Acura TSX 2003 Manual

The Acura TSX 2003 is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 2.4L i-VTEC engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, power moonroof, leather-trimmed interior, and advanced safety features including front and side airbags. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Controls 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Driving Features 7. Audio System 8. Climate Control 9. Safety Features 10. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 2.4L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, power windows and door locks, cruise control, anti-lock braking system (ABS), vehicle stability assist (VSA).

FeatureDescription
Engine2.4L i-VTEC 4-cylinder, 200 hp @ 6800 rpm
Transmission5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Fuel SystemProgrammed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension4-wheel independent double-wishbone
Audio SystemAM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer
Climate ControlDual-zone automatic climate control
SeatingLeather-trimmed sport seats
SafetyDual-stage front airbags, side airbags
ExteriorPower moonroof, alloy wheels

Instrument Panel

Main gauges and indicators: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

  1. Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h.
  2. Tachometer: Displays engine RPM.
  3. Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level.
  4. Temperature Gauge: Shows engine coolant temperature.
  5. Warning Lights: Check engine, ABS, VSA, airbag, oil pressure.

WARNING! If any warning light remains on while driving, stop the vehicle when safe and check the issue.

Operating Controls

Steering wheel controls: Audio controls, cruise control. Center console: Climate controls, audio system, gear selector.

  1. Ignition: Insert key and turn to start.
  2. Gear Selector: P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), S (Sport).
  3. Sequential SportShift: Move gear selector to S and use +/- for manual shifting.
  4. Cruise Control: Set speed with SET button on steering wheel.

CAUTION! Always come to complete stop before shifting between P, R, and D.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Every 7,500 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation

Every 15,000 miles: Air filter replacement, brake inspection

Every 30,000 miles: Spark plug replacement, transmission fluid change

Every 60,000 miles: Timing belt replacement, coolant replacement

Driving Features

Sequential SportShift: Manual gear selection in S mode. Vehicle Stability Assist: Helps maintain control during cornering. Cruise Control: Maintains set speed.

  1. SportShift Operation: Move selector to S, then push forward to upshift, pull back to downshift.
  2. VSA: Automatically activates when loss of traction detected.
  3. Cruise Control: Press MAIN to activate, SET to set speed, CANCEL to pause.

Tip: Use SportShift for better control during spirited driving.

Audio System

AM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer, 7 speakers including subwoofer.

  1. Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off.
  2. Source Selection: Use AM/FM, CD buttons to select source.
  3. CD Changer: Load up to 6 CDs; use DISC button to select disc.
  4. Sound Adjustment: BASS, TREBLE, FADER, BALANCE controls.
  5. Steering Controls: Volume up/down, source selection.

WARNING! Adjust audio settings only when vehicle is stopped.

Climate Control

Dual-zone automatic climate control with air filtration.

Safety Features

Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, anti-lock brakes, vehicle stability assist.

CAUTION! Always wear seat belts. Children under 12 should ride in back seat.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignitionCheck battery connections; ensure gear in Park; try jump start.
Check engine light onEngine issueHave diagnostic code read at service center.
Poor fuel economyMaintenance/drivingCheck air filter; tire pressure; avoid aggressive driving.
Brake pedal softBrake fluid/airCheck brake fluid level; have brakes inspected.
CD player errorDisc/mechanismEject and reload CD; check for disc damage.

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service.

Emergency: Roadside assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA

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