1997 Acura 3.2 TL Owners Manual

The 1997 Acura 3.2 TL is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, premium audio system, leather interior, power accessories, dual airbags, ABS brakes, and advanced climate control. Below are key sections covering vehicle features, maintenance, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

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

Vehicle Overview

Key features: 3.2L V6 engine, automatic transmission, power windows/locks/mirrors, leather seats, premium sound system, climate control, security system.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.2L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Transmission	4-speed automatic with SportShift
Audio System	AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD changer
Seating	Leather-trimmed with power adjustments
Climate Control	Automatic dual-zone temperature control
Safety	Dual airbags, ABS, side-impact protection
Power Features	Windows, door locks, mirrors, sunroof
Exterior	Alloy wheels, fog lights, power antenna
Interior	Woodgrain trim, automatic dimming mirror
Security	Theft-deterrent system with remote entry

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with gauges, indicators, and warning lights.

Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph and km/h
Tachometer: Engine RPM
Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brakes
Odometer: Total and trip distance

WARNING! Address warning lights immediately. Stop vehicle if temperature or oil pressure lights illuminate.

Operating Controls

Master vehicle controls for safe and comfortable operation.

Starting: Insert key, press brake, shift to Park or Neutral
Transmission: P-R-N-D-2-1 positions; use SportShift for manual control
Steering: Tilt and telescopic adjustment
Lighting: Headlights, fog lights, turn signals, interior lights
Wipers: Intermittent, low, high speeds with mist function

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake when parked on inclines.

Maintenance Schedule

Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
Coolant: Replace every 5 years or 60,000 miles
Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles

Specifications

Engine: 3.2L V6, 225 hp @ 5600 rpm, 216 lb-ft torque @ 4700 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel Capacity: 17.2 gallons
Fuel Type: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)
Dimensions: 194.5" L x 70.6" W x 55.7" H
Wheelbase: 111.9 inches
Curb Weight: 3,505 lbs
Tires: P205/60R16 all-season
Brakes: Front disc/rear disc with ABS

Driving Tips

Optimize performance and fuel efficiency with proper driving techniques.

Accelerate smoothly; avoid rapid starts and stops
Use cruise control on highways for consistent speed
Shift manually using SportShift for better control
Maintain proper tire pressure (32 psi cold)
Plan routes to minimize short trips when engine is cold

Tip: Regular maintenance improves fuel economy and extends vehicle life.

Audio System

Premium sound system with multiple source options.

Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off
Source Selection: AM/FM, cassette, CD changer
Volume: Rotary knob or steering wheel controls
Presets: Store up to 18 AM/FM stations
Bass/Treble: Adjust sound quality
Fader/Balance: Control speaker distribution
CD Changer: Load up to 6 discs in trunk unit
Antenna: Automatic power antenna extends when radio is on

WARNING! Adjust audio settings only when vehicle is stopped. Keep volume at safe levels.

Climate Control

Automatic dual-zone climate control system.

Auto Mode: Set desired temperature; system adjusts automatically
Manual Control: Adjust fan speed, mode, temperature separately
Defrost: Front and rear defogger buttons
A/C: Air conditioning for dehumidification and cooling
Recirculation: Interior air recirculation for quick cooling

CAUTION! Do not block air vents. Have system serviced if unusual odors occur.

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems for occupant protection.

Feature	Function
Dual Airbags	Driver and front passenger supplemental restraint
ABS Brakes	Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking
Side Impact	Reinforced door beams and structure
Security System	Theft deterrent with remote entry
Child Safety	Rear door child-proof locks
Head Restraints	Adjustable front and rear seats

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery connections; ensure adequate fuel; try jump start
Check engine light	Various engine issues	Have diagnostic code read at Acura dealer
Poor fuel economy	Maintenance needed	Check air filter, tire pressure, spark plugs
Transmission shifts hard	Low fluid, needs service	Check transmission fluid level and condition
Brake pedal pulsates	Warped rotors	Have brake system inspected and rotors resurfaced
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator	Test battery and charging system

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service. Warranty: 4-year/50,000-mile basic, 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain.

Emergency: Roadside assistance available through Acura Client Relations.