Acura TL Transmission Repair Manual

The Acura TL Transmission Repair Manual provides comprehensive guidance for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining the transmission system in Acura TL vehicles. This manual covers automatic and manual transmission models, including troubleshooting procedures, component replacement, fluid service, and electronic control systems. Below are key sections for transmission specifications, common issues, repair procedures, maintenance schedules, and diagnostic techniques.

1. Transmission Specifications 2. Common Transmission Problems 3. Diagnostic Procedures 4. Repair and Replacement 5. Fluid Service and Maintenance 6. Electronic Control Systems 7. Torque Converter Service 8. Transmission Removal and Installation 9. Safety Precautions 10. Tools and Equipment 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Transmission Specifications

Key transmission components: Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, solenoids, sensors, and manual transmission components.

Component	Specification
Transmission Type	5-speed automatic / 6-speed manual
Fluid Capacity	Automatic: 3.1 quarts; Manual: 2.2 quarts
Fluid Type	ATF-Z1 for automatic; Manual transmission fluid
Torque Converter	Lock-up type with stall speed 2200-2400 RPM
Gear Ratios	1st: 2.697, 2nd: 1.606, 3rd: 1.071, 4th: 0.694, 5th: 0.470
Final Drive Ratio	4.428:1
Shift Points	1-2: 15 mph, 2-3: 25 mph, 3-4: 40 mph, 4-5: 55 mph
Pressure Specifications	Line pressure: 85-110 psi at idle
Sensor Voltage	Input speed sensor: 0.5-4.5V; Output speed sensor: 0.3-4.8V
Weight	Automatic: 187 lbs; Manual: 165 lbs

Common Transmission Problems

Identify and address frequent transmission issues in Acura TL models.

Hard shifting: Check fluid level and condition; inspect shift solenoids.
Slipping gears: Verify fluid pressure; examine clutch packs and bands.
Delayed engagement: Test torque converter; check valve body operation.
Transmission overheating: Inspect cooler lines; verify proper fluid circulation.
Check engine light: Scan for transmission-related DTCs (P0700-P0799).

WARNING! Transmission components operate under high pressure; use proper safety equipment during inspection and repair.

Diagnostic Procedures

Systematic approach to transmission diagnosis using specialized tools and techniques.

Connect diagnostic scanner: Retrieve transmission control module codes.
Fluid inspection: Check level, color, and smell for contamination.
Road test: Observe shift patterns, slippage, and engagement issues.
Pressure testing: Measure line pressure at various RPM ranges.
Electrical testing: Verify solenoid and sensor operation with multimeter.

CAUTION! Always use jack stands when working under vehicle; transmission fluid is flammable.

Repair and Replacement

Transmission Removal: Disconnect battery, drain fluid, remove driveshaft, disconnect shift linkage and electrical connectors.
Valve Body Service: Clean and inspect valve body; replace worn valves and springs.
Clutch Pack Replacement: Measure clutch clearances; replace worn friction discs and steel plates.
Seal Replacement: Install new input and output shaft seals; replace pan gasket.
Torque Converter: Inspect for wear; replace if damaged or contaminated.
Shift Solenoids: Test resistance (20-30 ohms); replace faulty units.
Bands Adjustment: Adjust kickdown and low/reverse bands to specification.
Reassembly: Use new gaskets; torque bolts to factory specifications.

Fluid Service and Maintenance

Proper fluid maintenance procedures for optimal transmission performance and longevity.

Fluid Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles for normal service; 15,000 miles for severe conditions.

Drain and Refill: Remove drain plug; refill with specified ATF. Filter Replacement: Replace internal/external filters during fluid service. Fluid Level Check: Engine running, transmission in Park, check at operating temperature. Flush Procedure: Use transmission flush machine for complete fluid exchange.

Electronic Control Systems

Transmission control module, sensors, and solenoids operation and testing.

TCM (Transmission Control Module): Located under dashboard; stores shift timing data.
Input Speed Sensor: Monitors turbine shaft speed; resistance 250-1500 ohms.
Output Speed Sensor: Tracks output shaft rotation; voltage output 0.3-4.8V.
Shift Solenoids A, B, C: Control gear selection; test resistance (20-30 ohms).
Pressure Control Solenoid: Modulates line pressure; PWM signal controlled.
Transmission Range Switch: Detects gear selector position; ensures proper starting.

Tip: Always disconnect battery before working on electrical components.

Torque Converter Service

Inspection, testing, and replacement procedures for torque converter assembly.

Stall Test: Apply brakes, shift to Drive, gradually increase throttle to 2000 RPM.
Inspection: Check for blueing, scoring, or damage to converter housing.
Endplay Measurement: Should be 0.004-0.024 inches; replace if excessive.
Lock-up Clutch: Test engagement smoothness; inspect for shudder or slippage.
Replacement: Match replacement converter to transmission model; ensure proper seating.
Balancing: Dynamic balance required if replacing internal components.
Cleaning: Flush thoroughly to remove contamination from old fluid.
Installation: Align converter properly with pump gears; rotate until fully seated.

WARNING! Torque converter contains residual fluid; drain completely before removal.

Transmission Removal and Installation

Step-by-step procedure for transmission removal and reinstallation.

Safety Precautions

Essential safety measures when working with transmission systems.

CAUTION! Use jack stands; transmission fluid is hot and flammable; avoid skin contact with fluid.

Tools and Equipment

Specialized tools required for transmission repair and diagnosis.

Transmission jack, pressure gauge set, diagnostic scanner, multimeter, seal pullers, clutch spring compressor, band adjustment tools, torque wrench set, fluid transfer pump, pan gasket scraper, bearing pullers, snap ring pliers.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No forward movement	Low fluid, forward clutch failure	Check fluid level; test forward clutch pressure.
No reverse	Reverse band, low-reverse clutch	Adjust reverse band; inspect low-reverse clutch.
Transmission slips	Worn clutches, low pressure	Measure clutch clearances; test line pressure.
Hard shifts	Pressure control solenoid, TCM	Test solenoid operation; check TCM signals.
Delayed shifts	Valve body, torque converter	Clean valve body; inspect torque converter.
Overheating	Clutch slippage, cooler blockage	Check cooler flow; inspect for internal slippage.
Fluid leaks	Seals, gaskets, loose pan	Replace seals; tighten pan bolts to specification.
Noise in neutral	Torque converter, pump wear	Inspect converter; check pump for scoring.

Reset: Clear TCM memory after repairs; perform adaptive learning procedure.

Technical Support: Acura Technical Service Bulletin database; certified transmission specialists.