The oil pan on the Acura TL 2.5 is underneath the center of the engine. This large metal tank holds excess oil as it circulates through the engine. It also houses the oil filter which removes debris from the oil and keeps it from building up and ruining the engine. When the oil needs to be changed -- approximately every 3,000 miles -- the oil pan has to be removed to drain the fluid and change the filter. Removing the oil pan is a quick job that requires only a few tools.
Drive the Acura TL onto a flat surface and wait until the engine is cool to the touch. Place the front of the car on a pair of jack stands to access the under side more easily.
Go beneath the engine and locate the black, metal oil pan in the center of the engine. Place a collection pan (minimum 5 quarts) beneath the oil pan.
Remove all but one bolt surrounding the oil pan with the 1/2 inch socket wrench. Wait 10 to 15 minutes for the majority of the oil to drain from the pan. Hold the pan in place while removing the final bolt. Lower the remaining oil into the collection pan.
Rinse out the oil pan and bolts. Lower the car from the jack stands.
