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Acura 2000 TL User Manual

Acura 2000 TL
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2000 TL Online Reference Owner's Manual
Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference.
For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.
Contents
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety.................................................................................................................ii
Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................51
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features ............................................................................................. 109
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving..................................................................................................................................145
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving ..............................................................................................................................................159
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................187
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................245
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................253
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information.....................................................................................................................279
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................291
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................297
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index...................................................................................................................................................... I
Service Information Summary
A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Owner's Identification Form
Your Vehicle at a Glance.................................................................................................................... 2

Table of Contents

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Acura 2000 TL Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandAcura
Model2000 TL
CategoryAutomobile
LanguageEnglish

Summary

Owner's Identification

Introduction

A Few Words About Safety

Your Car at a Glance

Driver and Passenger Safety

Seat Belts

Information on seat belt usage, function, and safety.

Airbags

Information on Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) front and side airbags.

Seats & Seat-Backs

Details on seat design and its role in safety.

Head Restraints

Information on head restraint adjustment for injury prevention.

Door Locks

Explanation of how door locks enhance safety.

Pre-Drive Safety Checklist

Checklist of safety items before driving.

Protecting Adults

Instructions for proper adult occupant safety and seating positions.

Protecting Children

Guidelines for safely restraining infants and children in the vehicle.

Seat Belts

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Details on seat belt system components and maintenance.

Airbags

Additional Information About Your Front Airbags

Details on how front airbags work and SRS components.

Additional Information About Your Side Airbags

Details on side airbags and their indicator light.

Instruments and Controls

Gauges

Explanation of the instrument panel gauges and their readings.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Location and operation of controls on the steering column.

Steering Wheel Controls

Details on operating vehicle functions via steering wheel controls.

Keys and Locks

Information on vehicle keys, locks, and security systems.

Immobilizer System

Details on the car's anti-theft Immobilizer System.

Power Door Locks

Explanation of the power door lock system.

Remote Transmitter

Information on operating the remote key transmitter.

HomeLink Universal Transmitter

Instructions for programming the HomeLink transmitter for home devices.

Seat Adjustments

How to adjust seats and head restraints for comfort and safety.

Driver's Seat Full Power Adjustments

How to adjust the driver's seat using power controls.

Front Passenger's Seat Adjustments

How to adjust the front passenger's seat using power controls.

Head Restraints

Guide to adjusting head restraints for optimal safety.

Seat Heaters

Information on using the front seat heating system.

Power Windows

How to operate the car's electric power windows.

Moonroof

Instructions for operating the car's moonroof.

Mirrors

Information on mirrors and their adjustment.

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

Guide to adjusting the outside mirrors using power controls.

Parking Brake

How to apply and release the parking brake.

Digital Clock

Instructions for setting the car's digital clock.

Console Compartment

How to open and close the console compartment.

Coin Box

Location and operation of the car's coin box.

Armrest Storage Compartments

Details on storage compartments located in armrests.

Beverage Holder

Instructions for using the car's beverage holders.

Sun Visor

How to use the sun visor and its extension.

Vanity Mirror

Information on using the vanity mirror in the sun visor.

Sunglasses Holder

Instructions for opening and closing the sunglasses holder.

Accessory Power Sockets

Information on using the car's 12-volt accessory power sockets.

Interior Lights

Details on interior lighting, including ceiling and spotlights.

Spotlights

How to operate the interior spotlights.

Courtesy Lights

Information on interior courtesy lights.

CD Holder

Instructions for using the CD holder.

Climate Control System

3.2 TL without Navigation System

How to use the climate control system without navigation.

Fully-automatic Operation

How to use the automatic climate control in fully-automatic mode.

Semi-automatic Operation

How to manually select climate control functions in semi-automatic mode.

3.2 TL with Navigation System

How to use the climate control system with navigation.

Fully-automatic Operation

How to use the automatic climate control in fully-automatic mode with navigation.

Semi-automatic Operation

How to manually select climate control functions in semi-automatic mode with navigation.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Guide to the AM/FM/Cassette/CD stereo audio system.

Operating the Radio

Instructions for operating the car's radio system.

Adjusting the Sound

How to adjust the sound balance and fader controls.

Audio System Lighting

How to adjust the illumination of the audio system.

Radio Frequencies

Information on AM and FM radio frequency bands.

Radio Reception

Factors affecting radio reception and signal quality.

Operating the CD Player

How to insert, play, and control the CD player.

Protecting Compact Discs

Tips for handling and cleaning compact discs.

CD Player Error Indications

Troubleshooting common CD player error messages.

CD Changer Error Indications

Troubleshooting common CD changer error messages.

Operating the Cassette Player

Instructions for operating the cassette player.

Tape Search Functions

How to use FF, REW, SKIP, and REPEAT functions for tape searching.

Remote Audio Controls

How to use the steering wheel mounted audio controls.

Theft Protection

Information on the audio system's anti-theft feature.

Security System

How to arm and disarm the vehicle's security system.

Before Driving

Break-in Period

Guidance on proper driving during the first 600 miles for vehicle reliability.

Gasoline

Information on recommended gasoline types and octane ratings.

Service Station Procedures

Essential steps for refueling and basic service station checks.

Filling the Fuel Tank

Step-by-step instructions for safely filling the fuel tank.

Opening the Hood

How to safely open the vehicle's hood.

Oil Check

Procedure for checking the engine oil level.

Engine Coolant Check

How to check the engine coolant level in the reserve tank.

Fuel Economy

Factors affecting fuel mileage and tips for improvement.

Vehicle Condition

Importance of maintaining vehicle condition for optimal operation.

Driving Habits

Tips on driving habits to improve fuel economy.

Accessories and Modifications

Information on vehicle accessories and potential modifications.

Accessories

Information on genuine and non-Acura accessories.

Modifications

Warnings about modifying the car's design or operation.

Carrying Cargo

Guidelines for safely storing cargo in the vehicle.

Load Limit

Information on the vehicle's maximum load capacity.

Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment

Guidelines for safely storing items inside the vehicle.

Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or on a Roof Rack

Instructions for loading cargo in the trunk and on a roof rack.

Driving

Preparing to Drive

Daily checks and adjustments required before driving.

Starting the Engine

Procedure for starting the engine under various conditions.

Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude

Procedure for starting the engine in cold, high-altitude conditions.

Automatic Transmission

Information on operating the automatic transmission.

Shift Lever Position Indicator

Explanation of the shift lever position indicator on the tachometer.

Shift Lever Positions

Details on the nine available shift lever positions.

Engine Speed Limiter

Information on the engine speed limiter function.

Shift Lock Release

Procedure to move the shift lever out of Park when normal method fails.

Parking

Guidelines for safely parking the vehicle.

The Braking System

Information on the vehicle's braking system, including ABS.

Brake Wear Indicators

How to identify brake pad wear using audible indicators.

Brake System Design

Overview of the vehicle's dual-circuit hydraulic brake system.

Anti-lock Brakes

Explanation of the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) function.

Important Safety Reminders

Key safety reminders regarding braking and ABS usage.

ABS Indicator

What the ABS indicator light signifies.

Traction Control System

Information on the Traction Control System.

TCS ON/OFF Switch

How to turn the Traction Control System on and off.

TCS Indicator

Understanding the TCS indicator light signals.

Driving in Bad Weather

Driving techniques and precautions for rain, fog, and snow.

Towing a Trailer

Guidelines for safely towing a trailer.

Load Limits

Information on total trailer weight and tongue load limits.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The vehicle's maximum permissible weight.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The maximum permissible weight for front and rear axles.

Checking Loads

Methods for confirming vehicle and trailer weights are within limits.

Towing Equipment and Accessories

Discussion of necessary towing equipment and accessories.

Trailer Brakes

Recommendations for trailer brake systems.

Trailer Lights

Information on trailer lighting connectors and wiring.

Additional Trailer Equipment

Discussion of required or recommended trailer equipment.

Pre-Tow Checklist

Checklist of items to inspect before towing.

Driving Safety With a Trailer

Special driving skills and techniques for towing.

Making Turns and Braking

Guidance on making turns and braking while towing.

Driving on Hills

Tips for driving on hills while towing a trailer.

Handling Crosswinds and Buffeting

How to manage crosswinds and buffeting from passing vehicles.

Backing Up

Instructions for backing up with a trailer.

Parking

Precautions for parking the vehicle and trailer.

Maintenance

Maintenance Safety

Importance of regular maintenance and safety precautions.

Important Safety Precautions

Key safety precautions to observe before performing maintenance.

Maintenance Schedule

Schedule for vehicle servicing based on time and mileage.

Maintenance Record

Record of completed maintenance services for the vehicle.

Owner Maintenance Checks

List of items to check regularly for vehicle maintenance.

Fluid Locations

Diagram showing the location of various vehicle fluid reservoirs.

Engine Oil

Guide to engine oil, including checking, adding, and changing.

Adding Oil

Step-by-step guide for adding engine oil.

Recommended Oil

Information on selecting the correct engine oil type and viscosity.

Synthetic Oil

Guidelines for using synthetic motor oil.

Changing the Oil and Filter

Procedure for changing engine oil and filter.

Cooling System

Information on the cooling system, including coolant levels.

Adding Engine Coolant

How to check and add engine coolant.

Replacing Engine Coolant

Procedure for draining and refilling the cooling system.

Windshield Washers

How to check and refill the windshield washer fluid reservoir.

Transmission Fluid

Procedure for checking the automatic transmission fluid level.

Automatic Transmission

Procedure for checking the automatic transmission fluid level.

Brake Fluid

How to check and replace brake fluid.

Brake System

Information on the brake fluid reservoir and system.

Power Steering

How to check and add power steering fluid.

Hood Latch

How to clean and lubricate the hood latch assembly.

Air Cleaner Element

Instructions for cleaning or replacing the air cleaner element.

Spark Plugs

Guide to spark plug replacement.

Replacement

Step-by-step guide for replacing spark plugs.

Specifications

Technical specifications for spark plugs.

Battery

How to check battery condition and terminals.

Wiper Blades

How to check and replace wiper blades.

Air Conditioning System

Information on maintaining the air conditioning system.

Air Conditioning Filter

When to replace the air conditioning filter.

Drive Belts

How to check the condition and tension of drive belts.

Timing Belt

Intervals for timing belt replacement.

Tires

Information on tire inflation, inspection, and replacement.

Inflation

Proper tire inflation procedures and checks.

Inspection

How to inspect tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear.

Recommended Tire Pressures for Normal Driving

Recommended cold tire pressures for normal driving.

Tire Rotation

Guidelines for rotating tires to increase life and distribute wear.

Replacing Tires and Wheels

Information on replacing tires and wheels.

Wheels and Tires

Specifications for wheels and tires.

Winter Driving

Tire recommendations for winter driving conditions.

Snow Tires

Guidelines for mounting snow tires.

Traction Devices

Instructions for installing traction devices like chains.

Lights

Information on exterior and interior vehicle lights.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb

How to replace headlight bulbs, with safety warnings.

Replacing Front Turn Signal and Side Marker Light Bulbs

Procedure for replacing front signal and marker light bulbs.

Replacing Rear Bulbs

Instructions for replacing rear light bulbs.

Replacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb

How to replace the high-mount brake light bulb.

Replacing a Rear License Bulb

Procedure for replacing the license plate light bulb.

Replacing Bulbs in the Interior Lights

How to replace interior light bulbs.

Storing Your Car

Steps for preparing the car for extended periods of storage.

Appearance Care

Exterior Care

Tips for washing, waxing, and cleaning exterior surfaces.

Washing

Techniques for frequent washing to preserve car's beauty.

Waxing

How and when to wax the car's finish.

Aluminum Wheels

How to clean aluminum alloy wheels.

Paint Touch-up

Instructions for repairing paint chips and scratches.

Interior Care

Tips for cleaning and maintaining the car's interior surfaces.

Carpeting

How to vacuum and shampoo the car's carpeting.

Vinyl

How to clean vinyl surfaces.

Leather

Procedure for cleaning and conditioning leather upholstery.

Seat Belts

How to clean dirty seat belts without damage.

Windows

Tips for cleaning interior and exterior glass.

Air Fresheners

Recommendations for using air fresheners safely.

Corrosion Protection

Factors contributing to car corrosion and preventive maintenance.

Body Repairs

Importance of using genuine parts and quality work for body repairs.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Compact Spare Tire

Information on the temporary compact spare tire and its precautions.

Changing a Flat Tire

Step-by-step instructions for changing a flat tire.

If Your Engine Won't Start

Troubleshooting steps when the engine fails to start.

Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly

Troubleshooting steps when the starter motor does not operate properly.

The Starter Operates Normally

Troubleshooting when the starter operates but the engine doesn't start.

Jump Starting

Procedure and precautions for jump starting a dead battery.

If Your Engine Overheats

What to do if the engine overheats and how to diagnose the cause.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

Understanding the low oil pressure warning light and its implications.

Charging System Indicator

What the charging system indicator light signifies.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Understanding the malfunction indicator lamp for emissions control systems.

Brake System Indicator

What the brake system indicator light means and how to respond.

Closing the Moonroof

Manual procedure for closing the moonroof if the electric motor fails.

Fuses

Information on vehicle fuses and their locations.

Checking and Replacing Fuses

How to check and replace blown fuses in the vehicle.

Technical Information

Identification Numbers

Location of vehicle identification numbers.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Location and importance of the Vehicle Identification Number.

Engine Number

Location of the engine serial number.

Transmission Number

Location of the automatic transmission serial number.

Specifications

Key technical specifications for the vehicle's dimensions, capacities, and engine.

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars)

Explanation of DOT tire quality grading for treadwear, traction, and temperature.

Treadwear

Explanation of the tire treadwear grading system.

Traction

Explanation of tire traction grading.

Temperature

Explanation of tire temperature grading.

Oxygenated Fuels

Information on gasolines blended with alcohol or ether compounds.

Driving in Foreign Countries

Advice for driving an Acura in countries outside the U.S. and Canada.

Emissions Controls

Information on the vehicle's emissions control systems.

The Clean Air Act

Overview of the Clean Air Act's standards for auto emissions.

Crankcase Emissions Control System

How the Positive Crankcase Ventilation System works.

Evaporative Emissions Control System

How the evaporative emissions control system captures fuel vapors.

Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery

How the ORVR system captures fuel vapors during refueling.

Exhaust Emissions Controls

Explanation of the exhaust emissions control systems.

PGM-FI System

Details on the PGM-FI system and its subsystems.

Ignition Timing Control System

How the ignition timing system controls emissions.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System

How the EGR system reduces NOx production.

Three Way Catalytic Converter

Explanation of the three-way catalytic converter's function.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations Information

How to contact Acura dealership management and customer relations.

Canada Zone Office Map

Contact information for Honda Canada Customer Relations.

Warranty Coverages

Overview of the vehicle's warranty coverages.

U.S. Owners

Warranty details specific to U.S. owners.

New Car Limited Warranty

Coverage for new vehicles, excluding battery and emissions systems.

Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty

Warranties covering the vehicle's emissions control systems.

Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty

Warranty providing credit toward a replacement battery.

Seat Belt Limited Warranty

Coverage for seat belts that fail to function properly.

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty

Coverage for rust-through of exterior body panels.

Accessory Limited Warranty

Warranty coverage for Genuine Acura Accessories.

Replacement Parts Limited Warranty

Warranty against defects in genuine Acura replacement parts.

Replacement Battery Limited Warranty

Pro-rated coverage for replacement batteries.

Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty

Lifetime warranty coverage for muffler replacement.

Canadian Owners

Reference to the 2000 Warranty Manual for Canadian owners.

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Cars)

How to report potential vehicle safety defects to NHTSA.

Authorized Manuals

Information on purchasing authorized service and owner's manuals.

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