🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Acura

Model:

TSX

Year:

2004

Market:

North America

Generation:

First Generation (CL9)

Chassis Code:

CL9

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Acura TSX was positioned as a premium compact executive sedan, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and reliability, often competing with German rivals like BMW 3 Series and entry-level Mercedes-Benz models.

Competitors:

BMW 3 Series (E46), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300.

Tsxs Strengths:

Excellent handling and ride balance, powerful and efficient 2.4L K24A2 engine, premium interior materials, Honda's renowned reliability, available manual transmission.

Value:

Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians with accurate, factory-derived information for all repair and maintenance needs, saving time and money compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and Repair

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (digital format, content equivalent to thousands of printed pages)

Type:

Official Licensed Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online/Digital Access (Web Browser Based)

Access Duration:

1 Year Included (Discounted renewals available)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing system, lubrication system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, intake, exhaust, cooling, ignition, emissions control systems.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, transaxle, differential, CV joints, driveshafts.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (5-speed) operation, repair, and overhaul.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, stabilizer bars.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, ignition system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, bulb specifications.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, exterior and interior hardware.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame construction, mounting points, underbody components.

Restraint Systems:

Airbag system, seat belts, pre-tensioners.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component removal and installation, transmission overhaul, suspension and steering component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, HVAC system repair.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing all major and minor components.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step wiring harness diagnostics, component testing, and troubleshooting based on symptoms.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Proprietary Software Platform (Web-based)

Searchability:

Full-text searchable content

Navigability:

Intuitive navigation with clear indexing and cross-referencing

Print Capability:

Printable sections (user can print specific pages or procedures)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

K24A2

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC i-VTEC

Displacement:

2354 cc (2.4 Liters)

Horsepower:

200 hp @ 6800 rpm

Torque:

160 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (Premium recommended)

Cylinder Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 99.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Firing Order:

1-3-4-2

Oil Capacity:

4.4 US quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-20

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Sequential SportShift)

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Automatic Features:

Grade Logic Control, Shift Hold Control, Sequential SportShift manual shifting capability via paddle shifters or gear selector.

Automatic Fluid Type:

ATF DW-1 (Honda Ultra ATF-II or equivalent recommended)

Automatic Fluid Capacity:

3.0 US quarts (2.8 Liters) for drain and refill

Manual Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 Manual Transmission Fluid

📐 Dimensions

Length:

187.2 inches (4755 mm)

Width:

69.2 inches (1758 mm)

Height:

57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Wheelbase:

106.3 inches (2700 mm)

Front Track:

60.0 inches (1524 mm)

Rear Track:

59.5 inches (1511 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.5 inches (140 mm)

Curb Weight Automatic:

3280 lbs (1488 kg)

Curb Weight Manual:

3220 lbs (1461 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

4332 lbs (1965 kg)

Trunk Volume:

13.7 cubic feet (388 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4 Stars

NHTSA Rollover:

4 Stars

ABS:

Standard (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS)

Ebd:

Standard (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)

Traction Control:

Available (TCS)

Stability Control:

Available (VSA - Vehicle Stability Assist)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-impact curtain airbags (front and rear).

Seatbelts:

3-point front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seat belts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium ELS Surround Sound System (optional on most trims), CD player, AM/FM radio, available satellite radio.

Navigation:

Optional Acura DVD-based navigation system with voice recognition.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control with cabin air filtration.

Auxiliary Input:

Available auxiliary audio input jack.

Keyless Entry:

Standard remote entry system with illuminated ignition.

Memory Seats:

Driver's seat position memory function (available on higher trims).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Monitor the Maintenance Minder system.

Tire Rotation:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as indicated by the Maintenance Minder.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as indicated by the Maintenance Minder.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as indicated.

Spark Plugs:

Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically have a service life of 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Check Maintenance Minder for specific replacement interval.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as indicated by Maintenance Minder. Manual: Check periodically, replace based on driving conditions.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Replace every 3 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

Replace every 5 years or 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 2-3 years or 60,000 miles (96,000 km) thereafter.

Engine Oil:

API Certified SAE 5W-20, meeting Honda's specifications.

Coolant:

Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant with a 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 High-Temperature Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.

Common Problems:

Some reported issues include sticky sunroofs, HVAC blower motor failures, occasional wheel bearing noise, and potential for minor oil leaks from the oil cooler or valve cover gasket over time. Clutch wear on manual transmission models can be higher with aggressive driving.

📚 Vehicle History

Acura Legacy:

Acura, Honda's luxury division, was established in 1986 as the first Japanese luxury automotive brand. It is known for its focus on performance ('Precision Crafted Performance'), advanced technology, and high-quality construction.

Tsx Introduction:

The Acura TSX was introduced for the 2004 model year as a replacement for the Acura RSX in North America. It was based on the Honda Accord Euro R (CL7 chassis) and positioned below the TL in Acura's lineup.

First Generation Cl9:

The first generation (CL9) was produced from 2004 to 2008. It was praised for its European-inspired styling and driving dynamics.

Manufacturing Location:

All first-generation TSX models were manufactured in Sayama, Saitama, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best 10:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2004.

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Achieved good ratings in IIHS crash tests for its model year, contributing to its strong safety reputation.