Quick answer: Engine Oil & Filter Change on a 2005–2012 Acura RL is rated Moderate and takes about 30-60 minutes. You'll need 2 tools for this job, and parts cost about $57. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
Oil spec
3.5L V6
Capacity 4.5 qt with filter Viscosity 5W-20 (alt: 0W-20)
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Engine Oil (5W-20) |
— |
$45.00 |
|
| Correct engine oil filter and drain-plug washer for 2005-2012 Acura RL |
— |
$12.00 |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Confirm oil specification and make the vehicle safe
J35 (2005-2008) and J37 (2009-2012) take 4.5 quarts of 5W-20 with a new filter (0W-20 acceptable), 4.2 without. The spin-on filter is under the engine. Park level, raise the front, and use a fresh aluminum washer; 29 ft-lb drain torque.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I skip steep ramps on the RL and use a floor jack with stands instead. That low front spoiler scrapes on the approach, and replacing a cracked air dam costs more than the oil change.
2
Warm briefly and protect the work area
Stage the spin-on filter, filter wrench, drain pan, and washer. Idle 2-3 minutes to warm the oil, then shut off and wait briefly. Remove the oil fill cap to vent, and position the pan under the drain plug.
3
Drain the used oil and replace the filter
Remove the drain plug and drain fully, then refit with a fresh washer to 29 ft-lb. Loosen the filter, confirm the old gasket came off with the canister, oil the new gasket, and install hand-tight plus a quarter turn.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
The one mistake I see on these RLs is the old filter gasket sticking to the housing. A double-gasketed filter dumps your fresh oil in seconds, so I always run a finger over the mounting surface before spinning the new filter on.
4
Install the correct oil quantity
Pour 4.0 of the 4.5 quarts of 5W-20 through a funnel and hold back the last half quart. Wait a few minutes, then check the dipstick.
5
Check level, leaks, and service reminder
Start the engine, switch off, wait two minutes, and recheck on level ground, topping to the full mark. Inspect the plug and filter base for leaks, reset the maintenance minder, and log the date, mileage, and viscosity used.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Using the wrong viscosity, capacity, or filter
- • Working under a vehicle supported only by a jack
- • Reusing a crushed drain-plug washer or leaving the old filter gasket stuck
- • Over-tightening the filter or drain plug
- • Starting the engine before checking the oil level and leaks
