The 2012 Acura RL with its powerful 3.7-liter J37A2 V6 engine is a sophisticated vehicle designed for those who demand performance, refinement, and reliability. Maintaining this premium sedan requires precision lubrication that goes beyond standard recommendations. Using the correct fluids ensures optimal engine protection, maximizes fuel efficiency, and extends the operational life of the transmission and other critical components. Proper maintenance of all fluid systems is essential for keeping this luxury vehicle running smoothly for years to come.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides the highest level of engine protection with up to 25,000 miles of guaranteed protection against horsepower loss and wear.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers up to 20,000 miles of protection with 37% more cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective synthetic option that fights sludge and deposits while outperforming conventional oils at OEM mileage intervals.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated specifically for engines with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents and reduced sludge formation.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter (EA15K13) – Delivers 99% efficiency at 20 microns with greater capacity for contaminants to help reduce engine wear.
- WIX Oil Filter (57356) – A premium media filter that offers improvements over standard OEM-branded filters, compatible with AMSOIL OE and High-Mileage oils.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique OAT formulation providing up to 150,000 miles of protection that is compatible with all cooling system metals and hoses.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that requires mixing, offering superior corrosion and erosion protection for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and remains fluid in sub-zero conditions for the 6-speed automatic transmission.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A cost-effective synthetic alternative that protects against wear and extends transmission life.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube – Excellent for protecting brass synchronizers with outstanding cold-flow properties and friction modification.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection against wear with friction modifiers suitable for limited-slip differentials.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Helps control thermal runaway and reduces operating temperatures in manual transmissions and transfer cases.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – A heavier viscosity option for demanding conditions, offering extended equipment life and rust protection.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – Restores up to 14% horsepower and cleans GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after just one tank.
The 2012 Acura RL is a standout in the luxury sedan segment, known for its smooth ride and robust engineering. Under the hood lies the J37A2 3.7L V6 engine, a powerhouse that delivers a balance of power and efficiency. This engine is part of Acura’s renowned J-series, which has a reputation for durability and high-revving capability. The vehicle features a 6-speed automatic transmission, specifically the M8EA, which requires precise fluid characteristics to handle the torque and shifting demands of this powerful drivetrain. The RL’s suspension and chassis tuning offer a driving experience that is both composed and engaging, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate a refined driving character.
Engine Oil and Filtration
Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of the 2012 Acura RL’s engine. The J37A2 3.7L V6 requires a 5W-20 viscosity oil. When changing the oil, the total capacity is 4.5 quarts when the oil filter is also replaced, while a refill without the filter requires 4.2 quarts. Always verify the oil level after refilling to ensure optimal protection. The torque specification for the oil drain plug is 29 ft/lbs, and the gasket should always be replaced during service.
For those seeking the ultimate in engine protection, AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil is the premier choice. It offers up to 25,000 miles of guaranteed protection and is designed to minimize horsepower loss and wear. If you prefer extended drain intervals with slightly less cost, AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil provides 20,000 miles of protection with enhanced cleaning power. For drivers looking for OEM-matched performance, AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil is an excellent option that fights sludge and deposits. Owners of high-mileage vehicles with over 75,000 miles will benefit from AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil, which features enhanced anti-wear additives and a unique chemistry to reduce sludge.
Filtration is equally critical. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (EA15K13) is engineered to capture 99% of contaminants at 20 microns, allowing lower restriction to keep engine parts lubricated and reducing wear. Alternatively, the WIX Oil Filter (57356) offers premium media that improves upon standard OEM filters, providing reliable performance when paired with OE or High-Mileage oils.
Transmission and Differential Lubrication
The 2012 Acura RL is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission (M8EA) that benefits significantly from synthetic fluids. The initial fill capacity is 3.3 quarts, while a total fill for the 6-speed unit requires 8.2 quarts. For this transmission, AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is ideal. It is designed to withstand heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain while maintaining fluidity in sub-zero conditions. For a more budget-friendly option that still provides synthetic benefits, AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid offers reliable wear protection.
While the RL typically comes with an automatic transmission, if your vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission or transfer case, specific gear lubes are required. For GL-4 applications, AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube is an excellent choice. It protects brass synchronizers and inhibits rust and corrosion. For GL-5 applications, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is suitable, featuring friction modifiers for limited-slip differentials. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube and AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube provide advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway for various manual and transfer case applications.
Cooling and Brake Systems
Maintaining the cooling system is vital for the longevity of the 3.7L engine. The system holds 6.3 quarts of coolant. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a unique OAT formulation that offers up to 150,000 miles of protection. It is compatible with all other antifreeze colors and protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses without containing silicates or borates. For a concentrated solution that allows for custom mixing, AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant provides exceptional corrosion and erosion protection.
For the braking system, AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is recommended. This fluid ensures excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction-control systems and maintains a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, enhancing safety in extreme driving conditions.
Performance and Maintenance
To maximize the efficiency and performance of the 2012 Acura RL, fuel system maintenance is key. AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive helps restore up to 14% horsepower and cleans GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate. It reduces the need for higher-octane fuel and helps prevent pre-ignition knock. For seasonal storage, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer keeps fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and ethanol corrosion. If the vehicle will be parked for an extended period, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil provides a highly effective rust preventive for internal components.
About the Vehicle
The 2012 Acura RL represents the pinnacle of Acura’s engineering philosophy during that era, blending high performance with a serene, luxury cabin experience. Built on a platform designed for stability and comfort, the RL is a front-engine, front-wheel-drive (or SH-AWD on later models, though the 3.7L primarily paired with the automatic transmission in standard configurations for this year) luxury sedan. Its J37A2 V6 engine, derived from Honda’s proven engine architecture, is capable of generating robust power that translates to confident acceleration and effortless overtaking on highways.
Owners of the 2012 RL often praise the vehicle’s exceptional build quality and the quietness of the cabin, which isolates road noise effectively. The interior typically features high-quality leather and wood accents, emphasizing its status as a premium vehicle in the market. The car’s suspension tuning offers a blend of sportiness and comfort, making it suitable for both daily commuting and spirited driving. Over the years, this model has established a reputation for reliability, provided that regular maintenance, particularly regarding fluid changes and filter replacements, is adhered to strictly. The extensive use of synthetic fluids recommended for this vehicle further enhances its durability and long-term value, ensuring it remains a capable and enjoyable driver’s car well into its later years.