2003 Acura TL Type S Manual

The 2003 Acura TL Type S is a premium sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine producing 260 horsepower, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, sport-tuned suspension, leather interior with power seats, premium audio system, and advanced safety features. Below are key sections for specifications, features, maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Key Features 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Operating Instructions 5. Controls and Instrument Panel 6. Audio and Climate Systems 7. Safety Features 8. Troubleshooting 9. Warranty Information

Vehicle Specifications

Technical details and performance specifications for the 2003 Acura TL Type S.

Specification	Description
Engine	3.2L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower	260 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque	232 lb-ft @ 3500-5500 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel Capacity	17.1 gallons
Curb Weight	3,483 lbs
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension	4-wheel independent with sport tuning

Key Features

Premium features and equipment included with the 2003 Acura TL Type S.

Exterior: Type S body kit, fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels
Interior: Leather-trimmed seats, 8-way power driver seat, woodgrain trim
Audio: Premium 6-disc in-dash CD changer, 7 speakers
Climate: Dual-zone automatic climate control
Safety: Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, ABS, traction control
Convenience: Power moonroof, auto-dimming mirror, keyless entry

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Every 7,500 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation
Every 15,000 miles: Air filter replacement, brake inspection
Every 30,000 miles: Transmission fluid change, coolant replacement
Every 60,000 miles: Spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection
Every 90,000 miles: Timing belt replacement (critical)

WARNING! Follow maintenance schedule strictly to prevent engine damage.

Operating Instructions

Basic operation and driving procedures for the Acura TL Type S.

Starting: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn to START position
Transmission: Use Sequential SportShift for manual gear selection
Cruise Control: Set speed with SET button on steering wheel
Headlights: Rotate switch on left stalk for auto/on/off positions
Wipers: Use right stalk control for intermittent/low/high speeds

CAUTION! Always wear seat belts and obey traffic laws.

Controls and Instrument Panel

Overview of dashboard controls and instrument cluster functions.

Control	Function
Steering Wheel	Audio controls, cruise control, paddle shifters
Instrument Cluster	Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature
Center Console	Climate controls, audio system, hazard lights
Door Controls	Power windows, door locks, mirror adjustments
Dashboard Lights	Check engine, ABS, battery, oil pressure warnings

Audio and Climate Systems

Operation of the premium audio and climate control systems.

Audio System: AM/FM radio, 6-disc CD changer, bass/treble/fader controls. Use SOURCE button to switch between modes.

Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic temperature control. Set driver and passenger temperatures separately. Use AUTO for automatic operation.

Press AUTO for automatic climate control
Adjust temperature with up/down arrows
Use MODE to change air distribution
Press A/C for air conditioning on/off

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems and their operation.

Airbags: Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags for front seats
ABS: Anti-lock braking system prevents wheel lock-up
Traction Control: Maintains grip during acceleration
Security System: Anti-theft system with keyless entry
Child Safety: LATCH system for child seats, rear door locks

Important: Always check that airbag indicator light illuminates briefly at startup.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and their solutions for the 2003 Acura TL Type S.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Check Engine Light	Various engine issues	Have system scanned for codes at dealership
Transmission shifting hard	Low fluid or sensor issue	Check transmission fluid level and condition
Battery drain	Alternator or parasitic drain	Test charging system and check for electrical drains
ABS light on	Wheel sensor or module	Diagnose ABS system with professional scanner
CD player error	Disc or mechanism issue	Clean discs, try different CD, reset system

Warranty Information

Factory warranty coverage and contact information.

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles

Corrosion: 5 years/unlimited miles

Roadside Assistance: 4 years/50,000 miles

For warranty service, contact your local Acura dealership or call Acura Client Relations at 1-800-382-2238.