1999 Acura Integra Manual Transmission Fluid

The 1999 Acura Integra manual transmission requires specific fluid types and maintenance procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Proper fluid selection, regular maintenance intervals, and correct filling procedures are essential for smooth shifting and transmission protection. Below are key sections covering fluid specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and technical details.

Recommended Fluid Specifications

For the 1999 Acura Integra manual transmission, Honda Genuine MTF is the recommended factory fluid.

Fluid Type	Specification
Honda Genuine MTF	Factory recommended - provides optimal shifting performance
Alternative Option	GM Synchromesh FM fluid (compatible)
Viscosity Grade	75W-85 or equivalent manual transmission fluid
API Classification	GL-4 or GL-5 rated manual transmission fluid
Capacity	Approximately 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)

Fluid Capacity and Intervals

Proper fluid capacity and maintenance intervals ensure transmission longevity.

Total Capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Drain and Refill: 1.9 quarts (1.8 liters)
Normal Service: Replace every 30,000 miles or 30 months
Severe Service: Replace every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Initial Change: Recommended at 15,000 miles for new vehicles

NOTE: Severe service includes frequent short trips, towing, or extreme temperature operation.

Checking Transmission Fluid Level

Regular fluid level checks help prevent transmission damage.

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
Clean area around fill plug on transmission case
Remove fill plug (17mm bolt) from side of transmission
Fluid should be level with bottom of fill hole threads
If fluid drips out, level is adequate
If no fluid drips, add fluid until it begins to overflow
Reinstall fill plug and torque to 33 ft-lbs (45 Nm)

WARNING! Check fluid when transmission is at operating temperature for accurate reading.

Draining and Refilling Procedure

Complete fluid replacement procedure for maintenance.

Raise vehicle and support securely on jack stands
Place drain pan under transmission drain plug
Remove drain plug (17mm) and allow fluid to drain completely
Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer
Torque drain plug to 33 ft-lbs (45 Nm)
Remove fill plug from side of transmission
Add fluid through fill hole using pump until fluid overflows
Reinstall fill plug and torque to 33 ft-lbs (45 Nm)
Lower vehicle and check for leaks

Fluid Types and Compatibility

Understanding fluid compatibility and alternatives.

Fluid Type	Compatibility	Notes
Honda Genuine MTF	Excellent	Factory recommended - optimal performance
GM Synchromesh FM	Good	Popular alternative - improves cold shifting
Red Line MTL	Good	Synthetic option - better temperature stability
Conventional 75W-90	Fair	May cause notchy shifting when cold
Automatic Transmission Fluid	Not Recommended	Can damage synchronizers

Tools and Materials Required

Essential tools for transmission fluid service.

Fluid Pump: Manual or electric transmission fluid pump
Socket Set: 17mm socket for drain and fill plugs
Torque Wrench: Capable of 33 ft-lbs torque
Jack and Jack Stands: For safe vehicle lifting
Drain Pan: Minimum 3-quart capacity
New Washers: Crush washers for drain and fill plugs
Clean Rags: For spill cleanup
Safety Glasses: Eye protection

Common Symptoms of Fluid Issues

Recognizing transmission fluid problems early.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Indication
Notchy shifting	Old or incorrect fluid	Fluid breakdown or contamination
Grinding gears	Low fluid level	Insufficient lubrication
Difficulty shifting when cold	Wrong viscosity	Fluid too thick for temperature
Transmission noise	Low fluid or worn fluid	Inadequate lubrication
Fluid leaks	Worn seals or loose plugs	External fluid loss

Troubleshooting Guide

Diagnosing and resolving common transmission fluid issues.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Hard shifting	Old fluid, wrong type	Drain and refill with Honda MTF
Transmission whine	Low fluid level	Check and top up fluid level
Gear grinding	Worn synchronizers, low fluid	Check fluid, consider rebuild if persistent
Fluid leakage	Loose plugs, worn seals	Tighten plugs, replace seals as needed
Poor cold performance	Incorrect fluid viscosity	Switch to Honda MTF or Synchromesh

Technical Specifications

Detailed technical data for the 1999 Acura Integra manual transmission.

Transmission Model: S80 (LS/GSR models)
Fluid Type: Honda Genuine Manual Transmission Fluid
Total Capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Service Capacity: 1.9 quarts (1.8 liters)
Drain Plug Torque: 33 ft-lbs (45 Nm)
Fill Plug Torque: 33 ft-lbs (45 Nm)
Fluid Change Interval: 30,000 miles/30 months
Operating Temperature: -40°F to 300°F (-40°C to 149°C)

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures when working with transmission fluid.

Always support vehicle securely on jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack
Wear safety glasses to protect eyes from fluid splashes
Work in well-ventilated area - transmission fluid fumes can be harmful
Use gloves to prevent skin contact with used fluid
Dispose of used fluid properly at recycling center
Clean spills immediately to prevent slips and environmental contamination

CAUTION! Transmission fluid is flammable - keep away from ignition sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about 1999 Acura Integra manual transmission fluid.

Question	Answer
Can I use regular gear oil?	No, use only recommended Honda MTF or compatible fluids
How often should I change fluid?	Every 30,000 miles under normal driving conditions
What if I use automatic transmission fluid?	ATF can damage synchronizers - drain immediately if used
Can I mix different fluid types?	Not recommended - always use same type for complete fill
Where is the fill plug located?	On driver's side of transmission case, above axle level