2004 Acura EL Owners Manual

The 2004 Acura EL is a compact luxury sedan featuring a 1.7L VTEC engine, 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, advanced safety systems including dual front airbags and ABS, premium audio system, power windows and locks, air conditioning, and comprehensive warranty coverage. Below are key sections for vehicle operation, maintenance, safety features, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Controls 4. Safety Features 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Specifications 7. Driving Tips 8. Audio System 9. Climate Control 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 1.7L SOHC 16-valve VTEC engine, 5-speed manual/4-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, power-assisted steering and brakes.

Feature	Description
Engine	1.7L SOHC 16-valve VTEC 4-cylinder
Transmission	5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Fuel System	Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes	Front disc/Rear drum with ABS
Suspension	4-wheel independent
Fuel Capacity	50 liters (13.2 US gal)
Seating Capacity	5 passengers
Curb Weight	Approximately 1,200 kg (2,645 lbs)

Instrument Panel

Main gauges and indicators: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in km/h and mph
Tachometer: Engine RPM indicator with redline at 6,800 RPM
Fuel Gauge: Shows remaining fuel level
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, ABS, airbag

WARNING! If any warning light illuminates while driving, stop safely and investigate the cause immediately.

Operating Controls

Steering column controls, center console, and dashboard functions.

Ignition: Insert key and turn to start position
Gear Selector: Automatic transmission shift positions (P-R-N-D-2-1)
Parking Brake: Pull lever to engage, press button to release
Cruise Control: Set/Resume buttons on steering wheel
Power Windows: Master control on driver's door

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake when parked on inclines.

Safety Features

Airbags: Dual front airbags with SRS
ABS: Anti-lock Braking System
Seat Belts: 3-point front and rear seat belts
Child Safety: Rear door child-proof locks
Security: Anti-theft system with remote entry
Crash Safety: Reinforced passenger cabin
Visibility: Daytime running lights

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Service Interval	Required Maintenance
Every 10,000 km	Oil and filter change, tire rotation
Every 20,000 km	Air filter replacement, brake inspection
Every 40,000 km	Spark plug replacement, coolant change
Every 80,000 km	Timing belt replacement, transmission fluid
Every 2 years	Brake fluid replacement

Specifications

Engine: 1.7L SOHC 16-valve VTEC
Horsepower: 127 hp @ 6,300 RPM
Torque: 114 lb-ft @ 4,800 RPM
Transmission: 5MT or 4AT
Fuel Economy: 8.1L/100km city, 6.0L/100km highway
Dimensions: 4,445mm L x 1,695mm W x 1,415mm H
Wheelbase: 2,620mm
Tires: 185/65R14

Driving Tips

Optimal driving techniques for fuel efficiency and vehicle longevity.

Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking
Maintain proper tire pressure (32 PSI)
Use cruise control on highways for consistent speed
Shift manual transmission at recommended RPM points
Allow engine to warm up in cold weather

Tip: Regular maintenance improves fuel efficiency and resale value.

Audio System

AM/FM stereo with CD player, 4 speakers, and optional features.

Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off
Source Selection: AM/FM/CD buttons
Volume: Rotary knob or steering wheel controls
Presets: Store 6 AM and 12 FM stations
CD Operation: Insert disc, automatic playback
Bass/Treble: Adjustable sound settings
Clock: Set time via CLOCK button

WARNING! Adjust audio volume to maintain awareness of traffic conditions.

Climate Control

Manual air conditioning and heating system operation.

Warranty Information

New Vehicle Limited Warranty: 3 years/60,000 km. Powertrain Limited Warranty: 5 years/100,000 km. Corrosion Perforation Limited Warranty: 5 years/unlimited distance. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealership.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery connections, ensure fuel level adequate
Overheating	Low coolant, thermostat	Check coolant level, inspect cooling system
Poor fuel economy	Tire pressure, driving habits	Check tire pressure, adjust driving style
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have brakes inspected and resurfaced
Electrical issues	Alternator, battery	Check charging system, battery condition

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealership for professional service.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA