Acura TL Type S 2003 Manual

The Acura TL Type S 2003 is a premium sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine producing 260 horsepower, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, leather interior, Bose premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, moonroof, and advanced safety features including ABS, traction control, and side airbags. Below are key sections for vehicle overview, features, maintenance, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Vehicle Overview

The 2003 Acura TL Type S represents the performance variant of the TL lineup, offering enhanced power, sport-tuned suspension, and premium amenities for the driving enthusiast.

Component	Description
Engine	3.2L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Transmission	5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Suspension	Sport-tuned with stabilizer bars
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Wheels	17-inch alloy wheels
Exterior	Type S body kit and badging
Interior	Leather-trimmed sport seats

Key Features

Premium features designed for performance and comfort.

Feature	Description
Engine Performance	260 hp @ 6100 rpm, 232 lb-ft torque @ 3500-5500 rpm
Transmission	Sequential SportShift manual mode
Audio System	Bose 6-disc in-dash CD changer with 8 speakers
Climate Control	Dual-zone automatic climate control
Seating	Heated front seats with 8-way power adjustment
Steering	Power-assisted rack-and-pinion
Security	Anti-theft system with remote entry

Operating Instructions

Basic vehicle operation and driving procedures.

1. Starting the engine: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn to START position.
2. Transmission operation: Use D for normal driving, shift lever to manual gate for SportShift.
3. Cruise control: Set speed with SET/decel button on steering wheel.
4. Headlights: Rotate switch on left stalk for parking/headlights.
5. Wipers: Use right stalk control for intermittent and variable speeds.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts and ensure all passengers are properly restrained.

Technical Specifications

• Engine: 3.2L SOHC 24-valve V6 with VTEC
• Horsepower: 260 @ 6100 rpm
• Torque: 232 lb-ft @ 3500-5500 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed automatic with SportShift
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
• Fuel Capacity: 17.1 gallons
• Fuel Requirement: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)
• Curb Weight: 3,461 lbs
• Wheelbase: 108.1 inches

Controls and Instrument Panel

Dashboard layout and control functions.

Instrument Cluster: Tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

Steering Wheel Controls: Audio controls, cruise control, phone controls (if equipped).

Center Console: Audio system, climate controls, transmission shift lever, cup holders.

Door Controls: Power windows, power door locks, mirror controls.

Warning Lights: Check engine, ABS, airbag, low fuel, oil pressure, battery.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
2. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
3. Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
4. Spark Plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles
5. Timing Belt: Replace every 105,000 miles
6. Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles
7. Brake Fluid: Replace every 3 years
8. Cabin Air Filter: Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles

Note: Severe driving conditions may require more frequent maintenance.

Audio and Climate Systems

Operating the premium entertainment and comfort systems.

Bose Audio System: AM/FM stereo, 6-disc CD changer, 8 speakers including subwoofer.

1. Power/Volume: Rotate knob to turn on/off and adjust volume.
2. Source Selection: Press AM, FM, or CD to select audio source.
3. CD Changer: Load up to 6 discs using load button.
4. Sound Settings: Adjust bass, treble, fader, and balance.

Dual-Zone Climate Control: Separate temperature settings for driver and passenger.

1. Auto Mode: Set desired temperature and system automatically adjusts.
2. Manual Control: Adjust fan speed, mode, and temperature separately.
3. Defrost: Press defrost button for maximum windshield clearing.

Safety Features

Advanced safety systems for occupant protection.

Safety Feature	Description
Airbags	Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags
ABS	4-wheel anti-lock braking system
Traction Control	Electronic traction control system
Security System	Anti-theft with remote keyless entry
Child Safety	LATCH system for child seats
Brake Assist	Emergency braking assistance

Important: Always check that airbag warning light illuminates briefly at startup.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care to maintain vehicle appearance and performance.

1. Exterior Wash: Use car wash soap, rinse thoroughly, dry with soft cloth.
2. Interior Cleaning: Use leather cleaner for seats, mild detergent for carpets.
3. Tire Care: Maintain proper inflation pressure (32 PSI).
4. Battery: Keep terminals clean and check fluid level.
5. Fluid Checks: Regularly check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid levels.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on interior surfaces or exterior paint.

Warranty Information

Acura limited warranty coverage for 2003 TL Type S.

• Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
• Powertrain Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
• Corrosion Warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
• Roadside Assistance: 4 years/50,000 miles
• Emissions Warranty: 2 years/24,000 miles (Federal), 7 years/70,000 miles (California)

For warranty claims, contact any authorized Acura dealership with your vehicle identification number (VIN).

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery connections, ensure adequate fuel
Check engine light on	Various engine issues	Have diagnostic code read at service center
Poor acceleration	Clogged air filter, fuel system	Replace air filter, check fuel pressure
Transmission shifting hard	Low fluid, sensor issue	Check transmission fluid level and condition
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Have brake system inspected
Audio system issues	Disc error, antenna	Clean CDs, check antenna connection

Service: Contact Acura Client Service at 1-800-382-2238 or visit www.acura.com