Helms Service Manual Acura TL

The Helms Service Manual for Acura TL provides comprehensive technical information for professional technicians and DIY enthusiasts. This manual covers all systems including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical, and body components for various model years of the Acura TL. Below are key sections for maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

General Information

This manual covers Acura TL models from 2004-2008, including 3.2L and 3.5L V6 engines, automatic and manual transmissions.

Section	Description
Introduction	Manual organization and how to use
Vehicle Identification	VIN locations and decoding
Maintenance Schedules	Service intervals and requirements
Safety Precautions	Important safety warnings
Tools & Equipment	Required special tools

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance procedures to ensure optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

1. Oil and filter change: Recommended every 7,500 miles or 12 months
2. Air filter replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles
3. Brake fluid flush: Every 3 years or 45,000 miles
4. Coolant replacement: Every 5 years or 105,000 miles
5. Spark plug replacement: Every 105,000 miles

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts and fluids for optimal performance.

Engine Systems

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and diagnostics.

• Engine Types: J32A3 (3.2L), J35A8 (3.5L) V6
• Compression Ratio: 10.5:1 (3.2L), 10.5:1 (3.5L)
• Horsepower: 258 hp @ 6200 rpm (3.2L), 286 hp @ 6200 rpm (3.5L)
• Torque: 233 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (3.2L), 256 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (3.5L)
• Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)

Transmission Systems

Automatic and manual transmission service procedures.

Automatic Transmission: 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift

Manual Transmission: 6-speed close-ratio manual (Type-S models)

Fluid capacities: Automatic - 3.1 quarts, Manual - 2.2 quarts

Shift points: Automatic transmission shift schedule and adaptive learning reset procedures

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and steering system.

1. Front suspension: Double wishbone with coil springs
2. Rear suspension: Multi-link with coil springs
3. Steering type: Variable power-assisted rack-and-pinion
4. Turning circle: 38.1 feet
5. Alignment specifications: Camber, caster, and toe settings

Tip: Always check alignment after suspension component replacement.

Brake Systems

Disc brake systems with ABS and electronic brake distribution.

• Front Brakes: 11.8-inch ventilated discs
• Rear Brakes: 11.1-inch solid discs
• ABS System: 4-channel with EBD
• Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4
• Pad Replacement: Front and rear pad replacement procedures

Electrical Systems

Complete electrical system diagnostics and repair procedures.

Battery: 12V, 70Ah maintenance-free

Charging system: 130-amp alternator

Starting system: 1.4 kW starter motor

Fuse boxes: Under-hood and under-dash locations

Lighting systems: Headlight, taillight, and interior lighting

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement, interior trim, and accessory installation.

1. Door panel removal and installation
2. Dashboard component replacement
3. Seat removal and track service
4. Window regulator replacement
5. Exterior trim and molding procedures

WARNING! Use proper trim removal tools to avoid damage to components.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and diagnostic procedures.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine misfire	Spark plugs, coils, fuel injectors	Check spark plug condition, test coil packs, inspect injectors
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn clutches	Check fluid level and condition, perform pressure test
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace brake rotors
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator, grounds	Test battery and charging system, check ground connections
Suspension noise	Worn bushings, struts	Inspect suspension components for wear

Specifications

Complete technical specifications for all Acura TL models.

• Overall Length: 190.1 inches
• Wheelbase: 108.1 inches
• Curb Weight: 3,505 lbs (automatic), 3,483 lbs (manual)
• Fuel Capacity: 17.1 gallons
• Tire Size: P215/50R17 (standard), P235/45R17 (Type-S)

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.

Engine control system wiring

Transmission control circuits

Body electrical systems

Lighting circuits

Audio and navigation systems

Note: Always disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.