Acura 2003 3.2 TL Manual

The Acura 2003 3.2 TL is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, premium audio system, leather interior, power moonroof, dual-zone climate control, and advanced safety features including Vehicle Stability Assist and side curtain airbags. Below are key sections for features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Operation 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrument Panel 6. Audio and Climate Systems 7. Driving Features 8. Safety Systems 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.2L SOHC V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, leather-trimmed interior, premium audio system, power accessories, advanced safety features.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.2L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Transmission	5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Audio System	Premium 6-disc in-dash CD changer
Climate Control	Dual-zone automatic climate control
Seating	Leather-trimmed seats with 8-way power adjustment
Moonroof	Power moonroof with tilt feature
Safety	Vehicle Stability Assist, side curtain airbags
Steering	Power steering with variable assist
Brakes	4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
Wheels	16-inch alloy wheels

Vehicle Operation

Familiarize yourself with basic vehicle operation before driving.

Starting the engine: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn to START position.
Transmission operation: Use D for normal driving, S for Sport mode with paddle shifters.
Parking: Apply foot brake, shift to P, set parking brake.
Headlights: Rotate switch on steering column for various lighting modes.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts and ensure all passengers are properly restrained.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Oil change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
Air filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years
Transmission fluid: Replace every 60,000 miles
Timing belt: Replace at 105,000 miles

CAUTION! Use only Acura-approved fluids and genuine parts for maintenance.

Specifications

Engine: 3.2L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque: 216 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Fuel Capacity: 17.1 gallons
Fuel Type: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)
MPG: 19 city / 28 highway
Curb Weight: 3,505 lbs
Wheelbase: 108.1 inches

Controls and Instrument Panel

Instrument cluster includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning indicators.

Steering Wheel Controls: Audio controls, cruise control, paddle shifters (Type-S).

Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, hazard lights, power outlet. Dashboard: Information display, trip computer, outside temperature, maintenance minder.

Audio and Climate Systems

Premium audio system with AM/FM radio, 6-disc CD changer, and automatic climate control.

Audio: Power button, volume knob, source selection, CD controls.
Climate: Auto mode, temperature controls, fan speed, air distribution.
Defogger: Front and rear defogger buttons for window clearing.

Tip: Use AUTO mode for optimal climate control performance.

Driving Features

Advanced driving features enhance performance and comfort.

Sequential SportShift: Manual gear selection using shift lever or paddles.
Cruise Control: Set speed using steering wheel controls.
Power Moonroof: Open/close with overhead console switch.
Power Windows: One-touch up/down for driver window.
Power Door Locks: Automatic locking feature available.

WARNING! Always keep hands on steering wheel and eyes on road while driving.

Safety Systems

Comprehensive safety systems including dual-stage airbags, ABS, Vehicle Stability Assist.

Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags, side curtain airbags. Braking: Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake Distribution. Stability: Vehicle Stability Assist helps maintain control during cornering.

Care & Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance preserve vehicle appearance and value.

Exterior: Wash regularly with car wash soap, wax every 3 months. Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean leather with approved conditioner. Tires: Check pressure monthly, rotate regularly.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on interior surfaces or exterior paint.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty coverage: 4 years/50,000 miles basic, 5 years/unlimited miles corrosion. Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles. For warranty claims, contact Acura dealer with proof of maintenance records.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/security system	Check battery connections; ensure key is recognized; try spare key.
Transmission shifts hard	Fluid level/temperature	Check transmission fluid level; allow warm-up in cold weather.
Audio system no sound	Mute/volume settings	Check mute function; adjust volume; check audio source.
Check engine light on	Various systems	Have diagnostic code read at Acura dealer; do not ignore warning.
Brakes pulsating	Warped rotors	Have brake rotors inspected and resurfaced or replaced.

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional diagnosis and repair.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA