Segment:
Luxury Mid-size Sedan
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus ES, Infiniti I30/I35, Audi A4
Selling Points:
Standard VTEC V6 engine, available premium audio, leather seating, premium features for its price point, reliable and well-built reputation.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain (front-wheel drive, limited-slip differential on Type-S)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (ABS, VSA), wheels and tires
Body And Electrical:
Body panels, interior trim, exterior lighting, interior lighting, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), power accessories (windows, locks, seats), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), infotainment, body electrical controls, multiplex integrated control system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), brake pad/rotor replacement, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection/replacement, battery maintenance
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures, wiring diagrams, circuit testing
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine component overhaul (e.g., cylinder head removal/installation), transmission service and repair, brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement (struts, control arms, ball joints), steering rack repair, HVAC system component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail covering diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and diagrams.
Type:
5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift
Availability:
N/A (Only automatic offered for 2001)
Type S Transmission Features:
Sport-tuned 5-speed automatic with improved shift logic and gear ratios.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF-DW1 (Honda Genuine ATF or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 3.1 US quarts (2.9 liters) for a fluid change.
Drive Type:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Type S Drivetrain Features:
Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) for improved traction.
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-star
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
4-star
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Vsa:
Available Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) on some trims
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and load-limiter front seatbelts
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and cassette player available on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional Acura Navigation System available on Premium trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with steering wheel mounted controls.
Keyless Entry:
Standard keyless entry system with remote.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings available.
Seats:
8-way power driver's seat and 4-way power passenger's seat with leather trim on most models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, or based on the Maintenance Minder system if equipped.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as indicated by the Maintenance Minder.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically rated for 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API certified, synthetic or synthetic blend recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (blue)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 US quarts (7.1 liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3
Common Problems:
Premature wear of automatic transmission components (especially torque converter or 3rd gear clutch pack), AC compressor failure, power steering pump leaks, radiator cracks, camshaft seal leaks, check engine light due to EVAP system issues or EGR valve.
Timing Belt:
The J30A1 and J32A2 engines are equipped with a timing belt which requires replacement typically every 105,000 miles (168,000 km).
Brand Identity:
Acura, Honda's luxury division, established in 1986, known for reliability, performance, and value.
Tl Heritage:
The TL evolved from the Acura Legend, becoming a distinct model focused on performance and luxury within its segment.
Second Generation Introduction:
Introduced for the 1999 model year, the second generation (UA4) featured a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic profile and a powerful V6 engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Marysville, Ohio, USA
