2008 Acura TL Type S Owners Manual

The 2008 Acura TL Type S is a premium sports sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine producing 286 horsepower, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, Acura/Bose 10-speaker premium audio system, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, navigation system with voice recognition, leather-trimmed interior, sport-tuned suspension, and enhanced braking system. Below are key sections for vehicle features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Operation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Audio and Navigation 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, Acura Navigation System, Bluetooth connectivity, premium audio system, sport suspension package.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.5L V6 VTEC engine with 286 horsepower
Transmission5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Audio SystemAcura/Bose 10-speaker premium sound system
NavigationVoice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic
BluetoothHandsFreeLink wireless telephone interface
SuspensionSport-tuned with performance dampers
Brakes4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
InteriorLeather-trimmed seats with power adjustments
Climate ControlDual-zone automatic climate control system
ExteriorType S body kit with unique badging

Vehicle Operation

Familiarize yourself with basic vehicle operations before driving.

  1. Starting the vehicle: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn ignition to start position.
  2. Transmission operation: Use Sequential SportShift for manual gear selection.
  3. Climate control: Set desired temperature using dual-zone controls.
  4. Audio system: Power on radio/CD player, adjust volume and source selection.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts and ensure all passengers are properly restrained before driving.

First-Time Setup

Configure your vehicle's personal settings upon delivery.

  1. Pair Bluetooth phone: Access HandsFreeLink menu to pair mobile device.
  2. Set navigation preferences: Configure home address and favorite destinations.
  3. Adjust driver position: Set power seat, mirrors, and steering wheel position.
  4. Program audio presets: Save favorite radio stations to memory buttons.

CAUTION! Complete initial setup while vehicle is parked in a safe location.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Master the vehicle's control systems for optimal driving experience.

Steering Wheel Controls: Audio controls, cruise control, hands-free telephone, voice recognition activation.

Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, navigation interface, transmission shift lever.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights, multi-information display.

Personal Settings: Door lock customization, lighting preferences, navigation options, Bluetooth pairing.

Audio and Navigation

Operating the premium audio and navigation systems.

  1. Audio System: AM/FM radio, CD player, auxiliary input, XM Satellite Radio capable.
  2. Navigation: Voice-activated guidance, real-time traffic updates, points of interest database.
  3. Bluetooth: HandsFreeLink for wireless phone calls and audio streaming.
  4. Voice Recognition: Control navigation, audio, and phone functions using voice commands.

Tip: Update navigation maps regularly for accurate routing information.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

  1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  3. Brake Inspection: Every 15,000 miles
  4. Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
  5. Coolant Replacement: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years
  6. Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles or 7 years
  7. Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles

WARNING! Use only Acura-approved fluids and genuine parts for maintenance.

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems for occupant protection.

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA): Helps maintain control during cornering and slippery conditions. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking. Dual-stage front airbags: Deploy with appropriate force based on impact severity. Side curtain airbags: Provide head protection for all outboard occupants. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Alerts driver of low tire pressure.

Care & Cleaning

Proper care maintains your vehicle's appearance and value.

Exterior: Wash regularly with automotive soap, wax every 3-6 months. Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean leather with approved conditioner, protect dashboard from UV damage. Windows: Use automotive glass cleaner, avoid ammonia-based products. Wheels: Clean brake dust regularly to prevent damage to wheel finish.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on painted surfaces or interior trim.

Warranty Information

Limited Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper coverage. Powertrain Warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles. Corrosion Warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles. Acura Total Luxury Care: 24-hour roadside assistance included. For warranty claims, contact your authorized Acura dealer. Keep all maintenance records for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, security systemCheck battery connections; ensure key is recognized; jump start if needed.
Navigation not workingGPS signal, outdated mapsEnsure clear view of sky; update navigation database; check fuse.
Bluetooth disconnectsPhone compatibility, signalRe-pair device; check phone compatibility list; reset system.
TPMS warning lightLow tire pressureCheck and adjust all tires to recommended pressure; reset system.
Rough idleDirty fuel injectors, spark plugsUse fuel system cleaner; check spark plugs; inspect air filter.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset electronic systems if needed.

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com

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