2002 Acura CL Service Manual

The 2002 Acura CL is a luxury coupe featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, automatic transmission, premium audio system, leather interior, power accessories, and advanced safety features. This service manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, specifications, and repair instructions for all major systems including engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, and climate control.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine System 4. Transmission 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Climate Control 9. Body & Interior 10. Safety Systems 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data and dimensions for the 2002 Acura CL.

Specification	Description
Engine Type	3.2L SOHC V6
Horsepower	225 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque	217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel Capacity	17.1 gallons
Curb Weight	3,505 lbs
Wheelbase	106.9 inches
Overall Length	192.0 inches
Brake System	4-wheel disc with ABS

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
Coolant: Replace every 5 years or 60,000 miles
Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts and fluids for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

Engine System

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance and repair.

Oil change procedure: Drain plug torque 29 lb-ft, filter torque 13 lb-ft
Spark plug replacement: Gap 0.039-0.043 inches, torque 13 lb-ft
Timing belt replacement: Align marks, tension properly
Valve adjustment: Cold engine, intake 0.008-0.009 in, exhaust 0.010-0.011 in
Cooling system: Check radiator, hoses, and thermostat

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before performing maintenance to prevent burns.

Transmission

Type: 5-speed automatic with SportShift
Fluid Capacity: 7.4 quarts (drain and refill)
Fluid Type: Honda/Acura ATF-Z1
Shift Points: 1-2: 15 mph, 2-3: 25 mph, 3-4: 40 mph, 4-5: 45 mph
Maintenance: Fluid change every 30,000 miles, filter replacement
Trouble Codes: Access via OBD-II connector under dashboard

Brake System

Brake system specifications and service procedures.

Front Brakes: Disc diameter 11.1 inches, pad thickness new 0.47 inches, replace at 0.12 inches.

Rear Brakes: Disc diameter 10.2 inches, pad thickness new 0.39 inches, replace at 0.08 inches.

Brake fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4, reservoir on master cylinder. ABS system: Check wheel sensors, hydraulic modulator. Parking brake: Adjust cable tension, ensure proper engagement.

Suspension & Steering

Front: MacPherson strut with coil springs. Rear: Multi-link with trailing arms.

Wheel alignment: Front toe 0° ± 0.12°, camber -0°30' ± 0°45'
Tire pressure: 32 psi front and rear (cold)
Tire size: P205/60R16 91V
Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion
Shock absorber inspection: Check for leaks and wear

Tip: Always check suspension components after hitting potholes or curbs.

Electrical System

Battery, charging, and electrical system maintenance.

Battery: 12V 60Ah, located in trunk, negative ground
Alternator: 110 amp output, check belt tension
Fuse boxes: Under dashboard and in engine compartment
Light bulbs: Headlight 9006 (low), 9005 (high), brake 7443
Audio system: Premium 6-speaker with CD player
Power accessories: Windows, mirrors, seats, sunroof

WARNING! Disconnect battery negative terminal before electrical work to prevent shorts.

Climate Control

Automatic climate control system operation and service.

Refrigerant: R-134a, capacity 1.54 lbs. Compressor: Check clutch engagement, belt tension. Heater core: Flush periodically to maintain heat output. Blower motor: Located under dashboard, accessible from passenger side.

Body & Interior

Exterior and interior component maintenance.

Paint care: Wash regularly, wax every 3 months. Interior: Clean leather with mild soap, condition regularly. Glass: Use automotive glass cleaner, replace wiper blades annually. Trim: Protect plastic and rubber components from UV damage.

Safety Systems

Airbags, seat belts, and collision safety systems.

Driver and passenger front airbags, side impact protection. Seat belts with pretensioners. Child seat anchors in rear seat. ABS with electronic brake distribution. Always use seat belts and proper child restraints.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, fuel pump	Check battery voltage, listen for fuel pump, test starter
Rough idle	Spark plugs, air filter, vacuum leak	Replace plugs and filter, check for vacuum leaks
Brake vibration	Warped rotors, worn pads	Resurface or replace rotors, install new pads
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn clutch packs	Check fluid level and condition, service transmission
Electrical issues	Blown fuses, bad grounds	Check all fuses, clean battery terminals and grounds

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset computer systems.

Service: Contact Acura dealer or certified technician for complex repairs.