2009 Acura RL Complete Maintenance Schedule & Service Guide

The 2009 Acura RL is the first year of the second-generation (KA9) facelift. It is powered by a 3.7L V6 (J37A1) engine producing 300 hp, featuring Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The vehicle uses a 6-speed automatic transmission and is equipped with the Maintenance Minder system.

> CRITICAL ENGINE DESIGN: The 3.7L V6 uses a timing belt, NOT a chain. This is an interference engine – if the belt breaks, the pistons will strike the valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Replacement is mandatory, not optional .

Key Takeaways

• The 2009 RL uses the Maintenance Minder system, NOT fixed odometer intervals. The vehicle's computer monitors driving conditions and displays alphanumeric codes (A, B, 1-6) when specific services are due. There is no traditional "every 30,000-mile" service schedule.
• The 3.7L V6 uses a timing belt, NOT a chain. The J37A1 is an interference engine. The timing belt must be replaced according to the Maintenance Minder . If you drive regularly in very high temperatures (over 110°F/43°C), very low temperatures (under -20°F/-29°C), or tow a trailer, replace the timing belt every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) .
• For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
• Brake fluid replacement is strictly time‑sensitive. Independent of the Maintenance Minder, replace brake fluid every 3 years regardless of mileage.
• Service at a dealer is NOT mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be performed by any qualified service facility or skilled person. Keep all receipts as proof of completion .

Engine & Powertrain Specifications

The 2009 Acura RL is the first year of the second-generation facelift.

Timing Belt vs. Chain: The J37A1 engine uses a timing belt. The water pump is driven by the timing belt and should be replaced at the same time . Do not let anyone tell you this engine has a timing chain.

Maintenance Minder Codes

The Maintenance Minder communicates service needs through alphanumeric codes displayed on the multi-information display. A code consists of a main item (A or B) optionally followed by sub‑item numbers (1 through 6).

Main Item Codes (A, B)

Sub‑Item Codes (1-6)

Independent Maintenance Requirements (Outside the Minder)

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

Understanding the Maintenance Minder System

The 2009 Acura RL 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. Acura recommends that all maintenance services be performed in accordance with the intervals indicated by the multi-information display .

How the System Works

When the engine oil life reaches 15%, the system message indicator comes on and the Maintenance Minder screen appears on the multi-information display each time you set the power mode to ON.

How to Check Maintenance Minder

To display Maintenance Minder information:

1. Set the ignition to the ON (II) position (do not start the engine)
2. Navigate through the multi-information display using the steering wheel controls
3. The oil life percentage and due maintenance codes will display

Resetting the Maintenance Minder Display

After performing the required maintenance service, the Maintenance Minder display must be reset.

Reset Procedure:

1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position
2. Press the Select/Reset button repeatedly until the engine oil life is displayed
3. Press and hold the Select/Reset button for about 10 seconds until the oil life reset mode appears
4. Select "Reset" using the INFO (▲/▼) button, then press Select/Reset to confirm
5. The oil life display returns to 100%

Service at Independent Shops

Important: Acura explicitly states that service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be performed by any qualified service facility or skilled person. Keep all receipts as proof of completion .

Engine Oil Change Guidance

Factory Requirements

How to Check Oil Level

1. Park on level ground and wait at least 3 minutes after engine shutdown
2. Pull out the dipstick and wipe completely clean
3. Reinsert fully, then remove again
4. 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 is acceptable
• Your Acura does not require any oil additives
• Check the engine oil level at each fuel stop
• VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) may cause slight oil consumption – monitor levels between changes

Timing Belt – The Most Critical Service

The J37A1 V6 engine requires timing belt replacement on a strict schedule. This is the single most important maintenance item for the 2009 RL.

Timing Belt Replacement Requirements

Severe Condition Timing Belt Replacement

The owner's manual explicitly requires replacement every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) if any of these conditions apply :

The Age Factor – Important for 2009 RL Owners

The 2009 RL is now over 14 years old. As one expert notes: *"The change interval in your manual says 105,000 MILES or SEVEN (7) YEARS, WHICHEVER COMES FIRST! That means you are 2 years overdue, since rubber deteriorates both with age as well as mileage"* .

If your 2009 RL has never had the timing belt replaced, it is significantly overdue by age regardless of mileage.

Owner Guidance for Timing Belt Service (The "Full Job")

When replacing the timing belt, replace these components simultaneously due to overlapping labor:

• Timing belt itself
• Timing belt tensioner
• Water pump (driven by the timing belt)
• Drive belts (accessory/serpentine belt)
• Engine coolant (requires draining to replace water pump)
• Spark plugs (typically replaced at the same interval)
• Valve clearance inspection (adjust only if noisy)

Cost Expectation

A certified Acura or Honda mechanic can perform the job; a dealer is not required. A good independent mechanic should be able to save you money over dealer pricing .

Brake Fluid Replacement

Why it's critical: Brake fluid is hygroscopic – it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture lowers the fluid's boiling point (causing potential brake fade under hard braking) and promotes internal corrosion of the brake system.

Owner Guidance: A complete system flush (draining old fluid from the bleeder screw at each caliper) is required. Topping off the reservoir is not sufficient. Check the brake fluid level monthly .

Transmission & Transfer Case Service

The 2009 RL AWD requires both transmission fluid and transfer case fluid to be replaced. This is part of a Code 3 service.

Severe Condition Note

If you regularly drive in mountainous areas at very low speeds or tow a trailer, more frequent transmission fluid changes are required than indicated by the Maintenance Minder.

The "Flush" Warning – Critical

Never use a power flush machine on a Honda/Acura transmission. The proper method for a complete fluid exchange is the drain and refill method (or the "3x method" – drain, fill, drive through all gears, repeat three times).

Transmission Fluid Capacities

Transmission Fluid Check Frequency

Check the automatic transmission fluid level monthly .

SH-AWD Rear Differential Service

The SH-AWD system has a rear differential with clutches that require specific fluid and regular maintenance. This is critical for AWD models only. The Maintenance Minder will display Code 6 when this service is due.

Fluid Warning: Use only Acura AWD DPSF (Dual Pump System Fluid). Do not use standard gear oil or VTM‑4 fluid – these will damage the SH‑AWD clutches.

Power Steering Fluid

Warning: A low power steering fluid level can indicate a leak in the system. Check the fluid level frequently, and have the system inspected as soon as possible .

Pump Damage Warning: Turning the steering wheel to full left or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump .

Pouring caution: Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment .

Engine Coolant Service

Owner Guidance: Do not use generic green coolant. Honda/Acura Type 2 coolant is specifically formulated for aluminum engine components. If the coolant appears dark or contaminated, replace it sooner regardless of the Maintenance Minder.

Check the radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank .

Spark Plug Replacement & Valve Clearance

Owner Guidance: Replace spark plugs during the timing belt service – the labor overlaps significantly. Use only OEM‑specified plugs. The J37A1 engine 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.

Drive Belt & Air Filters

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.

Monthly & Pre‑Drive Checks

As outlined in the 2009 RL Owner's Manual, perform these checks regularly :

Severe Driving Conditions Summary

The following severe condition requirements apply independently of the Maintenance Minder :

At-a-Glance Maintenance Schedule

Since the RL uses the Maintenance Minder system, always follow your vehicle's displayed codes. The table below shows reference intervals for planning purposes:

Long‑Term Ownership Summary for 2009 RL

• The timing belt is not negotiable – and the 2009 RL has a timing belt, not a chain. The J37A1 engine will self‑destruct if the belt breaks. Replace when indicated by the Maintenance Minder . If you drive in severe conditions (extreme temperatures or towing), replace every 60,000 miles . The water pump and tensioner should always be replaced at the same time. Your 2009 RL is now over 14 years old – if the belt has never been replaced, it is significantly overdue by age regardless of mileage.
• Brake fluid must be replaced every 3 years regardless of mileage — track this independently. For a 2009 RL, this should have been done at 3‑year intervals (2012, 2015, 2018, 2021). If missed, it is overdue.
• AWD means additional maintenance costs. Your RL has rear differential fluid changes (Code 6) and transfer case fluid changes (Code 3).
• For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
• Check your fluid levels monthly. The Owner's Manual requires checking brake fluid level, transmission fluid level, and tire pressure monthly .
• You can service your RL at independent shops without voiding the warranty. Acura states that dealer service is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect . Keep all receipts as proof of completion.
• Use Acura‑specified or approved fluids:
• Engine oil: SAE 5W‑20 synthetic
• Transmission + transfer case: Honda ATF DW-1
• Rear differential: Acura AWD DPSF only
• Coolant: Honda Type 2 blue only
• Brake fluid: Honda DOT 3 only
• Power steering: Acura Power Steering Fluid
• Never "flush" a Honda transmission. Only use the drain and fill method (or 3x drain and fill).
• Keep maintenance records. Save all receipts, especially for timing belt service. These records add value if you sell the vehicle.
• The official 2009 Acura RL Owner's Manual (Part #31SJA641) is available from Helm Inc. for $50.00 . The Quick Start Guide (Part #31SJAQ40) is available for $25.00 .