The Acura RDX is a luxury SUV that Acura has offered for sale since 2007. It comes in two trim levels, the Acura RDX and Acura RDX SH-AWD with Technology Package. The Acura RDX uses five different types of transmission fluids, which are applied depending on the vehicle’s configuration, so it’s important to know what type you have before beginning any work on your car.
The transmission in an Acura RDX is one of the most important components, and when it breaks or deteriorates, it’s very costly to replace. Although your vehicle’s transmission fluid does not need to be changed as frequently as its engine oil, you should replace it if it has many miles.
The transmission fluid ensures that the transmission bearings, gears, and bushings are lubricated and protected from wearing out by allowing hydraulic pressure inside to shift gears and lock clutches.
The fill cap on the RDX transfer is at the top of the transmission, but it isn’t easy to access because it’s under the airbox. You may also refill it—much more slowly – through the dipstick tube with a funnel and a little hose. It doesn’t make any difference either way. We won’t be discussing removing the airbox to access the fill cap since it’s easier to do it via the dipstick. The cap is a circular metal component with a hexagonal bolt head stamped into it, as seen here.
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Acura RDX Transmission Fluid Capacity
| Transmission | Fluid Capacity | Fluid Type |
|---|---|---|
| BWEA 5-speed AWD automatic transmission | Total Fill 8.2 quarts (7.8 liters) Initial Fill 3.1 quarts (2.9 liters) | SL001 |
| BT3A 5-speed FWD automatic transmission | Total Fill 8.8 quarts (8.3 liters) Initial Fill 3 quarts (2.8 liters) | SL001 |
| 2007-2010 BWEA 5-speed automatic transmission | Total Fill 8.2 quarts (7.8 liters) Initial Fill 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters) | SL040 |
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Acura RDX Transmission Fluid Capacity
| Transmission | Fluid Capacity | Fluid Type |
|---|---|---|
| B8CA 6-speed FWD automatic transmission | Total Fill 7.4 quarts (7 liters) Initial Fill 3.3 quarts (3.1 liters) | SL001 |
| B8BA 6-speed AWD automatic transmission | Total Fill 8.5 quarts (8 liters) Initial Fill 3.3 quarts (3.1 liters) | SL001 |
2019 2020 2021 Acura RDX Transmission Fluid Capacity
| Transmission | Fluid Capacity | Fluid Type |
|---|---|---|
| PYKA 10-speed AWD automatic transmission | Total Fill 9.3 quarts (8.8 liters) Initial Fill 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) | SL156 |
| PYLA 10-speed FWD automatic transmission | Total Fill 8.8 quarts (8.3 liters) Initial Fill 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) | SL156 |
A transmission flush is twice as expensive as a fluid change due to the drain of time and because the flush removes not only old fluid from the pan but also fluid from cooler lines and unique components of your transmission. The system of an Acura RDX transmission cleaning and flushing involves about 10 quarts of fluid.
A transmission flush is only required if your equipment has any dirt or debris. If the fluid is really dark or contains substitute sediments, we strongly advise doing a complete system clean rather than merely replacing the fluid.
A transmission fluid change is typically a fraction of the cost of a complete transmission flush because it uses less fluid and takes less time to complete. Keeping your Acura RDX’s transmission lubricated and in good working order is critical. If you don’t replace your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, your Acura RDX’s transmission will slip.
Changing your Acura RDX transmission filter isn’t as simple as changing the filters in your car. The filter, which is generally a metal plate with a fiber material that captures pollutants, is one component of the transmission filter.
Your Acura RDX’s transmission filter will also require replacement, as well as the pickup tube, gasket, and rubber seal. Every 30,000 or 50,000 miles, your Acura RDX’s transmission filter must be changed. See your car’s maintenance handbook for further mileage and time intervals.
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The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The author and publisher make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information presented. The reader is advised to consult a qualified professional, such as a mechanic or dealership, before making any decisions related to their vehicle's engine oil or maintenance.
