1991 Acura Integra Manual Transmission Fluid
The 1991 Acura Integra manual transmission requires specific fluid types and maintenance procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This guide covers fluid specifications, capacity, recommended brands, change intervals, and step-by-step procedures for checking and replacing manual transmission fluid.
Fluid Specifications
The 1991 Acura Integra manual transmission requires specific fluid types for proper operation and gear protection.
| Fluid Type | Specification |
|---|
| Honda MTF | Original equipment manufacturer recommended |
| 10W-30 Motor Oil | Alternative option (conventional) |
| 75W-90 Gear Oil | Aftermarket synthetic option |
| API GL-4 | Required specification for manual transmissions |
| API GL-5 | Not recommended (can damage synchronizers) |
Fluid Capacity
Proper fluid levels are essential for transmission longevity and smooth shifting.
- Total Capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
- Drain & Refill: 1.8-2.0 quarts (1.7-1.9 liters)
- Check Level: At fill plug opening
- Overfill Warning: Can cause seal damage and leaks
Recommended Brands
Quality transmission fluid ensures smooth shifting and component protection.
- Honda Genuine MTF: OEM specification, optimal performance
- Red Line MTL: Synthetic alternative, excellent cold weather performance
- Amsoil Manual Synchromesh: Full synthetic, extended drain intervals
- GM Synchromesh: Compatible alternative formulation
- Castrol Syntrans: Multi-vehicle synthetic option
WARNING! Avoid GL-5 rated gear oils as they can damage brass synchronizers.
Change Intervals
Regular fluid changes maintain transmission health and shifting performance.
| Condition | Interval |
|---|
| Normal Driving | Every 30,000 miles or 2 years |
| Severe Service | Every 15,000 miles or 1 year |
| Racing/Track Use | Every 5-10 events or 6 months |
| First Change | 15,000 miles for new transmission |
Tools Required
Proper tools ensure safe and efficient fluid service.
- 3/8" Drive Ratchet with extensions
- 17mm Socket for drain and fill plugs
- Fluid Pump or squeeze bottle with hose
- Drain Pan (minimum 3 quart capacity)
- Jack and Jack Stands for safe access
- Torque Wrench for proper plug tightening
- Gloves and Safety Glasses for protection
Checking Fluid Level
Regular fluid level checks prevent transmission damage.
- Park on level surface and engage parking brake
- Clean area around fill plug (passenger side of transmission)
- Remove fill plug with 17mm socket
- Fluid should be level with bottom of fill hole
- If low, add fluid until it begins to drip out
- Reinstall and torque fill plug to 29 ft-lbs
CAUTION! Transmission must be level for accurate fluid check.
Draining Old Fluid
Proper draining removes contaminants and worn fluid.
- Drive vehicle to warm transmission fluid
- Park on level surface and secure with jack stands
- Place drain pan under transmission drain plug
- Remove drain plug with 17mm socket (counter-clockwise)
- Allow fluid to drain completely (10-15 minutes)
- Inspect drain plug magnet for metal particles
- Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer
- Torque drain plug to 29 ft-lbs
Refilling Procedure
Correct refilling ensures proper lubrication and cooling.
- Use fluid pump or squeeze bottle with hose
- Insert hose into fill plug opening
- Pump fluid slowly until it begins to drip out
- Wait for dripping to stop, indicating full level
- Reinstall fill plug with new washer
- Torque fill plug to 29 ft-lbs
- Start engine and shift through all gears
- Recheck fluid level after driving short distance
Tip: Use clear hose to monitor fluid flow and prevent overfilling.
Common Issues
Recognizing transmission fluid-related problems early prevents major repairs.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|
| Hard shifting when cold | Wrong fluid viscosity | Switch to Honda MTF or synthetic equivalent |
| Grinding gears | Low fluid level or worn fluid | Check level and change fluid |
| Transmission noise | Incorrect fluid type | Drain and refill with proper fluid |
| Leaking fluid | Worn seals or overfilled | Check level and inspect seals |
| Poor shifting feel | Contaminated fluid | Complete fluid change |
Troubleshooting
Address common transmission fluid problems effectively.
- Fluid Leaks: Check drain/fill plugs, axle seals, and case seams
- Discolored Fluid: Brown or black indicates wear; change immediately
- Burning Smell: Overheating transmission; check fluid level and condition
- Metal Particles: Significant wear; consider transmission inspection
- Water Contamination: Milky fluid indicates water entry; flush system
Service Note: For persistent issues, consult Acura dealership or transmission specialist.
1991 Acura Integra Manual Transmission Fluid Guide © - All Rights Reserved 2025