Acura 1.7 EL 2003 Service and Repair Manual

The Acura 1.7 EL 2003 is a compact luxury sedan featuring a 1.7L SOHC 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, power steering, ABS brakes, air conditioning, power windows/locks, and comprehensive safety systems. This manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, repair instructions, and technical specifications for proper vehicle servicing. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, engine repair, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, and troubleshooting.

1. Maintenance Schedule 2. Engine System 3. Transmission 4. Electrical System 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Heating & AC 8. Body & Interior 9. Technical Specifications 10. Troubleshooting

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Service Required
Every 3,000 miles	Oil and filter change
Every 7,500 miles	Tire rotation and inspection
Every 15,000 miles	Air filter replacement
Every 30,000 miles	Transmission fluid change
Every 60,000 miles	Spark plug replacement
Every 100,000 miles	Timing belt replacement
As needed	Brake fluid flush every 2 years
As needed	Coolant replacement every 5 years

Engine System

1.7L SOHC 4-cylinder engine specifications and repair procedures.

Engine oil capacity: 3.8L (4.0 US qt)
Spark plug gap: 1.0-1.1 mm (0.039-0.043 in)
Compression pressure: 1,200 kPa (12.2 kg/cm², 174 psi)
Valve clearance (cold): Intake 0.20-0.24 mm, Exhaust 0.28-0.32 mm

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before working on electrical components. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission

4-speed automatic transmission service and maintenance.

Transmission fluid capacity: 2.6L (2.7 US qt) at change
Fluid type: Honda ATF-Z1 or equivalent
Fluid change interval: Every 30,000 miles
Shift cable adjustment: Proper adjustment crucial for correct gear selection

CAUTION! Use only specified transmission fluid to prevent damage.

Electrical System

Battery: 12V, 45 Ah capacity
Alternator: 80A output
Starter: 1.4 kW power rating
Fuse box locations: Under dashboard and engine compartment
Bulb types: Headlight 9003, Brake light 1157, Turn signal 1156
Charging system voltage: 13.5-14.5V at 2000 rpm

Brake System

Front disc and rear drum brake system specifications.

Front brakes: Ventilated discs, 262 mm diameter

Rear brakes: Drum brakes, 200 mm diameter

Brake fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4

Pad replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace when worn to 1mm

Rotor minimum thickness: 20.0 mm

Suspension & Steering

Front MacPherson strut and rear double wishbone suspension system.

Front suspension: MacPherson strut with coil springs
Rear suspension: Double wishbone with coil springs
Steering type: Power-assisted rack and pinion
Turning circle: 10.8 m (35.4 ft)
Wheel alignment specs: Toe-in 0±2 mm, Camber -0°30'±45'

Tip: Check suspension components for wear during tire rotation.

Heating & AC

Climate control system maintenance and service.

Refrigerant type: R-134a
Refrigerant capacity: 550-600 g
Compressor oil: PAG 46
AC system pressure: High side 1,470-1,760 kPa, Low side 245-345 kPa
Heater core flush: Recommended every 60,000 miles

WARNING! AC system contains high pressure refrigerant - service by qualified technician only.

Body & Interior

Exterior and interior component maintenance.

Body dimensions: Length 4,445 mm, Width 1,715 mm, Height 1,415 mm

Wheelbase: 2,620 mm

Curb weight: 1,190 kg

Fuel tank capacity: 50L

Trunk capacity: 340L

Technical Specifications

Engine: 1.7L SOHC 16-valve inline-4
Power: 87 kW (117 hp) @ 6300 rpm
Torque: 149 Nm (110 lb-ft) @ 4800 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Fuel system: Programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel economy: City 8.7L/100km, Highway 6.4L/100km
Brakes: Front disc, rear drum with ABS
Tires: 185/65R14

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition/fuel	Check battery voltage, spark plugs, fuel pump, and fuses
Poor acceleration	Air filter/fuel system	Replace air filter, check fuel pressure, inspect throttle body
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace brake rotors, check calipers
Overheating	Cooling system	Check coolant level, thermostat, radiator fan operation
Electrical issues	Battery/alternator	Test battery and alternator output, check ground connections

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

Service: Contact Acura dealer or qualified technician for complex repairs.