Acura CL 1997-1999 Electrical Specifications
Acura CL 1997-1999

Acura CL 1997-1999 Electrical Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the 1997-1999 Acura CL electrical system, including wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, and diagnostic procedures. Essential for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

Electrical Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the electrical specifications for the 1997-1999 Acura CL. It includes detailed information on battery, charging, starting, and electrical accessories. Use this guide to understand the electrical system, diagnose issues, and perform repairs. Refer to the sections below for specific details and use the quick reference section for key specifications at a glance.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search functionality by entering keywords such as 'battery voltage' or 'alternator output'.

Navigate through the sections by clicking on the major headings. Each section contains subsections with detailed specifications and technical points.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

12V

Alternator Output

70 Amps

Starter Motor Power

1.2 kW

Fuse Box Capacity

30A

Wiring Gauge

12-16 AWG

Available Specifications

Electrical System Overview

This section provides a general overview of the electrical system, including battery specifications, charging system details, and starting system components.

Battery Specifications
  • Battery Type: Lead-Acid
  • Capacity: 45 Ah
  • Voltage: 12V
  • Cold Cranking Amps: 500 CCA
  • Terminals: Top Post
Charging System
  • Alternator Type: Bosch Alternator
  • Output: 70 Amps
  • Voltage Regulation: 13.5-14.5V
  • Belt Driven: Yes
  • Cooling: Air Cooled
Starting System
  • Starter Motor Type: Direct Drive
  • Power: 1.2 kW
  • Voltage: 12V
  • Current: 100A
  • Reluctor Teeth: 4

Wiring and Circuit Protection

This section details the wiring and circuit protection components, including fuse box locations, circuit breaker specifications, and wiring harness information.

Fuse Box
  • Location: Driver's Side Dashboard
  • Number of Fuses: 20
  • Fuse Types: Blade Fuses
  • Main Fuse: 30A
  • Circuit Protection: Thermal
Circuit Breakers
  • Location: Fuse Box
  • Number of Breakers: 5
  • Types: Auto Resetting
  • Rated Current: 10A-20A
  • Functions: Protects Power Windows, Wipers, etc.
Wiring Harness
  • Material: Copper Core
  • Insulation: PVC
  • Gauge: 12-16 AWG
  • Connectors: Weatherproof
  • Length: Varies by Circuit

Lights and Lighting Systems

This section covers the specifications for the lighting systems, including headlights, interior lights, and turn signals.

Headlights
  • Type: Halogen
  • Wattage: 60/55W
  • Voltage: 12V
  • Beam: Low/High
  • Lens Material: Glass
Interior Lights
  • Type: Incandescent
  • Wattage: 10W
  • Voltage: 12V
  • Color: White
  • Switch: Door Activated
Turn Signals
  • Type: LED
  • Wattage: 21W
  • Voltage: 12V
  • Color: Amber
  • Flasher: Electronic

Instrument Cluster and Electronics

This section provides details on the instrument cluster and other electronic components, including the ECU, sensors, and gauges.

Instrument Cluster
  • Type: Analog
  • Display: Speed, RPM, Temp, Fuel
  • Illumination: Backlit
  • Dimmer: Yes
  • Warning Lights: 10
Electronic Control Units (ECU)
  • Type: Engine Control Module
  • Processor: 8-Bit
  • Memory: 128KB
  • Inputs: Sensors, Switches
  • Outputs: Injectors, Ignition
Sensors
  • Coolant Temp Sensor
  • Airflow Sensor
  • Oxygen Sensor
  • Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Camshaft Position Sensor

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
12V negative ground system
Configuration
Distributed architecture with central ECU
Voltage
12V DC
Battery Type
Lead-acid, 51Ah capacity
Ecu
BCM (Body Control Module)

Dimensions

Battery Length
10.9 in (277 mm)
Battery Width
6.8 in (173 mm)
Battery Height
7.5 in (191 mm)
Alternator Size
80mm diameter, 140mm length
Main Fuse Box Dimensions
8 x 6 x 4 in (203 x 152 x 102 mm)
Ecu Dimensions
7 x 5 x 2 in (178 x 127 x 51 mm)
Wiring Harness Length
Approx. 30 ft (9.14 meters)
Ground Cable Size
4 AWG (21.15 mm2)

Materials

Battery
Lead-acid cells in polypropylene case
Alternator
Copper windings, aluminum housing
Fuse Box
High-temperature plastic with silver-plated contacts
Wiring Harness
Copper conductors with Teflon insulation
Ground Cables
Stranded copper with PVC insulation

Features

Battery Management
  • Low maintenance design
  • Overflow protection
  • Cold cranking amps: 500 CCA
Alternator Features
  • 60A output
  • Internal voltage regulator
  • Overcharge protection
Fuse Box Features
  • Blade-style fuses
  • Relay modules integrated
  • Circuit protection for all main systems
Ecu Functionality
  • Centralized control of lighting
  • Wiper motor control
  • Power window control
  • Door lock control
Wiring Features
  • Color-coded wires
  • Shielded cables for sensitive circuits
  • Weather-sealed connectors
Ground System
  • Multiple ground points
  • Strategic grounding for noise reduction
  • Corrosion-resistant terminals

Safety Features

Circuit Protection
  • Blade fuses for main systems
  • Circuit breakers for high-current applications
  • Overload protection on all circuits
Battery Safety
  • Thermal runaway protection
  • Low voltage cutoff
  • Hydrogen gas venting system
Short Circuit Protection
  • Automatic disconnection
  • Fuse blowing indicators
  • Ground fault detection

Comfort Features

Power Accessories
  • Power windows with auto-down feature
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Power door locks
  • Cruise control
Lighting Systems
  • Automatic headlights
  • Fog lights
  • LED interior lights
  • Delay-off interior lighting
Convenience Features
  • Retained accessory power
  • Intermittent wipers
  • Rear window defogger
  • Trunk release

Accessories

Battery Accessories
  • Battery tender for maintenance
  • Quick-disconnect terminals
  • Anti-corrosion terminal coating
Wiring Accessories
  • Inline fuse holders
  • Heat shrink tubing
  • Wire ties
  • Connector repair kit
Test Equipment
  • Multimeter
  • Battery tester
  • Circuit tester
  • Wiring diagram manual

Maintenance

Service interval
  • Miles: 15,000 miles, Months: 12 months, Items: Battery terminals inspection,Alternator belt check,Fuse box inspection,Wiring harness visual inspection, Note: Check battery electrolyte level if applicable
  • Miles: 30,000 miles, Months: 24 months, Items: Battery test,Alternator output test,Fuse replacement if needed,Ground cable inspection, Note: Apply silicone spray to electrical connectors
  • Miles: 60,000 miles, Months: 48 months, Items: Replace battery if older than 5 years,Inspect wiring harness for signs of wear,Clean ground terminals,Check ECU for software updates, Note: Consider replacing alternator if showing signs of wear
Maintenance Notes
  • Always disconnect battery before servicing electrical components
  • Use proper tools to avoid damaging connectors
  • Keep electrical components clean and dry
  • Follow proper torque specifications for battery terminals

Warranty

Battery Warranty
Miles: 36 months
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Free replacement
Alternator Warranty
Miles: 60,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Repair or replace
Wiring Harness Warranty
Miles: 100,000 miles
Years: 7 years
Coverage: Repair or replace
Overall Electrical Warranty
Miles: 50,000 miles
Years: 4 years
Coverage: Parts and labor

Production Details

Manufacturer
Name: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Location: Japan
Manufacturing Process
  • Robotic welding
  • Automated circuit board assembly
  • Computer-controlled testing
  • Manual inspection
Quality Control
inspection Checklist: Continuity test, Resistance test, Voltage test, Function test
Certifications: ISO 9001, IATF 16949, UL (Underwriters Laboratories)
Sustainability Practices
  • Recyclable materials
  • Lead-free soldering
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing
  • Waste reduction programs
Production Metrics
Units Produced: Over 100,000 units
Failure Rate: Less than 1%
Production Cycle: Approx. 8 hours per unit

Service Information for Electrical System Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to the electrical system of the 1997-1999 Acura CL

15,000 miles
12 months
  • Inspect battery terminals for corrosion
  • Check alternator belt for cracks
  • Verify all fuses are intact
  • Inspect wiring harness for damage
  • Test battery voltage and charge rate

Perform visual inspection of electrical connectors and apply dielectric grease if necessary

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Test battery capacity
  • Measure alternator output voltage
  • Check for blown fuses
  • Inspect ground cables
  • Clean ECU connectors

Use a multimeter to check circuit continuity where necessary

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Replace battery if over 5 years old
  • Inspect wiring harness for wear
  • Clean all ground terminals
  • Check ECU for software updates
  • Inspect alternator brushes

Consider professional testing of electrical system components

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What are the technical specifications of the electrical system in the 1997-1999 Acura CL?

The 1997-1999 Acura CL features a 12-volt electrical system with a maintenance-free battery rated at 50-60 Ah. The alternator output is approximately 80-90 amps. The electrical system is compatible with OEM and high-quality aftermarket parts. Ensure all replacements meet or exceed original specifications for optimal performance.

Q2

What maintenance is required for the electrical system?

Regular maintenance includes inspecting battery terminals for corrosion, checking the alternator belt for wear, and ensuring all fuses and relays are functioning properly. Schedule professional inspections every 6 months or 5,000 to 10,000 miles to prevent electrical issues.

Q3

How do I replace the battery in my 1997-1999 Acura CL?

Disconnect the negative battery terminal first, then the positive. Remove the battery hold-down clamp and take out the old battery. Install the new battery, secure it with the clamp, and reconnect the positive terminal followed by the negative. Start the engine and check electrical functions.

Q4

How do I troubleshoot common electrical issues?

Start with the basics: check fuses and relays. Use a multimeter to test battery voltage and alternator output. Inspect wiring and connections for damage. Consult a wiring diagram if necessary. If issues persist, seek professional assistance.

Q5

How can I optimize the electrical system's performance?

Upgrade to a high-performance alternator or capacitor for improved power handling. Use high-quality cables and connectors. Avoid overloading the system with too many accessories. Regularly clean and maintain all electrical connections to ensure efficiency.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

1997-1999 Acura CL Electrical System Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide covering electrical system diagnostics, maintenance, and repair procedures.

Technical Service Bulletin: Electrical System Updates

Coming Soon

Addresses known electrical issues and provides updated repair procedures.

Acura CL Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Detailed list of genuine parts for the electrical system, including diagrams.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

15+ Years
Experience
500+ Guides
Guides
50+ Makes
Vehicles
1000+ Solutions
Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

  • ASE Master Technician Certification
  • Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
  • Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
  • Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

Legal Disclaimer

Important information about using this content

Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.

General Information
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to maintain accuracy in our content, all specifications, procedures, and technical information should be verified against your vehicle's official service manual or with the manufacturer directly.
Warranty & Liability

The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.

Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
  • Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
  • Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
  • If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.
Intellectual Property
All content, including text, images, and specifications, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.

© 2025 Acura Specs. All rights reserved.