Acura Manual Transmission TL

The Acura TL with manual transmission offers a sporty driving experience with precise gear shifting, responsive acceleration, and enhanced driver engagement. This 5-speed manual transmission features smooth clutch operation, short throw shifter, and optimized gear ratios for balanced performance and fuel efficiency. Below are key sections covering operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Transmission Overview 2. Operation Guidelines 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Technical Specifications 5. Shifting Techniques 6. Clutch System 7. Fluid Requirements 8. Common Issues 9. Warranty Information 10. Safety Precautions 11. Troubleshooting

Transmission Overview

Key components: 5-speed manual gearbox, hydraulic clutch system, short-throw shifter, synchronizers, and gear linkage.

Component	Description
Gearbox Type	5-speed manual with overdrive
Clutch Type	Hydraulic single-disc
Shifter Mechanism	Short-throw cable linkage
Synchronizers	Carbon-lined for smooth engagement
Gear Ratios	Optimized for performance and efficiency
Final Drive Ratio	4.20:1
Shift Pattern	Standard H-pattern with reverse lockout
Transmission Fluid	Honda MTF or equivalent
Clutch Fluid	DOT 4 brake fluid
Service Interval	30,000 miles for fluid change

Operation Guidelines

Proper manual transmission operation ensures longevity and optimal performance.

Starting procedure: Depress clutch fully, shift to neutral, start engine.
Shifting gears: Smooth clutch engagement with coordinated throttle input.
Downshifting: Rev-match for smoother gear transitions.
Reverse gear: Complete stop required; lift reverse lockout collar.

WARNING! Do not rest hand on shifter while driving; avoid riding the clutch.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures transmission reliability and performance.

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

CAUTION! Use only recommended fluids; improper fluids may damage transmission.

Technical Specifications

Transmission Model: M5HA
Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.267, 2nd: 1.778, 3rd: 1.154, 4th: 0.870, 5th: 0.675, Reverse: 3.583
Clutch Diameter: 225mm
Fluid Capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Shift Mechanism: Cable-operated with reverse lockout
Weight: 85 lbs (38.5 kg)
Maximum Torque: 260 lb-ft (352 Nm)
Service Life: 150,000+ miles with proper maintenance

Shifting Techniques

Master proper shifting for optimal performance and transmission longevity.

Smooth Shifting: Fully depress clutch, shift deliberately, release clutch smoothly while applying throttle.

Rev-matching: Blip throttle during downshifts to match engine and transmission speeds. Double-clutching: Optional technique for smoother downshifts. Hill starts: Use parking brake for assistance. Performance shifting: Quick but smooth shifts without excessive force.

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch system with self-adjusting mechanism.

Clutch pedal: Proper free play adjustment (10-15mm).
Master cylinder: Converts pedal pressure to hydraulic pressure.
Slave cylinder: Activates clutch release mechanism.
Clutch disc: Organic facing material for smooth engagement.

Tip: Monitor clutch fluid level in reservoir; low level indicates potential leaks.

Fluid Requirements

Proper fluid selection is critical for transmission performance and longevity.

Transmission fluid: Honda MTF or equivalent manual transmission fluid.
Clutch fluid: DOT 4 brake fluid only.
Change interval: 30,000 miles for transmission fluid.
Inspection: Check fluid condition during oil changes.

WARNING! Do not use automatic transmission fluid in manual transmission.

Common Issues

Typical manual transmission concerns and preventive measures.

Gear grinding: Worn synchronizers or improper shifting technique. Difficulty shifting: Low fluid, worn clutch, or linkage issues. Clutch slippage: Worn clutch disc or pressure plate. Fluid leaks: Seals or gaskets requiring replacement. Noisy operation: Bearings or gear wear.

Warranty Information

Standard Acura warranty coverage for manual transmission components.

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain: 6 years/70,000 miles. Clutch: Covered under wear item policy (1 year/12,000 miles).

Safety Precautions

Essential safety practices for manual transmission operation.

CAUTION! Always depress clutch fully when starting; use parking brake on inclines; avoid coasting in neutral.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Difficulty shifting into gear	Low fluid, worn clutch	Check fluid level; inspect clutch system; adjust linkage.
Gear grinding	Synchronizer wear	Replace synchronizers; improve shifting technique.
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch disc	Replace clutch components; check hydraulic system.
Transmission noise	Low fluid, bearing wear	Check fluid level; inspect bearings; replace if necessary.
Fluid leaks	Seal failure	Identify leak source; replace seals and gaskets.

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional diagnosis and repair.

Support: 1-800-TO-ACURA; www.acura.com