2004 Acura TL AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

ATF Level Check

NOTE: Keep all foreign particles out of the transmission.
  1. Warm up the engine to normal operating temperature (the radiator fan comes on).
  2. Park the vehicle on level ground, and turn the engine off.
    NOTE: Check the fluid level within 60-90 seconds after turning the engine off.
  3. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the ATF dipstick guide pipe, and wipe it with a clean cloth.
  4. Install the dipstick (A) with the arrow (B) on the cap (C) pointing to the front of the vehicle, and aligning the notch on the cap with the guide tab (D).
    Fig 1: Identifying Dipstick (A), Arrow (B), Cap (C) And Guide Tab (D)
    G03660576Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  5. Remove the dipstick (A) and check the fluid level. It should be between upper mark (B) and lower mark (C).
    Fig 2: Identifying Dipstick (A), Upper Mark (B) And Lower Mark (C)
    G03660577Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  6. If the level is below the lower mark, check for fluid leaks at the transmission, hose and line joints.

    If a problem is found, fix it before filling the transmission.

    If the level is above the upper mark, drain the ATF to proper level (see step  3 ).

  7. If necessary fill transmission with the recommended fluid into the filler hole (A) to the upper mark on the dipstick. Always use Acura ATF-Z1 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). Using a non-Acura ATF can affect shift quality.
    Fig 3: Identifying Filler Hole (A), Filler Bolt (B) And Sealing Washer (C)
    G03660578Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  8. Install the ATF filler bolt (B) with a new sealing washer (C).
  9. Insert the dipstick back into the dipstick guide pipe with pointing the arrow on the guide to the front of the vehicle.
Factory Service Tools

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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.