Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Acura TL BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
ATF Replacement
NOTE:
Keep all foreign particles out of the transmission.
- Park the vehicle on the level ground.
- Warm up the engine to normal operating temperature (the radiator fan comes on), and turn the engine off.
- Raise the vehicle on a lift, make sure it is securely supported.
- Remove the air cleaner (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING ).
- Remove the intake air duct (see INTAKE MANIFOLD REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ).
- Remove the ATF filler bolt (A) and the sealing washer (B).
- Remove the drain plug (A), and drain the automatic transmission fluid (ATF).NOTE: If a cooler cleaning is necessary, refer to the ATF COOLER CLEANING .
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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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