96 Acura TL 2.5 Repair Manual

The 1996 Acura TL 2.5 is a luxury sedan featuring a 2.5L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, and advanced electronic systems. This repair manual covers comprehensive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for engine, transmission, electrical, suspension, brakes, and climate control systems. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, and troubleshooting guides.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine System 4. Transmission 5. Electrical System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Brake System 8. Climate Control 9. Troubleshooting 10. Safety Precautions 11. Technical Service Bulletins

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data and specifications for the 1996 Acura TL 2.5 model.

Specification	Details
Engine Type	2.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve
Displacement	2497 cc
Horsepower	176 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque	170 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Transmission	5-speed automatic
Fuel System	Multi-port fuel injection
Fuel Capacity	17.2 gallons
Brake System	Front disc/Rear disc with ABS
Suspension	4-wheel independent double wishbone
Curb Weight	3417 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
Timing belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
Transmission fluid: Change every 30,000 miles
Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
Coolant: Replace every 5 years or 60,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts and recommended fluids for optimal performance.

Engine System

Comprehensive engine repair and maintenance procedures.

Engine removal and installation: Step-by-step procedure with torque specifications
Cylinder head service: Valve adjustment and timing belt replacement
Fuel system: Fuel pump replacement and injector service
Ignition system: Spark plug and coil replacement
Cooling system: Radiator and thermostat replacement
Exhaust system: Manifold and catalytic converter service

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before working on electrical components.

Transmission

Transmission Type: 5-speed automatic with Grade Logic Control
Fluid Capacity: 7.2 quarts (drain and refill)
Fluid Type: Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 or equivalent
Service Procedures: Fluid change, filter replacement, shift solenoid testing
Common Issues: Shift flare, harsh shifting, transmission codes
Diagnostic Codes: Reading and clearing transmission DTCs

Electrical System

Wiring diagrams, component locations, and electrical troubleshooting.

Battery: 12V 60Ah, located in trunk. Alternator: 90 amp output. Starter: 1.4 kW reduction type.

Electrical Components: Power windows, door locks, sunroof, audio system, climate control, instrument cluster, lighting systems, engine management system (ECU), ABS module, SRS airbag system.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension service, alignment specifications, steering system repair.

Front suspension: Strut replacement, control arm and ball joint service
Rear suspension: Multi-link system service and alignment
Steering system: Power steering pump and rack service
Wheel alignment: Factory specifications and adjustment procedures
Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles for even wear

Tip: Always check wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Brake System

Complete brake system maintenance and repair procedures.

Brake pad replacement: Front and rear procedures with bedding-in process
Rotor service: Measurement specifications and replacement criteria
ABS system: Component testing and troubleshooting
Brake fluid bleeding: Proper procedure for air removal
Parking brake: Adjustment and cable replacement
Master cylinder: Testing and replacement procedure

WARNING! Always use proper safety equipment when working with brake components.

Climate Control

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service.

Troubleshooting

Diagnostic procedures for common issues and performance problems.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, fuel pump	Check battery voltage, test starter, listen for fuel pump
Rough idle	Vacuum leaks, dirty injectors	Check vacuum lines, clean fuel injectors
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn clutches	Check fluid level and condition, pressure test
ABS light on	Wheel sensors, module	Scan for codes, test wheel speed sensors
Overheating	Thermostat, radiator, water pump	Check cooling system components and flow

Safety Precautions

Essential safety procedures for all repair work.

CAUTION! Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Disconnect battery before electrical work. Use proper protective equipment.

Technical Service Bulletins

Factory-issued service bulletins addressing common issues and updates.

Acura TSB 96-001: Transmission shift improvement software update. TSB 96-015: Revised valve clearance specifications. TSB 96-028: Updated ABS module calibration. TSB 96-042: Improved idle air control valve procedure. For latest bulletins, contact Acura dealer or visit Acura technical website.