Acura TL 1996-1998 3.2L Engine Engine Specifications
Acura TL 1996-1998

Acura TL 1996-1998 3.2L Engine Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and service information for the 3.2L V6 engine in the 1996-1998 Acura TL. Includes performance data, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting tips.

Updated

3.2L Engine Specifications (1996-1998 Acura TL) Specifications

This document provides detailed specifications and technical information for the 3.2L engine found in the 1996-1998 Acura TL. It is designed to serve as a comprehensive reference guide for mechanics, enthusiasts, and anyone needing detailed technical data. The document is organized into sections for easy navigation, with subsections covering key aspects of the engine. Use the search functionality to quickly find specific information, and navigate through sections to explore related topics in depth.

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Key Specifications

Displacement

3.2 liters (3,237 cc)

Horsepower

200 HP @ 5,600 RPM

Torque

195 lb-ft @ 4,600 RPM

Fuel Capacity

17.2 gallons

Redline RPM

6,300 RPM

Available Specifications

Engine Overview

This section provides a general overview of the 3.2L engine, including its type, displacement, and basic configuration. It serves as a foundation for understanding the more detailed specifications that follow.

Engine Type and Configuration
  • 3.2L V6 engine
  • Single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design
  • 24 valves with VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
  • Aluminum alloy engine block and cylinder heads
  • Bore and stroke: 86mm x 86mm
  • Compression ratio: 9.2:1
Displacement and Cylinders
  • Displacement: 3.2 liters (3,237 cc)
  • 6 cylinders arranged in a V configuration
  • Fuel type: Premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher)
  • Fuel injection system: Multi-point fuel injection
  • Recommended oil type: 5W-30 synthetic blend

Performance Specifications

This section details the performance capabilities of the 3.2L engine, including horsepower, torque, and drivetrain specifications.

Power Output
  • Horsepower: 200 HP @ 5,600 RPM
  • Torque: 195 lb-ft @ 4,600 RPM
  • Redline RPM: 6,300
  • Rev limiter: 6,500 RPM
  • Fuel economy (city/highway): 18/24 MPG
Drivetrain and Transmission
  • Front-wheel drive (FWD)
  • Available transmissions: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic
  • Final drive ratio: 4.2:1 (manual), 4.3:1 (automatic)
  • Differential type: Open differential with viscous limited-slip
  • Drive shaft material: High-strength steel

Technical Specifications

This section covers the technical details of the engine, including dimensions, weight, and other key metrics.

Engine Dimensions and Weight
  • Engine length: 22.2 inches
  • Engine width: 18.1 inches
  • Engine height: 23.6 inches
  • Curb weight: Approximately 3,400 pounds
  • Engine weight (dry): 374 pounds
Fuel and Cooling Systems
  • Fuel tank capacity: 17.2 gallons
  • Fuel pump type: In-tank electric
  • Coolant type: 50/50 ethylene glycol and water
  • Cooling system capacity: 4.5 quarts
  • Radiator size: 27.8 x 16.7 inches
Exhaust System
  • Exhaust manifold material: Stainless steel
  • Catalytic converter: Two-way
  • Muffler type: Stainless steel with single exhaust tip
  • Exhaust system diameter: 2.25 inches
  • Emissions rating: Low Emission Vehicle (LEV)

Maintenance and Service

This section provides maintenance schedules and service intervals for the 3.2L engine, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Recommended Maintenance Intervals
  • Oil change interval: Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
  • Tire rotation: Every 6,000 miles
  • Air filter replacement: Every 15,000 miles
  • Spark plug replacement: Every 30,000 miles
  • Timing belt replacement: Every 90,000 miles
  • Brake fluid replacement: Every 30,000 miles
Service Requirements
  • Recommended oil filter: Acura Genuine or equivalent
  • Transmission fluid type: Acura ATF DW-1
  • Coolant flush interval: Every 5 years or 60,000 miles
  • Battery replacement: Every 5 years or as needed
  • Wiper blades replacement: Every 6 months or as needed

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

This section outlines common issues that may arise with the 3.2L engine and provides basic troubleshooting steps.

Common Engine Issues
  • Oil leaks from valve cover gasket
  • Head gasket failure due to overheating
  • Timing belt tensioner failure
  • Ignition coil failure
  • Oxygen sensor degradation
  • Catalytic converter clogging
Troubleshooting Tips
  • Check oil levels regularly to prevent leaks
  • Monitor coolant temperature to avoid overheating
  • Inspect timing belt for cracks or wear
  • Replace spark plugs if misfires occur
  • Scan for fault codes using an OBD-II scanner
  • Check fuel cap for proper sealing

Engine Specifications

Overview

Type
V6
Configuration
SOHC 24-valve
Platform
Acura TL
Material
Aluminum alloy block and heads
Location
Transverse

Dimensions

Displacement
3.2 liters (3231 cc)
Bore
86 mm (3.39 in)
Stroke
84 mm (3.31 in)
Dry Weight
150 kg (331 lbs)
Length
444 mm (17.5 in)
Width
453 mm (17.8 in)
Height
656 mm (25.8 in)
Oil Capacity
4.5 liters (4.7 quarts)

Materials

Engine Block
Aluminum alloy
Cylinder Head
Aluminum alloy
Pistons
High-strength aluminum alloy
Crankshaft
Forged steel
Camshaft
Steel

Features

Valvetrain
  • Variable Valve Timing (VTEC)
  • Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC)
  • 24 valves
Fuel System
  • Multi-point fuel injection
  • Electronic ignition
  • Coil-on-plug ignition
Accessories
  • Serpentine belt system
  • Electric cooling fan
Exhaust
  • Stainless steel exhaust manifold
  • Catalytic converter
Cooling
  • Cross-flow radiator
  • Electric cooling fan

Safety Features

Immobilizer
Advanced immobilizer system
Fuel Cut Off
  • Seat belt sensor
  • Impact sensor
Tank
Rupture-resistant fuel tank

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Acoustic engine covers
  • Sound-dampening materials
Vibration
  • Dual-mass flywheel
  • Hydraulic engine mounts
Convenience
  • Remote fuel door release
  • Trunk release

Accessories

Alternator
  • 80-amp alternator
  • Voltage regulator
Starter
  • High-torque starter motor
  • Bendix drive
Fuel Pump
  • In-tank fuel pump
  • Fuel pressure regulator

Maintenance

Service interval
  • 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
  • 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
  • 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Service Items
  • Oil change
  • Tire rotation
  • Brake inspection
  • Fluid check
  • Air filter inspection
Notes
  • Use 5W-20 synthetic oil
  • Inspect belts and hoses
  • Check coolant and brake fluid levels

Warranty

Basic
Miles: 36,000 miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain
Miles: 60,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Engine, transmission, drivetrain
Emissions
Miles: 80,000 miles
Years: 8 years
Coverage: Emissions-related components
Accessories
Miles: 18,000 miles
Years: 1 year
Coverage: Accessories and audio systems

Production Details

Manufacturer
Honda
Assembly
Marysville, Ohio, USA
Process
  • Robotic welding
  • Laser-cut components
  • Computer-controlled machining
Quality Control
inspections: Dimensional checks, Leak testing, Performance testing
Certifications: ISO 9001, QS-9000, ISO 14001
Sustainability
  • Recyclable materials
  • Low emissions manufacturing
  • Energy-efficient processes
Metrics
Annual Production: 120,000 units
Engine Life: Up to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance
Weight Reduction: 10% lighter than previous models

Service Information for 3.2l engine Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

7,500 miles
7.5 months
  • Oil and filter change
  • Tire rotation
  • Brake inspection
  • Fluid levels check
  • Air filter inspection

Use 5W-20 synthetic oil for optimal performance

15,000 miles
15 months
  • Replace air filter
  • Inspect and replace drive belts
  • Check coolant condition
  • Battery test
  • Suspension and steering inspection

Inspect belts for cracks and wear

30,000 miles
30 months
  • Replace spark plugs
  • Timing belt inspection
  • Fuel system cleaning
  • Coolant replacement
  • Brake fluid change

Specialist tools required for timing belt service

Common Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the horsepower and torque output of the 3.2L engine in the 1996-1998 Acura TL?

The 3.2L V6 engine in the 1996-1998 Acura TL produces 200 horsepower at 5,500 RPM and 195 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 RPM. This engine is designed for smooth performance and reliability.

Q2

What type of oil and oil capacity does the 3.2L engine require?

The 3.2L engine requires 5W-30 viscosity engine oil with a capacity of 4.5 quarts (including the oil filter). Always use high-quality, manufacturer-recommended oil to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.

Q3

What is the recommended spark plug gap for the 3.2L engine?

The recommended spark plug gap for the 3.2L engine is 0.044 inches (1.1 mm). Use NGK or Denso spark plugs specified for this engine to maintain proper ignition timing and fuel efficiency.

Q4

What is the compression ratio of the 3.2L engine?

The 3.2L engine has a compression ratio of 9.3:1. This ratio is optimized for a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, ensuring smooth operation across a wide range of driving conditions.

Q5

How often should the timing belt be replaced on the 3.2L engine?

The timing belt on the 3.2L engine should be replaced every 90,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Failure to replace the timing belt on time can result in severe engine damage.

Factory Service Resources

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

3.2L Engine Maintenance Schedule

Coming Soon

Detailed maintenance schedule for the 3.2L engine, including oil changes, timing belt replacement, and other critical service intervals.

3.2L Engine Torque Specifications

Coming Soon

Comprehensive list of torque specifications for engine components, including cylinder head bolts, crankshaft pulley, and intake manifold.

3.2L Engine Troubleshooting Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step troubleshooting guide for common issues such as misfires, oil leaks, and overheating in the 3.2L engine.

3.2L Engine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Official parts catalog for the 3.2L engine, including OEM part numbers and diagrams for easy identification and ordering.

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Technical Information
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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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