2012 Acura TL BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Transmission Range Switch Replacement

  1. Remove the air cleaner (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING ).
  2. Remove the spring clip (A) and the control pin (B), then separate the shift cable end (C) from the control lever (D).
    Fig 1: Identifying Spring Clip, Control Pin, Shift Cable End And Control Lever
    G08066629Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  3. Check the bushing (E) in the shift cable end for a proper fit and wear. If the bushing is loose or worn, replace the shift cable (see SHIFT CABLE REPLACEMENT  ).
  4. Disconnect the transmission range switch connector.
  5. Remove the nuts (A) securing the shift cable bracket (B).
    Fig 2: Identifying Nuts And Shift Cable Bracket
    G08066630Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  6. Remove the transmission range switch.
    Fig 3: Removing Transmission Range Switch
    G08066631Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  7. Turn the control lever fully counterclockwise to the P position. Turn the control lever clockwise two clicks to the N position.
    Fig 4: Turning Control Lever Clockwise Two Clicks To N Position
    G08066632Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  8. Set a new transmission range switch (A) to the N position. Align the cutouts (B) on the rotary-frame with the neutral positioning cutouts (C) on the transmission range switch, then put a 2.0 mm (0.079 in) feeler gauge blade (D) in the cutouts to hold the transmission range switch in the N position.
    NOTE: Be sure to use a 2.0 mm (0.079 in) feeler gauge blade or equivalent to hold the transmission range switch in the N position.
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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.