2005 Acura TL Manual Transmission Fluid Change

The 2005 Acura TL with manual transmission requires regular transmission fluid changes to maintain optimal performance and longevity. This guide covers the complete procedure for draining and refilling the manual transmission fluid, including recommended fluid types, tools needed, step-by-step instructions, and important safety precautions. Proper maintenance helps ensure smooth shifting and protects transmission components from premature wear.

1. Tools and Materials Required 2. Safety Precautions 3. Preparation Steps 4. Drain and Refill Procedure 5. Fluid Specifications 6. Post-Service Checks 7. Common Issues and Solutions 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Warranty Information 10. Technical Support

Tools and Materials Required

Essential items needed for a successful transmission fluid change.

Item	Description
Transmission Fluid	Honda/Acura Genuine MTF or equivalent
Drain Pan	Capacity of at least 3 quarts
Socket Set	10mm, 17mm sockets
Ratchet and Extensions	3/8" drive with 6" extension
Fluid Pump	Hand pump or transmission fluid pump
Jack and Jack Stands	For safe vehicle lifting
Wheel Chocks	For safety when vehicle is raised
Funnel	For clean fluid transfer
Gloves and Safety Glasses	Personal protective equipment
Shop Towels	For cleaning up spills

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures to follow during the procedure.

Park on level surface and engage parking brake.
Allow transmission to cool completely before starting.
Use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack.
Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect from hot fluid.
Disconnect battery negative terminal as precaution.

WARNING! Transmission fluid can be extremely hot after driving. Allow adequate cooling time to prevent burns.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation ensures a smooth and safe service procedure.

Gather all required tools and materials before starting.
Park vehicle on level surface and chock rear wheels.
Lift front of vehicle using jack and secure with jack stands.
Remove underbody panels if necessary for access to transmission.
Place drain pan beneath transmission drain plug.

CAUTION! Ensure vehicle is securely supported before crawling underneath.

Drain and Refill Procedure

Fluid Capacity: Approximately 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Drain Plug: 17mm hex head located on transmission bottom
Fill Plug: 17mm hex head located on transmission side
Fluid Type: Honda/Acura Genuine Manual Transmission Fluid
Service Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Operating Temp: Check fluid when transmission is warm
Torque Specs: Drain/Fill plugs: 36 ft-lbs (49 Nm)

Fluid Specifications

Detailed procedure for draining old fluid and refilling with new fluid.

Locate transmission drain plug on bottom of transmission case.
Place drain pan directly under drain plug area.
Using 17mm socket, loosen drain plug counterclockwise.
Remove drain plug completely and allow fluid to drain fully.
Clean drain plug and inspect magnet for metal particles.
Reinstall drain plug and torque to 36 ft-lbs.
Locate fill plug on side of transmission case.
Remove fill plug using 17mm socket.
Insert fluid pump hose into fill opening.
Pump new fluid until it begins to overflow from fill hole.
Reinstall fill plug and torque to 36 ft-lbs.
Lower vehicle and check for leaks.

Tip: Always remove fill plug first to ensure you can refill after draining.

Post-Service Checks

Recommended fluids and specifications for 2005 Acura TL manual transmission.

Fluid Type	Specification	Alternative
Honda MTF	Genuine Honda Manual Transmission Fluid	Required for warranty
Equivalent	API Service GL-4 or GL-5	Check manufacturer approval
Viscosity	SAE 75W-85	Do not use ATF
Capacity	2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)	Actual amount may vary

Common Issues and Solutions

Important checks to perform after fluid change service.

Start engine and allow to reach normal operating temperature.
Depress clutch pedal and shift through all gears several times.
Check for fluid leaks around drain and fill plugs.
Test drive vehicle to ensure smooth shifting operation.
Recheck fluid level after driving (transmission should be warm).
Inspect under vehicle for any new leaks after test drive.

WARNING! Do not overfill transmission as this can cause seal damage and foaming.

Maintenance Schedule

Troubleshooting common problems encountered during transmission service.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Difficulty shifting	Wrong fluid type	Drain and refill with correct Honda MTF
Fluid leak from plugs	Stripped threads	Replace drain/fill plugs; use thread sealant
Grinding noise	Low fluid level	Check and top off fluid to proper level
Metal particles on plug	Normal wear	Clean magnet; excessive amounts indicate internal issues
Cannot remove fill plug	Corrosion/over-torque	Use penetrating oil; proper socket with breaker bar

Warranty Information

Recommended maintenance intervals for manual transmission fluid service.

Normal Service: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Severe Service: Every 15,000 miles or 1 year
Racing/Track Use: After each event or 5,000 miles
First Change: 15,000 miles for new vehicle break-in
Inspection: Check fluid level every oil change
Fluid Analysis: Consider used oil analysis for high-mileage vehicles

Technical Support

Warranty coverage information and requirements.

Acura factory warranty may be voided if non-approved fluids are used or if service is performed by unauthorized personnel. Keep receipts for parts and fluids as proof of maintenance. For warranty claims, contact Acura Customer Service at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com.

Additional Resources

Technical support and additional information sources.

For technical assistance, contact Acura Technical Service at 1-800-999-1009. Online resources: www.acuraowners.com, www.acurazine.com. Factory service manual part number: 06AJTLS2005. Always refer to latest technical service bulletins for updated procedures.

Service Centers: Locate nearest Acura dealer at www.acura.com/dealer