Acura TL 2004-2008 Drivetrain Specifications
Acura TL 2004-2008

Acura TL 2004-2008 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2004-2008 Acura TL drivetrain system, including transmission, differential, driveshaft, axles, and maintenance procedures.

Updated

Drivetrain Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the drivetrain specifications for the 2004-2008 Acura TL. It includes detailed information on engine, transmission, drivetrain components, and performance metrics. Use this guide to understand the technical aspects of the vehicle's drivetrain system, identify key components, and reference specifications for maintenance or upgrades.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords such as 'engine specs' or 'transmission type' in the search bar. Results will highlight relevant sections and subsections.

Navigate through the document by selecting sections from the table of contents. Each section is divided into subsections with detailed technical points. Use the quick reference section for key specifications at a glance.

Key Specifications

Engine Type

3.2L V6

Horsepower

258 HP @ 6,200 rpm

Torque

233 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm

Transmission

5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual

Drivetrain

FWD or SH-AWD

Available Specifications

Engine Specifications

This section provides detailed information about the engine configurations available for the 2004-2008 Acura TL, including technical specifications and performance metrics.

Engine Overview
  • 3.2L SOHC VTEC V6 engine
  • 24-valve configuration
  • Dual-stage induction system
  • Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC)
  • Horsepower: 258 HP @ 6,200 rpm
  • Torque: 233 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
Technical Specifications
  • Displacement: 3.2 liters (195 cu in)
  • Cylinders: 6
  • Bore and stroke: 89mm x 86mm
  • Compression ratio: 11.0:1
  • Fuel type: Premium unleaded gasoline

Transmission Specifications

This section outlines the transmission options available for the 2004-2008 Acura TL, including automatic and manual transmission details.

Transmission Overview
  • 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift
  • 6-speed manual transmission (2004-2006)
  • Bore and stroke: 89mm x 86mm
  • Torque converter with lock-up control
  • Grade logic control for uphill and downhill driving
Technical Specifications
  • Automatic transmission gear ratios: 3.539, 2.003, 1.334, 1.000, 0.669
  • Manual transmission gear ratios: 3.133, 1.900, 1.281, 0.972, 0.763
  • Final drive ratio: 4.533 (automatic), 4.765 (manual)
  • Clutch diameter (manual): 8.66 inches

Drivetrain System

This section details the drivetrain components and systems used in the 2004-2008 Acura TL, including drivetrain types and advanced features.

Drivetrain Overview
  • Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard
  • Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) optional
  • Helical limited-slip differential (SH-AWD models)
  • Electric power steering with variable assist
  • 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
SH-AWD System
  • Active torque distribution between front and rear axles
  • Up to 70% of torque can be transferred to rear wheels
  • Independent torque transfer to left and right rear wheels
  • Weight transfer reduction during cornering
  • Improved traction and stability in all driving conditions

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) and Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Configuration
Transversely mounted front engine with driveshaft to rear differential
Platform
Acura TL (UA6/UA7 chassis)
Material
High-strength steel and aluminum components
Location
Front-engine, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive

Dimensions

Wheelbase
105.1 in (267 cm)
Front Track
59.8 in (151.9 cm)
Rear Track
60.2 in (152.9 cm)
Driveshaft Length
64.0 in (162.6 cm)
Differential Housing Size
8.0 in (203.2 mm)
Transmission Length
24.0 in (609.6 mm)
Axle Shaft Diameter
1.5 in (38.1 mm)

Materials

Driveshaft
High-strength steel with heat-treated joints
Axle Shafts
Forged steel with induction-hardened splines
Differential Housing
Aluminum alloy with reinforced mounting points
Transmission Case
Aluminum alloy with steel reinforcement inserts

Features

Drivetrain Features
  • SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)
  • Torque vectoring capability
  • Electronic limited-slip differential
  • Driver-selectable traction modes
  • Real-time torque distribution
Transmission Features
  • 5-speed automatic with SportShift paddles
  • Grade logic control for uphill/downhill driving
  • Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency
  • Adaptive shift control with driver behavior learning
All Wheel Drive Features
  • Active torque distribution
  • Yaw control system
  • Cornering traction enhancement
  • Snow mode for improved traction
Suspension Features
  • MacPherson strut front suspension
  • Multi-link rear suspension
  • Stabilizer bars front and rear
  • Shock absorbers with automatic damping control

Safety Features

Traction Control
  • Advanced traction control system
  • Electronic stability control (ESC)
  • Vehicle stability assist (VSA)
  • Anti-slip regulation (ASR)
Braking System
  • 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
  • Electronic brake force distribution (EBD)
  • Brake assist system
  • Hill start assist
Airbag System
  • Dual front airbags
  • Front side airbags
  • Side curtain airbags
  • Driver's knee airbag

Comfort Features

Seating
  • Leather-trimmed seats
  • Heated front seats
  • 8-way power driver's seat
  • 4-way power passenger seat
Climate Control
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Air quality sensor
  • Rear seat vents
  • Humidity control
infotainment
  • Premium audio system with 8 speakers
  • CD/DVD player
  • XM satellite radio
  • Auxiliary input jack

Accessories

Tires
  • Michelin Pilot HX MXM4 P235/45R17
  • Bridgestone Turanza EL42 P235/45R17
  • Continental ContiProContact P235/45R17
Wheels
  • 17x7.5 aluminum alloy wheels
  • Optional 18x8.0 forged aluminum wheels
  • Wheel locks
  • Spare tire kit
Towing
  • Class I trailer hitch
  • Trailer harness kit
  • Tow hook kit
  • Load-leveling suspension kit

Maintenance

Service interval
5,000 - 7,500 miles
Service Items
  • Oil and filter change
  • Tire rotation
  • Drivetrain inspection
  • Brake pad inspection
  • Fluid level check
Maintenance Notes
Follow recommended maintenance schedule for optimal performance and longevity.

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 70,000
Years: 6
Coverage: Engine, transmission, drivetrain
Rust Warranty
Miles: Unlimited
Years: 5
Coverage: Perforation of body panels
Emissions Warranty
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Emissions-related components

Production Details

Manufacturer
Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
Manufacturing Process
  • Robotic welding for chassis assembly
  • Computer-controlled machining for precision components
  • Laser cutting for high-accuracy parts
  • Automated paint application and curing
Quality Control
inspections: Multi-stage quality checks
Testing: Dynamic testing on test rigs
Certification: Final vehicle inspection and certification
Sustainability Practices
  • Use of recyclable materials
  • Reduced emissions during manufacturing
  • Energy-efficient production processes
Production Metrics
Units Per Year: Approximately 70,000 units
Assembly Line Speed: 12 units per hour
Manpower: Over 1,000 production staff
Factory Size: 1.5 million square feet

Service Information for Drivetrain Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

5,000 - 7,500
6
  • Oil and filter change
  • Tire rotation
  • Drivetrain inspection
  • Brake pad inspection
  • Fluid level check

Standard maintenance interval for normal driving conditions.

15,000
12
  • Air filter replacement
  • Cabin air filter replacement
  • Belts and hoses inspection
  • Suspension and steering inspection
  • Battery test

Intermediate service for moderate driving conditions.

30,000
24
  • Transmission fluid change
  • Drivetrain fluid inspection
  • Wheel bearing check
  • Steering system inspection
  • Brake system inspection

Major service interval for high-mileage or extreme driving conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2004-2008 Acura TL use?

The 2004-2008 Acura TL is equipped with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) system. It features a 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and a 3.2L V6 engine, producing 258-286 horsepower depending on the model year and trim.

Q2

What is the gear ratio of the 2004-2008 Acura TL's transmission?

The 5-speed automatic transmission in the 2004-2008 Acura TL has the following gear ratios: 1st gear - 2.697, 2nd gear - 1.606, 3rd gear - 1.071, 4th gear - 0.765, 5th gear - 0.545, and Reverse - 2.000. The final drive ratio is 4.437.

Q3

What type of differential is used in the 2004-2008 Acura TL?

The 2004-2008 Acura TL uses an open differential as standard. However, the Type-S trim (2007-2008) features a helical limited-slip differential (LSD) to improve traction and handling during cornering.

Q4

What is the recommended transmission fluid for the 2004-2008 Acura TL?

Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 or DW-1 automatic transmission fluid is recommended for the 5-speed automatic transmission. Using the correct fluid is critical to ensure proper operation and longevity of the transmission.

Q5

How often should the drivetrain components be inspected?

Drivetrain components, including the transmission, driveshaft, and differential, should be inspected every 30,000 miles or as specified in the owner's manual. Regular inspections help identify wear, leaks, or damage early, preventing costly repairs.

Q6

Can the 2004-2008 Acura TL be converted to all-wheel drive (AWD)?

No, the 2004-2008 Acura TL is designed exclusively for front-wheel drive (FWD). Converting it to AWD would require extensive modifications, including a new transmission, differential, and drivetrain components, which is not recommended due to cost and complexity.

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 Service Manual: Drivetrain Section

Coming Soon

Official service manual detailing drivetrain maintenance, repair procedures, and specifications for the 2004-2008 Acura TL.

Transmission Fluid Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing and refilling transmission fluid in the 2004-2008 Acura TL, including fluid type and capacity specifications.

Limited-Slip Differential Maintenance Tips

Coming Soon

Detailed instructions for maintaining and servicing the helical limited-slip differential (LSD) in the 2007-2008 Acura TL Type-S.

Drivetrain Inspection Checklist

Coming Soon

Comprehensive checklist for inspecting drivetrain components, including the transmission, driveshaft, and differential, to ensure optimal performance.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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