Acura SLX Repair Manual

The Acura SLX is a mid-size luxury SUV produced from 1996 to 1999, based on the Isuzu Trooper. This comprehensive repair manual covers maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for the 3.2L V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, 4WD system, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and more. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, engine repair, transmission service, electrical systems, and troubleshooting.

1. Maintenance Schedule 2. Engine Repair 3. Transmission Service 4. Brake System 5. Suspension & Steering 6. Electrical Systems 7. Cooling System 8. Fuel System 9. Exhaust System 10. 4WD System 11. Troubleshooting

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Service Required
Every 3,000 miles	Oil and filter change
Every 7,500 miles	Rotate tires, inspect brakes
Every 15,000 miles	Replace air filter, fuel filter
Every 30,000 miles	Replace spark plugs, coolant flush
Every 60,000 miles	Timing belt replacement, transmission fluid
Every 100,000 miles	Replace drive belts, check 4WD components

Engine Repair

3.2L V6 engine specifications and repair procedures.

Engine removal: Disconnect battery, drain fluids, remove accessories.
Cylinder head: Torque sequence 65 ft-lbs in three steps.
Timing belt: Align marks at TDC, replace tensioner and idler pulleys.
Valve adjustment: Cold engine, intake 0.006-0.008 in, exhaust 0.008-0.010 in.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before working on electrical components. Use proper lifting equipment for engine removal.

Transmission Service

4-speed automatic transmission maintenance and repair.

Fluid change: Use Dexron III ATF, capacity 7.5 quarts.
Filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles or with fluid change.
Shift linkage adjustment: Set in PARK position.
Transmission removal: Remove driveshaft, exhaust, crossmember.

CAUTION! Transmission fluid hot after operation - allow to cool before servicing.

Brake System

Front brakes: Disc brakes, pad replacement every 30,000 miles.
Rear brakes: Drum brakes, shoe replacement every 40,000 miles.
Brake fluid: DOT 3, replace every 2 years.
Bleeding sequence: RR, LR, RF, LF.
Rotor thickness: Minimum 0.945 in.
Drum diameter: Maximum 11.024 in.

Suspension & Steering

Torsion bar front suspension with coil spring rear.

Front suspension: Upper/lower ball joints, tie rod ends, torsion bars.

Rear suspension: Coil springs, shock absorbers, trailing arms.

Steering: Power steering with recirculating ball gear. Alignment specs: Camber -0°30' to +0°30', Caster +2°30' to +3°30', Toe-in 0° to +0°12'. Wheel bearing adjustment: Pre-load 11-16 in-lbs.

Electrical Systems

12-volt negative ground system with 90-amp alternator.

Battery: 12V 65AH, located under driver seat.
Alternator output: 13.5-14.5 volts at 2000 RPM.
Starter draw: 130-180 amps maximum.
Fuse box: Under dashboard and in engine compartment.

Tip: Always disconnect negative battery terminal first when working on electrical systems.

Cooling System

Pressurized cooling system with 13.2 quart capacity.

Thermostat: Opens at 180°F (82°C).
Radiator cap: 13 psi pressure rating.
Coolant: 50/50 ethylene glycol and water.
Water pump: Replace with timing belt service.
Fan clutch: Check for excessive play and resistance.

WARNING! Never open radiator cap when engine is hot - risk of severe burns.

Fuel System

Multi-port fuel injection with 19.8 gallon tank.

Fuel pressure: 38-44 psi with vacuum, 47-53 psi without vacuum. Fuel filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles. Injector resistance: 13-16 ohms at 68°F (20°C).

Exhaust System

Stainless steel exhaust with catalytic converter.

Manifold torque: 25 ft-lbs in sequence from center outward. Oxygen sensor: Replace every 100,000 miles. Catalytic converter: Check for restrictions if power loss occurs.

4WD System

Shift-on-the-fly 4WD with 2WD/4WD High/4WD Low.

Transfer case fluid: Dexron III ATF, 2.6 quarts. Front differential: 80W-90 gear oil, 2.4 pints. Rear differential: 80W-90 gear oil, 3.2 pints. CV joints: Inspect boots for cracks during oil changes.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, fuel pump	Check battery voltage, starter operation, fuel pressure.
Overheating	Thermostat, water pump, radiator	Test thermostat, check water pump, flush radiator.
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace front brake rotors.
4WD not engaging	Vacuum system, shift motor	Check vacuum lines, test shift motor operation.
Electrical issues	Ground connections, alternator	Clean battery terminals, test alternator output.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset ECU.

Service: Contact Acura dealer or certified repair facility for complex issues.