2003 Acura CL Repair Manual

The 2003 Acura CL Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the 2003 Acura CL luxury coupe. This manual covers essential systems including the 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, body components, and routine maintenance procedures. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.

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

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical specifications for the 2003 Acura CL.

SpecificationDescription
Engine3.2L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower225 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension4-wheel independent double-wishbone
Fuel Capacity17.1 gallons
Curb Weight3,505 lbs
Wheelbase106.9 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

  1. Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Air filter replacement: 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. Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
  7. Coolant: Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years

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

Engine Systems

Comprehensive engine repair and maintenance procedures.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt replacement procedure
  4. Fuel system service and injector replacement
  5. Ignition system troubleshooting
  6. Cooling system maintenance
  7. Exhaust system components

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before working on electrical components. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission

Brake System

Complete brake system service and repair information.

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

Service Procedures: Pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, caliper service, ABS component testing, brake bleeding procedure, parking brake adjustment.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and steering system.

  1. Front strut replacement procedure
  2. Control arm and ball joint service
  3. Stabilizer bar and link replacement
  4. Wheel alignment specifications
  5. Power steering system service
  6. Tire rotation patterns and specifications

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

Wiring diagrams, component locations, and electrical troubleshooting.

  1. Battery testing and replacement
  2. Alternator output testing
  3. Starter motor service
  4. Fuse and relay locations
  5. Lighting system troubleshooting
  6. Power window and door lock systems
  7. Instrument cluster service
  8. Audio and navigation systems

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before electrical work. Use proper circuit protection.

Heating & AC

Climate control system service and repair.

AC System: R-134a refrigerant, compressor service, condenser replacement, evaporator core service, refrigerant charging procedures. Heating System: Heater core replacement, blend door actuator service, climate control module diagnosis.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior component service.

Exterior: Bumper cover replacement, door panel service, glass replacement, paint codes. Interior: Seat removal and service, dashboard components, trim panel removal, sunroof service.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, starter, fuel pumpCheck battery voltage, test starter, verify fuel pressure
Rough idleSpark plugs, vacuum leakReplace spark plugs, inspect for vacuum leaks
Transmission slipsLow fluid, worn clutchesCheck fluid level and condition, test line pressure
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsResurface or replace brake rotors
Electrical issuesBad ground, blown fuseCheck ground connections, inspect fuses

Diagnostic Tools: Use Acura diagnostic system or equivalent OBD-II scanner for code retrieval.

Technical Support: Contact Acura technical assistance for complex issues.

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