1996 Acura SLX Repair Manual

The 1996 Acura SLX is a mid-size luxury SUV featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, 4-wheel drive system, automatic transmission, and comprehensive electronic systems. This repair manual covers essential maintenance procedures, troubleshooting guides, and technical specifications for proper vehicle servicing. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, engine repair, transmission service, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, and diagnostic procedures.

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data: 3.2L V6 engine, 4WD system, automatic transmission, and vehicle dimensions.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
2. Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
3. Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
4. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
5. Timing Belt: Replace every 90,000 miles
6. Transmission Fluid: Change every 30,000 miles
7. Coolant: Flush every 30,000 miles or 2 years
8. Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years

WARNING! Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Repair

Comprehensive engine service procedures and component replacement.

1. Engine Removal: Disconnect battery, drain fluids, remove accessories, unbolt mounts
2. Cylinder Head: Remove intake/exhaust manifolds, camshafts, head bolts in sequence
3. Timing Belt: Align timing marks, tension properly, check for wear
4. Valve Adjustment: Cold engine, set intake: 0.006-0.008 in, exhaust: 0.008-0.010 in
5. Oil Pump: Inspect for wear, replace if clearance exceeds specifications
6. Water Pump: Replace with timing belt service, check for leaks

CAUTION! Engine components are heavy; use proper lifting equipment. Follow torque sequences exactly.

Transmission Service

• Transmission Type: 4-speed automatic with overdrive
• Fluid Capacity: 8.5 quarts (with torque converter)
• Fluid Type: Dexron III/Mercon ATF
• Filter Service: Replace during fluid change
• Band Adjustments: Requires special tools
• Shift Points: 1-2: 15 mph, 2-3: 25 mph, 3-4: 45 mph
• Diagnostic Port: Located under dashboard
• Transfer Case: Separate fluid reservoir, service every 30,000 miles

Electrical Systems

Wiring diagrams, component locations, and electrical troubleshooting.

Battery: Group 24, 650 CCA, negative ground. Alternator: 90 amp output. Starter: 1.4 kW reduction gear type.

Fuse Box: Main under hood, secondary inside cabin. ECU Location: Under passenger seat. Sensor Testing: Use multimeter for resistance/voltage checks. Wiring: Color-coded per standard, refer to diagrams for circuit identification. Ground Points: Engine block, chassis, body panels - clean regularly.

Brake System

Hydraulic brake system with ABS, service procedures and specifications.

1. Brake Pads: Front - semi-metallic, Rear - organic compound
2. Rotor Thickness: Minimum 1.02 inches front, 0.39 inches rear
3. Brake Fluid: DOT 3, bleed sequence: RR, LR, RF, LF
4. ABS Operation: Wheel speed sensors, hydraulic modulator, ECU
5. Parking Brake: Cable adjustment at equalizer

Tip: Always replace brake components in axle sets. Test drive after service.

Suspension & Steering

Front independent suspension, rear live axle, power steering system.

1. Front Struts: Replace in pairs, check mounting points
2. Ball Joints: Check for play, replace if movement exceeds 0.125 inches
3. Tie Rod Ends: Inspect for wear, adjust toe-in: 0 ± 0.08 inches
4. Shock Absorbers: Rear, test for leakage and damping
5. Steering Gear: Power-assisted, fluid type: Dexron II
6. Wheel Alignment: Camber: -0°30' ± 45', Caster: +2°45' ± 45'

WARNING! Use proper spring compressors for strut service. Never heat suspension components.

Cooling System

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, and cooling fan operation.

Fuel System

Fuel injection system, pump, filter, and pressure specifications.

CAUTION! Relieve fuel pressure before service. No smoking or open flames near fuel system.

Diagnostic Procedures

OBD-I diagnostic system, code retrieval, and system testing.

Diagnostic Connector: Located under hood near firewall. Code Reading: Jump terminals, count check engine light flashes. Common Codes: 1 - Oxygen sensor, 7 - throttle position sensor, 12 - EGR system. Component Testing: Follow step-by-step procedures in manual.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to clear ECU memory.

Service: Contact Acura dealership or certified technician for complex repairs.