2012 Acura TL Owners Manual

Transmission Fluid

Pour the fluid into the filler hole slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

Let the fluid run out until it stops, then reinstall the check bolt and the filler bolt.

Make sure to put a new washer on each bolt when reinstalling it.

552

Reinstall the under cover, tighten the mounting bolts securely, then put the holding clips back in place. Make sure the under cover is installed under the edge of the front bumper.

If Acura MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20
viscosity motor oil with the API Certification Seal that says ‘‘FOR GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives, and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:30:47 31TK4630_558

Check the fluid level in the reservoirs monthly. There are up to two reservoirs, depending on the model. They are:

Brake fluid reservoir (all models) Clutch fluid reservoir (manual transmission models only)

To access the reservoirs, remove the left engine compartment cover (see page

542

).

You will also see a ‘‘LOW BRAKE FLUID’’ message on the multi- information display.

Independent of the Maintenance Minder information, replace the brake fluid every 3 years.

Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement.

Using any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle’s braking system and can cause extensive damage.

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake Fluid

MAX

MIN

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If the level is at or below the MIN mark, your brake system needs attention. Have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

You need to remove the left engine compartment cover to check the fluid level (see page

542

).

553

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Brake and Clutch Fluid, Timing Belt

Timing Belt The timing belt should be replaced according to the Maintenance Minder

(see page

531

).

TM

Replace the timing belt every 60,000
miles (U.S.) or every 100,000 km (Canada) if you regularly drive your vehicle in any of the following conditions:

In very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C). In very low temperatures (under 29°C).

20°F,

−

−

Clutch Fluid ManualTransmissiononly

MAX

MIN

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If it is not, add brake fluid to bring it up to that level. Use the same fluid specified for the brake system.

A low fluid level can indicate a leak in the clutch system. Have this system inspected as soon as possible.

554

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Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk, readjustment may be required. Adjustments should be done by your dealer or another qualified technician.

Low Beam Headlight Bulb Replacement The low beam headlight bulbs are a type of high voltage discharge tube. High voltage can remain in the circuit even with the light switch off and the key removed (or the vehicle is in VEHICLE OFF (LOCK) mode on models with keyless access system). Because of this, you should not attempt to examine or change a low beam headlight bulb yourself. If a low beam headlight bulb fails, take the vehicle to your dealer to have it replaced.

Replacing a High Beam Headlight/Daytime Running Light Bulb Your vehicle has halogen high beam headlight bulbs which are also used for the daytime running light. Handle it by its base and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

Lights

HOLDING CLIP

Halogen bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

1.

Open the hood.

If you are replacing the bulb on the driver’s side, remove the holding clips with a flat-tip screwdriver. Then remove the upper part of the air intake duct by pulling it straight up.

2.

Remove all engine compartment covers (see page

542

).

CONTINUED

555

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Lights

RESERVE TANK

BULB

STAY

CONNECTOR

To change a bulb on the passenger’s side, remove the engine coolant reserve tank by pulling it out of its stay.

3.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.

4.

Remove the bulb by turning it one- quarter turn counterclockwise.

5.

Insert the new bulb into the hole, and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.

556

6.

Push the electrical connector back onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.

7.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

8.

(Driver’s side) Install the upper part of the air intake duct securely. Reinstall the holding clips.

9.

(Passenger’s side) Install the engine coolant reserve tank.

10.

Install all engine compartment covers.

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Replacing the Front Side Marker Light Bulb

1.

Start the engine. If you are replacing a driver’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. If you are replacing a passenger’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel to the left. Turn off the engine.

HOLDING CLIP

BOLT

Lights

2.

Use a flat-tip screwdriver to remove the holding clips from the edge of the inner fender cover, and pull the inner fender cover back.

BOLT

HOLDING CLIP

UNDER COVER

3.

Use a wrench to remove the mounting bolts, and remove the holding clip with a flat-tip screwdriver.

4.

Pull down the under cover from the bumper carefully.

CONTINUED

557

2012 TL11/01/14 19:31:47 31TK4630_563

Lights

BULB

SOCKET

5.

Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

6.

Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its socket.

558

Replacing a Front Turn Signal/Parking Light Bulb

1.

Start the engine. If you are replacing a driver’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. If you are replacing a passenger’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel to the left. Turn off the engine.

7.

8.

Install the new bulb in the socket by pushing it straight in the socket until it bottoms.

Insert the socket into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

9.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

10.

Push the under cover in place and set the inner fender cover in the original position. Install the bolts and tighten them securely. Insert each holding clip, and lock it by pushing on its center.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:31:58 31TK4630_564

HOLDING CLIP

COVER

BOLT

Lights

2.

Use a flat-tip screwdriver to remove the holding clips from the edge of the inner fender cover, and pull the inner fender cover back.

BOLT

HOLDING CLIP

UNDER COVER

BULB

SOCKET

3.

Use a wrench to remove the mounting bolts, and remove the holding clip with a flat-tip screwdriver.

Pull down the under cover from the bumper carefully.

4.

Remove the socket from the light assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

5.

Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its socket.

CONTINUED

559

2012 TL11/01/14 19:32:08 31TK4630_565

Lights

6.

7.

Install the new bulb in the socket by pushing it straight in the socket until it bottoms.

Insert the socket into the light assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

8.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

9.

Push the under cover in place and set the inner fender cover in the original position. Install the bolts and tighten them securely. Insert each holding clip, and lock it by pushing on its center.

560

Replacing a Front Fog Light Bulb Your vehicle uses halogen light bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its plastic case, and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

1.

Start the engine. If you are replacing a driver’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. If you are replacing a passenger’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel to the left. Turn off the engine.

Halogen bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

The fog lights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk, readjustment may be required. Adjustment should be done by your dealer or another qualified technician.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:32:20 31TK4630_566

HOLDING CLIP

COVER

BOLT

Lights

BULB

2.

Use a flat-tip screwdriver to remove the holding clips from the edge of the inner fender cover, and pull the inner fender cover back.

BOLT

HOLDING CLIP

UNDER COVER

CONNECTOR

3.

Use a wrench to remove the mounting bolts, and remove the holding clip with a flat-tip screwdriver.

4.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.

Pull down the under cover from the bumper carefully.

5.

Remove the bulb by turning it about one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

CONTINUED

561

2012 TL11/01/14 19:32:31 31TK4630_567

Lights

6.

7.

Insert the new bulb into the hole, and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.

Push the electrical connector back onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.

8.

Turn on the fog lights to test the new bulb.

9.

Push the under cover in place and set the inner fender cover in the original position. Install the bolts and tighten them securely. Insert each holding clip, and lock it by pushing on its center.

562

Replacing Rear Bulbs

SCREW

NUTS

2.

Remove the nuts from the stud bolts with a socket or wrench.

1.

Open the trunk. Remove the screw in the center of the holding clip on the side of the trunk lining. Pull the lining back.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:32:42 31TK4630_568

3.

Pull the taillight assembly straight back out of the body.

BULB SOCKET

4.

5.

Determine which of the three bulbs is burned out: back-up light, turn signal, or side marker.

Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise, and pull the bulb straight out of its socket.

Lights

6.

Push a new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms, and reinstall the socket into the light assembly by turning it clockwise until it locks.

7.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

8.

9.

Reinstall the trunk lining. Make sure it is installed under the edge of the trunk seal.

Put the holding clip into the hole on the side of the trunk lining. Reinstall the screw.

563

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Lights, Cleaning the Seat Belts

Cleaning the Seat Belts

OPENING

Dirt build-up around the openings of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to retract slowly. Wipe the openings with a clean cloth dampened in mild soap and warm water or isopropyl alcohol.

If your seat belts get dirty, use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. Let the belts air-dry before you use the vehicle.

Side Turn Signal Lights Each outside mirror has side turn signal lights. The lights should be replaced by your dealer.

High-mount Brake Light This light should be replaced by your dealer.

Rear License Plate Light Bulbs The license plate has two lights above it. The bulbs should be replaced by your dealer.

564

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DRIVER’S SIDE FLOOR MAT

REAR PASSENGER’S FLOOR MAT

FLOOR MAT ANCHORS

FLOOR MAT ANCHOR

Unlock

Lock

Unlock

Lock

The floor mats that came with your vehicle hook over the floor mat anchors. This keeps the floor mats from sliding forward (possibly interfering with the pedals), or backwards (making the front passenger’s weight sensors ineffective).

To lock or unlock each anchor, turn the knob.

If you remove a floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your vehicle.

If you use non-Acura floor mats, make sure they fit properly and that they can be used with the floor mat anchors. Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mats.

Floor Mats

Make sure the rear floor mats are also properly hooked. If not, the floor mat will interfere with the seat operation and make the front passenger’s weight sensors ineffective.

565

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Dust and Pollen Filter, Exterior Care, Wiper Blades

Exterior Care

Chemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage the paint, metal, and plastic on your vehicle.

Wiper Blades Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every 6 months. Replace them if you find signs of cracking in the rubber, areas that are getting hard, or if they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.

To replace a wiper blade: 1.

Raise each wiper arm off the windshield, lifting the driver’s side first, then the passenger’s side.

Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised, or you will damage the hood and wiper arms.

Dust and Pollen Filter This filter removes the dust and pollen that is brought in from the outside through the climate control system.

Have your dealer replace the filter when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the multi- information display. It should be replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000
km) if you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air, or if the flow from the climate control system becomes less than usual.

566

2012 TL11/01/14 19:33:24 31TK4630_572

Wiper Blades

BLADE

LOCK TAB

BLADE

REINFORCEMENT STRIP

2.

Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper arm by pushing in the lock tab. Hold the lock tab in while you push the blade assembly toward the base of the arm.

When replacing a wiper blade, make sure not to drop the wiper blade or wiper arm down on the windshield.

3.

4.

Remove the blade from its holder by grabbing the tabbed end of the blade. Pull up firmly until the tabs come out of the holder.

Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no plastic or metal reinforcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade, and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.

5.

Slide the new wiper blade into the holder until the tabs lock.

6.

7.

Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.

Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield, the passenger’s side first, then the driver’s side.

567

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Tires

To safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.

The following pages give more detailed information on how to take care of your tires and what to do when they need to be replaced.

Using tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance.

568

Inflation Guidelines Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort.

Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

Overinflated tires can make your vehicle ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warns you when a tire pressure is low. See page for more information on the TPMS.

514

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Even though your vehicle is equipped with TPMS, we recommend that you visually check your tires every day. If you think a tire might be low, check it immediately with a tire gauge.

Use a gauge to measure the air pressure in each tire at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time.

Check the air pressures when the tires are cold. This means the vehicle has been parked for at least 3
hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6
km). Add or release air, if needed, to match the recommended cold tire pressures on the next page.

If you check air pressure when the tires are hot [driven for several miles (kilometers)], you will see readings 4
to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4
kgf/cm ) higher than the cold readings. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the recommended cold air pressure. The tire will be underinflated.

Tires

While tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

You should get your own tire pressure gauge and use it whenever you check your tire pressures. This will make it easier for you to tell if a pressure loss is due to a tire problem and not due to a variation between gauges.

569

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Tires

Recommended Tire Pressures The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions.

TLandTLwithTechnology Packagemodels

Tire Size

P245/50R17 98V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

TLwithAdvancePackage andCanadianElitePackagemodels Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

Tire Size

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

P245/45R18 96V

Rear:

570

SH-AWDandSH-AWDwith Packagemodels Technology Tire Size

P245/45R18 96V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

The compact spare tire pressure is: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

For convenience, the recommended tire sizes and cold tire pressures are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

For additional technical information, see page

619

SH-AWDwithAdvancePackage and CanadianSH-AWDElite Package models

Tire Size

P245/40R19 94V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

34 psi (235 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm ) 34 psi (235 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm )

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High Speed Driving We strongly recommend that you do not drive faster than the posted speed limits and conditions allow. If you ever drive in a sanctioned competitive event at sustained high speeds, be sure to adjust the cold tire pressures as shown below. If you do not, excessive heat can build up and cause sudden tire failure.

TLwithAdvancePackage,Canadian ElitePackage,SH-AWD,andSH-AWD withTechnologyPackagemodels For speeds over 118 mph or 190 km/h:

Tire Size

P245/45R18 96V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for High Speed Driving Front:

33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

SH-AWDwithAdvancePackage and CanadianSH-AWDElite Package models For speeds over 99 mph or 160 km/h:

Tire Size

P245/40R19 94V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for High Speed Driving Front:

39 psi (270 kPa , 2.7 kgf/cm ) 39 psi (270 kPa , 2.7 kgf/cm )

TLandTLwithTechnology Package models Tire pressure for high speed driving is the same as for normal driving.

Tires

Tire Inspection Every time you check inflation, you should also examine the tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear.

You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find either of these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace the tire if you can see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear.

CONTINUED

571

2012 TLThe last four digits of the TIN (tire identification number) are found on the sidewall of the tire and indicate Tire the date of manufacture (See Labeling

on page

619

).

11/01/14 19:34:21 31TK4630_577

Tires

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR

Your tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down, you will see a 1/2
inch (12.7 mm) wide band across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire.

A tire this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators.

572

Tire Maintenance The service life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including, but not limited to, driving habits, road conditions, vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).

In addition to your regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach five years old. It is also recommended that all tires, including the spare, be removed from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:34:34 31TK4630_578

Tire Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.

Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use only Acura wheel weights f or balancing.

Tire Rotation

Front

Front

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires according to the maintenance messages displayed on the multi-information display. Move the tires to the positions shown in the illustration each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to-back.

When the tires are rotated, make sure the air pressures are checked.

Tires

Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall).

Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS and vehicle stability assist system (VSA) to work inconsistently.

The ABS and VSA system work by comparing the speed of each wheel. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the vehicle. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to activate.

CONTINUED

573

2012 TL11/01/14 19:34:46 31TK4630_579

Tires

It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, replace the two front tires or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling.

If you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.

Also be sure you use only TPMS specific wheels. If you do not, the tire pressure monitoring system will not work.

Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.

574

Installing improper tires on your vehicle can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner’s manual.

Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels: On2WDModels 17 x 8.0J 18 x 8.0J

(TPMS) (TPMS) ＊

OnSH-AWDModels 18 x 8.0J 19 x 8.0J

(TPMS) (TPMS) ＊

Tires: On2WDModels P245/50R17 98V P245/45R18 96V

＊

OnSH-AWDModels P245/45R18 96V P245/40R19 94V

＊

＊

: Advance Package and Canadian Elite Package

617

for DOT tire quality

See page grading information, and page 619
for tire size information.

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Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions.

＋

For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.

SnowTires If you mount snow tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may be lower than your original tires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

TireChains Mount tire chains on your tires when required by driving conditions or local laws. Install them only on the front tires. Do not use chains on the rear tires.

Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, we strongly recommend using this Quality Chain Corp. tire chain:

Tires

Premium Cobra Cable Chain ＃ adjusters

1042P with accessory

＊

This tire chain is available at many auto supply stores. To find a local store that carries the chain, call Quality Chain Corp at 1-800-843-8824. To order the tire chain online, go to , and enter www.qualitychaincorp.com your vehicle information. When you install the chains, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with the chains installed.

＊

Rubber chain adjusters, or tensioners, must be used to prevent the chains from contacting the body or the chassis.

CONTINUED

575

2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:07 31TK4630_581

Tires

Using the wrong chains, or not properly installing chains, can damage the brake lines and cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding the selection and use of tire chains.

If you ever hear the chains contacting the body or chassis, stop and investigate. If the chains have loosened, retighten them. Make sure they do not contact the brake lines or suspension.

Remove the chains as soon as you begin driving on cleared roads.

576

Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly installed can damage your vehicle’s brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are hitting any part of the vehicle.

Wheels Clean the wheels as you would the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.

Aluminum alloy wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Cleaning the wheels with harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners) or a stiff brush can damage the clear-coat. To clean the wheels, use a mild detergent and a soft brush or sponge.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:18 31TK4630_582

The sensor on the negative terminal monitors your vehicle’s battery condition.

If there is a problem with the sensor, you will see a ‘‘CHECK BATTERY SENSOR’’ message on the multi- information display. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer.

To see the battery label, remove the left side engine compartment cover (see page

542

).

542

Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder) after removing all engine compartment covers (see page ). To remove corrosion, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent further corrosion.

Checking the Battery

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system. Always disconnect the negative ( − reconnect it last.

) cable first, and

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your Acura dealer or a qualified technician.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Battery posts,

WARNING: terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled technician do the battery maintenance.

CONTINUED

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Checking the Battery, Vehicle Storage

Onmodelswithoutnavigationsystem If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected, or goes dead, the time setting may be lost. To reset the time, see page

391

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system may disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio, you will see ‘‘ENTER CODE’’ in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the code (see page 390

).

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem The navigation system will also disable itself. The next time you set to the ON mode, the system will require you to enter a PIN before it can be used. Refer to the navigation system manual.

578

Vehicle Storage If you need to park your vehicle for an extended period (more than 1
month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your vehicle back on the road. If possible, store your vehicle indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

Clean the interior. Make sure the carpeting, floor mats, etc., are completely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in reverse (manual) or Park (automatic).

Block the rear wheels.

If the vehicle is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (if the vehicle is being stored indoors).

Disconnect the battery.

Support the front wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and trunk seals. Also, apply a vehicle body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and trunk seals.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:39 31TK4630_584

Vehicle Storage, Interior Care

Cover the vehicle with a ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Non-porous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.

If possible, periodically run the engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle on and off twice). Preferably, do this once a month.

Leather Vacuum dirt and dust from the leather frequently. Pay close attention to the pleats and seams. Clean the leather with a soft cloth dampened with a 90% water and 10% neutral soap solution. Then buff it with a clean, dry cloth. Remove any dust or dirt on leather surfaces immediately.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your vehicle towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If the Engine Won’t Start Jump Starting If the Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Opening the Fuel Fill Door

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Manually

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Fuses Fuse Locations Emergency Towing If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

. 582
. 583
. 588
. 591
. 593
. 595
. 596
. 597
. 598

. 599
. 600
. 604
. 607
. 609

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Compact Spare Tire

Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle as soon as you can.

Check the air pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

Follow these precautions:

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road surfaces. Use greater caution while driving.

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Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare tire.

Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

After the flat tire is replaced with the spare tire, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator stays on. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the spare, this indicator begins to flash, then stays on again. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page

517

).

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

Replace the tire when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement tire should be the same size and design, mounted on the same wheel. The spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the spare wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

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Changing a Flat Tire

If you have a flat tire while driving, pull over safely. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an area far away from traffic lanes.

The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.

1.

2.

Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in Park (automatic) or reverse (manual). Apply the parking brake.

Turn on the hazard warning lights, and turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle while you change the tire.

＊

3.

Open the trunk. Raise the trunk floor lid by lifting up on the back edge.

＊ Models equipped with the keyless access system have an engine start/stop button instead of an ignition switch. VEHICLE OFF (LOCK) Mode is the equivalent of LOCK (0). For more information, see pages 184 and 187.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

JACK

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

EXTENSION

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

JACKING POINTS

4.

Take the tool case out of the spare tire.

8.

Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn with the wheel nut wrench.

5.

Unscrew the wing bolt and take the spare tire out of its well.

6.

Take the jack out of the tool kit case.

7.

Place blocks in front and back of the wheel diagonally opposite the tire you are changing.

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9.

Place the jack under the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

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Changing a Flat Tire

EXTENSION

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

10.

Use the extension and the wheel nut wrench as shown to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.

BRAKE HUB

11.

Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire. Handle the wheel nuts carefully; they may be hot from driving. Place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface facing up.

12.

Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully; it may be hot from driving.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

13.

Put on the spare tire. Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel nut wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten the wheel nuts fully.

14.

Lower the vehicle to the ground, and remove the jack.

15.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 94 lbf·ft (127 N·m , 13 kgf·m)

16.

Remove the center cap before storing the flat tire in the trunk well.