2003 Acura CL Type S Manual Transmission

The 2003 Acura CL Type S with manual transmission is a premium sports coupe featuring a 3.2L V6 engine producing 260 horsepower, 6-speed manual gearbox, front-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension, leather interior, and premium audio system. Below are key sections for specifications, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Key Specifications 2. Transmission Features 3. Driving Operation 4. Maintenance Schedule 5. Controls and Instrumentation 6. Performance Characteristics 7. Transmission Fluid Service 8. Clutch System 10. Troubleshooting

Key Specifications

Technical details of the 2003 Acura CL Type S manual transmission system.

Specification	Details
Engine	3.2L V6 VTEC
Horsepower	260 hp @ 6100 RPM
Torque	232 lb-ft @ 3500-5500 RPM
Transmission	6-speed manual
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.066, 2nd: 1.956, 3rd: 1.344, 4th: 1.033, 5th: 0.829, 6th: 0.658
Final Drive Ratio	4.389:1
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Clutch Type	Hydraulic, single disc
Transmission Fluid	Honda MTF
Shift Pattern	Traditional H-pattern with reverse left and up

Transmission Features

Advanced features of the 6-speed manual transmission system.

Close-ratio gearing for optimal performance
Short-throw shifter for precise gear changes
Reverse lockout mechanism to prevent accidental engagement
Dual-mass flywheel for reduced vibration
Helical cut gears for quieter operation
Limited-slip differential for improved traction

WARNING! Always depress clutch fully when shifting to prevent transmission damage.

Driving Operation

Proper operation techniques for the manual transmission.

Starting: Depress clutch fully, shift to neutral, start engine
First gear: Clutch in, shift to 1st, gradual clutch release with throttle
Upshifting: Clutch in, shift to next gear, smooth clutch release
Downshifting: Clutch in, shift to lower gear, rev-matching recommended
Reverse: Complete stop, clutch in, press down and shift left/up
Hill starts: Use parking brake for assistance on steep inclines

CAUTION! Avoid riding the clutch or resting hand on shifter while driving.

Maintenance Schedule

Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Clutch Fluid: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Clutch System: Inspect every 30,000 miles
Shift Linkage: Lubricate every 15,000 miles
Transmission Mounts: Inspect every 30,000 miles
Clutch Master/Slave Cylinder: Inspect for leaks every oil change

Controls and Instrumentation

Manual transmission controls and related instrumentation.

Pedal Assembly: Clutch pedal (left), Brake pedal (center), Accelerator (right)

Gear Shift Pattern: R 1 3 5 --N-- 2 4 6

Instrument Cluster: Tachometer (critical for manual shifting), Gear position indicator, Shift-up light (when equipped)

Clutch Hydraulic System: Master cylinder, Slave cylinder, Hydraulic line

Performance Characteristics

Performance data and driving characteristics.

0-60 mph: Approximately 6.2 seconds
Quarter Mile: ~14.6 seconds @ 98 mph
Redline: 6800 RPM (fuel cut-off at 7000 RPM)
Optimal Shift Points: 6500 RPM for maximum acceleration
Highway Cruising: 6th gear at 75 mph = ~3000 RPM
Fuel Economy: 18 city / 26 highway (manual transmission)

Tip: Use VTEC engagement point (approximately 4800 RPM) for optimal power.

Transmission Fluid Service

Proper transmission fluid maintenance procedures.

Locate transmission drain plug (bottom) and fill plug (side)
Warm transmission to operating temperature
Place drain pan under transmission
Remove fill plug first, then drain plug
Allow fluid to drain completely
Reinstall drain plug with new washer
Fill with Honda MTF until fluid runs out fill hole
Reinstall fill plug with new washer
Check for leaks

WARNING! Use only Honda Manual Transmission Fluid. Do not overfill.

Clutch System

Clutch system components and maintenance.

Components: Pressure plate, Clutch disc, Throwout bearing, Pilot bearing, Flywheel

Clutch Pedal Adjustment: Free play should be 0.4-0.8 inches at pedal pad

Bleeding Procedure: Required when replacing fluid or components

Clutch Life Expectancy: 60,000-100,000 miles with proper use

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Difficulty shifting	Low fluid, worn synchros	Check fluid level, replace if contaminated
Grinding gears	Worn synchros, clutch not disengaging	Check clutch hydraulic system, adjust pedal
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch disc	Replace clutch components
Clutch chatter	Oil contamination, worn components	Inspect for leaks, replace clutch assembly
Noise in neutral	Input shaft bearing wear	Transmission inspection required
Hard clutch pedal	Binding linkage, pressure plate issues	Lubricate linkage, inspect clutch components

Service: Contact Acura dealer for transmission service. Use genuine Acura parts for repairs.