Changing Oil Pan In 2003 Acura Tl: Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to change the oil pan on your 2003 Acura TL, you'll need to set aside a few hours and prepare for a challenging but rewarding task. The oil pan is the main reservoir for engine oil, and while it rarely needs replacement, external damage or an improperly tightened drain plug can cause leaks. Before beginning, ensure you have the necessary tools and a safe, supported work environment. The process will involve jacking up your car, removing the oil pan, cleaning the mating surfaces, applying a new gasket or sealant, and reinstalling the oil pan. Take caution to avoid over-tightening the drain plug, as this can strip the threads from the aluminium oil pan.

Jack up and support the vehicle

Jacking up and supporting your vehicle is a crucial step in changing the oil pan of your 2003 Acura TL. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do it safely and effectively:

Park Your Vehicle on a Safe, Level Surface:

Find a flat, sturdy, and level surface, such as a parking lot or your driveway, to park your Acura TL. Make sure you are away from traffic and on solid ground. If you are on a highway, take the nearest exit and find a safe spot to avoid damaging your car or the jack.

Secure Your Vehicle:

Ensure your Acura's engine is turned off, the car is in park, and the parking brake is engaged. For added safety, use a brick, a large rock, or a piece of wood to block the tire opposite the corner you plan to jack up. For example, if you're raising the right front, block the left rear tire.

Locate the Jacking Points:

The jacking points are the reinforced metal ribs designed to safely lift your vehicle. For most cars, including the Acura TL, there are four jacking points located under the rocker panels, behind the front wheels, and ahead of the rear wheels. Refer to your Acura TL owner's manual for the exact locations.

Position the Jack:

Place the jack under one of the jacking points. Most car jacks have a slot that slips onto the jack point's reinforced rib. However, your Acura TL may have a different setup, so refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions.

Jack Up the Vehicle:

Now, it's time to raise your car! Turn the jack handle clockwise slowly and steadily until the desired tire is off the ground. Ensure that the jack remains positioned straight up and down as you lift the vehicle. Take your time and be cautious.

Use Jack Stands for Added Support:

If you plan to work underneath the car, it is crucial to use jack stands for added safety. Place a jack stand near the jack and raise it until it touches the jacking point. Then, slowly lower the jack until the jack stand securely supports the vehicle.

Remember, it is unsafe to work under your car without properly placed jack stands. Always use multiple jack stands for added stability, especially when lifting the front or rear of the car.

Lower the Vehicle:

When you have finished your work, it's time to lower your Acura TL back to the ground. Remove the jack stands, if used, and then gradually lower the car by slowly unwinding the jack handle in the counterclockwise direction. Once the tire is firmly on the ground, remove the jack and return it to its storage location.

By following these steps, you can safely jack up and support your 2003 Acura TL, making it ready for the oil pan replacement. Remember always to work on a level surface and use wheel chocks or barriers to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Additionally, refer to your owner's manual for specific jacking points and instructions for your Acura TL model.

Drain the oil

Step 1: Jack up and support the vehicle

Place wheel chocks forward and aft of a single rear tire. Set the parking brake. Jack the front of the vehicle up and support it with jack stands, placing the stands in supported positions.

Step 2: Drain the oil

Place the drain pan under the vehicle. Find the oil drain plug located at the back of the oil pan, just behind the words "Engine Oil" printed on the pan. Place the boxed end of the combination wrench onto the drain plug and loosen it. Place the drain pan under the plug and loosen it the rest of the way, pulling the drain plug away and allowing the oil to fall into the pan. Allow the oil to drain fully.

Warming the engine for a couple of minutes will warm the oil enough to allow it to drain faster and more completely.

Step 3: Replace the drain plug

Before replacing the drain plug, it is highly recommended to replace the oil pan drain plug washer to prevent drips from the bolt. Do not over-tighten the drain plug, as this can strip the threads from the aluminum oil pan.

Replace the oil filter

To replace the oil filter on your 2003 Acura TL, you'll need to jack up and support the vehicle, drain the oil, replace the filter, fill with new oil, and check the oil level. Here's a detailed guide:

Jack up and support the vehicle:

Place wheel chocks forward and aft of a single rear tire. Engage the parking brake. Jack up the front of the vehicle and support it with jack stands, placing the stands in supported positions.

Drain the oil:

Place a drain pan under the vehicle. Locate the oil drain plug at the back of the oil pan, just behind the words "Engine Oil". Loosen the drain plug using a 17mm combination wrench and allow the oil to drain into the pan. Once fully drained, replace the drain plug with a new washer, being careful not to over-tighten as this can strip the threads from the aluminum oil pan.

Locate the oil filter on the passenger side of the vehicle. Using an oil filter removal tool, loosen the oil filter and allow the oil to drain into the pan. Once the oil flow slows to a trickle, remove the filter completely and turn it upside down to drain fully. Clean the oil filter base with shop rags, ensuring that the rubber seal detaches from the engine. Lubricate the rubber seal on the new oil filter with clean oil. Screw the new oil filter into place on the oil filter housing, turning it one full turn past the point where the seal touches the housing.

Fill with new oil:

Clean the area around the oil filler cap to prevent dirt or debris from falling into the engine. Unscrew the filler cap and place a funnel into the oil filler hole. Fill the engine with 4.3 quarts of 5W-30 oil. Replace the oil filler cap.

Check oil level:

Lower the vehicle from the jack stands so it's on level ground. Start the engine and run it for several minutes. Check under the vehicle for leaks. Shut off the vehicle and allow it to sit for a couple of minutes for the oil to settle back into the oil pan. Check the oil level with the dipstick, topping off oil as needed to reach the proper level. Dispose of the old oil properly.

Fill with new oil

Now that you've replaced the oil pan on your 2003 Acura TL, it's time to fill it with new oil. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Determine the Correct Oil Type and Amount

Before filling your Acura TL with new oil, it's important to use the correct type and amount of oil. For the 2003 Acura TL with the 3.2L engine, the recommended oil type is 5W-20 synthetic engine oil. As for the oil amount, refer to your owner's manual or seek advice from a trusted mechanic. The oil capacity for this vehicle is typically between 4.5 and 5 quarts, but it's always best to double-check.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

To fill your Acura TL with new oil, you'll need the following items:

• Jack and jack stands or ramps
• New oil (5W-20 synthetic engine oil)
• Oil filter
• Oil filter wrench
• Funnel
• Clean rags
• Safety gloves and goggles
• Drain pan

Step 3: Jack Up the Car and Locate the Drain Plug

Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place the jack at the designated jack point and raise the car. Ensure you follow the proper jacking procedure for your vehicle. Once the car is securely raised, locate the drain plug underneath the engine. Place the drain pan underneath the plug to catch any residual oil.

Step 4: Drain the Old Oil and Replace the Oil Filter

Place the drain pan underneath the oil filter as well, as some oil will remain there. Loosen the drain plug using the appropriate socket or wrench. Allow the old oil to drain completely. After draining, tighten the drain plug securely, but be careful not to overtighten it, as this can damage the oil pan threads. Now, loosen the oil filter using the oil filter wrench and remove it. Some oil may spill, so be prepared with a clean rag to wipe it up.

Step 5: Install the New Oil Filter and Add New Oil

Before installing the new oil filter, ensure that the rubber gasket from the old filter is not stuck to the engine. If it is, carefully remove it. Take the new oil filter and apply a thin coat of new oil to the rubber gasket. This will help create a seal and prevent leaks. Screw the new oil filter into place by hand, tightening it as much as you can. Now, take your funnel and begin pouring new oil into the engine through the filler cap, which is typically located on the top of the engine. Pour in the recommended amount of oil for your vehicle.

Step 6: Lower the Vehicle and Check the Oil Level

Once you've added the correct amount of oil, lower the vehicle from the jack stands or ramps. Check the oil level using the dipstick. Ensure that the oil level is between the "Full" and "Add" marks on the dipstick. If the level is too low, add more oil as needed. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the oil filter and drain plug. If no leaks are present, turn off the engine and recheck the oil level. It's now safe to take your Acura TL for a test drive!

Remember to dispose of the used oil and filter properly at a designated location or recycling center. Do not pour used oil down drains or into the environment, as it can cause pollution. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific recommendations and procedures for your vehicle.

Check the oil level

Checking the oil level in your car is a quick and easy job that can be done in just a few minutes. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

First, park your car on level ground and make sure the engine is cold. If you've been driving the car, wait for at least five minutes after turning off the engine to allow the oil to drain back into the oil pan.

Open the hood of your car and locate the dipstick. It's usually easy to find and often has a bright color. Once you've found it, pull it out from the engine. The dipstick will have some oil on it, so use a rag or paper towel to wipe it off.

Now, insert the dipstick back into its tube and push it all the way in. Then, pull it out again and look at both sides of the dipstick to check the oil level. The dipstick will have markings that indicate the proper oil level, such as "MIN" and "MAX" or two pinholes. If the oil level is between these markings or within the crosshatched area, it's fine.

If the oil level is below the minimum mark, you'll need to add more oil. Use the grade of oil recommended in your car's owner's manual, and add it slowly, a little at a time. Check the dipstick again after adding about half a quart of oil. If the level is still below the minimum, add the rest of the quart.

Wipe off the dipstick again and insert it back into the tube, making sure it's fully seated. Close the hood, and you're done!

Remember to check your oil level regularly, such as at every other gas fill-up. This simple maintenance task will help keep your engine healthy and running smoothly.

Frequently asked questions