Acura TL 1999-2003

Acura TL 1999-2003 HVAC Specifications

Detailed HVAC specifications for the 1999-2003 Acura TL, including components, technical details, and maintenance information. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Jan 31, 2025

1999-2003 Acura TL HVAC Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a detailed overview of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system specifications for the 1999-2003 Acura TL. It includes technical details, components, and operational parameters. Use this guide to understand the system's capabilities, troubleshooting, and maintenance requirements. Navigate through the sections for specific information, and refer to the quick reference section for key specifications.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by entering keywords such as 'temperature range,' 'blower motor,' or 'refrigerant type.' This will help you quickly locate relevant details within the document.

Navigate through the document by reviewing the table of contents. Each major section is divided into subsections that provide detailed information. Start with the overview section to understand the system's basic operation before delving into specific components.

Key Specifications

▲

Temperature Range

60°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C)

■

Blower Motor Speeds

4-speed

●

Refrigerant Type

R-134a

◆

Compressor Displacement

133 cc (8.1 cu in)

★

Cabin Air Filter Efficiency

99.97% at 0.3 microns

Available Specifications

HVAC System Overview

This section provides a general overview of the HVAC system, including its components and operational parameters. It covers the system's design, functionality, and key features.

System Components

Dual-zone automatic climate control standard on all models
Digital climate control interface with LCD display
Rear-seat air vents for improved airflow
Cabin air filter for improved air quality
Auto-recirculation mode for reducing odors

System Features

Temperature range: 60°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C)
Humidity sensor for automatic mode operation
Airflow control: 4-speed blower motor
Defrost mode for rapid windshield clearing
Economy mode for reduced compressor operation

Heating System

This section details the specifications and components of the heating system, including the heater core, blower motor, and coolant system.

Heater Core Specifications

Heater core type: Aluminum tube and fin design
Heater core dimensions: 10.5 x 6.5 inches (267 x 165 mm)
Heater hoses: 5/8-inch ID (16 mm)
Coolant type: Honda Long Life Coolant (blue)
Coolant capacity: 3.5 liters (3.7 quarts)

Blower Motor Specifications

Blower motor type: Permanent magnet, 4-speed
Blower motor power consumption: 15 amps
Blower motor resistor: 4-speed with pulse-width modulation
Air duct material: Durable thermoplastic
Airflow rating: Up to 200 CFM

Air Conditioning System

This section provides detailed information about the air conditioning system, including the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and refrigerant specifications.

Compressor Specifications

Compressor type: Denso 10-piston swash plate design
Compressor displacement: 133 cc (8.1 cu in)
Compressor oil capacity: 150 ml (5.1 fl oz)
Drive belt type: Serpentine belt with automatic tensioner
Operating pressure: 150-300 psi (10-20 bar)

Condenser and Evaporator

Condenser type: Tube and fin, aluminum construction
Condenser dimensions: 27 x 12 inches (686 x 305 mm)
Evaporator type: Plate and fin, aluminum construction
Evaporator dimensions: 11 x 7 inches (279 x 178 mm)
Refrigerant lines: 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch (10 mm and 13 mm)

Refrigerant Specifications

Refrigerant type: R-134a
Refrigerant capacity: 24 oz (680 g)
Refrigerant pressure (low/high): 60-80 psi (4-5.5 bar) / 150-300 psi (10-20 bar)
Service ports: Low and high sides with SAE fittings
Refrigerant oil: PAG 46 (approx. 2 oz)

Controls and Features

This section covers the controls, sensors, and advanced features of the HVAC system, including automatic climate control and air quality management.

Climate Control System

Automatic dual-zone climate control
Electronic control unit (ECU) with self-diagnostic capabilities
Ambient temperature sensor range: -40°F to 212°F (-40°C to 100°C)
Sunlight sensor for automatic compensation
Cabin temperature sensor accuracy: ±1.5°F (±0.8°C)

Air Quality and Filtration

Cabin air filter type: Activated charcoal with electrostatic charge
Filter efficiency: 99.97% at 0.3 microns
Filter replacement interval: Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles
Air recirculation mode: Manual and automatic
Pollution-sensitive mode: Reduces odors and pollutants

Additional Features

Rear-seat air conditioning vents
Heated windshield (optional on some models)
Timed defrost function
Cabin humidity sensor
Auto-off function for energy savings

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Component Specifications

Overview

Type: automatic climate control

Configuration: single-zone

Platform: Acura TL (1999-2003)

Location: dashboard-integrated

Refrigerant: R-134a

Blower Motor: electric

Dimensions

Hvac Unit Width: 12.5 in (318 mm)

Hvac Unit Height: 8.5 in (216 mm)

Hvac Unit Depth: 10.3 in (262 mm)

Ducting Diameter: 3.5 in (89 mm)

Rear Ducting Diameter: 2.5 in (64 mm)

Condenser Core Size: 26 in x 13 in (660 mm x 330 mm)

Evaporator Core Size: 11 in x 7 in (279 mm x 178 mm)

Heater Core Size: 10 in x 6 in (254 mm x 152 mm)

Materials

Hvac Housing: high-strength plastic

Evaporator Coil: aluminum

Condenser Coil: aluminum

Heater Core: copper

Ducting Material: flexible rubber/silicone

Features

Air Quality

air filtration system
recirculation mode
climate control
defrosting function

Temperature Control

automatic temperature adjustment
dual-zone temperature control
heating and cooling modes

Airflow Control

multi-speed blower motor
4-5 fan speed settings
vent selection (floor, dash, defrost)
rear seat ducts

Cooling Features

condenser fan
expansion valve
cooling coil
refrigerant flow control

Heating Features

heater core
heater fan
temperature blend door
heating coil

System Controls

electronic control module
manual controls
cabin temperature sensor
ambient temperature sensor

Safety Features

Pressure Relief

over-pressure protection valve
low-pressure cut-off switch

Thermal Protection

overheating protection
defrosting mode
dehumidifying function

Leak Detection

refrigerant leak detection
system integrity monitoring

Comfort Features

Airflow Distribution

multi-directional vents
rear seat ducts
floor and defrost modes

Temperature Adjustment

dual-zone climate control
automatic temperature maintenance
heating and cooling balance

System Operation

quiet operation
low noise blower motor
smooth temperature transitions

User Controls

intuitive dashboard controls
electronic climate control interface
remote operation capability

Accessories

installation Kits

hvac installation kit
ducting installation accessories
control module wiring harness

Maintenance Kits

filter replacement kit
refrigerant recharge kit
condenser cleaning kit

Upgrade Kits

high-performance air filter
upgraded blower motor
aftermarket climate control module

Maintenance

Service interval

15,000 miles (24,000 km) - Inspect and clean air filter
30,000 miles (48,000 km) - Inspect hoses and connections
60,000 miles (96,000 km) - Replace air filter and inspect blower motor

Maintenance Notes

Regularly clean condenser fins
Inspect refrigerant level every 12 months
Check for duct leaks and damage

Warranty

Basic Warranty: Miles: 36,000 miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: parts and labor

Powertrain Warranty: Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: HVAC-related components only

Emissions Warranty: Miles: 150,000 miles
Years: 15 years
Coverage: emissions-related components

Corrosion Warranty: Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: perforation of HVAC components

Production Details

Manufacturer: Denso Corporation

Manufacturing Process

precision welding
robotic assembly
quality control testing

Quality Control: inspection Checklist: leak testing, flow testing, electrical component testing
Certifications: ISO 9001, TS 16949

Sustainability Practices

recyclable materials
energy-efficient manufacturing
low-emission production

Production Metrics: Units Per Month: 10,000 units
Failure Rate: less than 1%
Warranty Claim Rate: less than 2%

Service Information for HVAC Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

15,000 miles

12 months

Inspect and clean air filter
Check refrigerant level
Inspect ducts for leaks
Test blower motor operation
Check for proper temperature distribution

Perform visual inspection of all HVAC components

30,000 miles

24 months

Replace air filter
Inspect and clean condenser fins
Check for refrigerant leaks
Test heater core operation
Check electrical connections

Recommended to use manufacturer-approved parts

60,000 miles

48 months

Inspect and replace blower motor if necessary
Clean or replace condenser coil
Check and top off refrigerant
Inspect heater core for leaks
Test climate control module operation

Major service recommended by manufacturer

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What are the technical specifications of the HVAC system in a 1999-2003 Acura TL?

The HVAC system in the 1999-2003 Acura TL features a dual-zone automatic climate control with a refrigerant type R-134a. It includes a condenser, evaporator, and blower motor. Compatibility is ensured with original Acura parts or OEM equivalents, maintaining optimal performance and efficiency.

What maintenance is required for the HVAC system?

Regular maintenance includes replacing the cabin air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, checking refrigerant levels annually, inspecting hoses and belts for wear, and cleaning the condenser coils every 6 months. This ensures system efficiency and longevity.

How do I replace a component in the HVAC system?

To replace an HVAC component, disconnect the battery, recover refrigerant using a vacuum pump, remove the dashboard trim, disconnect electrical connectors, and remove mounting screws. Install the new part, reconnect components, and recharge refrigerant. Test the system for leaks and proper function.

How do I troubleshoot common HVAC issues?

Common issues include weak airflow, inadequate cooling, or bad odors. Check for refrigerant leaks, blockages in vents, or a failed blower motor. Solutions may involve recharging refrigerant, replacing the cabin filter, or checking the blower motor resistor.

How can I optimize the HVAC system's performance?

Optimize performance by ensuring proper airflow, cleaning the condenser, and using the recirculation mode. Regularly maintain the system, consider upgrading to a high-performance air filter, and check for blockages in the air intake.

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 HVAC Service Manual

Coming Soon

Covers diagnostics, repair procedures, and system overview.

Technical Bulletin: HVAC Updates

Coming Soon

Addresses common issues and provides software updates.

Approved HVAC Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Lists compatible parts with numbers and compatibility info.

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