1st Gen (KA9)
Acura RL (1996–2004)
Maintenance Schedule
8 recurring services keep the 1996–2004 Acura RL healthy — starting with oil changes every 5,000 miles. Budget roughly $1,700–2,500 in routine maintenance over 100,000 miles at typical U.S. shop prices.
Applies to model years 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Full schedule
Intervals follow the factory maintenance schedule for the 1996-2004 Acura RL. Cost ranges are typical U.S. shop prices.
| Service | Interval | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 mi or 4 mo | $40–60 | Premium oil and filter replacement |
| Transmission Fluid | Every 30,000 mi or 3 yr | $160–240 | Automatic transmission fluid flush |
| Air Filter | Every 30,000 mi or 2 yr | $40–60 | Engine air filter replacement |
| Brake Fluid | Every 45,000 mi or 3 yr | $80–110 | Brake fluid flush |
| Coolant Flush | Every 60,000 mi or 5 yr | $140–210 | V6 coolant system flush |
| Timing Belt | Every 105,000 mi or 105 mo | $600–950 | V6 timing belt, water pump, tensioner |
| Valve Adjustment | Every 105,000 mi or 105 mo | $250–400 | V6 valve clearance adjustment |
| Spark Plugs | Every 105,000 mi or 105 mo | $140–200 | V6 platinum spark plug replacement |
Common questions
How often should I change the oil on a 1996–2004 Acura RL?
Every 5,000 miles or 4 months, whichever comes first. A typical U.S. shop charges $40–60. Premium oil and filter replacement.
How much does it cost to maintain a Acura RL (1996–2004)?
Routine maintenance on the 1996–2004 Acura RL runs roughly $1,700–2,500 over 100,000 miles at typical U.S. shop prices, spread across 8 recurring services. Independent shops usually land near the low end; dealers near the high end.
What is the most expensive scheduled service on this RL?
Timing Belt at $600–950, due every 105,000 miles. V6 timing belt, water pump, tensioner.
Cost ranges are estimates for typical U.S. independent shops and dealers; your local prices will vary. Always confirm intervals against your owner's manual — severe driving conditions (towing, short trips, extreme heat or cold) shorten many of them.