2003 Acura 3.2TL BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Idle Air Control Thermal Valve: 3.5RL

  1. Remove idle air control thermal valve cover.
  2. Start engine. Place finger over valve seat area, and ensure there is air flow with engine cold (engine coolant temperature below 86°F (30°C) and idling. See Fig 1 . If no air flow is present, replace idle air control thermal valve and retest.
  3. Start engine and hold at 3,000 RPM with no loads and transmission in park or neutral until radiator fan comes on, then let idle.
  4. Ensure that valve is completely closed. If any air flow is felt, valve is leaking. Check engine coolant level and for air in cooling system. If cooling system is okay, replace idle air control thermal valve and recheck.
NOTE: If idle air control thermal valve was removed, perform PCM reset procedure. See PCM RESET PROCEDURE/CLEARING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - 3.5RL article.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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