2012 Acura TL Service Manual PDF

The 2012 Acura TL Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the 2012 Acura TL luxury sports sedan. This manual covers all major systems including the 3.7L V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, SH-AWD system, electrical systems, suspension, brakes, heating and air conditioning, body components, and diagnostic procedures. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, technical specifications, repair procedures, and troubleshooting.

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

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 2012 Acura TL with 3.7L V6 engine and available SH-AWD system.

SpecificationDescription
Engine Type3.7L SOHC V6 VTEC
Horsepower305 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque273 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission6-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
DrivetrainFWD or SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)
Fuel SystemPGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)
Brake System4-wheel disc with ABS, EBD, and Brake Assist
SuspensionFront: Double wishbone; Rear: Multi-link
Fuel Capacity18.5 gallons
Curb WeightApprox. 3,864 lbs (FWD)

Maintenance Schedules

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

  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. Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
  5. Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
  6. Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
  7. Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
  8. Cabin air filter: Replace every 15,000 miles

IMPORTANT! Severe driving conditions may require more frequent maintenance.

Engine Systems

Detailed service procedures for the 3.7L V6 engine and related components.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Service procedures for automatic transmission and SH-AWD system components.

Automatic Transmission: Fluid service, valve body, solenoid replacement, shift cable adjustment.

SH-AWD System: Rear differential service, torque transfer unit, rear drive shafts, wheel sensors.

Transmission Fluid: Use only Honda ATF-Z1 or equivalent. SH-AWD Fluid: Use Acura Hypoid Gear Oil. Drive Shaft: Inspection and replacement procedures. Transfer Assembly: Service and diagnostic procedures.

Electrical Systems

Wiring diagrams, component locations, and service procedures for electrical systems.

  1. Battery: Testing, replacement, and charging system diagnosis
  2. Starting System: Starter motor testing and replacement
  3. Charging System: Alternator testing and replacement
  4. Lighting Systems: Headlights, taillights, and interior lighting
  5. Power Accessories: Windows, locks, and seat adjustments
  6. Audio/Navigation: Radio, amplifier, and navigation system service
  7. ECU Systems: PCM, TCM, and other control modules

Warning: Disconnect battery before performing electrical work.

Suspension & Steering

Service procedures for suspension components and power steering system.

  1. Front Suspension: Strut replacement, control arms, ball joints
  2. Rear Suspension: Shock absorbers, trailing arms, bushings
  3. Steering System: Power steering pump, rack and pinion
  4. Wheel Alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures
  5. Stabilizer Bars: Linkage and bushing replacement
  6. Wheel Bearings: Inspection and replacement procedures

Safety Note: Always use proper jack stands when working under vehicle.

Brake Systems

Complete brake system service including ABS and electronic brake distribution.

  1. Brake Pads: Front and rear pad replacement procedures
  2. Brake Rotors: Inspection, machining, and replacement
  3. Brake Calipers: Rebuilding and replacement
  4. Brake Fluid: Bleeding procedure and fluid specification
  5. ABS System: Sensor replacement and diagnostic procedures
  6. Parking Brake: Adjustment and cable replacement
  7. Master Cylinder: Testing and replacement

WARNING! Always test brakes after service before road use.

Heating & A/C

Climate control system service including refrigerant handling procedures.

AC Compressor: Removal and installation. Condenser: Service procedures. Evaporator: Replacement instructions. Heater Core: Removal and installation. Blower Motor: Testing and replacement. Refrigerant: Recovery and recharge procedures (R-134a). Controls: Climate control panel and sensor service.

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior trim, and accessory service procedures.

Doors: Panel removal, window regulator, lock mechanisms. Seats: Power seat motors and track mechanisms. Dashboard: Instrument panel removal and component access. Glass: Windshield and window replacement. Exterior: Bumper cover removal and installation. Trim: Interior panel removal procedures.

Diagnostic Procedures

Using diagnostic tools and interpreting trouble codes for all systems.

OBD-II System: Connecting scan tool and retrieving codes. PCM Codes: Engine and transmission diagnostic trouble codes. Body Codes: Climate control, airbag, and accessory codes. Network Communication: CAN bus system diagnosis. Sensor Testing: Procedures for all major sensors. Actuator Testing: Testing solenoids, motors, and relays.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, starter, fuel systemCheck battery voltage; test starter; verify fuel pressure.
Rough idleSpark plugs, vacuum leaksReplace spark plugs; check for vacuum leaks; clean throttle body.
Transmission slippingLow fluid, worn clutchesCheck fluid level and condition; perform pressure test.
ABS warning lightWheel sensors, moduleScan for codes; test wheel sensors; check wiring.
AC not coolingRefrigerant, compressorCheck refrigerant pressure; test compressor clutch.
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsInspect and replace brake rotors; check calipers.
Electrical issuesBattery, alternator, groundsLoad test battery; test alternator output; check ground connections.

Technical Support: Acura Technical Service Bulletin references included

Service Information: For additional support, contact Acura dealer service department

2012 Acura TL Service Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025