Acura CL Manual Transmission Fluid

The Acura CL manual transmission fluid is specifically designed for Honda/Acura manual transmissions, providing optimal lubrication, thermal stability, and wear protection. Proper fluid selection and maintenance are crucial for smooth shifting performance, transmission longevity, and preventing premature wear of synchronizers and gears. Below are key sections covering fluid specifications, replacement procedures, compatibility, and maintenance guidelines.

1. Fluid Specifications 2. Recommended Fluids 3. Fluid Capacity 4. Replacement Procedure 5. Tools Required 6. Compatibility Information 7. Maintenance Intervals 8. Troubleshooting 9. Safety Precautions 10. Warranty Information

Fluid Specifications

Acura CL manual transmissions require specific fluid types to ensure proper operation and longevity.

Specification	Description
Viscosity Grade	SAE 75W-85 or 10W-30
API Classification	GL-4 or GL-5
Honda/Acura OEM	Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
Color	Amber to light brown
Base Oil	High-quality synthetic or mineral
Additive Package	Extreme pressure, anti-wear, anti-foam
Operating Temp Range	-40°C to 150°C (-40°F to 302°F)
Compatibility	Honda/Acura manual transmissions only

Recommended Fluids

Use only approved manual transmission fluids for optimal performance.

Honda/Acura Genuine MTF: Recommended OEM fluid
Aftermarket equivalents: Must meet Honda/Acura specifications
Synthetic alternatives: Full synthetic 75W-85 GL-4/GL-5
Emergency use: 10W-30 motor oil (temporary only)

WARNING! Using incorrect fluid can cause transmission damage and void warranty.

Fluid Capacity

Transmission fluid capacity varies by model year and transmission type.

Standard Capacity: 2.0 - 2.5 quarts (1.9 - 2.4 liters)
Drain & Refill: 1.8 - 2.2 quarts (1.7 - 2.1 liters)
Overfill Limit: Do not exceed fill port level
Check Level: At fill port with vehicle level

CAUTION! Overfilling can cause fluid leaks and seal damage.

Replacement Procedure

Follow these steps for proper fluid replacement.

Park on level surface and engage parking brake
Place drain pan under transmission drain plug
Remove fill plug first, then drain plug
Allow fluid to drain completely
Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer
Refill with recommended fluid until it reaches fill port
Reinstall fill plug with new washer
Check for leaks and test drive

Tip: Warm transmission before draining for better fluid flow.

Tools Required

Essential tools for transmission fluid service.

Tool	Specification
Socket Set	3/8" drive, various sizes
Drain Pan	Minimum 3-quart capacity
Fluid Pump	Hand pump or transmission filler
Torque Wrench	10-50 ft-lbs range
Jack & Stands	For vehicle elevation
Safety Glasses	Eye protection
Gloves	Chemical resistant

Compatibility Information

Ensure fluid compatibility with your specific Acura CL model.

Model Years: 1997-2003 Acura CL
Transmission Codes: M2P4, M2S4, M2U4
Not Compatible: Automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
Cross-Reference: Compatible with Honda manual transmissions
Special Notes: Some models may require specific OEM fluid only

WARNING! Verify transmission code before fluid selection.

Maintenance Intervals

Recommended service intervals for transmission fluid.

Normal Service: Every 30,000 miles or 30 months
Severe Service: Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Racing/Track Use: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months
Initial Change: First 1,000 miles (break-in period)

CAUTION! Severe service includes towing, racing, or extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

Common transmission fluid related issues and solutions.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard shifting	Old/wrong fluid	Drain and refill with correct MTF
Grinding noise	Low fluid level	Check and top up fluid level
Fluid leaks	Worn seals/plugs	Replace seals and drain/fill plugs
Discolored fluid	Contamination/wear	Complete fluid flush and inspection
Burning smell	Overheating	Check fluid level and condition

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures when handling transmission fluid.

Wear protective gloves and eyewear
Work in well-ventilated area
Use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack
Allow transmission to cool before servicing
Dispose of used fluid properly at recycling center
Clean spills immediately to prevent slips

WARNING! Transmission fluid is slippery and can be hot - handle with care.

Warranty Information

Warranty coverage and requirements for transmission fluid service.

Using non-approved fluids may void powertrain warranty. Keep receipts for all fluid purchases and service records. Genuine Honda/Acura MTF recommended for warranty compliance. For warranty claims, contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com.