engine Acura TSX 2011 Repair Manual

Maintenance Under the Hood
Engine Coolant
241
Maintenance
Radiator NOTICE Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not
spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; they can
damage components in the engine compartment.
6-cylinder models 1. Remove the radiator cap cover. All models 2. Make sure the engine and radiator are
cool.
3. Turn the radiator cap counterclockwise and
relieve any pressure in the coolant system.
Do not press the cap down when turning.
4. Push down and turn the radiator cap
counterclockwise to remove it.
5. The coolant level should be up to the base
of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.
6. Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten
it fully.
7. Pour coolant into the reserve tank until it
reaches the MA X mark. Put the cap back
on the reserve tank.
WARNING
Removing the radiator cap while the
engine is hot can cause the coolant to
spray out, seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and radiator cool
down before removing the radiator cap.
RadiatorRadiator Cap

Maintenance Under the Hood
Transmission Fluid
242Maintenance
1. Park on level ground, and start the engine.
2. Wait until the radiator fan starts and then
turn off the engine.
Perform step 3 after waiting for about
60 seconds (less than 90 seconds).
3. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the
transmission and wipe it with a clean cloth.
4. Insert the dipstick all the way back into the
transmission securely, as shown in the image.
5. Remove the dipstick and check the fluid
level. It should be between the upper and
lower marks in the HOT range.
6. If the level is below the lower mark, add
fluid into the dipstick hole to bring it to the
level between the upper and lower marks,
and have your vehicle checked by a dealer
immediately.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Transmission FluidCheck the fluid level when the engine is at normal operating temperature.Specified fluid: Acura ATF DW-1 (automatic transmission fluid)
Automatic Transmission Fluid NOTICE Do not mix Acura ATF DW-1 with other
transmission fluids.
Using a transmission fluid other than Acura ATF
DW-1 may adversely affect the operation and
durability of your vehicle's transmission, and
damage the transmission.
Any damage caused by using a transmission fluid
that is not equivalent to Acura ATF DW-1 is not
covered by Acura's new vehicle warranty. NOTICE Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not
spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; they can
damage components in the engine compartment.
Upper
Lower
MarksRubber
Cap
Guide
4-cylinder models 6-cylinder models
HOT
RangeUpper Mark
Lower Mark

Maintenance Under the Hood
Transmission Fluid
243
Maintenance
1. Park the vehicle on level ground.
2. Remove the bolts with a wrench, then
carefully remove the under cover.
3. Remove the transmission filler bolt and
washer. Carefully feel inside the bolt hole
with your fingers.
Check if the fluid level is up to the edge
of the bolt hole.
4. If the fluid level is not up to the edge
of the bolt hole, add Acura Manual
Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it runs out of
the hole.
5. Put a new washer on the filler bolt, then
reinstall the filler bolt. Tightening torque: 33 lbf∙ft (44 N∙m,
4.5 kgf∙m)
6. Reinstall the under cover with the bolts.
Manual Transmission Fluid
Check the fluid level when the engine is at normal operating temperature.Specified fluid: Acura Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
Manual Transmission Fluid
If Acura MTF is not available, you may use the API
certificated SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20 viscosity motor oil
as a temporary measure.
Replace with MTF as soon as possible. Motor
oil does not contain the proper additives for the
transmission and continued use can cause decreased
shifting performance and lead to transmission
damage. Under Cover
Bolt

Maintenance Under the Hood
Refilling Window Washer Fluid
246Maintenance
Refilling Window Washer Fluid NOTICE Do not use engine antifreeze or a vinegar/water
solution in the windshield washer reservoir.
Antifreeze can damage your vehicle's paint. A
vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield
washer pump.
Refilling Window Washer FluidCheck the amount of window washer fluid using the washer fluid level gauge on
the cap.
If the level is low, fill the washer reservoir.
Level Gauge

247
Replacing Light Bulbs
Continued
Maintenance
When replacing, use the following bulbs.
High beam headlight: 60W (HB3)
Low beam headlight: 55W (H1 for halogen bulb Type)
35W (D2S for high voltage discharge type)
High Beam Headlight
6-cylinder models 1. Remove all the engine compartment
covers.
Engine Compartment Covers

P. 2 3 3
Passenger side
All models 2. Remove the engine coolant reservoir.
Headlight Bulbs NOTICE Halogen bulbs get very hot when lit.
Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause
the bulb to overheat and shatter.
The headlight aim is set by the factory, and typically
does not need to be adjusted. However, if you
regularly carry heavy items in the trunk or tow a
trailer, have the aiming readjusted at a dealer or by
a qualified technician.
The HB3 and H1 types are halogen bulbs.
When replacing a bulb, handle it by its base, and
protect the glass from contact with your skin or
hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with
denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.
Headlight Bulbs
Engine Coolant
ReservoirEngine Coolant
Reservoir
6-cylinder models 4-cylinder models

Cleaning
Exterior Care
273
Continued
Maintenance
Dust off the vehicle body after you drive.
Regularly inspect your vehicle for scratches on painted surfaces. A scratch on a
painted surface can result in body rust. If you find a scratch, promptly repair it.
Washing the Vehicle
Wash your vehicle regularly. Wash more frequently when driving in the following
conditions:
If driving on roads with road salt. t
If driving in coastal areas. t
If tar, soot, bird droppings, insects, or tree sap are stuck to painted surfaces. t
Using an Automated Vehicle Wash
Fold in the door mirrors. Make sure to follow the instructions indicated on the
automated vehicle wash.
Using High Pressure CleanersKeep sufficient distance between the cleaning nozzle and the vehicle body. t
Take particular care around the windows. Standing too close may cause water t
to enter the vehicle interior. Do not spray water into the engine compartment.
Washing the Vehicle
Do not spray water into the air intake vents or
engine compartment. It can cause a malfunction.
Air Intake Vents
Exterior Care

Cleaning
Exterior Care
274Maintenance
Applying Wax
A good coat of automotive body wax helps protect your vehicle’s paint from the
elements. Wax will wear off over time and expose your vehicle’s paint to the
elements, so reapply as necessary.
Maintaining the Bumpers and Other Resin Coated Parts
If you get gasoline, oil, engine coolant, or battery fluid on resin coated parts, they
may be stained or the coating may peel. Promptly wipe it away using a soft cloth
and clean water.
Cleaning the Window
Wipe using a glass cleaner.
Maintaining Aluminum Wheels
Aluminum is susceptible to deterioration caused by salt and other road
contaminants. Use a sponge and mild detergent to wipe away promptly.
Be careful not to use harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners)
or a stiff brush. They can damage the clear coat of the aluminum alloy wheels that
helps keep the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing.
Applying Wax NOTICE Chemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage
the paint, metal, and plastic on your vehicle. Wipe
up spills immediately. Maintaining the Bumpers and Other Resin Coated Parts
Ask a dealer about the correct coating material
when you want to repair the painted surface of the
parts made of resin. Cleaning the Window
Wires are mounted to the inside of the rear window.
Wipe along the same direction as the wires with a
soft cloth so as not to damage them.

Handling the Unexpected
This chapter explains how to handle unexpected troubles.
To o l s ..................................................... 276
Types of Tools .....................................276
If a Tire Goes Flat ................................ 277
Changing a Flat Tire ........................... 277
Engine Does Not Start
Checking the Engine .......................... 283
Jump Starting ..................................... 284
Shift Lever Does Not Move ............... 287
Overheating ........................................ 288
How to Handle Overheating .............. 288Indicator, Coming On/Blinking
If the Low Oil Pressure Indicator
Comes On ........................................ 290
If the Charging System Indicator
Comes On ........................................ 290
If the Malfunction Indicator Lamp
Comes On or Blinks .......................... 291
If the Brake System Indicator
Comes On ........................................ 292
If the EPS Indicator Comes On ........... 292
If the Low Tire Pressure/ TPMS Indicator
Comes On or Blinks .......................... 293Fuses
Fuse Locations ................................... 294
Inspecting and Changing Fuses .......... 297
Emergency Towing ............................. 298
When You Cannot Unlock the Fuel
Fill Door ............................................. 299
When You Cannot Open the
Trunk .................................................. 300
275

If a Tire Goes Flat
Changing a Flat Tire
280Handling the Unexpected
WARNING
The vehicle can easily roll off the jack,
seriously injuring anyone underneath.
Follow the directions for changing a tire
exactly, and never get under the vehicle
when it is supported only by the jack.
How to Set Up the Jack
How to Set Up the Jack
Do not use the jack with people or luggage in the
vehicle.
Use the jack provided in your vehicle.
Other jacks may not support the weight
("load") or
their shape may not match.
The following instructions must be followed to use
the jack safely.
Do not use while the engine is running. tUse only where the ground is firm and level. tUse only at the jacking points. tDo not get in the vehicle while using the jack. tDo not put anything on top of or underneath the tjack.
1. Place the jack under the jacking point
closest to the tire to be changed.
2. Turn the end bracket (as shown in the
image) clockwise until the top of the jack
contacts the jacking point.
Make sure that the jacking point tab is
resting in the jack notch.
3. Raise the vehicle, using the extension bar
and the jack handle, until the tire is off the
ground.
Extension Bar
Wheel Nut
Wrench as Jack
Handle

283
Engine Does Not Start
Handling the Unexpected
Checking the EngineIf the engine does not start, turn the ignition switch to START III
and check the
starter.
Checking the Engine
If you must start the vehicle immediately, use an
assisting vehicle to jump start it.
Jump Starting


P. 2 8 4

Starter condition Checklist
Starter doesn't turn or turns
over slowly.
The battery may be dead. Check
each of the items on the right and
respond accordingly.Check brightness of the interior light.
Turn on interior lights and check brightness.
If the interior lights are dim or do not come on at all t
 Battery Inspection and Maintenance P. 2 6 8
If the interior lights come on normally t
Fuse Inspection and Replacement
P. 2 9 4
The starter turns over normally
but the engine doesn't start.
There may be a problem with the
fuse. Check each of the items on
the right and respond accordingly.Review the engine start procedure.
Follow its instructions, and try to start the engine again.
Starting the Engine P.1 9 1
Check the immobilizer system indicator.
When the immobilizer system indicator is blinking, the engine cannot be started.
 Immobilizer System P. 9 8
Check the fuel level.
There should be enough fuel in the tank.
Fuel Gauge P. 7 5
Check the fuse.
Check all fuses, or have the vehicle checked by a dealer.
 Inspecting and Changing Fuses P. 2 9 7
If the problem continues:
 Emergency Towing P. 2 9 8