Acura CL Manual Transmission Fluid Change

The Acura CL manual transmission fluid change is a crucial maintenance procedure for ensuring smooth shifting performance and prolonging the lifespan of your transmission. This guide covers the complete process for draining and refilling manual transmission fluid on Acura CL models, including recommended fluid types, tools required, step-by-step procedures, and important safety precautions.

1. Tools and Materials Required 2. Safety Precautions 3. Fluid Specifications 4. Step-by-Step Procedure 5. Inspection Points 6. Common Issues 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Troubleshooting 9. Professional Service

Tools and Materials Required

Essential equipment for performing a manual transmission fluid change on Acura CL models.

Tool/Material	Description
Transmission Fluid	Honda/Acura Genuine MTF or equivalent
Drain Pan	Capacity of at least 4 quarts
Socket Set	8mm, 10mm, 14mm, 17mm sockets
Fluid Pump	Hand pump or transmission fluid pump
Jack and Jack Stands	For safe vehicle lifting
Wheel Chocks	For safety when working under vehicle
Funnel	Long-neck for fluid filling
Torque Wrench	For proper bolt tightening
Gloves and Safety Glasses	Personal protective equipment
Shop Towels	For cleanup and spill prevention

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures to follow during transmission fluid service.

Park on level surface and engage parking brake.
Allow transmission to cool completely before starting.
Use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack.
Wear protective gloves and safety glasses.
Dispose of used fluid properly at recycling center.

WARNING! Transmission fluid can be extremely hot after driving. Allow adequate cooling time. Always use proper lifting equipment and safety gear.

Fluid Specifications

Recommended transmission fluids and capacities for Acura CL manual transmissions.

Fluid Type: Honda/Acura Genuine Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
Alternative: High-quality synthetic manual transmission fluid meeting Honda specifications
Capacity: Approximately 2.5-3.0 quarts (2.4-2.8 liters)
Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years under normal conditions
Severe Service: Every 15,000 miles for frequent towing or aggressive driving
Viscosity: SAE 10W-30 or manufacturer-specified equivalent

Step-by-Step Procedure

Complete guide to draining and refilling manual transmission fluid.

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
Lift vehicle safely using jack and secure with jack stands.
Locate transmission drain plug (bottom) and fill plug (side).
Place drain pan under transmission drain plug.
Remove fill plug first to ensure fluid will drain properly.
Remove drain plug and allow fluid to drain completely.
Inspect drain plug for metal particles or excessive wear.
Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer if required.
Refill transmission through fill hole using fluid pump.
Continue filling until fluid begins to run out fill hole.
Reinstall fill plug and torque to specification (33 ft-lbs).
Lower vehicle and check for leaks during initial operation.

CAUTION! Always remove fill plug before drain plug. If fill plug cannot be removed, do not proceed with drain procedure.

Inspection Points

Critical components to inspect during fluid change procedure.

Component	Inspection Criteria
Drain Plug	Check for metal particles, thread damage
Fill Plug	Ensure threads are clean and undamaged
Transmission Case	Inspect for leaks, cracks, or damage
CV Joint Boots	Check for tears or grease leakage
Shift Linkage	Verify smooth operation and no binding
Clutch Components	Inspect for hydraulic leaks or wear

Common Issues

Potential problems and solutions related to manual transmission fluid.

Hard Shifting: Often caused by old or incorrect fluid type
Transmission Noise: May indicate low fluid level or worn components
Fluid Leaks: Check drain/fill plugs and seals for proper installation
Gear Grinding: Could signal synchronizer wear or fluid contamination
Fluid Discoloration: Dark or burnt-smelling fluid indicates overheating

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for transmission maintenance.

Normal Service: Fluid change every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Severe Service: Fluid change every 15,000 miles or 1 year
Inspection: Check fluid level every oil change (5,000-7,500 miles)
Linkage Inspection: Check shift linkage every 15,000 miles
Seal Inspection: Inspect for leaks during every service

Troubleshooting

Common transmission fluid-related problems and solutions.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard shifting when cold	Wrong fluid viscosity	Replace with proper Honda/Acura MTF
Transmission whine	Low fluid level	Check and refill to proper level
Fluid leak from drain plug	Damaged washer or over-tightening	Replace washer and torque properly
Gear grinding	Worn synchronizers or contaminated fluid	Change fluid and inspect transmission
Unable to remove fill plug	Stripped threads or corrosion	Use proper tools and penetrating oil

Professional Help: If problems persist after fluid change, consult qualified Acura technician.

Professional Service

When to seek professional transmission service.

Consider professional service if you encounter: persistent shifting issues, unusual noises, fluid leaks you cannot locate, or if you lack proper tools and experience. Acura dealerships and qualified transmission specialists have the equipment and expertise to diagnose and repair complex transmission problems.

Service Centers: Contact your local Acura dealership or certified transmission specialist for professional service.