How often should the engine coolant be replaced?+
The first replacement is at 120,000 miles or 10 years, then every 60,000 miles or 5 years thereafter. Use Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (blue).
When should the spark plugs be replaced?+
At 105,000 miles .
When should the valves be adjusted?+
Inspect valve clearance at 105,000 miles. Adjust only if they are noisy during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 .
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) .
Where can I find the official 2001 Acura NSX Owner's Manual?+
Free PDF versions are available online through ManualsDir and other manual resources . The maintenance schedule starts on page 167.
How do I know which maintenance schedule to use?+
Canadian owners must follow the Severe Conditions schedule . U.S. owners should use the Severe schedule if they regularly drive under severe conditions (short trips, extreme temperatures, stop-and-go traffic, towing, mountain driving). If severe conditions occur only occasionally, the Normal schedule may be used.
What should be replaced during the timing belt service?+
Replace the timing belt, water pump, tensioner, drive belts, coolant, and all cooling system hoses . Also replace spark plugs and inspect valve clearance at the 105,000-mile service .