Engine Cooling System (4-cyl) Acura TSX II

Component Location Index

M/T model

Scheme 42

A/T model

Scheme 43

Scheme 44

1. Wait until the engine is cool, then carefully remove the radiator cap (A). Wet the radiator cap seal with engine coolant, then install it on a commercially available pressure tester (B).
2. Apply a pressure of 93-123 kPa (0.95-1.25 kgf/cm 2 , 13.5-17.8 psi)
3. Check for a drop in pressure.
4. If the pressure drops, replace the radiator cap.

Scheme 45

1. Wait until the engine is cool, then carefully remove the radiator cap and fill the radiator with engine coolant to the base of the filler neck.
2. Attach a commercially available pressure tester (A) to the radiator, and apply a pressure of 93-123 kPa (0.95-1.25 kgf/cm 2 , 13.5-17.8 psi)
3. Inspect for engine coolant leaks and a drop in pressure.
4. Remove the tester, then reinstall the radiator cap.

Scheme 46

1. Disconnect the 2P connectors from the radiator fan motor (A) and the A/C condenser fan motor (B).
2. Test the motor by connecting battery power to terminal No. 2 and ground to terminal No. 1.
3. If the motor fails to run or does not run smoothly, replace it (see «CONNECTING PIPE REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).

Thermostat Test

Replace the thermostat if it is stuck in the open position at room temperature.

To test a closed thermostat

Scheme 47

1. Suspend the thermostat (A) in a container of water. Do not let the thermostat and the thermometer (B) touch the bottom of the hot container.
2. Heat the water, and check the temperature with a thermometer. Check the temperature at which the thermostat first opens, and at which it is fully open.
3. Measure the lift height of the thermostat when it is fully open.

Standard Thermostat

Lift Height: Above 8.0 mm (0.315 in)

Starts Opening: 169-176 °F (76-80 °C)

Fully Open: 194 °F (90 °C)

Scheme 48

1. Remove the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
2. Turn the water pump pulley counterclockwise, and check that it turns freely and smoothly. If it does not turn smoothly, replace the water pump (see «WATER PUMP INSPECTION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ). NOTE: When you check the water pump, you may see a small amount of "weeping" from the bleed holes (A). This is normal.
3. Install the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).

Scheme 49

1. Remove the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
2. Drain the engine coolant (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
3. Remove the drive belt auto-tensioner (see «DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
4. Remove the water pump pulley (A).
5. Remove the six bolts securing the water pump, then remove the water pump (B).
6. Inspect and clean the mating surface of the water passage.
7. Install the water pump with a new O-ring (C) and the water pump pulley.
8. Clean up any spilled engine coolant.
9. Install the drive belt auto-tensioner (see «DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
10. Install the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
11. Refill the radiator with engine coolant, and bleed the air from the cooling system (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).

Scheme 50

1. Check the coolant level in the coolant reservoir. Make sure it is between the MAX mark (A) and the MIN mark (B).
2. If the coolant level in the coolant reservoir is at or below the MIN mark, add coolant to bring it between the MIN and MAX marks, then inspect the cooling system for leaks.
3. Check the coolant level in the radiator, and add Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 into the radiator up to the base of the filler neck, if needed.

Note. Always use Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Using a non-Acura coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 is a mixture of 50 % antifreeze and 50 % water. Do not add water.

Scheme 51

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Scheme 53

1. Wait until the engine is cool, then carefully remove the radiator cap.
2. Loosen the drain plug (A), and drain the coolant.
3. After the coolant has drained, tighten the radiator drain plug securely.
4. Remove, drain, and reinstall the coolant reservoir.
5. Fill the coolant reservoir to the MAX mark (A) with Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2.
6. Pour Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 into the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. NOTE: Always use Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Using a non-Acura coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 is a mixture of 50 % antifreeze and 50 % water. Do not add water. If the vehicle is regularly driven in very low temperatures (under -31 °F, -35 °C) a 60 % concentration of coolant should be used. To accomplish this, pour 1.6 L (0.4 US gal) of Acura Extreme Cold Weather Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 into the radiator first, then add Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 until the radiator is full. Engine Coolant Capacities (Including the coolant reservoir capacity of 0.74 L (0.195 US gal) M/T model: At Coolant Change: 6.3 L (1.66 US gal) After Engine Overhaul: 7.4 L (1.95 US gal) A/T model: At Coolant Change: 6.2 L (1.64 US gal) After Engine Overhaul: 7.5 L (1.98 US gal)
7. Loosely install the radiator cap.
8. Start the engine, and let it run until it warms up (the radiator fan comes on at least twice).
9. Turn off the engine. Check the level in the radiator, and add Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2, if needed.
10. Put the radiator cap securely, then start the engine again, and check for leaks.
11. Clean up any spilled engine coolant.
12. If the Maintenance Minder required engine coolant replacement, reset the Maintenance Minder (see «MAINTENANCE MINDER™»(ref-475391-S19187220792012052300000) ), and this procedure is complete. If the Maintenance Minder did not require engine coolant replacement, go to step 15.
13. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
14. Connect the HDS to the DLC (see step 2 on «GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#fuel-and-emissions-systems-4-cyl) ).
15. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
16. Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the ECM/PCM. If it does not communicate, troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see «DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#pgm-fi-system-4-cyl__dlc-circuit-troubleshooting) ).
17. Select GAUGES in the BODY ELECTRICAL with the HDS.
18. Select ADJUSTMENT in the GAUGES with the HDS.
19. Select MAINTENANCE MINDER in the ADJUSTMENT with the HDS.
20. Select RESET in the MAINTENANCE MINDER with the HDS.
21. Select MAINTENANCE SUB ITEM 5 RESET with the HDS.

Scheme 54

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Scheme 57

1. Drain the engine coolant (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
2. Clean any dirt off the quick connector (A), the thermostat cover, and the lower radiator hose.
3. Pull out the lock (B) by hand, then wiggle the quick connector loose, and remove it from the thermostat cover. Do not use any tools to remove the quick connector.
4. Remove the thermostat (A).
5. Install a new thermostat with a new O-ring (B).
6. Check the quick connector (A) and the set ring (B) for cracks or damage. If the quick connector and/or the set ring are cracked or damaged, replace the quick connector.
7. Make sure the set ring is in place inside the quick connector. If the set ring is off the quick connector, replace the quick connector.
8. Replace a new O-ring (C) in the quick connector.
9. Check the lock (D). If the lock is damaged or deformed, replace it. When installing the new lock to the quick connector, push it straight down along the groove.
10. Clean the connecting surface of the thermostat cover (E), then apply clean engine coolant around the connecting surface.
11. Push the lock (A) down, then push the quick connector (B) onto the thermostat cover until you hear it click.
12. Refill the radiator with engine coolant, and bleed the air from the cooling system (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
13. Clean up any spilled engine coolant.

Scheme 58

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Scheme 66

1. Drain the engine coolant (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
2. Remove the front splash shield (see step 22 on «ENGINE INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/mechanical/#engine-assembly-4-cyl__engine-installation) ).
3. Clean any dirt off the quick connector (A), the thermostat cover, and the lower radiator hose.
4. Pull out the lock (B) by hand, then wiggle the quick connector loose, and remove it from the thermostat cover. Do not use any tools to remove the quick connector.
5. Remove the A/C compressor without disconnecting the A/C hoses. Take care to not bend the hoses excessively (see step 31 on «ENGINE INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/mechanical/#engine-assembly-4-cyl__engine-installation) ).
6. Remove the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
7. Remove the drive belt auto-tensioner (see «DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
8. Remove the intake manifold (see «REMOVAL»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/exhaust/#intake-manifold-and-exhaust-system-4-cyl) ).
9. Remove the connecting pipe mounting bolts (A) securing the connecting pipe (B).
10. Remove the connecting pipe and disconnect the water bypass hose (C) and the PCV hose (D).
11. Remove the water passage (A).
12. Remove the thermostat housing (B).
13. Remove the water pump (see «WATER PUMP REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
14. Install the water pump (see «WATER PUMP INSPECTION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
15. Install the thermostat housing (A) with a new O-ring (B).
16. Clean and dry the water passage mating surfaces.
17. Apply liquid gasket (P/N 08717-0004, 08718-0003, or 08718-0009) to the engine block mating surface of the water passage, and to the inside edge of the threaded bolt holes. Install the component within 5 minutes of applying the liquid gasket. NOTE: Apply a 2.5 mm (0.098 in) diameter bead of liquid gasket along the broken line (A). If too much time has passed after applying the liquid gasket, remove the old liquid gasket and residue, then reapply new liquid gasket.
18. Install the water passage (A) with a new O-ring (B). NOTE: Wait at least 30 minutes before filling the engine with coolant. Do not run the engine for at least 3 hours after installing the water passage.
19. Connect the water bypass hose (A) and the PCV hose (B).
20. Install the connecting pipe (C) with a new O-ring (D), then tighten the connecting pipe mounting bolts (E) securing the connecting pipe.
21. Install the intake manifold (see «INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/exhaust/#intake-manifold-and-exhaust-system-4-cyl) ).
22. Install the drive belt auto-tensioner (see «DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
23. Install the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
24. Install the A/C compressor (see step 42 on «ENGINE MOUNT REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/mechanical/#engine-assembly-4-cyl) ).
25. Install the front splash shield (see step 43 on «ENGINE MOUNT REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/mechanical/#engine-assembly-4-cyl) ).
26. Check the quick connector (A) and the set ring (B) for cracks or damage. If the quick connector and/or the set ring are cracked or damaged, replace the quick connector.
27. Make sure the set ring is in place inside the quick connector. If the set ring is off the quick connector, replace the quick connector.
28. Replace a new O-ring (C) in the quick connector.
29. Check the lock (D). If the lock is damaged or deformed, replace it. When installing the new lock on the quick connector, push it straight down along the groove.
30. Clean the connecting surface of the thermostat cover (E), then apply clean engine coolant around the connecting surface.
31. Push the lock (A) down, then push the quick connector (B) onto the thermostat cover until you hear it click.
32. Refill the radiator with engine coolant, and bleed the air from the cooling system (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
33. Clean up any spilled engine coolant.

Scheme 67

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Scheme 70

1. Drain the engine coolant (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
2. Disconnect the breather pipe (A), then remove the intake air duct (B). NOTE: When tightening the screw of the hose band (C), align the edge of the hose band (D) with the mark (E) painted on the hose band. If you tighten the screw over the mark, replace the hose band.
3. Disconnect the upper radiator hose (A), the heater hose (B), and the water bypass hose (C).
4. A/T model: Disconnect the water bypass hose (D).
5. Remove the intake manifold (see «REMOVAL»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/exhaust/#intake-manifold-and-exhaust-system-4-cyl) ).
6. Remove the connecting pipe mounting bolts (A), then remove the connecting pipe (B).
7. Disconnect the ECT sensor 1 connector (A), then remove the water outlet (B).
8. Install the water outlet with a new O-ring (C).
9. Install the other parts in the reverse order of removal.
10. Refill the radiator with engine coolant, and bleed the air from the cooling system (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
11. Clean up any spilled engine coolant.

Scheme 71

Scheme 72

1. Drain the engine coolant (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
2. Remove the intake manifold (see «REMOVAL»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/exhaust/#intake-manifold-and-exhaust-system-4-cyl) ).
3. Remove the upper radiator hose (A), the heater hoses (B), and the water bypass hose (C).
4. A/T model: Disconnect the water bypass hose (D).
5. Remove the connecting pipe mounting bolts (A).
6. A/T model: Disconnect the water bypass hoses (B).
7. Remove the connecting pipe (C).
8. Install the connecting pipe with a new O-ring (D).
9. Refill the radiator with engine coolant, and bleed the air from the cooling system (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
10. Clean up any spilled engine coolant.

Scheme 73

1. Disconnect the fan motor connectors (A), and remove the harness clamp (B).
2. Remove the A/C condenser fan shroud assembly (C).
3. Remove the radiator fan shroud assembly (D). NOTE: Move the radiator fan shroud assembly toward the right side of the vehicle to allow enough space to lift it up and away from the A/C condenser fan shroud assembly.
4. Disassemble the fan shrouds.

Scheme 74

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Scheme 76

1. Assemble the fan shrouds.
2. Install the radiator fan shroud assembly (A).
3. Install the A/C condenser fan shroud assembly (B).
4. Connect the fan motor connectors (C), and install the harness clamp (D).

Scheme 77

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1. Drain the engine coolant (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
2. Raise the vehicle on the lift to full height.
3. Remove the front splash shield (see step 22 on «ENGINE INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/mechanical/#engine-assembly-4-cyl__engine-installation) ).
4. Disconnect the lower radiator hose (A).
5. Disconnect the fan motor connectors (B) and the ECT sensor 2 connector (C), then remove the harness clamps (D).
6. Lower the vehicle on the lift.
7. Remove the front grille cover (see «FRONT GRILLE COVER REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#exterior-trim-4-cyl__front-grille-cover-replacement) ).
8. Remove the clips (A) securing the intake air duct cover.
9. Disconnect the upper radiator hose (B).
10. Disconnect the coolant reservoir hose (A) and remove the radiator upper brackets (B).
11. Remove the A/C condenser upper mounting bolts (C) and loosen the A/C condenser lower mounting bolts (D).
12. Pull up the radiator, then remove the radiator fan shroud assembly (A), the A/C condenser fan shroud assembly (B), and ETC sensor 2 (C).
13. Reassemble the radiator with new O-ring (D).
14. Install the radiator. Make sure the lower cushions (E) are set securely.
15. Set the A/C condenser in place, then tighten the upper mounting bolts (A) and the A/C condenser lower mounting bolts (B).
16. Connect the coolant reservoir hose (C) and install the radiator upper brackets (D).
17. Connect the upper radiator hose (A).
18. Install the clips (B) securing the intake air duct cover.
19. Install the front grille cover (see «FRONT GRILLE COVER REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#exterior-trim-4-cyl__front-grille-cover-replacement) ).
20. Raise the vehicle on the lift to full height.
21. Connect the fan motor connectors (A) and the ECT sensor 2 connector (B), then install the harness clamps (C).
22. Connect the lower radiator hose (D).
23. Install the front splash shield (see step 43 on «ENGINE MOUNT REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/mechanical/#engine-assembly-4-cyl) ).
24. Lower the vehicle on the lift.
25. Refill the radiator with engine coolant, and bleed the air from the cooling system (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/cooling-fan/#engine-cooling-system-4-cyl) ).
26. Clean up any spilled engine coolant.

See also:
• DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION
• DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING
• ENGINE INSTALLATION
• REMOVAL
• ENGINE MOUNT REPLACEMENT
• FRONT GRILLE COVER REPLACEMENT
• CONNECTING PIPE REPLACEMENT