Acura TL 2007 Manual Transmission

The Acura TL 2007 with manual transmission features a 6-speed close-ratio gearbox, 3.5L V6 VTEC engine producing 286 horsepower, limited-slip differential, sport-tuned suspension, and premium leather interior. This comprehensive manual covers operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for the manual transmission system.

1. Transmission Overview 2. Gear Ratios & Specifications 3. Operating Instructions 4. Clutch System 5. Shift Pattern & Techniques 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fluid Requirements 8. Common Issues 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Transmission Overview

The 6-speed manual transmission in the 2007 Acura TL features close-ratio gearing for optimal performance, limited-slip differential for improved traction, and short-throw shifter for precise gear changes.

Component	Description
Transmission Type	6-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Gearbox Design	Close-ratio synchronized
Differential	Helical limited-slip
Shift Mechanism	Short-throw cable-operated
Final Drive Ratio	4.438:1
Clutch Type	Hydraulic, single dry disc

Gear Ratios & Specifications

1st Gear: 3.266:1
2nd Gear: 2.130:1
3rd Gear: 1.517:1
4th Gear: 1.147:1
5th Gear: 0.921:1
6th Gear: 0.738:1
Reverse: 3.583:1
Transmission Fluid: Honda MTF
Fluid Capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)

Operating Instructions

Proper manual transmission operation ensures longevity and optimal performance.

Starting: Depress clutch fully, shift to neutral, start engine.
Shifting Up: Accelerate to appropriate RPM, depress clutch, shift to next gear.
Downshifting: Match engine RPM to gear speed, depress clutch, select lower gear.
Reverse: Come to complete stop, depress clutch, lift reverse lockout collar.
Hill Starts: Use parking brake to prevent rollback.

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

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch system with self-adjusting mechanism.

Component	Specification
Clutch Type	Single dry disc, diaphragm spring
Clutch Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Pedal Free Play	0.4-0.8 inches (10-20mm)
Master Cylinder	Integrated with brake fluid reservoir
Slave Cylinder	External, mounted on transmission

Maintenance: Check fluid level monthly; replace every 3 years or 36,000 miles.

Shift Pattern & Techniques

Standard H-pattern with reverse lockout.

    R   1   3   5
    ┌───┬───┬───┐
    │   │   │   │
    ├───┼───┼───┤
    │   │   │   │
    └───┴───┴───┘
        2   4   6

Shift Points (Recommended):

1-2: 15 mph
2-3: 25 mph
3-4: 35 mph
4-5: 45 mph
5-6: 55 mph

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures transmission longevity.

Service	Interval	Procedure
Transmission Fluid	30,000 miles	Drain and refill with Honda MTF
Clutch Fluid	36,000 miles	Replace DOT 3/4 brake fluid
Clutch Inspection	60,000 miles	Check wear and adjustment
Shift Linkage	15,000 miles	Lubricate and adjust
Fluid Leak Check	Every oil change	Inspect for leaks

Fluid Requirements

Use only recommended fluids for optimal performance.

Transmission Fluid: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
Alternative: Acura/Honda MTF only - do not substitute
Capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Clutch Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 3 years

CAUTION! Using incorrect fluid may damage synchronizers and gears.

Common Issues

Typical manual transmission concerns and their causes.

Issue	Symptoms	Likely Cause
Grinding Gears	Noise during shifting	Worn synchronizers, low fluid
Difficulty Shifting	Hard to engage gears	Clutch adjustment, linkage issues
Clutch Slippage	RPM increases without acceleration	Worn clutch disc
Fluid Leaks	Puddles under transmission	Seal or gasket failure
Noise in Neutral	Rattling sound at idle	Input shaft bearing wear

Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Hard shifting	Low fluid, worn synchronizers	Check fluid level, replace if contaminated
Clutch pedal soft	Air in hydraulic system	Bleed clutch system
Gear pop-out	Worn shift forks or detents	Inspect internal components
Vibration	Worn engine/transmission mounts	Replace mounts
Cannot select reverse	Reverse lockout mechanism	Ensure complete stop, lift collar fully

Professional Service: Contact Acura dealer for complex transmission issues.

Warranty Information

Original warranty coverage for 2007 Acura TL manual transmission.

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain: 6 years/70,000 miles
Transmission: Covered under powertrain warranty
Clutch: Wear item - 12 months/12,000 miles
Extended Coverage: Available through Acura Care

For warranty claims: Contact Acura Client Services at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com.