1999 2003 Acura 3.2L TL Service Repair Manual PDF

The 1999-2003 Acura 3.2L TL Service Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical documentation for the second generation Acura TL luxury sedan. This manual covers the 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, chassis systems, electrical systems, and all maintenance procedures. Below are key sections for technical specifications, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, troubleshooting, and system diagnostics.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission 5. Electrical Systems 6. Brake Systems 7. Suspension & Steering 8. Heating & AC 9. Body & Interior 10. Troubleshooting 11. Wiring Diagrams

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 1999-2003 Acura 3.2L TL luxury sedan.

SpecificationDetails
Engine Type3.2L SOHC V6 (J32A1)
Displacement3,210 cc (196 cu in)
Horsepower225 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque216 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel Capacity17.1 gallons
Curb Weight3,483 lbs
Wheelbase108.1 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance.

  1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
  3. Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace every 30,000 miles
  4. Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
  5. Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles or 7 years
  6. Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
  7. Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
  8. Coolant: Replace every 5 years or 60,000 miles

WARNING! Failure to follow maintenance schedule may void warranty and cause premature component failure.

Engine Systems

Comprehensive coverage of the 3.2L V6 engine components and systems.

Transmission

5-speed automatic transmission service and repair procedures.

  1. Fluid Level Check: Engine running, transmission in Park
  2. Fluid Replacement: Drain and refill procedure
  3. Filter Service: Transmission pan removal and filter replacement
  4. Shift Solenoids: Testing and replacement procedures
  5. Torque Converter: Inspection and replacement guidelines
  6. Shift Cable: Adjustment and replacement
  7. Transmission Control Module: Diagnostics and programming

CAUTION! Use only Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 transmission fluid.

Electrical Systems

Complete electrical system diagnostics and repair procedures.

Battery: Testing, replacement, and maintenance procedures.

Charging System: Alternator testing, voltage regulator, drive belt.

Starting System: Starter motor, solenoid, ignition switch.

Lighting: Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lights.

Instrument Cluster: Gauges, warning lights, speedometer.

Power Accessories: Windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof.

Audio System: Radio, speakers, amplifier, antenna.

Brake Systems

Front and rear brake system service and repair.

  1. Brake Pad Replacement: Front and rear procedures
  2. Rotor Service: Measurement, machining, replacement
  3. Caliper Service: Rebuilding and replacement
  4. Brake Fluid: Bleeding procedure and fluid specification
  5. ABS System: Diagnostics, sensor replacement, modulator
  6. Parking Brake: Adjustment and cable replacement
  7. Master Cylinder: Testing and replacement

Tip: Always replace brake pads in axle sets (both front or both rear).

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and power steering system.

  1. Strut Replacement: Front and rear strut assembly
  2. Control Arms: Bushings and ball joint replacement
  3. Stabilizer Bar: Link and bushing replacement
  4. Wheel Bearings: Front and rear bearing service
  5. Alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures
  6. Power Steering: Pump, rack and pinion, hoses
  7. Tie Rods: Inner and outer tie rod replacement

WARNING! Always perform wheel alignment after suspension repairs.

Heating & AC

Climate control system service and repair procedures.

AC System: Compressor, condenser, evaporator, receiver-drier

Heating System: Heater core, blend doors, control assembly

Refrigerant: R134a specifications and charging procedures

Blower Motor: Testing and replacement procedures

AC Controls: Panel, sensors, and actuator motors

Body & Interior

Body components and interior trim service procedures.

Troubleshooting

Common problems and diagnostic procedures for the Acura TL.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine misfireSpark plugs, coils, fuel injectorsCheck ignition components; test fuel pressure; scan for codes
Transmission slippingLow fluid, worn clutchesCheck fluid level and condition; perform pressure test
Brake vibrationWarped rotors, stuck calipersInspect rotors for runout; check caliper operation
Electrical issuesBattery, alternator, groundsTest charging system; check ground connections
AC not coolingLow refrigerant, compressorCheck refrigerant pressure; test compressor clutch
Steering noisePower steering pump, beltCheck fluid level; inspect pump and belt

Diagnostic Tools: OBD-II scanner, multimeter, pressure gauges required.

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.

Engine Control System: ECM, sensors, actuators wiring

Transmission Control: TCM, solenoids, speed sensors

Body Electrical: Lighting, power accessories, instruments

ABS System: Wheel speed sensors, modulator, control unit

AC System: Compressor clutch, pressure switches, controls

Note: Diagrams include wire colors, connector locations, and ground points.

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