2003 Acura CL Service Manual

The 2003 Acura CL Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the 2003 Acura CL luxury coupe. This manual covers the 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, suspension systems, electrical systems, climate control, body components, and diagnostic procedures. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, technical specifications, repair procedures, troubleshooting, and safety information.

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

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 2003 Acura CL luxury coupe including engine, transmission, dimensions, and capacities.

SpecificationDescription
Engine Type3.2L SOHC V6 VTEC
Displacement3,215 cc
Horsepower225 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque217 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel Capacity17.1 gallons
Curb Weight3,461 lbs
Wheelbase106.9 inches
Overall Length192.0 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

  1. Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  3. Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
  4. Spark plug replacement: Every 105,000 miles
  5. Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
  6. Brake fluid: Every 3 years regardless of mileage
  7. Timing belt: Every 105,000 miles or 7 years

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

Engine Systems

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and diagnostics.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt replacement procedure
  4. VTEC system diagnosis and repair
  5. Fuel system service and injector replacement
  6. Cooling system maintenance and radiator replacement
  7. Exhaust system inspection and repair

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission

Brake System

Complete brake system service including ABS and traction control.

Front Brakes: Disc brakes with dual-piston calipers, 11.8-inch rotors. Rear Brakes: Disc brakes with single-piston calipers, 11.1-inch rotors.

Brake Pad Replacement: Wear indicators, pad thickness specifications, bedding procedures. Rotor Service: Minimum thickness specifications, machining procedures. ABS System: Wheel speed sensor testing, modulator unit service, bleeding procedures. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 specifications, bleeding sequence.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and power steering system.

  1. Front suspension: Double wishbone with coil springs
  2. Rear suspension: Multi-link with trailing arms
  3. Shock absorber replacement procedures
  4. Ball joint inspection and replacement
  5. Power steering pump service and fluid specifications
  6. Wheel alignment specifications and procedures
  7. Tire pressure monitoring system reset procedure

Tip: Always check wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

Complete electrical system wiring diagrams and component locations.

  1. Battery: Testing and replacement procedures
  2. Alternator: Output testing and replacement
  3. Starter motor: Testing and removal procedures
  4. Fuse box locations and amperage ratings
  5. Lighting systems: Headlight adjustment and bulb replacement
  6. Power windows and door locks: Motor testing and repair
  7. Audio system: Wiring diagrams and component locations
  8. Instrument cluster: Bulb replacement and testing

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical repairs to prevent short circuits.

Climate Control

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service.

AC System: Refrigerant type (R-134a), capacity specifications, compressor replacement. Heater Core: Replacement procedures and coolant bleeding. Blower Motor: Testing and replacement. Control Head: Diagnosis and repair procedures. Temperature Blend Door: Actuator testing and replacement.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement and interior component service.

Exterior: Bumper cover replacement, door panel service, glass replacement procedures. Interior: Seat removal and repair, dashboard component replacement, trim panel removal. Locks: Door lock cylinder service, key programming procedures. Windows: Regulator replacement, glass run channel service.

Diagnostic Procedures

Using diagnostic tools and interpreting trouble codes.

  1. OBD-II connector location and pinouts
  2. Reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes
  3. Live data parameter identification and interpretation
  4. Component activation tests using scan tool
  5. Factory diagnostic procedures for common issues
  6. Wiring diagram interpretation and circuit testing

CAUTION! Always follow factory diagnostic procedures to avoid unnecessary parts replacement.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignition/fuelCheck battery voltage, spark plugs, fuel pressure, security system
Transmission slippingFluid level/solenoidsCheck fluid level and condition, test shift solenoids, scan for codes
Brake pulsationWarped rotorsMeasure rotor thickness and runout, replace or machine rotors
AC not coolingRefrigerant/compressorCheck refrigerant pressure, test compressor clutch, check fuses
Electrical issuesGrounds/batteryCheck battery terminals, ground connections, alternator output

Reset Procedures: Maintenance reminder reset, radio code entry, power window initialization.

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

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