2012 Acura TL Owners Manual

516

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

TPMS System Failure

U.S. model

Canadian model

If there is a problem with the TPMS, the tire pressure monitor shows a ‘‘TPMS ERROR’’ message and the tire pressure readings are not displayed. If this happens, you will first see a system warning message ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ on the multi-information display.

If there is a problem with the TPMS, you will see the above message on the multi-information display.

If you see this message, the system is off and is not monitoring the tire pressures. Have the system checked by your dealer as soon as possible.

Also, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator begins to flash, then stays on (see page

515

).

If the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator comes on, or the multi- information display shows a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message, the VSA system automatically turns on even when the VSA system is turned off by pressing the VSA OFF switch (see page happens, you cannot turn the VSA system off by pressing the VSA OFF switch again.

). If this

511

When you restart the vehicle with the compact spare tire, the TPMS system message will also be displayed on the multi-information display after several miles (kilometers) driving.

517

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Changing a Tire with TPMS If you have a flat tire, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator and tire monitor indicator will come on. Replace the indicated flat tire with the compact spare tire (see page 583

).

After the flat tire is replaced with the spare tire, the low tire pressure/ TPMS indicator stays on while driving. After several miles (kilometers) driving, this indicator begins to flash, then stays on again. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi- information display. This is normal; the system cannot monitor the spare tire pressure. Manually check the spare tire pressure to be sure it is correct.

This indicator and the warning message on the multi-information display will go off, after several miles (kilometers) driving, when the spare

518

tire is replaced with the specified regular tire equipped with the tire pressure monitor sensor.

Each wheel (except the compact spare tire wheel) is equipped with a tire pressure sensor. You must use TPMS specific wheels. It is recommended that you always have your tires serviced by your dealer or qualified technician.

Never use a puncture-repairing agent in a flat tire. If used, you will have to replace the tire pressure sensor. Have the flat tire repaired by your dealer as soon as possible.

If the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator and the low tire position on the low tire pressure monitor do not go out after inflating the tires to the specified values, have your dealer check the system as soon as possible.

AsrequiredbytheFCC: ThisdevicecomplieswithPart15ofthe FCCrules.Operationissubjecttothe followingtwoconditions:(1)Thisdevice maynotcauseharmfulinterference,and (2)thisdevicemustacceptany interferencereceived,including interferencethatmaycauseundesired operation.

Changesormodificationsnotexpressly approvedbythepartyresponsiblefor compliancecouldvoidtheuser’s authoritytooperatetheequipment.

ThisdevicecomplieswithIndustry CanadaStandardRSS-210. Operationissubjecttothefollowingtwo conditions:(1)thisdevicemaynotcause interference,and(2)thisdevicemust acceptanyinterferencethatmaycause undesiredoperationofthedevice.

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Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

Failure to visually confirm that it is safe to change lanes before doing so may result in a crash and serious injury or death. Do not rely only on the blind spot information system when changing lanes.

Always look in your mirrors, to either side of your vehicle, and behind you for other vehicles before changing lanes.

Ifequipped The blind spot information system (BSI) is designed to assist you when you are changing lanes.

If the system detects vehicles in adjacent lanes, it automatically illuminates the appropriate indicator to provide assistance when you change lanes. It is not a substitute for visual confirmation that it is safe to change lanes.

519

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Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

BSI System Operation

ALERT ZONE

A: Approximately 1.6 ft. (0.5 m) B: Approximately 10 ft. (3 m) C: Approximately 10 ft. (3 m)

BSI system is designed to detect vehicles in specified alert zones adjacent to your vehicle, particularly in harder to see areas commonly known as ‘‘blind spots.’’

When BSI detects a vehicle in an alert zone, a BSI alert indicator comes on near the corresponding outside rearview mirror.

While your vehicle is moving forward at a speed between 6 mph (10 km/h) and 100 mph (160 km/h), the BSI alert indicator comes on under either of the following conditions:

Another vehicle overtakes you, entering the alert zone from behind, at a speed that differs from your vehicle’s speed by no more than 31 mph (50 km/h).

You pass a vehicle at a speed that differs from that vehicle’s speed by no more than 12 mph (20
km/h). The indicator comes on approximately 2 seconds after the vehicle enters the alert zone.

520

The system will not alert you to all vehicles in blind spot zones (such as vehicles you have just passed which you should already be aware of) unless it remains in the alert zone for approximately 2 or more seconds.

While the system is on, BSI is active whenever the shift lever is in the D or S position.

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Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

BSI INDICATOR

MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY

BSI OFF BUTTON

U.S. model is shown.

BSI ALERT INDICATOR

LEFT SIDE

RIGHT SIDE

CONTINUED 521

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Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

LEVER

ALERT INDICATOR

ILLUMINATE

BLINK

Impacts to the radar sensors or the area around them can affect system performance. If an impact occurs, have the system checked by your dealer.

The BSI alert indicator starts to blink as a reminder if you move the turn signal lever in the direction of the detected vehicle.

Radar sensors, located underneath each corner of the rear bumper, detect objects. Do not cover this area with labels or stickers of any kind. Always keep this area free of any kind of dirt every time you get in the vehicle.

522

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Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

Important Precautions Like all assistance systems, BSI has limitations. Over-reliance on BSI may result in a collision. Always look in your mirrors, to either side of your vehicle, and behind you for other vehicles before changing lanes.

Limitations The BSI alert indicators may not illuminate under the following circumstances:

The speed difference between your vehicle and a vehicle approaching from behind is greater than 31 mph (50 km/h).

BSI may be adversely affected under the following circumstances:

When objects such as guard rails, poles, trees, etc., are detected.

When an object that doesn’t reflect radio waves well, such as a motorcycle, is in the alert zone.

A vehicle is parked in a side lane.

The speed difference between your vehicle and the vehicle you are passing is greater than 6 mph (10 km/h).

An object not detected by the radar sensors approaches or passes your vehicle.

A vehicle is behind or approaching your vehicle while on a curved road.

A vehicle is moving from a far lane to the adjacent lane.

CONTINUED

523

2012 TLThe system is for your convenience. Even if an object is within the alert zone, the system may not detect it, depending on its shape. Always look in your mirrors, to either side of your vehicle, and behind you for other vehicles before changing lanes.

11/01/14 19:26:04 31TK4630_529

Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

EXAMPLES

GUARD RAIL

POLE OR TREE

: BSI Alert indicator is on : BSI Alert indicator is off

MOTORCYCLE

The system picks up external electrical interference.

The orientation of the sensors has been changed.

The rear bumper has been deformed, or improperly repaired.

Bad weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow and fog.

524

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BSI OFF Button

Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

＊ Models equipped with the keyless access

system have an engine start/stop button instead of an ignition switch. ON Mode is the equivalent of ON (II). For more information, see pages 184 and 187.

U.S. model is shown.

Canadian model is shown.

＊

To turn the system off, press and hold the BSI OFF button when the ignition switch is in the ON (II) position. The BSI indicator on the instrument panel glows amber, indicating that the system is turned off. The multi-information display indicates that the system is off.

To turn the system on again, press and hold the same button. The BSI indicator on the instrument panel turns off. The multi-information display indicates that the system is on.

When the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position, the system will be in the previously selected ON or OFF setting.

＊

525

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Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

BSI Status Displays

System Status

Multi-Information Display Message

BSI Indicator

Description

−

ON

OFF

ON/OFF

＊

OFF

526

When you press and hold the BSI OFF button with the ignition switch in the ON (II) position, a BSI ON or OFF message is displayed on the multi-information display for about 5 seconds. The BSI indicator will remain on while the system is off. The BSI alert indicator illuminates or flashes according to the system status. A chime sounds to indicate that the system has been turned ON or OFF. 1: ON mode on models with keyless access system (see pages 184 and 187). ＊ If while driving, mud, snow, or ice accumulates in the vicinity of sensor:

＊

The system may shut down The BSI indicator illuminates, a message is displayed on the multi-information display, and a chime sounds.

The BSI indicator will turn off and the system will return to normal once the obstacle is removed, and you begin to drive. Always keep the area around the radar sensors clean. BSI may not operate properly if the sensors are obstructed. The BSI alert indicator:

May come on when a vehicle enters one of the alert zones, even if this message is displayed. May not come on due to obstruction (splashes, etc.) even if this message is not displayed.

2 :

System status may remain on even when the BLIND SPOT NOT AVAILABLE message is displayed.

＊ If the system is faulty, the BSI indicator illuminates and a message is displayed on the multi- information display. Have your vehicle inspected by your Acura dealer.

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AsrequiredbytheFCC: ThisdevicecomplieswithPart15ofthe FCCrules.Operationissubjecttothe followingtwoconditions:(1)Thisdevice maynotcauseharmfulinterference,and (2)thisdevicemustacceptany interferencereceived,including interferencethatmaycauseundesired operation.

Changesormodificationsnotexpressly approvedbythepartyresponsiblefor compliancecouldvoidtheuser’s authoritytooperatetheequipment.

ThisdevicecomplieswithIndustry CanadaStandardRSS-210. Operationissubjecttothefollowingtwo conditions:(1)thisdevicemaynotcause interference,and(2)thisdevicemust acceptanyinterferencethatmaycause undesiredoperationofthedevice.

Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

527

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Towing a Trailer, Towing Your Vehicle

Towing Your Vehicle Your vehicle is not designed to be towed behind a motor home. If your vehicle needs to be towed in an emergency, see page

607

Towing a Trailer Your vehicle is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void your warranties.

528

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This section explains why it is important to keep your vehicle well maintained and how to follow basic maintenance safety precautions.

This section also includes instructions on how to read the Maintenance Minder messages on the multi-information display, and instructions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.

If you have the skills and tools to perform more complex maintenance tasks on your vehicle, you may want to purchase the service manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your dealer.

633

U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.

Maintenance

TM

Maintenance Safety Maintenance Minder Fluid Locations Engine Compartment Covers Adding Engine Oil Changing the Engine Oil and

...................... ................. .............................. ...... ........................

Filter

Engine Coolant Windshield Washers Transmission Fluid

........................................... .............................. .................... ....................... .......... .............. ................ .................................... ............................................. ................ ..................................... .................. ................................. ................................. ............................................... ................... ............................. ..................................

Automatic Transmission Manual Transmission Brake and Clutch Fluid Timing Belt Lights Cleaning the Seat Belts Floor Mats Dust and Pollen Filter Exterior Care Wiper Blades Tires Checking the Battery Vehicle Storage Interior Care

. 530
. 531
. 541
. 542
. 543

. 544
. 546
. 548
. 549
. 549
. 551
. 553
. 554
. 555
. 564
. 565
. 566
. 566
. 566
. 568
. 577
. 578
. 579

529

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Maintenance Safety

All service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a certified technician or other qualified mechanic.

Important Safety Precautions To eliminate potential hazards, read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground, the parking brake is set, and the engine is off.

To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline.

To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.

Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with the battery or compressed air.

530

Improperly maintaining this vehicle, or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner’s manual.

Injury from moving parts. not run the engine unless instructed to do so.

Do

Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.

Potential Vehicle Hazards

Carbon Monoxide poison from engine exhaust. Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.

Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool down before touching any parts.

Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.

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Maintenance Minder

TM

Your vehicle displays engine oil life and maintenance service items on the multi-information display to show you when you should have your dealer perform engine oil replacement and indicated maintenance service.

Based on the engine operating conditions, the onboard computer in your vehicle calculates the remaining engine oil life and displays it as a percentage.

Engine Oil Life Display

REMAINING ENGINE OIL LIFE

U.S. model is shown.

To see the current engine oil life displayed on the multi-information display, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel repeatedly until the engine oil life is displayed.

＊

＊ Models equipped with the keyless access

system have an engine start/stop button instead of an ignition switch. ON Mode is the equivalent of ON (II). For more information, see pages 184 and 187.

CONTINUED

531

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Maintenance Minder

TM

The remaining engine oil life is shown on the multi-information display according to this table:

Calculated Engine

Displayed

Oil Life (%) 91% 100% 81% 90% 71% 80% 61% 70% 60% 51% 41% 50% 31% 40% 21% 30% 16% 20% 15% 11% 6% 10% 5% 1%

− − − − − − − − − − − − 0%

Engine Oil Life (%)

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0%

532

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEM CODE(S)

Pressing either INFO button ( / ) ▲ ▼ switches the display from the message to another display. Once you switch the display, this message will go off.

Along with the message, the system message indicator comes on (see page

72

).

The message appears on the multi- information display each time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

＊

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM CODE

When the remaining engine oil life is 15 to 6 percent, the multi-information display shows a ‘‘SERVICE DUE SOON’’ message along with the maintenance item code(s) indicating the main and sub items required at the time of the oil change. Refer to page for a complete list of the maintenance main items and sub items.

540

＊ Models equipped with the keyless access

system have an engine start/stop button instead of an ignition switch. ON Mode is the equivalent of ON (II). For more information, see pages 184 and 187.

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This message reminds you that your vehicle will soon be due for scheduled maintenance.

REMAINING ENGINE OIL LIFE

Maintenance Minder

TM

MAIN ITEM(S)

SUB ITEM(S)

Press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel repeatedly to select the engine oil life information. Along with the ‘‘OIL LIFE’’ message, you will see the percentage of the remaining engine oil life and the maintenance item codes on the multi-information display.

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM CODE

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEM CODE(S)

When the remaining oil life is 5 to 1
percent, the multi-information display shows a ‘‘SERVICE DUE NOW’’ message with the same maintenance items ‘‘SERVICE DUE SOON’’ was displayed with. When you see this message, have the indicated maintenance performed as soon as possible.

CONTINUED

533

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Maintenance Minder

TM

Pressing either INFO button ( / ) ▲ ▼ switches the display from the message to another display. Once you switch the display, this message will go off.

534

Press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel repeatedly to select the engine oil life. The message ‘‘SERVICE,’’ along with ‘‘5%,’’ and the maintenance item code are displayed on the multi-information display when the calculated engine oil life is 1 to 5 percent (see page

532

).

If the indicated maintenance service is not done and the remaining engine oil life reaches 0%, the multi- information display will show the message ‘‘SERVICE PAST DUE’’ and the maintenance item code(s). This message is displayed when the total distance traveled is less than 10
miles (for U.S. models) or 10 km (for Canadian models) after the engine oil life became 0%.

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These messages will come on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

＊

Immediately have the service performed, and make sure to reset the display as described on page

537

Pressing either INFO button ( / ) ▲ ▼ switches the display from the message to another display. To see the message again, press either INFO button repeatedly.

Maintenance Minder

TM

TOTAL PAST DUE DISTANCE TRAVELED

U.S.

MAINTENANCE CODES

Canada

Press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel repeatedly to select the engine oil life. The message ‘‘SERVICE,’’ along with ‘‘0%,’’ and the maintenance item code are displayed on the multi-information display when the calculated engine oil life is 0 to 1 percent.

If the indicated required service is not done and the remaining engine oil life becomes 0%, the multi- information display will show a ‘‘SERVICE PAST DUE’’ message, the total distance traveled after the remaining oil life became 0%, and the maintenance item code(s).

CONTINUED

＊ Models equipped with the keyless access

system have an engine start/stop button instead of an ignition switch. ON Mode is the equivalent of ON (II). For more information, see pages 184 and 187.

535

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Maintenance Minder

TM

This message is displayed again when you drive over 10 miles (for U.S. models) or 10 km (for Canadian models) after seeing the 0% message.

Immediately have the service performed, and make sure to reset the display as described on page

537

Pressing either INFO button ( / ) ▲ ▼ switches the display from the message to another display. To see the message again, press either INFO button repeatedly.

536

U.S.

TOTAL PAST DUE DISTANCE TRAVELED

Maintenance Main Items and Sub Items

Canada

When you press the SEL/RESET button to select the engine oil life, the message ‘‘SERVICE,’’ along with the maintenance item code(s) and the total negative distance traveled after the oil life became 0%, will be displayed on the multi-information display.

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEMS

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEMS

All maintenance items shown on the multi-information display are in code. For an explanation of these maintenance codes, see page

540

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Maintenance Minder

TM

Resetting the Engine Oil Life Display Your dealer will reset the display after completing the required maintenance service. You will see ‘‘OIL LIFE 100%’’ on the display the next time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

＊

If maintenance service is done by someone other than your dealer, reset the Maintenance Minder as follows:

1.

Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

＊

2.

3.

If the engine oil life is not displayed, press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel repeatedly.

Press and hold the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel for more than 10 seconds. The remaining engine oil life reset mode will be shown on the multi- information display.

4.

▲

Select ‘‘RESET’’ by pressing the INFO ( ) button, then press the SEL/RESET button to reset the engine oil life display. The maintenance item code(s) will disappear, and the engine oil life will reset to ‘‘100.’’ If you want to cancel the oil life reset mode, select ‘‘CANCEL.’’

＊ Models equipped with the keyless access

system have an engine start/stop button instead of an ignition switch. ON Mode is the equivalent of ON (II). For more information, see pages 184 and 187.

537

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Maintenance Minder

TM

Important Maintenance Precautions If you have the required service done but do not reset the display, or reset the display without doing the service, the system will not show the correct maintenance intervals. This can lead to serious mechanical problems because you will no longer have an accurate record of when maintenance is needed.

538

＃

U.S. Vehicles: According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, all maintenance services should be performed in accordance with the intervals indicated by the multi- information display.

Your authorized dealer knows your vehicle best and can provide competent, efficient service. However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Keep all receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out your Maintenance Journal or Canadian Maintenance Log. Check your warranty booklet for more information.

We recommend using Acura parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.

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Owner’s Maintenance Checks You should check the following items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the appropriate page listed.

Engine oil level time you fill the fuel tank. See page

Check every

474

−

Engine coolant level radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page

Check the

475

−

Automatic transmission − the fluid level monthly. See page 549

Check

Brakes monthly. See page

−

Check the fluid level

553

−

Tires Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. See page 568

Maintenance Minder

TM

−

Check the operation of

Lights the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, and license plate lights monthly. See page

555

CONTINUED

539

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Maintenance Minder

TM

Symbol

Maintenance Main Items

Replace engine oil ＊ Replace engine oil and oil filter ＊ Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment Inspect these items:

Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots Suspension components Driveshaft boots Brake hoses and line (including ABS/VSA) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system ＃ Fuel lines and connections ＃

＊

1:

If the message ‘‘SERVICE DUE NOW’’ does not appear more than 12 months after the display is reset, change the engine oil every year.

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty on page

538

Independent of the Maintenance Minder information, replace the brake fluid every 3 years. Inspect idle speed every 160,000 miles (256,000 km). Adjust the valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 if they are noisy.

＃

NOTE:

540

Symbol

Maintenance Sub Items

Rotate tires Replace air cleaner element

If you drive in dusty conditions, replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

Replace dust and pollen filter

If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air from industry and from diesel-powered vehicles, replace every 15,000
miles (24,000 km).

Inspect drive belt Replace transmission fluid Replace transmission and transfer fluid ＊ Replace spark plugs Replace timing belt and inspect water pump

−

20°F,

29°C), replace every 60,000 miles (U.S.)/

If you drive regularly in very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C), or in very low temperatures (under − 100,000 km (Canada). Inspect valve clearance Replace engine coolant Replace rear differential fluid ＊

Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds results in higher level of mechanical (shear) stress to fluid. This requires differential fluid changes more frequently than recommended by the Maintenance Minder. If you regularly drive your vehicle under these conditions, have the differential fluid changed at 7,500 miles (12,000 km), then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

＊

2:

SH-AWD only

2012 TL11/01/14 19:28:36 31TK4630_546

WASHER FLUID (Black cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP ＊

＊

: Located under the cover

Fluid Locations

BRAKE FLUID ＊ (Black cap)

CLUTCH FLUID ＊ (Manual Transmission only) (Light gray cap)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

541

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Engine Compartment Covers

The component parts in the engine compartment are protected by several covers. You may need to remove the covers when you perform some simple maintenance work.

To remove the covers: 1.

Remove the right and left engine compartment covers by sliding them apart.

2.

Pull the bulkhead cover straight up to remove. When removing the cover, make sure to move the bulkhead cover slightly to the left so that the hood latch handle does not get in the way.

After replacing the right engine compartment cover, make sure the washer fluid cap is firmly in place.

542

RIGHT ENGINE COMPARTMENT COVER

LEFT ENGINE COMPARTMENT COVER

BULKHEAD COVER

When reinstalling the covers, make sure the pins and tabs are in their proper positions.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:28:57 31TK4630_548

Adding Engine Oil

Recommended Engine Oil Oil is a major contributor to your engine’s performance and longevity. Always use a premium-grade detergent oil displaying the API Certification Seal. This seal indicates the oil is energy conserving, and that it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s latest requirements. It is highly recommended that you use Acura Motor Oil in your vehicle for optimum engine protection.

Make sure the API Certification Seal says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’ The oil viscosity or weight is provided on the container’s label.

2WD models: Acura Motor Oil is the preferred 0W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. 0W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your vehicle to improve cold weather starting and fuel economy.

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

Ambient Temperature

CONTINUED

543

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

Unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve cover. Pour in the oil slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled oil could damage components in the engine compartment. Install the engine oil fill cap, and tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes, and recheck the oil level (see page ). Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine.

474

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Adding Engine Oil, Changing the Engine Oil and Filter

Synthetic Oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for a conventional motor oil: it displays the API Certification Seal and it is the proper weight. You must follow the oil and filter change intervals shown on the multi- information display.

Engine Oil Additives Your vehicle does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect the engine or transmission performance and durability.

Changing the Engine Oil and Filter Always change the oil and filter according to the maintenance messages shown on the multi- information display. The oil and filter collect contaminants that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle should be raised on a service station- type hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled technician.

SH-AWD models: Acura Motor Oil is the preferred 5W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. 5W- 20 oil is formulated for year-round protection of your vehicle to improve cold weather starting and fuel economy.

Ambient Temperature

544

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DRAIN BOLT

WASHER

1.

2.

Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.

Open the hood, and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

OIL FILTER

3.

Remove the oil filter, and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your dealer) is required.

Make sure the oil filter gasket is not stuck to the contacting surface of the engine. If it is, remove it before installing a new oil filter.

Changing the Engine Oil and Filter

4.

Install a new oil filter according to the instructions that come with it. Make sure to clean off any dirt and dust on the contacting surface of a new oil filter.

5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten the drain bolt to:

29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

6.

Refill the engine with the recommended oil.

Engine oil change capacity (including filter):

4.5 US qt (4.3 )

CONTINUED

545

2012 TL11/01/14 19:29:32 31TK4630_551

Changing the Engine Oil and Filter, Engine Coolant

Adding Engine Coolant

RESERVE TANK

MAX

MIN

If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

To access the radiator reserve tank, remove the right-side engine compartment cover (see page

542

).

Always use Honda Long-life Anti- freeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent distilled water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. Continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

7.

8.

9.

Reinstall the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator should go out within 5
seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine and check your work.

Let the engine run for several minutes, then check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.

Turn off the engine, let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil.

Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container, and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.

546

2012 TL11/01/14 19:29:45 31TK4630_552

If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in the radiator.

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

1.

2.

RADIATOR CAP

Remove all engine compartment covers (see page

542

).

When the radiator and engine are cool, relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down.

3.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

Engine Coolant

4.

The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low. Pour the coolant slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

5.

Put the radiator cap back on and tighten it.

6.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.

7.

Reinstall the engine compartment covers.

Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your vehicle’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine components.

547

2012 TL11/01/14 19:29:55 31TK4630_553

Windshield Washers

Check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use.

OnU.S.models

TUBE

To check washer fluid level, cover the reservoir cap center hole with your finger while lifting the cap and the attached measuring tube. The washer fluid level in the tube will indicate the washer fluid level in the reservoir.

548

OnCanadianmodels If the washer fluid is low, a ‘‘LOW WASHER FLUID’’ message appears on the multi-information display.

Fill the reservoir with a good-quality windshield washer fluid. This increases the cleaning capability and prevents freezing in cold weather.

When you refill the reservoir, clean the edges of the windshield wiper blades with windshield washer fluid on a clean cloth. This will help to condition the blade edges.

Do not use engine antif reeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir. Antif reeze can damage your vehicle’s paint, while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump. Use only commercially-available windshield washer f luid.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:30:06 31TK4630_554

Automatic Transmission Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.

1.

Park the vehicle on level ground. Start the engine, let it run until the radiator fan comes on, then shut off the engine. For accurate results, wait about 60 seconds (but no longer than 90 seconds) before doing step 2.

DIPSTICK

2.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission, and wipe it with a clean cloth.

Transmission Fluid

GUIDE

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

3.

4.

Insert the dipstick all the way into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.

Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

CONTINUED

549

2012 TL11/01/14 19:30:15 31TK4630_555

Transmission Fluid

5.

If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the dipstick hole to bring it to the level between the upper and lower marks. Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment. Always use Acura ATF DW-1
(automatic transmission fluid).

550

6.

Insert the dipstick all the way back into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration. Make sure the rubber cap on the dipstick fits in the dipstick guide and that you push the dipstick in all the way.

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the Maintenance Minder page

(see

531

).

TM

If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer.

Use only Acura ATF DW-1 (automatic transmission f luid). Do not mix with other transmission f luids. Using transmission f luid other than Acura ATF DW-1 may cause deterioration in transmission operation and durability, and could result in damage to the transmission. Damage resulting f rom the use of transmission f luid other than Acura ATF DW-1 is not covered by the Acura new vehicle warranty.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:30:26 31TK4630_556

Manual Transmission

CHECK BOLT

FILLER BOLT

Transmission Fluid

WASHER

Remove the check bolt and look for transmission fluid coming out of the bolt hole. If a small amount of fluid drips out of the bolt hole, reinstall the check bolt.

If no fluid comes out, remove the filler bolt and washer. Slowly add Acura Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the check bolt hole.

Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the vehicle sitting on level ground.

To check the transmission fluid level, remove the mounting bolts and the under cover holding clips, then pull out the driver’s side under cover carefully.

CONTINUED

551

2012 TLThe transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the Maintenance Minder page

(see

531

).

TM

If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer.

11/01/14 19:30:35 31TK4630_557