2003 Acura TL Manual Transmission

The 2003 Acura TL features a 5-speed manual transmission paired with a 3.2L V6 engine producing 225 horsepower. This transmission offers smooth shifting, precise gear engagement, and enhanced driving dynamics. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and service procedures for the manual transmission system.

1. Transmission Specifications 2. Operation Guidelines 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Fluid Requirements 5. Clutch System 6. Shifting Mechanism 7. Common Issues 8. Troubleshooting 9. Service Procedures 10. Warranty Information

Transmission Specifications

The 2003 Acura TL manual transmission is a 5-speed synchronized design with overdrive.

Specification	Details
Transmission Type	5-speed manual
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.267, 2nd: 1.880, 3rd: 1.212, 4th: 0.885, 5th: 0.675, Reverse: 3.000
Final Drive Ratio	4.428
Clutch Type	Hydraulic, single disc
Fluid Capacity	2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Fluid Type	Honda MTF or equivalent
Shift Pattern	5-speed H-pattern with reverse left and up

Operation Guidelines

Proper shifting techniques for optimal transmission performance and longevity.

Fully depress clutch pedal before shifting gears
Avoid resting hand on shift lever while driving
Do not "ride" the clutch pedal
Shift smoothly without forcing the gear lever
Use engine braking when descending hills
Avoid rapid clutch engagement from high RPM

WARNING! Improper shifting can cause premature wear and transmission damage.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for manual transmission system.

Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Clutch Fluid: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Shift Linkage: Lubricate every 30,000 miles
Clutch System: Inspect every 15,000 miles
Transmission Mounts: Inspect every 30,000 miles

Fluid Requirements

Proper fluid specifications and replacement procedures.

Use only Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) or equivalent
Fluid capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Check fluid level with vehicle on level surface
Fluid should be changed if discolored or contaminated
Use only specified fluid to prevent shifting issues

CAUTION! Using incorrect fluid can cause shifting problems and transmission damage.

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch system components and operation.

Component	Function
Clutch Master Cylinder	Converts pedal pressure to hydraulic pressure
Clutch Slave Cylinder	Actuates clutch release mechanism
Clutch Disc	Transmits engine power to transmission
Pressure Plate	Applies pressure to clutch disc
Release Bearing	Disengages clutch when pedal depressed

Shifting Mechanism

Internal shift linkage and synchronizer operation.

Shift Linkage: Direct cable-operated mechanism for precise gear selection. Synchronizers: Brass synchronizer rings for smooth gear engagement. Shift Forks: Direct shift rails to engage specific gears.

Proper adjustment ensures crisp, precise shifts without grinding or hesitation.

Common Issues

Typical problems encountered with manual transmission systems.

Grinding when shifting into gear
Difficulty engaging specific gears
Clutch pedal vibration or pulsation
Transmission fluid leaks
Unusual noises in neutral or while shifting
Clutch slippage under acceleration

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Grinding gears	Worn synchronizers, low fluid	Check fluid level, inspect synchronizers
Hard shifting	Worn clutch, linkage issues	Adjust clutch cable, inspect linkage
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch disc, hydraulic issues	Inspect clutch system, check hydraulic pressure
Fluid leaks	Seal failure, case damage	Inspect seals, repair as needed
Noise in neutral	Input shaft bearing wear	Replace input shaft bearing

Service Procedures

Basic service procedures for manual transmission maintenance.

Transmission fluid replacement
Clutch hydraulic system bleeding
Shift linkage adjustment
Clutch replacement procedure
Transmission removal and installation

Note: Complex repairs should be performed by qualified technicians.

Warranty Information

Original warranty coverage and extended service options.

Basic warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain coverage: 5 years/60,000 miles. Transmission components covered under powertrain warranty. For service, contact Acura dealer or visit www.acura.com. Customer service: 1-800-382-2238.