Acura TL Type S Manual Transmission Fluid

The Acura TL Type S manual transmission requires specific fluid types and maintenance procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This guide covers fluid specifications, replacement procedures, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting for the 6-speed manual transmission system. Proper fluid maintenance is essential for smooth shifting, gear protection, and overall transmission health.

1. Fluid Specifications 2. Recommended Fluid Types 3. Fluid Capacity 4. Replacement Procedure 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Tools Required 7. Checking Fluid Level 8. Troubleshooting 9. Safety Precautions 10. Warranty Information

Fluid Specifications

The Acura TL Type S manual transmission requires specific fluid properties to maintain optimal performance and protect internal components.

Specification	Requirement
Viscosity Grade	75W-85 or equivalent
API Classification	GL-4 or higher
Acura/Honda OEM	Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
Temperature Range	-40°C to 150°C operating
Color	Amber when new, darkens with use
Base Oil	Synthetic recommended

Recommended Fluid Types

Several manufacturers produce compatible manual transmission fluids for the Acura TL Type S.

Acura/Honda Genuine MTF: OEM recommended fluid
GM Manual Transmission Fluid: 75W-85 synthetic
Red Line MTL: 70W-80 GL-4 Gear Oil
Amsoil Manual Transmission Fluid: Synthetic 75W-85
Royal Purple Synchromax: Manual transmission fluid

WARNING! Do not use automatic transmission fluid or gear oils not meeting GL-4 specifications.

Fluid Capacity

The manual transmission fluid capacity varies slightly by model year and transmission type.

Transmission Type	Capacity	Model Years
6-Speed Manual	2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)	2007-2008
6-Speed Manual	2.3 quarts (2.2 liters)	2004-2006

Note: Capacity may vary slightly during refill - always check level after service.

Replacement Procedure

Follow these steps for proper manual transmission fluid replacement.

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
Raise vehicle safely using jack stands
Locate drain plug on transmission bottom
Place drain pan under transmission
Remove fill plug first (ensures fluid will drain)
Remove drain plug and allow fluid to drain completely
Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer
Refill with recommended fluid until it reaches fill hole
Reinstall fill plug with new washer
Lower vehicle and check for leaks

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures transmission longevity and performance.

Service Interval	Procedure
Every 30,000 miles	Inspect fluid level and condition
Every 60,000 miles	Replace transmission fluid
Every 100,000 miles	Complete transmission service
As needed	Check for leaks and unusual noises

Severe Service: Reduce intervals by 50% for racing, towing, or extreme conditions.

Tools Required

Proper tools ensure safe and effective transmission fluid service.

3/8" drive ratchet with extensions
17mm hex socket for drain and fill plugs
Fluid transfer pump or hand pump
Drain pan (minimum 3 quart capacity)
Jack and jack stands for vehicle lifting
Torque wrench (20-40 ft-lb range)
New crush washers for drain/fill plugs

Checking Fluid Level

Regular fluid level checks prevent transmission damage.

Park vehicle on level surface
Ensure transmission is at operating temperature
Clean area around fill plug
Remove fill plug - fluid should be at bottom of hole
If low, add fluid until it begins to overflow
Reinstall fill plug with new washer

CAUTION! Transmission must be level for accurate level check.

Troubleshooting

Common transmission fluid-related issues and solutions.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard shifting	Old/wrong fluid	Replace with correct MTF
Transmission noise	Low fluid level	Check and fill to proper level
Gear grinding	Worn fluid	Replace fluid and inspect synchros
Fluid leaks	Worn seals/plugs	Replace seals and crush washers
Overheating	Wrong fluid type	Drain and refill with correct MTF

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures when servicing transmission fluid.

Wear safety glasses and gloves
Use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack
Allow transmission to cool before service to prevent burns
Dispose of used fluid properly at recycling center
Clean spills immediately to prevent slips

WARNING! Transmission fluid is slippery and can cause falls.

Warranty Information

Acura TL Type S transmission warranty coverage and requirements.

Basic warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles. Using non-approved fluids may void warranty. Keep service records for warranty claims. For warranty service, contact Acura dealer with VIN and maintenance documentation.