Acura Sedan Manual Transmission

The Acura Sedan Manual Transmission system offers precise gear control and enhanced driving engagement for performance-oriented drivers. Below are key sections covering operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical specifications for manual transmission models in the Acura sedan lineup.

1. Transmission Overview 2. Operation Guidelines 3. Gear Shift Pattern 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Features 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Driving Techniques 8. Fluid Requirements 9. Common Issues 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Transmission Overview

Key components: 6-speed manual gearbox, clutch assembly, shift linkage, synchronizers, and gear selector mechanism.

Component	Description
Gearbox	6-speed manual transmission with helical-cut gears
Clutch System	Hydraulic clutch with self-adjusting mechanism
Shift Linkage	Direct cable-operated shift mechanism
Synchronizers	Carbon-lined synchronizers for smooth shifting
Gear Selector	Short-throw shifter with precision bearings
Transmission Fluid	Specialized manual transmission fluid required
Reverse Lockout	Safety feature preventing accidental reverse engagement
Clutch Pedal	Hydraulically assisted with adjustable engagement point
Shift Knob	Leather-wrapped with integrated shift pattern display
Mounting System	Rubber-insulated mounts for vibration reduction

Operation Guidelines

Proper manual transmission operation ensures longevity and optimal performance.

Clutch engagement: Fully depress clutch pedal before shifting gears.
Smooth shifting: Apply gentle pressure when moving shift lever between gears.
Rev matching: Match engine RPM to transmission speed when downshifting.
Avoid riding clutch: Keep foot off clutch pedal when not shifting.

WARNING! Do not rest hand on shift lever while driving; this can cause premature wear.

Gear Shift Pattern

Standard H-pattern with reverse lockout mechanism.

	R
1	3	5
	N
2	4	6

Note: Reverse gear requires lifting collar on shift knob or pushing down while shifting left and up.

Technical Specifications

Transmission Type: 6-speed manual
Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.267, 2nd: 1.880, 3rd: 1.360, 4th: 1.021, 5th: 0.829, 6th: 0.686, Reverse: 3.583
Final Drive Ratio: 4.111:1
Clutch Type: 240mm single-disc dry clutch
Fluid Capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Fluid Type: Acura Manual Transmission Fluid or equivalent
Shift Mechanism: Cable-operated with short-throw design
Weight: 98 lbs (44.5 kg) including fluid
Maximum Torque Capacity: 280 lb-ft (380 Nm)

Controls and Features

Manual transmission controls include clutch pedal, shift lever, and various driver assistance features.

Primary Controls: Clutch pedal, Shift lever, Reverse lockout mechanism.

Features: Hill start assist, Rev-match technology (on select models), Gear position indicator, Shift point indicator, Clutch wear sensor, Transmission temperature monitoring.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures transmission longevity and performance.

Transmission fluid change: Every 30,000 miles or 3 years
Clutch inspection: Every 15,000 miles
Shift linkage adjustment: As needed or every 30,000 miles
Clutch hydraulic fluid: Replace every 3 years
Transmission mount inspection: Every 30,000 miles

Tip: Use only Acura-approved manual transmission fluid for optimal performance.

Driving Techniques

Master these techniques for optimal manual transmission operation.

Starting on hills: Use parking brake for controlled starts on steep inclines.
Downshifting: Practice rev-matching for smooth gear transitions.
Engine braking: Use lower gears for controlled deceleration.
Skip shifting: Shift directly from 2nd to 4th or 3rd to 5th during light acceleration.
Double-clutching: Optional technique for smoother downshifts in older vehicles.

WARNING! Avoid "riding the clutch" as it causes premature wear and overheating.

Fluid Requirements

Proper fluid maintenance is critical for transmission longevity.

Recommended Fluid: Acura Manual Transmission Fluid or equivalent meeting Honda/Acura specifications.

Change Interval: 30,000 miles or 3 years under normal conditions, 15,000 miles for severe service.

Severe Service Conditions: Frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, towing, track use.

Common Issues

Typical manual transmission concerns and their causes.

Grinding gears: Worn synchronizers or low transmission fluid
Difficulty shifting: Worn clutch or need for linkage adjustment
Clutch chatter: Contaminated clutch disc or worn pressure plate
Transmission noise: Worn bearings or insufficient lubrication
Fluid leaks: Damaged seals or overfilled transmission

Warranty Information

Acura provides comprehensive warranty coverage for manual transmission components.

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles from purchase date.

Powertrain Warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles covering major transmission components.

Clutch Assembly: Covered for defects in materials/workmanship for 3 years/36,000 miles (wear items excluded).

For warranty claims, contact your local Acura dealership with vehicle VIN and service records.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Difficulty shifting into gear	Low clutch fluid, air in system	Check clutch fluid level; bleed hydraulic system if necessary.
Grinding during shifts	Worn synchronizers, incorrect fluid	Replace transmission fluid; inspect synchronizers for wear.
Clutch pedal feels soft	Air in hydraulic system	Bleed clutch hydraulic system; check for leaks.
Transmission noise in neutral	Low fluid, worn input shaft bearing	Check fluid level; inspect bearings for wear.
Vehicle creeps with clutch depressed	Worn clutch disc, hydraulic issue	Adjust clutch pedal free play; inspect clutch components.

Service: Contact Acura dealership for professional diagnosis and repair.

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