2002 Acura TL Type S Service 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 manual mode, advanced suspension system, leather interior, and premium audio system. This service manual covers maintenance procedures, technical specifications, troubleshooting, and repair instructions for proper vehicle upkeep and performance optimization.

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 Procedures 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications and performance data for the 2002 Acura TL Type S.

SpecificationDescription
Engine3.2L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower260 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque232 lb-ft @ 3500-5500 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension4-wheel independent double wishbone
Fuel Capacity17.1 gallons
Curb Weight3,505 lbs
0-60 mph6.4 seconds

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

  1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  3. Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
  4. Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
  5. Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
  6. Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
  7. Coolant: Replace every 5 years or 60,000 miles

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

Engine System

Detailed service procedures for the 3.2L V6 VTEC engine system.

  1. Engine Oil Service: Drain and refill with 4.5 quarts 5W-20 oil
  2. Cooling System: Check coolant level and condition
  3. Ignition System: Spark plug replacement and coil inspection
  4. Fuel System: Fuel filter replacement and injector service
  5. Emissions: EGR valve and PCV system maintenance
  6. Timing Belt: Replacement procedure and tension adjustment

CAUTION! Engine components operate at high temperatures; allow cooling before service.

Transmission

Brake System

Service procedures for the 4-wheel disc brake system with ABS.

Front Brakes: 11.8-inch ventilated discs, dual-piston calipers. Rear Brakes: 11.1-inch solid discs, single-piston calipers.

Brake Pad Replacement: Front and rear pad replacement procedures. Rotor Service: Resurfacing and replacement specifications. ABS System: Wheel speed sensor testing, ABS module diagnostics. Brake Fluid: Flush procedure using DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid.

Suspension & Steering

Double wishbone suspension system maintenance and steering component service.

  1. Front Suspension: Upper and lower control arm inspection
  2. Rear Suspension: Multi-link system alignment and bushing replacement
  3. Shocks/Struts: Replacement procedures and ride height adjustment
  4. Steering System: Power steering pump and rack service
  5. Wheel Alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

Battery, charging, starting, and accessory electrical system service.

  1. Battery: Testing and replacement (51R size)
  2. Alternator: Output testing and replacement (130 amp)
  3. Starter: Removal and installation procedures
  4. Lighting Systems: Headlight adjustment and bulb replacement
  5. Power Accessories: Window motor and switch service
  6. Audio System: Premium sound system diagnostics
  7. ECU Systems: Engine and transmission control module service

WARNING! Disconnect battery before performing electrical work to prevent short circuits.

Heating & AC

Climate control system service and refrigerant handling procedures.

Body & Interior

Body panel alignment, interior trim, and accessory service procedures.

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

Diagnostic Procedures

OBD-II diagnostic procedures and trouble code interpretation for the 2002 TL Type S.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine misfireFaulty spark plugs/coilsReplace spark plugs and test ignition coils
Transmission slippageLow fluid/worn clutch packsCheck fluid level and condition; perform pressure test
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsResurface or replace brake rotors
Steering pullAlignment/worn componentsPerform wheel alignment; inspect suspension
Electrical issuesBattery/alternatorTest battery and charging system output

Reset Procedures: Maintenance minder reset, ECU reset procedures included.

Technical Support: Acura Client Service: 1-800-382-2238; www.acura.com

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