Acura TL 1996-1998 B7XA Transmission Transmission Specifications
Acura TL 1996-1998

Acura TL 1996-1998 B7XA Transmission Specifications

Comprehensive technical specifications for the B7XA automatic transmission system used in the 1996-1998 Acura TL. This document covers gear ratios, torque converter specifications, fluid capacity, shift points, and diagnostic codes specific to the B7XA transmission.

Updated

B7XA Transmission Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides detailed specifications and technical information for the B7XA transmission used in the 1996-1998 Acura TL. It includes key features, technical details, and maintenance guidelines to help users understand and work with the transmission effectively. Use the sections below to navigate through the document and find specific information.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords related to the B7XA transmission, such as 'gear ratios' or 'fluid capacity'. Results will be highlighted for quick access.

Navigate through the document by selecting sections from the table of contents. Each section contains detailed subsections with technical specifications and maintenance guidelines. Use the quick reference section for key specifications at a glance.

Key Specifications

Transmission Type

4-speed automatic

Maximum Torque Capacity

220 lb-ft

Gear Ratios

2.513, 1.469, 0.973, 0.679

Fluid Capacity

3.5 quarts (3.3 liters)

Recommended Fluid

ATF DW-1

Available Specifications

General Information

This section provides an overview of the B7XA transmission, including its design, features, and applications. It is essential for understanding the basic characteristics of the transmission.

Transmission Overview
  • 4-speed automatic transmission
  • Electronically controlled
  • Designed for front-wheel-drive vehicles
  • Used in 1996-1998 Acura TL
  • Compatible with 2.5L V6 engine
Gear Ratios
  • First gear: 2.513
  • Second gear: 1.469
  • Third gear: 0.973
  • Fourth gear: 0.679
  • Reverse gear: 1.887

Technical Specifications

This section provides detailed technical specifications for the B7XA transmission, including torque capacity, fluid requirements, and other critical parameters.

Transmission Capacity
  • Maximum torque capacity: 220 lb-ft
  • Transmission weight: approximately 154 lbs
  • Fluid capacity: 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters)
  • Recommended fluid: ATF DW-1
Cooling System
  • Transmission cooler integrated into radiator
  • Cooler lines diameter: 1/4 inch
  • Recommended coolant flow rate: 1 GPM
  • Cooler type: Plate-and-frame

Maintenance and Service

This section outlines the recommended maintenance schedule and service procedures for the B7XA transmission, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Service Intervals
  • Transmission fluid change: every 30,000 miles
  • Filter replacement: every 30,000 miles
  • Pan gasket inspection: every 60,000 miles
  • Cooler lines inspection: every 60,000 miles
Fluid and Filter
  • Use ATF DW-1 fluid only
  • Filter type: Cartridge-style
  • Filter part number: 25420-PLC-004
  • Fluid drain plug torque: 32 ft-lbs

Troubleshooting

This section provides guidance for diagnosing and addressing common issues with the B7XA transmission, including error codes and symptoms.

Common Issues
  • Slipping between gears
  • Delayed engagement
  • Transmission overheating
  • Faulty solenoid pack
  • Low fluid level
Diagnostic Codes
  • P0705: Transmission range sensor circuit
  • P0706: Transmission range sensor range/performance
  • P0740: Torque converter clutch solenoid
  • P0755: Shift solenoid A
  • P0760: Shift solenoid B

Transmission Specifications

Overview

Type
4-speed automatic
Configuration
longitudinal
Model Years
1996-1998
Torque Capacity
215 Nm
Material
aluminum alloy case
Location
rear-wheel drive (RWD)

Dimensions

Length
30.00 in (762.00 mm)
Width
20.00 in (508.00 mm)
Height
10.00 in (254.00 mm)
Weight
154.00 lbs (69.85 kg)
Fluid Capacity
3.5 quarts (3.3 liters)
Gear Ratios
1st: 2.853
2nd: 1.553
3rd: 1.000
4th: 0.689
Reverse: 2.167

Materials

Transmission Case
aluminum alloy
Gears
high-strength steel
Torque Converter
steel housing with friction lining
Bearings
roller-type steel bearings
Clutch Packs
organic friction material

Features

Adaptive Shift Control
  • electronically controlled shift points
  • throttle position sensor integration
  • temperature compensation
Electronic Controls
  • ECU-controlled solenoids
  • solenoid-operated hydraulic controls
  • vehicle speed sensor input
Torque Converter
  • lock-up clutch for improved fuel efficiency
  • torsional damper for smooth operation
Gear Ratios
  • optimized for balance between performance and economy
  • close-ratio gearing for responsive acceleration
Low Friction Components
  • low-viscosity transmission fluid compatibility
  • reduced parasitic losses
Cooling System
  • external transmission cooler
  • internal fluid lubrication system
Sensors
  • transmission temperature sensor
  • turbine speed sensor
  • output speed sensor

Safety Features

Protective Housing
  • reinforced transmission case
  • protective shielding for sensors
Fail-Safe Mode
  • limp-home mode in case of system failure
  • automatic default to neutral gear
Thermal Protection
  • over-temperature warning system
  • thermal cutoff to prevent damage

Comfort Features

Smooth Shifting
  • electronically controlled shift smoothness
  • gradual torque application during shifts
Noise Reduction
  • helical-cut gears for reduced whine
  • insulated transmission mounts
Driver Adaptability
  • learning transmission control module
  • adaptive driving style recognition

Accessories

Transmission Pans
  • aluminum deep pan for increased fluid capacity
  • steel standard pan for OEM replacement
Fluid Filter
  • high-capacity filter kit
  • standard OEM filter
Cooling Accessories
  • external transmission cooler kit
  • additional cooling lines

Maintenance

Service interval
  • Miles: 15,000 miles, Months: 12 months, Items: transmission fluid check,filter inspection,pan gasket inspection, Note: Recommended interval for normal driving conditions
  • Miles: 30,000 miles, Months: 24 months, Items: transmission fluid change,filter replacement,solenoid pack inspection, Note: Standard maintenance interval for average use
  • Miles: 60,000 miles, Months: 60 months, Items: complete fluid flush,new filter installation,pan gasket replacement, Note: Major service interval for high mileage use
Maintenance Notes
Use only Honda ATF DW-1 fluid for optimal performance and longevity

Warranty

New Transmission Warranty
Miles: 60,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: parts and labor
Used Transmission Warranty
Miles: 30,000 miles
Years: 2 years
Coverage: parts only
Parts Warranty
Miles: unlimited
Years: 2 years
Coverage: replacement parts
Labor Warranty
Miles: 12,000 miles
Years: 1 year
Coverage: repair labor costs

Production Details

Manufacturer
Honda
Manufacturing Process
  • robotic welding
  • precision machining
  • high-strength material forming
Quality Control
inspection Steps: dimensional checks, leak testing, performance testing
Certification: ISO 9001:2015 certified
Sustainability Practices
  • recyclable materials
  • energy-efficient manufacturing
  • waste reduction programs
Production Metrics
Annual Production: 50,000 units
Production Cycle: 8 hours per unit
Defect Rate: <1%

Service Information for B7XA Transmission Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to the B7XA transmission

15,000 miles
12 months
  • Inspect transmission fluid level
  • Check for any signs of leaks
  • Inspect transmission pan gasket
  • Test transmission solenoid operation

Normal driving conditions recommended service

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Change transmission fluid
  • Replace transmission filter
  • Inspect solenoid pack for wear
  • Check transmission mounts

Standard service interval for average use

60,000 miles
60 months
  • Perform complete transmission flush
  • Install new transmission filter
  • Replace transmission pan gasket
  • Inspect torque converter

Major service interval for high mileage use

Common Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the recommended transmission fluid for the b7xa-transmission in a 1996-1998 Acura TL?

The b7xa-transmission requires Honda/Acura Genuine ATF-Z1 or an equivalent automatic transmission fluid meeting Honda/Acura specifications. The fluid capacity is approximately 7.4 quarts (7.0 liters) when drained and refilled, and up to 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters) during a full flush.

Q2

What is the torque specification for the b7xa-transmission drain plug?

The drain plug for the b7xa-transmission should be torqued to 36 lb-ft (49 N·m). Ensure the transmission pan is clean and the sealing washer is replaced to prevent leaks.

Q3

How often should the b7xa-transmission fluid be replaced in a 1996-1998 Acura TL?

Acura recommends replacing the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. Severe driving conditions, such as frequent towing or stop-and-go traffic, may require more frequent service.

Q4

What are the symptoms of a failing b7xa-transmission?

Common symptoms include delayed engagement, slipping gears, harsh shifting, unusual noises (e.g., whining or grinding), and transmission fluid leaks. If any of these symptoms occur, immediate inspection by a qualified technician is recommended.

Q5

Can the b7xa-transmission be rebuilt, or does it require a full replacement?

The b7xa-transmission can be rebuilt if the internal components are not severely damaged. However, in cases of extensive wear or failure, a full replacement may be more cost-effective. Always use genuine Acura parts for repairs to ensure compatibility and longevity.

Factory Service Resources

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

Acura TL 1996-1998 Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the 1996-1998 Acura TL, including detailed procedures for the b7xa-transmission.

Transmission Fluid Specifications Guide

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide to transmission fluid types and specifications for Acura vehicles, including the b7xa-transmission.

Common Transmission Issues and Solutions

Coming Soon

A troubleshooting guide for common transmission problems, including those specific to the b7xa-transmission.

Genuine Acura Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Catalog of genuine Acura parts, including transmission components for the b7xa-transmission.

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Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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