Acura B13 Service Cost and Money-Saving Tips

The cost of a B13 service for an Acura can vary depending on factors such as the model and year of the car, the location of the service, and the specific services included in the B13 service. 

Based on national averages, a B13 service for an Acura can range from $150 to $250, with a typical cost for an averagely priced US city around $250 to $500. 

For example, in a city with a higher cost of living, the B13 service for an Acura may cost closer to $250 or even more. On the other hand, in a smaller town with lower labor costs, the service may be available for around $150 or less.

This article explores the costs of the Acura B13 service, what the typical service includes, with advice and tips on saving money.

What does typical Acura B13 service include?

A typical Acura B13 service is a routine maintenance service recommended by Acura for vehicles with approximately 30,000 to 40,000 miles. 

Generally speaking, a B13 service for an Acura typically involves an oil change, tire rotation, and a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle’s systems and components.

The specific items included in the service may vary depending on the model and year of the Acura, but the following are some common tasks that are usually performed during a B13 service:

1. Oil and filter change – $50 to $100
2. Tire rotation and balance – $50 to $100
3. Inspection of brakes, steering, suspension, and exhaust systems – $50 to $100
4. Inspection of engine, transmission, and drivetrain components – $50 to $100
5. Replacement of air filter – $20 to $50
6. Replacement of cabin air filter – $20 to $50
7. Inspection of battery, charging system, and electrical components – $50 to $100

Here are the costs in a table format:

The total cost of a B13 service can vary widely depending on the specific services performed, the labor rates in the area, and the cost of parts and materials. However, prices can vary significantly from one location to another, and it’s always a good idea to check with your local Acura dealer or independent mechanic for a more accurate estimate.

What factors affect the cost of an Acura B13 Service?

Several factors can affect the cost of an Acura B13 service, including:

Location

The cost of labor and parts can vary depending on the location of the service center. For example, a dealership in a high-cost city may have higher labor rates and parts costs, which can drive up the overall cost of the service.

Here are three practical tips for finding an Acura service center with reasonable labor rates and parts costs based on location:

• Shop around. Research multiple Acura service centers in your area and compare their prices for the B13 service. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or ask for discounts, especially if you have a good relationship with the service center or have been a loyal customer in the past.
• Look for independent mechanics. Independent mechanics may have lower labor rates and parts costs than dealerships, since they have lower overhead costs. Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family to find a reputable independent mechanic in your area.
• Consider traveling to a nearby town or city. If you live in a high-cost city, it may be worth considering traveling to a nearby town or city with lower labor rates and parts costs for your B13 service. Make sure to factor in the cost of travel and any inconvenience, but if the savings are significant, it may be worth the extra effort.

Model and year of the Acura

Different Acura models and years may require different services and parts, which can affect the cost of the B13 service. For example, a newer Acura model may require more advanced or specialized parts, which can be more expensive than those for an older model.

Similarly, if an Acura model has been discontinued, finding replacement parts may be more difficult and expensive.

Here are a few examples of how the model and year of an Acura can affect the cost of a B13 service:

1. A 2021 Acura RDX may require more advanced services and parts than a 2015 Acura TLX, which can increase the overall cost of the B13 service for the RDX.
2. An older Acura model, such as a 2005 Acura MDX, may require more labor hours to complete the B13 service than a newer model, which can increase the cost of the service.
3. If a driver has a rare or limited edition Acura model, such as an NSX or Type R, replacement parts may be more expensive and harder to find, which can increase the overall cost of the B13 service.

Type of service provider

Dealerships and independent mechanics may have different pricing structures, with dealerships typically charging more due to their overhead costs. However, dealerships may also have access to specialized training and equipment that can affect the quality of the service.

Consider the value of specialized equipment and training when choosing between a dealership and an independent mechanic. Dealerships have direct access to Acura-specific tools, parts, and trained technicians, while independent mechanics may have to rely on aftermarket parts and generic tools. Choose the provider that best fits your needs and budget.

Additional services

If additional services are required or recommended during the B13 service, such as replacing worn-out parts or performing a brake system flush, this can increase the overall cost of the service.

Here are a few examples of additional services that may increase the cost of an Acura B13 service:

• Brake system flush. If the brake fluid in an Acura is dirty or contaminated, a brake system flush may be recommended as part of the B13 service. This involves removing the old brake fluid and replacing it with new fluid, which can help maintain the performance and safety of the brakes. A brake system flush can add around $100 to $150 to the cost of the service.
• Replacement parts. If worn-out or damaged parts are discovered during the B13 service, such as a worn-out serpentine belt or damaged brake pads, they will need to be replaced. The cost of replacement parts can vary depending on the specific part needed, with some parts costing several hundred dollars or more.
• Alignment or suspension services. If the Acura’s alignment or suspension is found to be out of specification during the B13 service, additional services such as a four-wheel alignment or suspension repairs may be necessary. These services can add several hundred dollars to the cost of the B13 service.
• Fluid replacements. Depending on the model and year of the Acura, the B13 service may include replacing fluids such as transmission fluid or coolant. The cost of these services can vary depending on the type of fluid and the labor required to replace it, with some services costing several hundred dollars or more.
• Battery replacement. If the Acura’s battery is found to be weak or failing during the B13 service, it may need to be replaced. The cost of a replacement battery can vary depending on the model and year of the Acura, with some batteries costing several hundred dollars or more.

Maintenance history

If the Acura has not been well-maintained in the past, it may require additional services or parts replacement, which can add to the cost of the B13 service.

Neglected maintenance can cause wear and tear on the Acura’s parts, which can lead to more significant issues down the line. Before purchasing a used Acura, consider having a pre-purchase inspection done to identify any past maintenance issues.

Warranty or service plan

If the Acura is still under warranty or has a service plan, some or all of the costs associated with the B13 service may be covered, reducing the out-of-pocket cost for the driver.

Be sure to read the fine print of your warranty or service plan, as some plans may have exclusions or limitations that could affect coverage for the B13 service. 

It’s also important to keep up with the recommended maintenance schedule to ensure that your Acura remains eligible for coverage under the plan.

How do Acura Minder Codes impact the cost of a B13 Service? 

Acura Minder Codes provide guidance on the necessary maintenance services for the Acura at specific mileage intervals. By following these codes, drivers can help prevent unnecessary repairs and identify potential issues early on. 

This can help reduce the overall cost of the B13 service by ensuring that only necessary services are performed and potential issues are caught before they become major problems.

How to save money on Acura B13 services without sacrificing safety?

1. Keep up with the recommended maintenance schedule to prevent costly repairs down the line and keep your Acura in good condition.
2. Shop around and compare prices from multiple service centers and independent mechanics to find the best price.
3. Focus on the necessary services recommended by the Acura Minder Codes for the B13 service to avoid adding unnecessary services or repairs that can drive up the overall cost of the service.
4. Consider using reputable aftermarket parts brands as a cost-effective alternative to OEM parts, especially for older Acura models.
5. Learn how to perform some maintenance tasks yourself, such as replacing air filters or windshield wipers, to save on labor costs. However, consult the owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic before attempting any maintenance tasks yourself.

FAQs

How much to change the gearbox fluid in an Acura?

The cost of changing gearbox fluid in an Acura can vary depending on the model and year, but it typically ranges from $100 to $250.

Is service B equivalent to an oil change?

No, service B is not equivalent to an oil change but it does include an oil change. It also includes tire rotation, brake inspection, cabin air filter replacement, and a few other services.

How often should Acura transmission fluid be changed?

Acura recommends changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the model and year.

What is Acura RDX maintenance B123?

Acura RDX Maintenance B123 includes a variety of services recommended for the Acura RDX, including oil and filter changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and several other services. The specific services included can vary depending on the model year.