Acura Maintenance Codes (Complete Guide)

If you have an Acura, it means having state‑of‑the‑art performance, luxury, and reliability. However, keeping your car in shape requires knowledge of the Acura maintenance codes that pop up on the dashboard. The codes are not just letters and numbers; they tell you important information on what your vehicle needs and when.

In this detailed guide, I will explain all the Acura maintenance codes, their meanings, and the necessary service actions. This way, you can maintain your car just like a professional.

What Are Acura Maintenance Codes?

The onboard Maintenance Minder technology installed in all Acura vehicles notifies drivers when service is due. The alerts appear as a set of codes — either an “A” or “B” followed by a number ranging from 1 to 6. In combination, they provide specific instructions on what the driver should service.

For example, code B1 means both the “B” main service and the “1” sub‑service need attention.

How Does the Maintenance Minder System Work?

Like a personal trainer, the Acura Maintenance Minder works tirelessly while you drive, helping you keep track of maintenance schedules and avert issues before they arise. With its continuous monitoring of engine operating conditions, the Maintenance Minder helps you track oil‑service dates and coordinate other maintenance check‑ups.

The system also displays remaining engine‑oil life on the information screen to alert the driver when it is time to replace the oil and carry out routine engine maintenance. This oil‑life indicator decreases as your vehicle accumulates mileage.

Speed, engine temperature, ambient air temperature, time, and driving habits are all factors used in determining oil life.

Below is a table to guide you on the meaning of oil‑life percentages.

Acura Maintenance Minder Main Codes

Code A: Basic Oil Change

• Replace engine oil.
• No oil‑filter replacement is needed unless combined with another sub‑code.
• Recommended every 7,500 miles or based on the vehicle’s driving conditions.

Code B: Comprehensive Service

• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Check and inspect:
  • Brake components
  • Tie‑rods and suspension
  • Fluid levels
  • Exhaust system
  • Fuel lines
  • Tire pressure and condition
• Required roughly every 15,000 miles.

Acura Maintenance Sub‑Codes Explained

Sub-codes provide more detailed guidance on specific components that require service.

Sub-Code 1: Tire Rotation

• Rotate all four tires to promote even wear.
• Also inspect for uneven tread wear or tire damage.

Suggested every 7,500 miles to maximize tire life.

Sub-Code 2: Air Filter and Cabin Filter Replacement

• Replace engine air filter.
• Replace cabin air filter (pollen/dust filter).

Usually every 15,000–30,000 miles.

Sub-Code 3: Transmission Fluid Replacement

• Replace automatic transmission fluid.
• For good gear shifts and prevent overheating.

Sub-Code 4: Spark Plug and Timing Inspection

• Replace spark plugs.
• Inspect timing belt (for V6 engines).
• Inspect valve clearance.

Change between 105,000 miles or 7 year..

Sub-Code 5: Coolant Replacement

• Replace engine coolant/antifreeze.
• Maintain engine temperature and prevents overheating.

Service every 60,000–100,000 miles.

Sub-Code 6: Rear Differential Fluid Replacement

• Replace rear differential fluid (for AWD models).

Every 15,000–30,000 miles depending on conditions like towing or off-road use.

Common Acura Maintenance‑Code Combinations

Code A1 — Oil change + tire rotation (most common, routine, inexpensive).

Code B1 — Full service + tire rotation (includes inspections and fluid checks, often at 15,000‑mile intervals).

Code B2 — All B1 services plus air‑filter replacement (improves air quality and engine efficiency).

Code B4 — Full service + spark‑plug replacement + timing‑belt inspection (appears near the 100k‑mile mark).

Acura Maintenance‑Minder Service Pricing*

Additional Services

Why Acura Uses Maintenance Codes Instead of a Traditional Schedule

The Maintenance Minder system is smarter than a fixed schedule because it adjusts based on:

• Driving habits
• Climate
• Engine load
• Trip frequency

That means your Acura receives maintenance only when it needs it, saving money and maximizing performance.

How to Reset Acura Maintenance Codes

1. Turn the ignition to ON (do not start the engine).
2. Press the Menu button on the dashboard.
3. Navigate to Vehicle Info → Maintenance Reset.
4. Select the code and confirm the reset.

(Refer to the owner’s manual if your infotainment layout differs.)

Signs Your Acura Needs Immediate Maintenance (Even Without a Code)

• Unusual noises during acceleration
• Delayed gear shifting
• Engine misfiring
• Burning smells or fluid leaks
• Check‑Engine light

Acura Maintenance Tips to Extend Vehicle Life

• Stick to the Maintenance Minder—it’s designed specifically for your Acura.
• Use OEM fluids and parts; aftermarket parts can affect performance.
• Keep service records to maintain warranty and resale value.
• Inspect tires monthly; pressure and tread depth affect handling and fuel economy.
• Don’t skip cabin‑filter changes—they affect air quality and A/C efficiency.

Conclusion

Those are the main points of all Acura maintenance codes for reliable, efficient operation and the inherent safety features of your vehicle. From simple oil changes to detailed timing inspections, each code has its purpose. Observe them, act promptly, and enjoy the confidence of driving a well‑maintained Acura.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with an A or B code showing?

Yes, but don’t delay too long—schedule service within a week or two.

Does the system track brake‑pad wear?

No. It only suggests inspection intervals; have brakes checked manually at each B‑code service.

What if I miss a code reset?

The system may show outdated information. Reset it manually after performing the maintenance.

Are maintenance codes different between models like the Acura MDX and TLX?

The codes are consistent across models, but intervals can vary slightly—especially for AWD or turbocharged engines.