Q: I have a 2003 Acura TL type S and it is experiencing starting issues. The spark plugs have been replaced with NGK plugs and the co

asked by on June 02, 2017

I have a 2003 Acura TL type S and it is experiencing starting issues in the warmer temperatures. The spark plugs have been recently replaced with NGK plugs and the coil packs. All the parts under the hood original. Does this car have an ignition control module or ignitior? Can it be the CPS

My car has 225000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Hi there. The Acura has an ignition control module, but I would suspect that your starting issues in hotter weather are fuel system related and not with the ignition system. As the weather heats, the ability for fuel and air to correctly mix into the correct vapor is reduced. When this occurs, any obstructions in the fuel system (typically carbon deposits) will either make the vapor too rich or too lean. I would recommend focusing your efforts on the fuel system and start by cleaning or replacing your fuel injectors throttle body, EGR valve, or mass air flow sensor for starters.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What does the security indicator light mean?
The Security Indicator Light illuminates to indicate that the security system is either working properly or to let you know that there is a fault in the system. If the Security Indicator Light is flashing with the key out of...
How do I connect an iPod?
You can connect an iPod to your sound system, so that it plays through the speakers. Doing so only takes a few steps: Open the USB Aux cover on the center console. Connect an iPod cable to both the iPod,...
Engine is knocking
Have you checked your oil level lately? Many times low oil level causes low oil pressure. Low oil pressure will make the engine knock because the oil is not lubricating the engine. If this happens for long enough it can...
Key won't turn after inserting into ignition
Hello. It sounds like the ignition has locked up and this is preventing your key from working properly. This sometimes happens if the components inside the ignition gets worn out and gets stuck, preventing the key from turning the ignition....
shuts off after driving
If I was diagnosing your Hummer, I would want to know if there were any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in any of the computer modules. I would see if the Check Engine light was on and use my scan...
ABS and brake light is on
If the ABS warning light is on, that means that there are downloadable ABS diagnostic trouble codes, much like the codes you would download if you have a Check Engine Light diagnostic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection). The ABS trouble codes will give a...
ignition cylinder missing due to theft
As long as you have an original key you can hold that key against the new key when you turn it on to run and then turn off ignition and within 5 seconds turn ignition back on with old key...
Having trouble with throttle does that mean my throttle going bad or does it mean I need to get it cleaned? 2011 Dodge Avenger
Hello - the required maintenance depends on which problem code is setting off the Check Engine light, and what the other symptoms are. A throttle position sensor failure will cause different behavior (and set different codes) than will a dirty...
Can a dead battery cause my engine to stop working?
A dead or internally shorted battery can not only cause a car to stall but it will also overload the alternator as the alternator attempts to both charge the dead battery and supply the car's electrical needs. The battery can...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2013 Acura ILX
Honda’s Honda’s luxury division has been busy making models to meet the needs and wants of a wealthier consumer base, but now Acura is back to a more affordable segment with a decent entry into the four-door marketplace. The ILX...
How to Modify the Alpine Navigation in an Acura or Honda
Modifying Modifying the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) navigation system of your Acura or Honda vehicle with aftermarket software is an easy way to add additional customization features to the already-installed system. Using a simple third-party computer program and a DVD-ROM...
Maintenance Minder and Service Codes For Acura Cars
Acura scheduled maintenance is tracked by the Acura Maintenance Minder system. Main codes A and B combine with sub codes for exact service, like A1.