2004 Acura TL AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

ATF Temperature Sensor Replacement

  1. Make sure you have the anti-theft codes for the radio and navigation system, and write down the audio presets.
  2. Remove the left side engine compartment cover.
  3. Make sure the ignition switch is OFF. Disconnect the battery negative terminal, then disconnect the battery positive terminal.
  4. Remove the battery hold-down bracket, then remove the battery and battery tray.
  5. Remove the air intake duct and air cleaner housing.
  6. Remove the transmission upper mount bracket (A) and bracket plate (B).
    Fig 1: Removing Transmission Upper Mount Bracket (A) And Bracket Plate (B)
    G03660567Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  7. Raise the vehicle on a lift.
  8. Remove the engine under cover.
    Fig 2: Removing Engine Under Cover
    G03660568Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  9. Remove the splash shield.
    Fig 3: Removing Splash Shield
    G03660569Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  10. Remove the drain plug (A), and drain the automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
    Fig 4: Identifying Drain Plug (A) And Sealing Washer (B)
    G03660570Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  11. Reinstall the drain plug with the new sealing washer (B).
  12. Remove the transmission lower mount nuts.
    Fig 5: Removing Transmission Lower Mount Nuts
    G03660571Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  13. Lift the transmission up using a transmission jack to create clearance between the transmission and front subframe.
    Fig 6: Removing Transmission Lower Front Mount
    G03660572Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  14. Remove the transmission lower front mount.
  15. Disconnect the ATF temperature sensor connector (A), and remove it from the bracket.
    Fig 7: Identifying ATF Temperature Sensor Connectors (A, B), O-Ring (C) And Sensor Harness (D)
    G03660573Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  16. Remove the three bolts securing the ATF temperature sensor/harness, then remove the ATF temperature sensor (B).
  17. Install the new O-ring (C) on the new ATF temperature sensor, then install the sensor.
  18. Install the ATF temperature sensor harness (D) with the bolts.
  19. Check the connector for corrosion, dirt, and oil, then connect the connector securely.
  20. Install the transmission lower front mount.
  21. Lower the transmission onto the front subframe.
  22. Install the transmission lower mount nuts.
  23. Install the splash shield and transmission under cover.
  24. Lower the vehicle.
  25. Install the transmission upper mount bracket, bracket plate, and remove the transmission jack.
  26. Refill the transmission with ATF (see step  5 ).
  27. Install the air intake duct and air cleaner housing.
  28. Install the battery tray, battery, and battery hold-down bracket.
  29. Clean the battery posts and cable terminals with sandpaper, then assemble them and apply grease to prevent corrosion.
  30. Install the left side engine compartment cover.
  31. Enter the anti-theft codes for the radio and navigation system, then enter the audio presets, and set the clock.
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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.