1999 Acura 3.2 TL Owners Manual

The 1999 Acura 3.2 TL is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift, premium audio system, leather interior, dual-zone climate control, power accessories, and advanced safety features including dual front airbags and ABS. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Controls 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Audio System 7. Climate Control 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, power windows/locks/mirrors, leather seats, moonroof, anti-lock brakes, dual airbags.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.2L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension4-wheel independent double-wishbone
SteeringPower-assisted rack-and-pinion
Audio SystemAM/FM stereo with cassette and CD changer
Climate ControlDual-zone automatic temperature control
SeatingLeather-trimmed with 8-way power driver seat
SecurityAnti-theft system with remote entry

Instrument Panel

Main gauges and indicators: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

  1. Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h
  2. Tachometer: Displays engine RPM
  3. Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level
  4. Temperature Gauge: Shows engine coolant temperature
  5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS, airbag

WARNING! If any warning light illuminates while driving, stop safely and check the condition immediately.

Operating Controls

Steering wheel controls, gear selector, climate controls, audio controls.

  1. Ignition: Insert key and turn to start position
  2. Gear Selector: P-R-N-D-D3-2-1 positions
  3. SportShift: Move selector to right for manual shifting
  4. Cruise Control: Set/Resume buttons on steering wheel
  5. Power Windows: Master switch on driver door

CAUTION! Always come to complete stop before shifting between P, R, and D positions.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Every 7,500 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation, fluid checks

Every 15,000 miles: Air filter replacement, brake inspection

Every 30,000 miles: Spark plug replacement, transmission fluid change

Every 60,000 miles: Timing belt replacement, coolant replacement

Every 90,000 miles: Major service including all above items

Audio System

Premium sound system with AM/FM stereo, cassette player, and CD changer controls.

  1. Power/Volume: Turn knob to adjust volume
  2. AM/FM Selection: Press band button to switch
  3. Preset Stations: Set and recall 6 stations per band
  4. Cassette Operation: Insert cassette with exposed tape facing right
  5. CD Changer: Load up to 6 CDs in magazine
  6. Balance/Fader: Adjust sound distribution
  7. Bass/Treble: Adjust tone settings

Tip: Theft-deterrent code required if battery disconnected.

Climate Control

Dual-zone automatic climate control system.

  1. Auto Mode: System maintains set temperature automatically
  2. Temperature Control: Separate driver and passenger controls
  3. Fan Speed: Automatic or manual adjustment
  4. Mode Selection: Face, face/feet, feet, feet/defrost, defrost
  5. A/C Button: Engages air conditioning
  6. Recirculation: Controls fresh air vs. recirculated air
  7. Rear Defogger: Clears rear window condensation

WARNING! Do not use recirculation mode for extended periods in cold weather to prevent window fogging.

Safety Features

Dual front airbags, side impact protection, anti-lock brakes, child safety features.

FeatureDescription
Front AirbagsDriver and passenger front airbags
ABSAnti-lock braking system prevents wheel lockup
Side ImpactReinforced door beams and structure
Child SafetyRear door child-proof locks
Seat Belts3-point belts with emergency locking retractors
Head RestraintsAdjustable front and rear head restraints

Care & Cleaning

Exterior washing, interior cleaning, leather care, vinyl and plastic surfaces.

  1. Exterior: Use car wash soap, avoid abrasive cleaners
  2. Windows: Use glass cleaner and soft cloth
  3. Leather Seats: Clean with mild soap and condition regularly
  4. Carpets: Vacuum regularly, use carpet cleaner for stains
  5. Vinyl/Plastic: Wipe with damp cloth, use protectant

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals on leather or plastic surfaces.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty coverage: 4 years/50,000 miles basic, 5 years/unlimited miles corrosion, 6 years/70,000 miles powertrain. Acura Client Relations: 1-800-382-2238. Authorized Acura dealers provide warranty service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignitionCheck battery connections; ensure in Park; try spare key.
Check engine lightEmission systemHave system diagnosed at Acura dealer; check gas cap.
Transmission shifts hardFluid levelCheck transmission fluid level and condition.
Brake pedal pulsatesABS/rotorsNormal ABS operation; if excessive, check rotors.
Audio system lockedTheft protectionEnter security code (see card in glove box).
Poor fuel economyDriving habits/maintenanceCheck tire pressure; replace air filter; avoid aggressive driving.

Emergency: Roadside Assistance: 1-800-382-2238

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for all repairs

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