2001 Acura CL Repair Manual

The 2001 Acura CL is a luxury coupe featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, automatic transmission, advanced suspension system, power accessories, and comprehensive electronic controls. This repair manual covers essential maintenance procedures, troubleshooting guides, and technical specifications for proper vehicle servicing. Below are key sections for safety precautions, technical specifications, maintenance procedures, diagnostic troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

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

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data: Engine specifications, dimensions, capacities, and performance metrics.

SpecificationDescription
Engine Type3.2L SOHC V6
Horsepower225 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission4-speed automatic
Fuel Capacity17.2 gallons
Curb Weight3485 lbs
Wheelbase106.9 inches
Brake System4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension4-wheel independent
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended service intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
  3. Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
  4. Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
  5. Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
  6. Coolant: Replace every 10 years or 120,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts for replacement. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine System

Comprehensive engine service procedures and specifications.

  1. Engine Removal: Disconnect battery, drain coolant, remove accessories
  2. Valve Adjustment: Cold engine procedure with feeler gauge
  3. Ignition System: Spark plug replacement and wire inspection
  4. Fuel System: Fuel filter replacement and injector service
  5. Cooling System: Thermostat replacement and radiator service

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool completely before servicing. Use proper lifting equipment.

Transmission

Brake System

Brake service procedures including pad replacement and system bleeding.

Front Brakes: Disc diameter 11.1 inches, pad thickness minimum 0.12 inches

Rear Brakes: Disc diameter 10.2 inches, pad thickness minimum 0.12 inches

Brake Pad Replacement: Remove caliper, compress piston, install new pads, lubricate slides. Brake Bleeding: Use pressure bleeder, follow proper sequence (RR, LR, RF, LF). ABS Service: Requires specialized scanner for proper diagnosis.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and steering system service.

  1. Strut Replacement: Support vehicle, remove wheel, disconnect components
  2. Control Arm: Check bushings and ball joints for wear
  3. Steering Gear: Power steering fluid type - Honda Power Steering Fluid
  4. Alignment Specs: Camber -0°30' ± 1°, Caster +2°30' ± 1°, Toe 0° ± 0.12°

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension repairs.

Electrical System

Wiring diagrams, component locations, and electrical troubleshooting.

  1. Battery: 12V 60Ah, located in engine compartment
  2. Alternator: 110 amp output, test voltage 13.5-14.5V
  3. Starter: Draw current 180 amps maximum
  4. Fuse Boxes: Under-dash and engine compartment locations
  5. Lighting: Headlight adjustment and bulb replacement procedures
  6. ECU: Engine Control Unit diagnostics and programming

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical work. Use proper circuit protection.

Heating & AC

Climate control system service and refrigerant handling.

AC Specifications: Refrigerant R-134a, Capacity 1.76 lbs, Compressor oil PAG 46

Heater Core: Replacement requires dashboard removal

Blower Motor: Located under passenger side dashboard

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior trim, and accessory service.

CAUTION! Use proper trim removal tools to avoid damage to plastic components.

Diagnostic Codes

OBD-II trouble codes specific to 2001 Acura CL.

CodeDescriptionProbable Cause
P0135HO2S Heater CircuitOxygen sensor heater failure
P0300Random MisfireIgnition system or fuel delivery
P0420Catalyst System EfficiencyCatalytic converter failure
P1456EVAP System LeakFuel vapor leak detected
P0700Transmission Control SystemTCM communication error

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignition/fuelCheck battery voltage, spark, fuel pressure
Rough idleVacuum leak/ignitionInspect vacuum hoses, clean throttle body
Transmission slippingFluid level/band adjustmentCheck fluid level and condition
Brake vibrationRotor warpageResurface or replace brake rotors
Electrical issuesGround connectionsCheck and clean ground connections

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset ECU

Service: Contact Acura dealer or certified technician for complex repairs

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