2002 Acura TL Type S Owners Manual

The 2002 Acura TL Type S is a premium sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine producing 260 horsepower, 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift, leather interior, Bose premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, power moonroof, and advanced safety features including dual-stage airbags and ABS. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Identification 3. Instrument Panel 4. Controls and Operation 5. Driving Your Vehicle 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Safety Features 8. Audio and Climate Systems 9. Technical Specifications 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.2L V6 engine, SportShift automatic transmission, leather-trimmed interior, Bose audio system, power accessories, and advanced safety systems.

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 climate control
SeatingLeather-trimmed sport seats
SafetyDual-stage airbags, ABS, side impact beams
Wheels17-inch alloy wheels
ExteriorFog lights, rear spoiler
InteriorPower moonroof, auto-dimming mirror

Vehicle Identification

Locate your vehicle identification numbers for registration and service purposes.

  1. VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Located on dashboard visible through windshield.
  2. Engine Number: Stamped on engine block.
  3. Transmission Number: Located on transmission housing.
  4. Color Code: Found on driver's door jamb sticker.

IMPORTANT! Keep VIN number secure; required for insurance and registration.

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with the instrument cluster and warning lights.

  1. Tachometer: Engine RPM display
  2. Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph/kmh
  3. Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator
  4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
  5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS
  6. Odometer: Total and trip distance

CAUTION! Address warning lights immediately to prevent vehicle damage.

Controls and Operation

Driving Your Vehicle

Operating instructions for normal and performance driving conditions.

  1. Starting: Insert key, press brake, turn to START position
  2. SportShift Operation: Move gear selector to manual gate for manual shifting
  3. Cruise Control: Set speed with SET button on steering wheel
  4. Parking: Apply parking brake on inclines
  5. Fuel Requirements: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)

WARNING! Always wear seat belts and obey traffic laws.

Maintenance Schedule

Access OSD via TV MENU or SETUP (DVD). Front Panel: POWER, OPEN/CLOSE, AUTO/DPMS, MUTE.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, OPEN/CLOSE, INPUT, VOLUME, MUTE, RECALL, TV MENU, SETUP (DVD mode).

Regular maintenance intervals to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

ServiceIntervalDescription
Oil Change7,500 milesSynthetic blend recommended
Tire Rotation7,500 milesMaintain even tire wear
Air Filter30,000 milesEngine air filter replacement
Brake Fluid3 yearsDOT 3 brake fluid
Coolant5 years/60,000 milesHonda Type 2 coolant
Transmission Fluid30,000 milesHonda ATF-Z1 fluid
Spark Plugs105,000 milesPlatinum-tipped plugs

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems designed for occupant protection.

  1. Dual-Stage Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags
  2. ABS: Anti-lock braking system
  3. Side Impact Beams: Door reinforcement
  4. Child Safety: LATCH system for child seats
  5. Security System: Anti-theft system with immobilizer

Tip: Always check airbag indicator light on startup.

Audio and Climate Systems

Premium entertainment and comfort features operation.

  1. Audio: AM/FM stereo with 6-disc CD changer, cassette player
  2. Climate Control: Automatic dual-zone temperature control
  3. Steering Wheel Controls: Audio and cruise control functions
  4. Power Outlet: 12V accessory power outlet

WARNING! Adjust climate and audio systems only when safe to do so.

Technical Specifications

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/security systemCheck battery connections; ensure key is recognized
Check engine lightVarious engine issuesHave system scanned for diagnostic codes
Transmission shifting hardLow fluid/temperatureCheck transmission fluid level and condition
Brake pulsationWarped rotorsHave brake rotors inspected and resurfaced
Audio system issuesDisc error/antennaClean CDs; check antenna connection

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-382-2238

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