2012 Acura TL BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Paddle Shifter Replacement

SRS components are located in this area. Review the SRS component locations (see COMPONENT LOCATION INDEX ) and the precautions and procedures (see PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES ) before doing repair or service.

  1. Remove the steering wheel (see STEERING WHEEL REMOVAL ).
  2. Remove the four screws (A) securing the steering wheel rear cover (B).
    Fig 1: Identifying Screws, Steering Wheel Rear Cover And Snap-Fit Portion
    G08066655Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  3. Pull the snap-fit portion (C) up carefully, then remove the steering wheel rear cover.
  4. Disconnect the paddle shifter + (upshift switch) connector or the paddle shifter - (downshift switch) connector. Remove the screws (A) securing the paddle shifter + (upshift switch) (B) or the paddle shifter - (downshift switch) (C), then remove the paddle shifter + or the paddle shifter -.
    Fig 2: Identifying Screws, Paddle Shifter + (Upshift Switch) And Paddle Shifter - (Downshift Switch)
    G08066656Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  5. Install a new paddle shifter + or a new paddle shifter - on the steering wheel.
  6. Connect the paddle shifter + connector or the paddle shifter - connector securely, and install the connector in the connector holder.
  7. Install the steering wheel rear cover with the screws.
  8. Install the steering wheel (see STEERING WHEEL INSTALLATION ).
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

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.