2012 Acura TSX Manual Transmission

The 2012 Acura TSX with manual transmission features a 6-speed close-ratio gearbox paired with either the 2.4L i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine (201 hp) or the 3.5L V6 engine (280 hp). This sport sedan offers precise shifting, helical-type limited-slip differential, short-throw shifter, and sport-tuned suspension for enhanced driving dynamics. Below are key sections covering features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Transmission Operation 3. Gear Ratios & Specifications 4. Maintenance Schedule 5. Fluid Requirements 6. Clutch System 7. Driving Techniques 8. Common Issues 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6-speed manual transmission, short-throw shifter, helical limited-slip differential, dual-mass flywheel, hydraulic clutch system.

Feature	Description
Gearbox Type	6-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Shift Mechanism	Short-throw shifter with positive engagement
Differential	Helical-type limited-slip differential
Clutch Type	Hydraulic actuation with dual-mass flywheel
Synchro System	Carbon-lined synchronizers for smooth shifting
Gear Ratios	Close-ratio design for optimal performance
Shift Pattern	Traditional H-pattern with reverse lockout
Final Drive Ratio	4.77:1 (4-cylinder), 4.43:1 (V6)
Transmission Mount	Hydraulic-type for reduced vibration
Shift Feel	Precise, mechanical feedback with short throws

Transmission Operation

Proper shifting techniques and operational guidelines.

Starting procedure: Depress clutch fully, shift to neutral, start engine.
Shifting up: Accelerate to appropriate RPM, clutch in, shift up, clutch out smoothly.
Downshifting: Clutch in, rev-match, shift down, clutch out progressively.
Reverse engagement: Press down on shift knob and move left/forward.
Hill starts: Use parking brake for assistance on steep inclines.

WARNING! Do not rest hand on shift lever while driving; avoid riding the clutch.

Gear Ratios & Specifications

1st Gear: 3.266:1 (4-cyl), 3.266:1 (V6)
2nd Gear: 1.888:1 (4-cyl), 1.888:1 (V6)
3rd Gear: 1.321:1 (4-cyl), 1.321:1 (V6)
4th Gear: 1.034:1 (4-cyl), 1.034:1 (V6)
5th Gear: 0.825:1 (4-cyl), 0.825:1 (V6)
6th Gear: 0.659:1 (4-cyl), 0.659:1 (V6)
Reverse: 3.583:1 (4-cyl), 3.583:1 (V6)
Transmission Fluid: Honda MTF (Manual Transmission Fluid)
Fluid Capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Shift Points: Recommended 6,800 RPM redline

Maintenance Schedule

Routine maintenance ensures optimal transmission performance.

Transmission fluid change: Every 30,000 miles or 3 years
Clutch fluid: Check every 15,000 miles, replace every 3 years
Shift linkage inspection: Every 15,000 miles
Transmission mount check: Every 30,000 miles
Clutch system inspection: Every 30,000 miles

CAUTION! Use only recommended fluids; improper fluids can damage transmission.

Fluid Requirements

Proper fluid selection and maintenance procedures.

Fluid Type	Specification	Capacity
Transmission Fluid	Honda MTF or equivalent	2.2 quarts
Clutch Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid	As needed
Change Interval	30,000 miles/3 years	-

Tip: Check fluid level with transmission at operating temperature.

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch system with self-adjusting mechanism.

Clutch pedal free play: 0.4-0.8 inches (10-20mm)
Clutch fluid reservoir: Located in engine compartment
Bleeding procedure: Required during fluid changes
Clutch lifespan: Typically 60,000-100,000 miles
Wear indicators: High engagement point, slipping under acceleration

WARNING! Do not use clutch to hold vehicle on hills; use brake instead.

Driving Techniques

Optimal driving practices for manual transmission.

Smooth shifting: Coordinate clutch and throttle inputs
Rev-matching: Blip throttle during downshifts
Engine braking: Use lower gears for deceleration
Skip-shifting: Direct shifts (e.g., 3rd to 5th) for fuel economy
Cold weather operation: Allow extra warm-up time

Common Issues

Typical problems and their solutions.

Hard shifting: Check fluid level and condition
Gear grind: Synchronizer wear or low fluid
Clutch chatter: Worn clutch disc or pressure plate
Stuck in gear: Shift linkage adjustment needed
Noise in neutral: Input shaft bearing wear

Warranty Information

2012 Acura TSX manual transmission covered under:

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
Transferable: Yes, to subsequent owners
Deductible: $0 for warranty repairs

Contact Acura client relations for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard to shift into gear	Low fluid, worn clutch	Check fluid level; inspect clutch system
Gear grinding noise	Worn synchronizers	Replace synchronizers; check fluid
Clutch slipping	Worn clutch disc	Replace clutch assembly
Vibration in gear	Worn mounts or CV joints	Inspect transmission mounts and axles
Fluid leaks	Seal or gasket failure	Identify leak source; replace seals
Stuck in one gear	Shift linkage issue	Inspect and adjust shift linkage

Service: Contact Acura dealership for professional diagnosis and repair.