1996 Acura TL Owners Manual PDF

The 1996 Acura TL is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 2.5L V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, leather interior, power windows/locks/mirrors, climate control, premium audio system, anti-lock brakes, dual airbags, and advanced safety features. This comprehensive owner's manual covers vehicle operation, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and technical specifications for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Controls 4. Maintenance Schedule 5. Technical Specifications 6. Safety Features 7. Audio System 8. Climate Control 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Vehicle Overview

The 1996 Acura TL combines luxury and performance with premium features and advanced engineering.

FeatureDescription
Engine2.5L 24-valve V6 engine
Transmission4-speed automatic with SportShift
Seating Capacity5 passengers
Fuel Capacity17.2 gallons
Curb Weight3,351 lbs
Exterior Dimensions190.2" L x 70.1" W x 55.1" H
Interior FeaturesLeather seats, power accessories
Audio SystemAM/FM stereo with cassette
Safety FeaturesDual airbags, ABS, side impact protection

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with the instrument cluster and warning indicators.

  1. Speedometer: Displays vehicle speed in mph
  2. Tachometer: Engine RPM indicator
  3. Fuel Gauge: Shows fuel level
  4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
  5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brake system
  6. Odometer: Total and trip distance

IMPORTANT! Respond immediately to red warning lights to prevent vehicle damage.

Operating Controls

Master the vehicle's primary controls for safe operation.

  1. Ignition: Insert key and turn to start position
  2. Transmission: Park (P), Reverse (R), Neutral (N), Drive (D)
  3. Steering Wheel: Tilt adjustment lever
  4. Light Controls: Headlights, fog lights, turn signals
  5. Wipers: Intermittent, low, high speed settings
  6. Cruise Control: Set, resume, cancel functions

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake when parked on inclines.

Maintenance Schedule

Technical Specifications

Detailed technical data for the 1996 Acura TL.

ComponentSpecification
Engine Type2.5L SOHC 24-valve V6
Horsepower176 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque170 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Transmission4-speed automatic
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
BrakesPower-assisted disc brakes with ABS
Suspension4-wheel independent double wishbone
Fuel Economy19 city / 26 highway mpg

Safety Features

The 1996 Acura TL incorporates multiple safety systems.

  1. Dual Airbag System: Driver and front passenger
  2. Anti-lock Brakes: Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking
  3. Side Impact Protection: Reinforced door beams
  4. 3-point Seat Belts: Front and rear seating positions
  5. Child Safety: Rear door child-proof locks
  6. Security System: Anti-theft system with remote

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Children under 12 should ride in back seat.

Audio System

Premium sound system operation and features.

  1. Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off
  2. Source Selection: AM/FM radio, cassette player
  3. Volume Control: Rotary knob for audio level
  4. Preset Stations: Store up to 18 AM/FM stations
  5. Tone Controls: Bass, treble, balance, fader
  6. Cassette Operation: Auto-reverse, Dolby noise reduction

Tip: Use seek function for automatic station tuning.

Climate Control

Automatic climate control system operation.

  1. Temperature: Set desired cabin temperature
  2. Fan Speed: Adjust airflow intensity
  3. Mode Selection: Vent, floor, defrost, bi-level
  4. A/C: Press for air conditioning
  5. Recirculation: Interior air recirculation mode
  6. Defrost: Front and rear window defoggers

Note: System automatically maintains set temperature.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, fuel issueCheck battery connections, fuel level
OverheatingLow coolant, thermostatCheck coolant level, inspect cooling system
Brake warning lightLow fluid, parking brakeCheck brake fluid, release parking brake fully
Electrical issuesBlown fuse, alternatorInspect fuse box, check charging system
Transmission issuesLow fluid, sensorCheck transmission fluid level and condition

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for professional service.

Warranty Information

1996 Acura TL comes with comprehensive warranty coverage: 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, 5-year/unlimited mileage corrosion warranty, and 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Contact your Acura dealer for specific coverage details and claims.

1996 Acura TL Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025