2002 Acura 3.2 TL Type S Owners Manual

The 2002 Acura 3.2 TL Type S is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine producing 260 horsepower, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), dual-zone automatic climate control, Bose premium audio system, leather-trimmed interior, and enhanced suspension for sportier handling. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Controls 3. Driving Your Vehicle 4. Specifications 5. Instrument Panel 6. Audio and Climate Systems 7. Safety Features 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, leather interior, Bose audio system, climate control, power accessories.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.2L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Horsepower260 hp @ 6100 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
Audio SystemBose 6-disc in-dash CD changer
Climate ControlDual-zone automatic temperature control
SeatingLeather-trimmed sport seats
SuspensionSport-tuned with firmer damping
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
ExteriorType S body kit and badging
Wheels17-inch alloy wheels

Vehicle Controls

Familiarize yourself with all controls before driving.

  1. Ignition: Insert key and turn to start position.
  2. Transmission: Move shift lever through PRND positions.
  3. Steering wheel: Adjust tilt for comfort.
  4. Power windows: Use switches on driver's door.
  5. Power locks: Central locking system.

WARNING! Always engage parking brake when parked. Ensure all controls are functioning properly.

Driving Your Vehicle

Start engine and follow proper driving procedures.

  1. Starting: Press brake pedal, turn key to start.
  2. Transmission operation: Use SportShift for manual control.
  3. Cruise control: Set speed with steering wheel controls.
  4. VSA: Vehicle Stability Assist activates during slippery conditions.
  5. Fuel: Use premium unleaded gasoline recommended.

CAUTION! Always wear seat belts. Do not disable safety systems while driving.

Specifications

Instrument Panel

Monitor vehicle status through instrument cluster and warning lights.

Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brake system, ABS, VSA, airbag, low fuel.

Gauges: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge. Information Display: Outside temperature, trip computer, maintenance reminders. Controls: Headlights, turn signals, wipers, cruise control on steering wheel.

Audio and Climate Systems

Bose audio system with AM/FM stereo, 6-disc CD changer. Dual-zone automatic climate control.

  1. Audio power: Turn ignition to ACC or ON position.
  2. Radio: Tune stations manually or use presets.
  3. CD player: Load up to 6 discs in magazine.
  4. Climate control: Set desired temperature for driver and passenger.
  5. Defrosters: Use front and rear defoggers as needed.

Tip: Keep audio volume at reasonable level for safe driving awareness.

Safety Features

Multiple safety systems for occupant protection.

  1. Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags with occupancy sensor.
  2. Seat belts: 3-point belts for all seating positions.
  3. ABS: Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking.
  4. VSA: Helps maintain control during cornering and slippery conditions.
  5. Security system: Anti-theft system with remote entry.
  6. Child safety: Rear door child-proof locks.

WARNING! Always use seat belts. Children under 12 should ride in back seat.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

ServiceInterval
Oil changeEvery 7,500 miles or 12 months
Oil filterReplace with each oil change
Tire rotationEvery 7,500 miles
Air filterEvery 30,000 miles
Spark plugsEvery 105,000 miles
Timing beltEvery 105,000 miles
Brake fluidEvery 3 years
CoolantEvery 10 years or 120,000 miles

Care & Cleaning

Proper cleaning preserves vehicle appearance and value.

Exterior: Wash with mild car wash soap. Rinse thoroughly. Wax every 3-6 months. Interior: Vacuum carpets. Clean leather with mild soap and conditioner. Windows: Use glass cleaner and soft cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on interior surfaces. Avoid high-pressure washers on sensitive areas.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty coverage for 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles. Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealer. Keep maintenance records for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/security systemCheck battery connections; ensure security light is off.
Check engine light onEmission system issueHave system diagnosed by qualified technician.
Transmission shifts hardFluid level/temperatureCheck transmission fluid level and condition.
Brake pedal pulsatesWarped rotorsHave brake rotors inspected and resurfaced if needed.
Audio system no soundFuse/settingsCheck audio fuse; verify mute is not activated.

Emergency: Keep emergency kit in trunk. Contact roadside assistance if needed.

Service: Visit authorized Acura dealer for all maintenance and repairs.

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