Acura CL 2001 Manual Transmission

The Acura CL 2001 with manual transmission features a 3.2L V6 engine producing 225 horsepower, 5-speed manual gearbox, front-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension, leather interior, premium audio system, and advanced driver assistance features. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting specific to the manual transmission model.

1. Transmission Features 2. Gear Operation 3. Clutch System 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Indicators 6. Driving Techniques 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Fluid Requirements 9. Common Issues 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Transmission Features

Key components: 5-speed manual gearbox, hydraulic clutch system, short-throw shifter, limited-slip differential, and gear position indicator.

Feature	Description
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.071, 2nd: 1.769, 3rd: 1.185, 4th: 0.885, 5th: 0.645, Reverse: 3.000
Final Drive Ratio	4.389:1
Clutch Type	Hydraulic, single disc
Shift Mechanism	Short-throw cable-operated
Synchromesh	All forward gears
Transmission Fluid	Honda MTF
Shift Pattern	H-pattern with reverse lockout
Gear Position Sensor	Electronic for cruise control

Gear Operation

Proper shifting techniques for optimal performance and longevity.

Start engine: Depress clutch fully, shift to neutral.
First gear: Clutch in, shift to 1st, gradual clutch release with throttle.
Upshifting: Clutch in, shift to next gear, smooth clutch release.
Downshifting: Clutch in, shift to lower gear, rev-matching recommended.
Reverse: Complete stop, depress clutch, push down and left.

WARNING! Do not rest hand on shifter while driving. Avoid aggressive shifting when transmission is cold.

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch operation and maintenance.

Clutch pedal: Smooth engagement point approximately 1-2 inches from floor.
Fluid reservoir: Check level monthly; use DOT 4 brake fluid.
Adjustment: Self-adjusting system; no manual adjustment required.
Wear indicators: Slipping, grabbing, or difficulty shifting.

CAUTION! Avoid riding clutch pedal; typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles.

Specifications

Transmission Type: 5-speed manual
Engine: 3.2L V6 SOHC
Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5600 RPM
Torque: 217 lb-ft @ 4700 RPM
Redline: 6500 RPM
Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Suspension: 4-wheel independent double-wishbone
Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS

Controls and Indicators

Transmission-related controls and warning indicators.

Dashboard: Gear position indicator, check engine light, clutch interlock switch.

Clutch interlock: Must depress clutch to start engine. Gear position: Shows current gear selection. Reverse lights: Automatically activate in reverse gear. Cruise control: Disengages when clutch is depressed.

Driving Techniques

Optimal driving practices for manual transmission.

Hill starts: Use parking brake for assistance on steep inclines.
Engine braking: Downshift gradually to slow vehicle.
Rev-matching: Blip throttle during downshifts for smoother engagement.
Skip-shifting: 1st to 3rd or 4th for fuel economy.

Tip: Avoid lugging engine in high gears at low RPM.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for manual transmission.

Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Clutch fluid: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace if contaminated.
Shift linkage: Lubricate every 30,000 miles.
Clutch system: Inspect every 60,000 miles.
Transmission mounts: Check every 30,000 miles for wear.

WARNING! Use only recommended Honda MTF fluid; improper fluid can damage synchronizers.

Fluid Requirements

Proper fluids and capacities for transmission system.

Fluid Type	Specification	Capacity
Transmission Fluid	Honda MTF	2.2 quarts
Clutch Fluid	DOT 4 Brake Fluid	As needed
Engine Oil	5W-30	4.5 quarts

Common Issues

Typical problems with 2001 Acura CL manual transmission.

Grinding gears: Worn synchronizers or low fluid. Difficulty shifting: Clutch hydraulic issues or linkage problems. Clutch chatter: Contaminated clutch disc or pressure plate issues. Transmission noise: Bearings or gear wear.

Warranty Information

Original warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles basic, 5 years/unlimited miles corrosion. Transmission covered under powertrain warranty. Contact Acura client relations for specific coverage questions.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Grinding when shifting	Low fluid/worn synchros	Check fluid level; replace if low; inspect synchronizers
Difficulty getting into gear	Clutch not disengaging	Check clutch hydraulic system; bleed if necessary
Clutch pedal feels soft	Air in hydraulic system	Bleed clutch hydraulic system
Transmission noise	Low fluid/bearing wear	Check fluid level; inspect for bearing failure
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch disc	Replace clutch assembly

Service: Contact Acura dealership or certified technician for transmission repairs.

Support: 1-800-382-2238; www.acura.com