2003 Acura TL Type S Service Manual

The 2003 Acura TL Type S is a premium sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine with VTEC technology, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, advanced suspension system, premium audio system, and luxury amenities. This service manual covers maintenance procedures, technical specifications, troubleshooting guides, and repair instructions for qualified technicians. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, technical data, repair procedures, and diagnostic information.

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

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 2003 Acura TL Type S including engine, transmission, dimensions, and capacities.

SpecificationDescription
Engine Type3.2L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower260 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque232 lb-ft @ 3500-5500 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic with SportShift
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel Capacity17.1 gallons
Curb Weight3,505 lbs
Wheelbase108.1 inches
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
Tire Size215/50R17 90V

Maintenance Schedules

Recommended maintenance intervals and service procedures.

  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 plugs: Every 105,000 miles
  5. Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
  6. Brake fluid: Every 3 years
  7. Coolant: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts and fluids. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine System

3.2L V6 VTEC engine service procedures and specifications.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt replacement (every 105,000 miles)
  4. VTEC system diagnosis and repair
  5. Fuel system service and injector replacement
  6. Ignition system maintenance
  7. Cooling system service

CAUTION! Engine components operate at high temperatures. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission

Brake System

4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake distribution.

Front Brakes: 11.8-inch ventilated discs, dual-piston calipers

Rear Brakes: 11.1-inch solid discs, single-piston calipers

Brake Pad Replacement: Front and rear specifications differ. Rotor minimum thickness: Front 0.94 in, Rear 0.35 in. ABS Module: Located in engine compartment. Brake Bleeding: Requires special procedure for ABS system.

Suspension & Steering

Front: Double-wishbone suspension. Rear: Multi-link suspension. Power steering with variable assist.

  1. Front strut replacement and alignment
  2. Control arm and ball joint service
  3. Stabilizer bar and link replacement
  4. Power steering pump and rack service
  5. Wheel alignment specifications

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

12-volt electrical system with multiplex control.

  1. Battery: 12V 60Ah located in trunk
  2. Alternator: 110 amp output
  3. Starter motor: Reduction gear type
  4. Fuse boxes: Under-hood and driver's side
  5. Lighting systems: Headlights, taillights, interior
  6. Power windows and locks
  7. Audio and navigation systems

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical service. Follow proper safety procedures.

Heating & AC

Automatic climate control system with dual-zone temperature control.

AC System: R-134a refrigerant, 1.21-1.43 lbs capacity. Compressor: Variable displacement type. Heater Core: Dash removal required for replacement. Blower Motor: Behind glove box. AC Service Ports: High and low pressure on compressor.

Body & Interior

Exterior dimensions and interior component service.

CAUTION! Use proper tools for trim removal to avoid damage. Follow safety procedures for airbag system service.

Diagnostic Procedures

Using diagnostic tools and interpreting trouble codes.

OBD-II Connector: Under driver's side dash. Honda Diagnostic System (HDS): Required for advanced diagnostics. Common Codes: P codes for engine, C codes for chassis, B codes for body, U codes for network.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignition/fuelCheck battery voltage, spark, fuel pressure, main relay
Transmission slipsFluid level/solenoidsCheck fluid level and condition, test shift solenoids
Brake vibrationRotors/calipersInspect rotors for warping, check caliper operation
Electrical issuesBattery/alternatorTest charging system, check grounds and connections
AC not coolingRefrigerant/compressorCheck refrigerant pressure, compressor clutch operation

Reset: Some systems require ECU reset after repairs.

Service: Contact Acura dealer for technical support and genuine parts.

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