1999 Acura TL Owners Manual Free
The 1999 Acura TL is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, leather interior, premium audio system, dual airbags, ABS brakes, power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control, and climate control system. This manual covers operation, maintenance, specifications, troubleshooting, and safety information for your vehicle.
Vehicle Overview
Key features: 3.2L SOHC V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift, leather-trimmed interior, 8-way power driver's seat, power moonroof, anti-lock brakes, traction control.
| Feature | Description |
| Engine | 3.2L SOHC 24-valve V6 |
| Horsepower | 225 hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic with SportShift |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.2 gallons |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Curb Weight | 3485 lbs |
| Audio System | AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD changer |
| Climate Control | Automatic temperature control |
| Safety Features | Dual airbags, ABS, side impact beams |
| Exterior Dimensions | 193.7" L x 70.6" W x 55.7" H |
Instrument Panel
Familiarize yourself with gauges, indicators, and warning lights.
- Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h.
- Tachometer: Displays engine RPM.
- Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level.
- Temperature Gauge: Shows engine coolant temperature.
- Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS, airbag.
- Odometer/Trip Meter: Tracks total and trip distance.
WARNING! If any warning light stays on while driving, stop safely and check the issue immediately.
Operating Controls
Power on vehicle; adjust seats, mirrors, and steering wheel.
- Starting: Insert key, press brake, turn to START position.
- Transmission: Move shift lever through P-R-N-D-4-3-2 positions.
- SportShift: Move lever to right for manual shifting capability.
- Cruise Control: Set speed with SET button on steering wheel.
- Power Windows: Use switches on driver's door panel.
- Power Mirrors: Adjust with selector switch and directional pad.
CAUTION! Always engage parking brake when parked on inclines.
Maintenance Schedule
- Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
- Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
- Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
- Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
- Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
- Coolant: Replace every 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
- Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
- Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Specifications
- Engine: 3.2L SOHC V6, 24-valve VTEC
- Displacement: 3,215 cc
- Compression Ratio: 9.8:1
- Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
- Suspension: 4-wheel independent double-wishbone
- Brakes: Power-assisted 4-wheel disc with ABS
- Steering: Power-assisted rack-and-pinion
- Wheels: 16-inch aluminum alloy
- Tires: P205/60R16 91V
Driving Tips
For optimal performance and fuel economy.
- Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking.
- Maintain proper tire pressure (32 psi cold).
- Use recommended premium unleaded fuel (91 octane).
- Engage overdrive for highway driving.
- Use lower gears for engine braking on steep descents.
- Allow engine to warm up in cold weather.
Tip: Regular maintenance improves fuel efficiency and extends vehicle life.
Safety Features
Dual-stage airbags, ABS, traction control, side impact protection.
- Airbags: Deploy based on impact severity; always wear seatbelts.
- ABS: Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking.
- Traction Control: Reduces wheel spin during acceleration.
- Child Safety: Use rear seat for child restraints.
- Security System: Factory anti-theft with keyless entry.
- Head Restraints: Adjust for proper positioning.
WARNING! Never place rear-facing child seats in front passenger seat with active airbag.
Audio System
AM/FM stereo with cassette player and 6-disc CD changer.
- Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off.
- Volume: Rotate VOL knob or use steering wheel controls.
- Source Selection: Press AM/FM, TAPE, or CD buttons.
- CD Changer: Load discs in magazine; insert into trunk unit.
- Presets: Store up to 18 AM/FM stations (6 AM, 12 FM).
- Tone Controls: Adjust bass, treble, fader, balance.
- Auto Volume: Adjusts volume based on vehicle speed.
CAUTION! Do not adjust audio system while driving - use steering wheel controls.
Climate Control
Automatic temperature control system with air conditioning.
- Auto Mode: Set desired temperature; system adjusts automatically.
- Manual Controls: Adjust fan speed, mode, air intake.
- Defrost: Press DEFROST for quick windshield clearing.
- Rear Defogger: Press button to clear rear window.
- A/C: Engages automatically in AUTO mode above 59°F.
- Air Filtration: Cabin air filter removes dust and pollen.
Tip: Replace cabin air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles for optimal performance.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
| Engine won't start | Battery/ignition | Check battery connections; ensure in PARK; try spare key. |
| Check engine light | Emission system | Have system scanned for codes; check gas cap. |
| Poor fuel economy | Maintenance/driving | Check air filter; tire pressure; avoid aggressive driving. |
| Transmission issues | Fluid level | Check transmission fluid level and condition. |
| Brake vibration | Rotor warping | Have brake rotors inspected and resurfaced/replaced. |
| Electrical problems | Battery/alternator | Test battery and charging system; check fuses. |
Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset computer if needed.
Warranty Information
Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles. Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited miles. Emissions: 8 years/80,000 miles (specific components). For warranty claims, contact Acura dealer with proof of maintenance records. Keep all service receipts for warranty validation.
1999 Acura TL Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025