2003 Acura TL Type-S Repair 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, and premium audio system. This repair manual covers essential maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, component replacement, and service specifications for proper vehicle upkeep.

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

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data 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 SportShift
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension	4-wheel independent double wishbone
Fuel Capacity	17.1 gallons
Curb Weight	3,505 lbs
Wheelbase	108.1 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Every 105,000 miles
Timing belt: Every 105,000 miles or 7 years
Brake fluid: Every 3 years regardless of mileage
Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
Cabin air filter: Every 15,000-30,000 miles

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

Engine System

Procedures for engine maintenance, component replacement, and system diagnostics.

Oil change procedure: Drain plug torque 29 lb-ft, filter torque 13 lb-ft
Spark plug replacement: Gap 0.039-0.043 inches, torque 13 lb-ft
Timing belt replacement: Requires special tools, recommended professional service
VTEC system: Check solenoid operation and oil pressure
Cooling system: Check radiator, hoses, and thermostat operation

CAUTION! Engine components operate at high temperatures; allow cooling before service.

Transmission

Type: 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Fluid Capacity: 3.1 quarts (drain and refill)
Fluid Type: Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 or equivalent
Service Interval: Fluid change every 30,000 miles
Shift Solenoids: Located in valve body, test with diagnostic scanner
SportShift Operation: Manual gear selection without clutch
Transmission Control Module: Located under center console

Brake System

Brake component service and maintenance procedures.

Front Brakes: Rotor minimum thickness 0.882 inches, pad wear limit 0.079 inches. Rear Brakes: Rotor minimum thickness 0.315 inches, pad wear limit 0.079 inches.

Brake bleeding sequence: RR, LR, RF, LF. ABS system requires special bleeding procedure with diagnostic tool. Brake fluid specification: DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Suspension & Steering

Double wishbone suspension maintenance and steering system service.

Front strut replacement: Requires spring compressor tool
Ball joint inspection: Check for play and boot damage
Tie rod ends: Replace if excessive play detected
Wheel alignment specifications: Camber -0°30' ± 45', Caster +2°45' ± 45', Toe 0° ± 0.12°
Power steering fluid: Use Honda Power Steering Fluid only

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

Battery, charging, and electrical component service procedures.

Battery: 12V 60Ah, located in trunk, check terminals for corrosion
Alternator: Output 110A, test charging voltage 13.5-14.5V
Starter: Located under intake manifold, test draw current
Fuse boxes: Under-hood and driver's side dashboard
Relays: Main relay common failure point for no-start conditions
Lighting: Headlight adjustment procedures
Power accessories: Window motor and switch testing

WARNING! Disconnect battery negative terminal before electrical work to prevent shorts.

Heating & AC

Climate control system maintenance and repair.

AC refrigerant: R-134a, capacity 1.38-1.54 lbs. Compressor oil: PAG 46, 5.1 oz. Heater core: Dashboard removal required for replacement. Blower motor: Located under passenger side dashboard.

Body & Interior

Exterior and interior component service and maintenance.

CAUTION! Use proper trim removal tools to avoid damage to plastic components.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine cranks but won't start	Fuel pump, main relay, ignition	Check fuel pressure, test main relay, verify spark
Transmission slips	Low fluid, worn clutches	Check fluid level and condition, pressure test
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace rotors, check calipers
Steering pull	Alignment, tire pressure	Check alignment specs, equalize tire pressure
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator, grounds	Test charging system, clean battery terminals

Reset Procedures: Maintenance reminder reset - Hold SELECT/RESET button, turn ignition ON, wait 10 seconds.

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