What Is an Acura Manual Transmission?

A Manual transmission, also known as a stick-shift, manual gearbox, or a standard transmission, is a type of transmission that requires the driver to shift gears by using the clutch and gas pedals. The gearbox is the second stage in the transmission system, after the clutch. The gearbox is typically bolted to the rear of the engine, with the clutch between them. Most modern manual transmissions have five or six different forward gear ratios, however some have as few as three or as many as seven.

What are the common problems in an Acura manual transmission?

Honda has a well-earned reputation for making high-quality, reliable vehicles. As their luxury brand, the Acura line is no different; but no vehicle is perfect. Acuras have problems, too, and along with the fuel pump failures and airbag recalls, Acura transmission problems are among the most prominent.

Gear slippage is a common complaint among Acura drivers. This appears to be especially common in stop-and-go traffic and in cold weather, of which we get plenty in Canada. Perhaps the most common manifestation of this in manual Acura transmissions is slipping out of gear. The third gear especially appears to be a problem.

How we diagnose transmission problems

Some common signs of a problem with an Acura manual transmission include:

  • Clutch problems including weak acceleration, grinding, transmission won’t stay in gear, or transmission won’t shift into gear
  • Overheating
  • “Popping” out of third gear
  • Illuminated check engine light
  • Poor synchronization

The average manual transmission requires less service over its lifetime than the average automatic transmission. That said, the difference isn’t enormous, so your manual transmission Acura will still need service. The clutch is a common fail point in these transmissions.

This is common because the clutch is integral to a manual transmission. Your clutch goes through a lot of stress, so if you own your manual transmission Honda for many years, don’t be surprised if you need to replace your clutch at some point.

Even though the manual transmission utilizes older technology than automatic transmissions, modern Acuras with manual transmissions still have an onboard computer. At Mister Transmission, we can connect your Acura’s onboard computer to our diagnostic equipment to determine your transmission problems.

How Mister Transmission Can Help

At Mister Transmission, we are experts at Acura transmission service, repair, and maintenance. With 60 years of institutional experience, Mister Transmission provides our technicians with some of the most advanced training available and can work on any Acura model. We can replace a manual transmission clutch, fix a synchronization issue, or perform any other necessary service.

Whether you’re experiencing problems with your Acura’s transmission or it just needs some routine maintenance, you can contact Mister Transmission. Our Multi-Check Inspection can find any problem your manual transmission may have.

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Customer Reviews
Big shout out to Mister...
Carolyne MacDonald
Big shout out to Mister Transmission for delivering top shelf service. I was dealing with a warranty company that wasn’t going to honour coverage and MT encouraged me to advocate for myself and even advocated on my behalf as well. Thanks a million for being transparent, straight forward, efficient and helpful during a rather stressful time. 1000000/10 recommend.
Date: October 30, 2026
Website: Google
Very professional and friendly staff....
Nabil Abdulwahid
Very professional and friendly staff. The manager, Peter, is honest and trustworthy.
Date: October 30, 2026
Website: Google
Great experience with this shop...
Ben MacDonald
Great experience with this shop - friendly, communicative, and they went to bat for me with a warranty company who didn't want to play ball and got the job done. Thanks!
Date: October 30, 2026
Website: Google
My 2018 Chevrolet was broken...
Devon Jarvis
My 2018 Chevrolet was broken with a seized transfer case. Tylar was able fix it within a day of parts arriving! I couldn't be happier with Mr Transmission North Bay!
Date: October 30, 2026
Website: Google
Thanks to Justin for his...
Georgie Gartside
Thanks to Justin for his help and guidance with my car. He and his team were great and I can’t thank them enough. After a quick diagnosis, Justin clearly explained the problem with my transmission and what it would take to fix it. He and his team were very professional and did a great job. Thank you for the great customer service!!!
Date: October 30, 2026
Website: Google
They got me going again...
Steve
They got me going again but Howah that was expensive for a rebuilt transmission and labor.
Date: October 29, 2026
Website: Google
Brought my vehicle here for...
Miranda B
Brought my vehicle here for a transmission fluid change and because it was over due the fluid was dirty so they allowed it to sit on a hoist for an extended period to drain which slowed down their work. I was educated as to how much mileage I should drive between servicing since it's a needy type of transmission. apparently lol. The cost was much cheaper than I would have paid at the dealer. Thank you for the quick service and educatuon. I'll be back next year.
Date: October 29, 2026
Website: Google
Winter tire installation & oil...
Sherli Nikiforuk
Winter tire installation & oil change, upcoming differential work. Service impeccable as always. Friendly, knowledgeable staff ensure highest quality vehicle maintenance. Trustworthy facilities & mechanics are very difficult to find!
Date: October 29, 2026
Website: Google
I brought my 2018 Dodge...
Deepti Kochhar
I brought my 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan to Mr. Transmission Maple Ridge because it was leaking fluid badly and having trouble shifting gears. With only 124,000 km on it, I wasn't expecting such a major problem and was quite worried about the repair costs. The team found issues with the transmission and leaking cooler lines. They were very understanding of my budget and helped me find an affordable repair option. They also provided a courtesy car so I could continue going to work without paying for a rental. They promised to have my van ready in 4–5 business days and delivered right on time! My van is driving smoothly again, and I'm so relieved. Really appreciate how they handled everything, especially the courtesy vehicle and keeping the costs manageable. Thank you to the whole team at Mr. Transmission Maple Ridge. Definitely a shop I'd recommend!
Date: October 29, 2026
Website: Google
Jamie at Mister transmission has...
James Humphreys
Jamie at Mister transmission has been wonderful. Incredibly helpful, outside the box kinda person. Also very understanding and respectful of my vision for the classic car he has been working on for me. In my 40 plus years of dealing with auto repair shops I have never dealt with a shop so willing to go the extra mile to get the work done! Huge thank you to Jamie and his team!!!
Date: October 29, 2026
Website: Google
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