Acura B12 Service Cost, Maintenance Code & Reset Guide
The Acura B12 Service is an important maintenance routine to keep your vehicle in top condition. When the B12 code appears on your dashboard, it means that key services are due, such as an oil change, tire rotation, air filter replacements, and a drive belt inspection. These tasks help ensure your Acura runs smoothly, improve engine performance, and extend its lifespan.
The cost of the B12 service typically ranges from $100 to $300, depending on factors like your location, labor rates, and the specific Acura model. The time it takes for the service can vary but usually takes about 3 to 5 hours. For example, an oil change usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes, while a tire rotation takes about 15 minutes.
By following the recommended B12 service intervals, you’ll keep your Acura in good shape, ensuring reliable performance and safety on the road. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding expensive repairs down the line.
What is the Acura B12 Service Maintenance Code and What Does It Mean?
The Acura B12 Service Code is an important indicator that alerts you when your vehicle requires specific maintenance tasks to maintain its optimal performance. This code consists of two main parts, B and 12, each representing different types of service needed.
- B stands for an oil and filter change, a vital task that ensures the engine runs smoothly by keeping the oil clean and functioning.
- 1 refers to tire rotation, ensuring even wear on your tires and enhancing safety.
- 2 indicates engine and cabin air filter replacement, as well as a drive belt inspection to prevent future issues.
Together, the B12 service code helps in keeping your Acura in top condition, ensuring safety, performance, and longevity.
When Should You Get the Acura B12 Service?
The Acura B12 service is typically required at the 15,000-mile mark. It’s an important maintenance interval that ensures your vehicle stays in top condition. Skipping this service could lead to potential issues with engine performance and other vital systems. Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your Acura, keeping it safe, reliable, and efficient on the road. Always check your vehicle’s maintenance schedule for specific timing to avoid any surprises.
Acura B12 Maintenance Code Breakdown
The B12 maintenance code is a reminder that your Acura needs specific services to maintain its performance and reliability. Here’s a detailed explanation of the tasks included:
Maintenance Tasks in “B” – Oil Change and Inspections
The “B” part of the B12 service is focused on changing the oil and engine filter, essential for keeping the engine clean and running efficiently. Along with this, the technician will inspect key parts of the car to ensure they’re in good shape:
- Brakes (Front & Rear): Checks for wear to ensure they are safe.
- Steering Gearbox & Tie Rod Ends: Ensures your steering system is working properly.
- Driveshaft Boots: Inspects for damage that could affect the car’s drivability.
- ABS/VSA Brake Lines: Checks for leaks or issues in the braking system.
- Fluid Levels & Condition: Ensures all essential fluids (brake, coolant, transmission) are at proper levels.
- Exhaust System: Inspect for any damage or issues that could affect emissions and engine performance.
- Fuel Lines & Connections: Ensures there are no leaks or issues that could compromise fuel delivery.
The exhaust system, in particular, helps remove harmful gases from the engine, reduces noise, and directs the exhaust safely away from passengers. Its main parts include the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipes.
Maintenance Tasks in “1” – Tire Rotation
The “1” part of the B12 service involves rotating your tires to ensure even wear. This helps extend their lifespan and ensures better handling. The mechanic will:
- Rotate tires in a forward cross pattern (based on your vehicle type).
- Inspect each tire for damage or uneven wear, ensuring there are no punctures or issues that could affect driving.
Maintenance Tasks in “2” – Filter Replacements and Drive Belt Check
The “2” part of the B12 service includes replacing the engine and cabin air filters. Clean filters ensure your engine runs smoothly and that the air inside your car remains fresh. Additionally, the mechanic will:
- Inspect the drive belt for wear or cracks. The drive belt powers various accessories like the air conditioning and alternator, so it’s crucial for overall vehicle operation.
By following the B12 service code, your Acura will continue to perform at its best, ensuring safety, reliability, and efficiency.
How Much Does Acura B12 Service Cost?
The cost of the Acura B12 Service generally falls between $100 and $300. This range can change based on several factors related to your specific situation. Here’s a more detailed look at the cost breakdown:
- Oil and Filter Change (B): This is a fundamental part of the service, where the engine oil and filter are replaced to ensure the engine runs smoothly. The cost for this typically ranges from $50 to $100 depending on the type of oil your vehicle uses and the service provider.
- Tire Rotation (1): This task ensures even wear on your tires and improves your vehicle’s handling. The cost for rotating your tires usually ranges from $30 to $50.
- Engine and Cabin Air Filter Replacement (2): Replacing both the engine air filter and cabin air filter ensures your engine breathes properly and the air inside the cabin remains fresh. The cost for replacing these filters typically ranges from $100 to $150.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Acura B12 Service
While the prices listed above offer a good general guideline, several factors can influence the final cost of the service:
- Location: Labor rates vary depending on where you get the service done. In metropolitan areas or high-cost regions, the prices may be higher than in rural areas or less expensive cities. The cost of living in your area can directly impact the price you pay for service.
- Model of Vehicle: Some Acura models, like the Acura MDX, require more expensive synthetic motor oil. Synthetic oil costs more than conventional oil, so if your car requires it, expect the overall service cost to be on the higher end of the scale.
- Dealership vs. Independent Mechanic: The cost can also vary depending on whether you take your car to an Acura dealership or an independent mechanic. Dealerships tend to charge more due to brand-specific expertise, while independent shops may offer a lower price. However, dealerships may offer warranty or specialized service advantages.
Do You Know?
Neglecting the Acura B12 Service can lead to costly repairs. For example, skipping tire rotations or filter replacements can reduce performance, fuel efficiency, and tire lifespan. Regular maintenance helps your Acura stay reliable and safe.
How Long Does the B12 Service Take?
The time it takes to complete the B12 Service can vary depending on several factors, such as the mechanic’s experience, how busy the service shop is, and the condition of your vehicle. On average, you can expect the service to take around 3 to 5 hours. Here’s a breakdown of the time required for each task under the B12 service:
- Oil and Filter Change (B): 30-40 minutes.
- Tire Rotation (1): 15 minutes.
- Engine and Cabin Air Filter Replacement (2): 45 minutes.
These times can vary based on your specific vehicle needs and the shop’s workload, but typically, the total time for the entire B12 service will be 3 to 5 hours. If the shop is particularly busy, it might take a little longer.
How to Reset the Service Due Light on a 2012 Acura TSX?
Follow these simple steps to reset the Service Due light on your 2012 Acura TSX:
- Turn the Ignition On: Insert the key and turn it to the second position (just before the engine starts).
- Navigate to the Oil Life Screen: Press the Select/Reset button on the dashboard until you see the oil life remaining on the display.
- Reset the Oil Life: Press and hold the Select/Reset button for about 10 seconds. A new screen will pop up.
- Select Reset: Use the up or down arrow buttons to scroll to Reset, then press the Select/Reset button again to confirm.
The Service Due light should now be reset. For more details, watch the full video here:
Conclusion
Resetting the Service Due light on your Acura TSX is a simple process that you can do on your own. By following the steps to turn the ignition on, navigate to the oil life screen, and reset the service light, you’ll keep your dashboard clear and ensure your vehicle is ready for the next maintenance. It’s a quick task that can help you maintain your car’s performance and stay on top of necessary services.
Stay connected with https://mechaux.com/
FAQs
Q. What does the “B” in B12 Service represent?
The “B” refers to the oil and filter change, along with an inspection of other essential parts like brakes, fuel lines, and exhaust systems.
Q. Why is the oil and filter change important in B12 Service?
Regular oil and filter changes help keep the engine clean, improve performance, and extend the engine’s life by preventing debris and contaminants from causing damage.
