Owner's Manual for 1998 Acura TL

The 1998 Acura TL is a luxury sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, premium audio system, dual airbags, ABS brakes, power windows/locks/mirrors, climate control, and leather interior. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Safety Features 3. Instrument Panel 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Driving Instructions 8. Audio System 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.2L V6 engine, automatic transmission, power steering, ABS brakes, dual airbags, climate control system.

FeatureDescription
Engine3.2L SOHC V6 engine
Transmission4-speed automatic with SportShift
Brakes4-wheel disc with ABS
AirbagsDual front airbags
Audio SystemAM/FM stereo with cassette player
Climate ControlAutomatic temperature control
Power FeaturesWindows, locks, mirrors, sunroof
SeatingLeather-trimmed seats
SecurityAnti-theft system
Fuel System17.2 gallon fuel tank

Safety Features

Important safety systems and precautions.

  1. Airbags: Dual front airbags deploy in frontal collisions.
  2. ABS Brakes: Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking.
  3. Seat Belts: 3-point safety belts for all seating positions.
  4. Child Safety: Rear door child-proof locks.
  5. Security: Anti-theft system with keyless entry.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Children under 12 should ride in back seat. Airbags deploy with great force.

Instrument Panel

Dashboard controls and indicators.

  1. Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph/kph.
  2. Tachometer: Engine RPM.
  3. Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator.
  4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature.
  5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brakes.
  6. Odometer: Total and trip mileage.

CAUTION! If warning lights illuminate while driving, pull over safely and check vehicle.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Steering wheel controls: Cruise control, audio controls. Center console: Climate control, audio system, hazard lights.

Key Controls: Ignition, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, sunroof, headlights, wipers.

Climate: Automatic temperature control, fan speed, air distribution. Audio: AM/FM radio, cassette player, volume, tone controls. Lights: Headlights, fog lights, interior lighting.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  3. Brake Inspection: Every 15,000 miles
  4. Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
  5. Timing Belt: Replace at 105,000 miles
  6. Coolant: Replace every 36 months

Tip: Use only Acura-approved fluids and parts.

Driving Instructions

Starting, shifting, and operating procedures.

  1. Starting: Insert key, press brake, turn to START.
  2. Shifting: Press brake to shift from Park.
  3. SportShift: Manual shifting capability.
  4. Cruise Control: Set speed with steering controls.
  5. Parking Brake: Apply before exiting vehicle.

WARNING! Never shift to Park while vehicle is moving. Always use parking brake on inclines.

Audio System

AM/FM stereo with cassette player operation.

  1. Power: Press POWER button to turn on/off.
  2. Radio: Select AM/FM band, tune with SEEK/TUNE.
  3. Presets: Store 6 stations per band.
  4. Cassette: Insert tape, play automatically.
  5. Sound: Adjust bass, treble, balance, fader.
  6. Antenna: Power antenna extends when radio on.

WARNING! Do not adjust audio system while driving. Keep volume at safe levels.

Care & Cleaning

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, dry with soft cloth. Interior: Vacuum regularly, clean leather with approved cleaner.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Avoid high-pressure car washes. Protect from extreme temperatures.

Warranty Information

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain: 4 years/50,000 miles. Rust Perforation: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty service, contact Acura dealer. Keep maintenance records for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignitionCheck battery connections; ensure in Park; try spare key.
OverheatingCoolant levelCheck coolant level; inspect for leaks; stop driving if overheated.
Brake warning lightParking brake/fluidRelease parking brake; check brake fluid level.
Electrical issuesBattery/fusesCheck battery charge; inspect fuse box.
Transmission issuesFluid levelCheck transmission fluid level and condition.

Service: Contact Acura dealer for professional service.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA

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