98 Acura TL Owner Manual

The 1998 Acura TL is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, premium audio system, leather interior, power accessories, dual airbags, ABS brakes, and advanced comfort features. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.2L V6 engine, automatic transmission, power windows/locks/mirrors, leather seats, premium audio system, climate control, security system.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.2L SOHC V6 engine with VTEC
Transmission	4-speed automatic with SportShift
Audio System	AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD changer
Climate Control	Automatic temperature control system
Safety Features	Dual airbags, ABS brakes, side impact beams
Interior	Leather seats, power accessories, wood trim
Exterior	Power moonroof, alloy wheels, fog lights
Security	Theft-deterrent system with remote entry
Comfort	Power adjustable seats, tilt steering
Lighting	Automatic headlights, fog lights

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for vehicle operation and maintenance.

1. Always wear seat belts and ensure all passengers are properly restrained.
2. Children should be seated in rear with appropriate child restraints.
3. Maintain proper tire pressure and tread depth for safe handling.
4. Regularly check brakes, lights, and fluid levels.

WARNING! Airbags deploy with great force; always maintain proper seating position. Never place rear-facing child seats in front passenger seat.

Instrument Panel

Understanding your vehicle's dashboard and warning indicators.

1. Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph and km/h
2. Tachometer: Engine RPM
3. Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator
4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
5. Warning Lights: Check engine, ABS, airbag, battery, oil pressure
6. Odometer: Total and trip distance

CAUTION! If any warning light illuminates while driving, pull over safely and check vehicle condition.

Specifications

• Engine: 3.2L SOHC V6 VTEC
• Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5600 rpm
• Torque: 216 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic with SportShift
• Fuel Capacity: 17.2 gallons
• Fuel Type: Premium unleaded recommended
• Tires: P215/50R17
• Brakes: Front and rear disc with ABS
• Curb Weight: 3,460 lbs
• Seating Capacity: 5 passengers

Controls and Operation

Mastering your vehicle's controls and settings.

Steering Wheel: Tilt adjustment, audio controls, cruise control

Dashboard: Climate controls, audio system, hazard lights, defogger

Center Console: Gear selector, cup holders, storage compartment

Doors/Locks: Power door locks, window controls, remote keyless entry

Seats: Power adjustable seats with memory, lumbar support

Driving Instructions

Proper driving techniques and vehicle operation.

1. Starting: Insert key, press brake, shift to Park or Neutral, start engine
2. Transmission: Use SportShift for manual gear selection
3. Braking: Apply steady pressure, ABS will pulse during hard braking
4. Cruise Control: Set speed above 25 mph using steering wheel controls

Tip: Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds before driving in cold weather.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

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. Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
5. Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
6. Transmission Fluid: Change every 30,000 miles
7. Coolant: Replace every 60,000 miles
8. Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles

WARNING! Follow maintenance schedule precisely to maintain warranty coverage.

Audio System

Operating your premium audio system.

1. Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off
2. Source Selection: Switch between AM/FM, cassette, CD changer
3. Volume: Use knob or steering wheel controls
4. Presets: Store up to 18 AM/FM stations
5. Bass/Treble: Adjust sound quality in audio menu
6. CD Changer: Load up to 6 CDs in magazine
7. Cassette: Insert tape with exposed side facing right

WARNING! Do not adjust audio system while driving; keep volume at safe levels.

Climate Control

Automatic and manual climate control operation.

Auto Mode: Set desired temperature, system automatically adjusts fan speed and air distribution

Manual Mode: Select fan speed, temperature, and air distribution manually

Defrost: Use front and rear defoggers for clear visibility

Air Conditioning: Press A/C button for cooling and dehumidifying

CAUTION! Do not use recirculation mode for extended periods in cold weather to prevent window fogging.

Emergency Procedures

Handling emergency situations safely.

Situation	Procedure
Flat Tire	Use jack and spare tire in trunk; follow safety procedures
Dead Battery	Use jumper cables; connect positive to positive, negative to ground
Overheating	Pull over, turn off A/C, let engine cool before checking coolant
Brake Failure	Pump brakes, use emergency brake gradually, downshift
Accident	Move to safe location, turn on hazards, call emergency services

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery connections; ensure adequate fuel; try jump start
Rough idle	Spark plugs, air filter	Replace spark plugs; check air filter; inspect vacuum lines
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have brakes inspected; resurface or replace rotors
Overheating	Coolant leak, thermostat	Check coolant level; inspect for leaks; replace thermostat
Electrical issues	Fuses, alternator	Check fuse box; test alternator output; inspect wiring

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service and genuine parts

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA