Does a 2012 Acura TSX have a transmission filter?
The answer depends on which transmission your car has. The 2012 TSX offered both a 5-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual; only the automatic includes a transmission filter, while the manual does not.
Two transmissions offered in the 2012 TSX
The 2012 TSX was available with either automatic or manual transmission. To understand whether a transmission filter applies, you need to know which one your car uses.
- 5-speed automatic transmission (A/T) – has a replaceable transmission filter/screen located in the pan area.
- 6-speed manual transmission (M/T) – does not have a traditional transmission filter.
In automatic-transmission models, servicing typically involves pan removal, filter replacement, pan cleaning, and refilling with fresh ATF. Manual-transmission models require no filter service in the same sense, though other maintenance may apply.
Automatic transmission: filter location, service, and maintenance
In the 2012 TSX with the automatic transmission, the filter is located in the transmission pan area and is replaced as part of a pan drop service. This is commonly done together with replacing the pan gasket and refilling with the correct ATF.
- Location: inside the transmission pan, attached to the valve body area, accessible after draining and removing the pan.
- Replacement: typically done during a pan drop service or full transmission service using the official filter/gasket kit.
- Fluid: use Honda/Acura ATF DW-1 and follow the vehicle’s level procedure after refilling.
After completing the service, a test drive and level check are recommended to ensure proper transmission operation and fluid level. This information helps keep the automatic transmission functioning smoothly and can prevent issues related to dirty fluid or a clogged filter.
Manual transmission: no filter
The 6-speed manual in the 2012 TSX does not include a traditional transmission filter. Maintenance for manual transmissions focuses on fluid changes when specified by the owner’s manual and other standard drivetrain maintenance rather than filter replacement.
What this means for TSX owners
If your 2012 Acura TSX has the automatic transmission, consider a pan drop service at appropriate intervals to replace the filter, gasket, and ATF as recommended by Acura/Honda guidelines. If you have the manual transmission, you won’t have a transmission filter to replace during routine service, but you should follow the manual’s maintenance schedule for fluid changes and other drivetrain checks.
Summary
In short, the 2012 Acura TSX does have a transmission filter, but only on models equipped with the 5-speed automatic transmission. The 6-speed manual model has no transmission filter. When servicing the automatic, plan for a pan drop that includes replacing the filter, pan gasket, and ATF using the correct DW-1 specification, and always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
What years to avoid Acura TSX 2012?
We recommend staying away from 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2012 models. The biggest issue that appeared with these models was engine problems and transmission failure.
What kind of transmission does a 2012 Acura TSX have?
6-speed manual
Does Acura recommend to change the transmission filter on a 2012 TL?
Your 2012 Acura TL transmission filter will need to be replaced every 30,000 or 50,000 miles. Be sure to check your vehicle's maintenance guide for more information on mileage and time intervals.
Does the Acura TSX have a transmission filter?
Acura TSX Transmission Filter
Your Acura TSX will also contain a gasket, pickup tube, and rubber seal which may all need to be replaced along with the filter. Your Acura TSX transmission filter will need to be replaced every 30,000 or 50,000 miles.
