Acura Legend Manual Transmission Fluid

The Acura Legend manual transmission requires specific fluid types and maintenance procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Proper fluid selection, regular changes, and correct filling procedures are essential for smooth shifting, reduced wear, and extended transmission life. Below are key sections covering fluid specifications, maintenance intervals, replacement procedures, troubleshooting, and compatibility information.

1. Fluid Specifications 2. Recommended Fluid Types 3. Maintenance Intervals 4. Fluid Capacity 5. Replacement Procedure 6. Tools Required 7. Checking Fluid Level 8. Common Symptoms of Bad Fluid 9. Troubleshooting 10. Compatibility Chart 11. Safety Precautions

Fluid Specifications

Manual transmission fluid specifications for Acura Legend models with manual transmission.

Specification	Requirement
Viscosity Grade	75W-85 or 75W-90
API Classification	GL-4 or GL-5
Acura/Honda OEM	Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
Alternative Brands	Red Line MT-90, Amsoil Manual Transmission Fluid
Color	Typically amber when new, darkens with age
Smell	Distinct petroleum odor, should not smell burnt

Recommended Fluid Types

Acura recommends specific transmission fluids for optimal performance.

Acura/Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF): Specifically formulated for Honda/Acura manual transmissions
75W-90 GL-4/GL-5: High-quality synthetic manual transmission fluid
75W-85: Alternative viscosity for improved cold weather performance
Synthetic Blend: Offers better protection and longer service intervals

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

Maintenance Intervals

Recommended transmission fluid change intervals for Acura Legend.

Normal Driving Conditions: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Severe Driving Conditions: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Racing/Competition Use: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months
First Change: 15,000 miles for new transmission break-in

Note: Severe conditions include frequent towing, stop-and-go driving, or extreme temperatures.

Fluid Capacity

Transmission fluid capacity specifications.

Model Year	Transmission Type	Capacity (Quarts)
1986-1990	5-Speed Manual	2.2 quarts
1991-1995	5-Speed Manual	2.4 quarts
All Years	Drain & Refill	2.0-2.2 quarts

Tip: Always check fluid level after refill and adjust as necessary.

Replacement Procedure

Step-by-step guide for manual transmission fluid replacement.

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
Place drain pan under transmission drain plug
Remove fill plug first to ensure it's not stuck
Remove drain plug and allow fluid to drain completely
Clean drain plug and replace sealing washer if damaged
Reinstall drain plug and torque to 29-36 ft-lbs
Pump new fluid into fill hole until it begins to overflow
Reinstall fill plug and torque to 29-36 ft-lbs
Check for leaks and test drive vehicle

Tools Required

Essential tools for transmission fluid service.

Socket Set: 3/8" drive with 17mm, 19mm sockets
Ratchet & Extensions: For accessing drain and fill plugs
Fluid Pump: Hand pump or transmission fluid pump
Drain Pan: 3-5 quart capacity
Torque Wrench: For proper plug tightening
Jack & Jack Stands: For vehicle lifting and support
Safety Glasses & Gloves: Personal protection equipment

Checking Fluid Level

Proper procedure for checking manual transmission fluid level.

Park vehicle on level surface and ensure transmission is cool
Clean area around fill plug to prevent contamination
Remove fill plug using 17mm socket
Fluid should be level with bottom of fill hole
If low, add fluid until it begins to overflow
Reinstall fill plug and torque to specification

CAUTION! Never overfill transmission as it can cause seal damage.

Common Symptoms of Bad Fluid

Signs that indicate transmission fluid needs replacement.

Symptom	Description
Difficult Shifting	Hard to shift gears, especially when cold
Grinding Noise	Grinding sounds during gear engagement
Transmission Overheating	Excessive heat from transmission area
Fluid Leaks	Visible fluid under transmission
Burning Smell	Burnt odor from transmission fluid
Discolored Fluid	Dark, black fluid instead of amber

Troubleshooting

Common transmission fluid issues and solutions.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Hard shifting	Old/wrong fluid, low level	Drain and refill with correct fluid
Transmission noise	Low fluid, worn bearings	Check level, inspect for wear
Fluid leaks	Worn seals, loose plugs	Replace seals, tighten plugs
Gear grinding	Incorrect fluid viscosity	Use recommended 75W-90 fluid
Overheating	Overfilled, wrong fluid	Correct level, use proper fluid

Compatibility Chart

Fluid compatibility with different Acura Legend model years.

Model Year	Transmission Code	Recommended Fluid
1986-1987	M4A4	Honda MTF or 75W-90 GL-4
1988-1990	M4A4	Honda MTF or 75W-90 GL-4
1991-1995	S4A4	Honda MTF or 75W-90 GL-4/GL-5

Note: Always verify transmission code before fluid selection.

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures when working with transmission fluid.

Wear safety glasses and gloves to prevent skin contact
Work in well-ventilated area to avoid fume inhalation
Use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack
Allow transmission to cool before draining hot fluid
Dispose of used fluid properly at recycling center
Clean spills immediately to prevent slips and environmental damage

WARNING! Transmission fluid can be hot and cause burns. Always allow cooling time.