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.

image-reviews image-reviews
Customer Reviews
Honest. Fair prices. The only...
Scott Millson
Honest. Fair prices. The only place I’ve trusted for car repairs in the past 10 years
Date: July 7, 2025
Website: Google
On June 30th 2025 I...
Audie D
On June 30th 2025 I was having such a horrible day. My boyfriend changed my transmission oil a few days prior. When I would reverse my car everything would shut off. 10 minutes to get out of a driveway is insane. The 30th of June i called Mister Transmission and Rob picked up and said I could drop my car off and he’d look into it. Rob and the man working with him were truly amazing. From the moment I walked into the building I was greeted. He didn’t try to con me as I am a female. Rob has a pure heart of gold. When my car was there it didn’t do any of the shutting off and they did every diagnosis test. I was beyond anxious and having a bad day Rob really calmed down and lightened the mood. Thank you Rob
Date: July 7, 2025
Website: Google
I would first like to...
S Williams
I would first like to say the customer service and Mister Transmission is none like I have ever experienced. I had the pleasure of speaking with Denise who was so professional, patient and indescribably kind. Not only did she take the time to detail what my car needed and how long it would take, they took the time to provide alternate cost efficient options. For those looking for transmission repairs , I promise you you will find no better!!!
Date: July 7, 2025
Website: Google
Great reliable friendly service
Joe Macdonald
Great reliable friendly service
Date: July 7, 2025
Website: Google
Thses guys are pros after...
Nathan Chartrand
Thses guys are pros after dealing with another transmission shop not checking endplay in the crankshaft my engine is destroyed a standard practice any reputable shop should be doing
Date: July 6, 2025
Website: Google
Hi I had my 1966...
Craig
Hi I had my 1966 Chevelle Malibu SS in at Mister Transmission Sarnia to have the transmission worked on last year. Mike in the back shop worked on my car (pride and joy). He did the repairs that was needed done and a few extra things done without request. The car ran like a dream when I got it back. The cost was lower then they said it would be. I'm very fussy on who works on my car. The owner (manager) was awesome to deal with. Then this week 04 July 2025 I needed a shift cable repaired as I was headed out with my car . I went to the shop and they were over loaded with work. Mike made time to get my car fixed so I could use it on the weekend. They went the extra mile to get my car fixed and again I could not complain about the cost to repair the cable. I fully recommend them and the people that work there are outstanding. A special thanks to Mike who worked on my baby(my car) thanks so much guys. They are my go to shop with my Classic car and all my vehicles.
Date: July 5, 2025
Website: Google
I had a fantastic experience...
Xavier Montenegro
I had a fantastic experience with the whole Mr. Transmission team. Jordan and Jason are fantastic at their jobs, and they are truly willing to be honest and completely transparent with you. I took my 2018 Sierra to them for some transmission work (shocker), and they were quick, and the transmission now works fantastically. There were some small hiccups, the transmission initially acted a little weird, but they were quick to correct that. I had my spark plugs and a few coils swapped over here. One of the coils they got from GM blew up and took a couple of fuses with it. They comped the tow and had it fixed quickly, and were incredibly apologetic about the whole thing. Overall, if you are looking for quality service from a tried and true team, this is the place you want to go.
Date: July 5, 2025
Website: Google
Hi I had my 1966...
Craig
Hi I had my 1966 Chevelle Malibu SS in at Mister Transmission Sarnia to have the transmission worked on last year. Mike in the back shop worked on my car (pride and joy). He did the repairs that was needed done and a few extra things done without request. The car ran like a dream when I got it back. The cost was lower then they said it would be. I'm very fussy on who works on my car. The owner (manager) was awesome to deal with. Then this week 04 July 2025 I needed a shift cable repaired as I was headed out with my car . I went to the shop and they were over loaded with work. Mike made time to get my car fixed so I could use it on the weekend. They went the extra mile to get my car fixed and again I could not complain about the cost to repair the cable. I fully recommend them and the people that work there are outstanding. A special thanks to Mike who worked on my baby(my car) thanks so much guys. They are my go to shop with my Classic car and all my vehicles.
Date: July 5, 2025
Website: Google
These guys do good work....
Hunter Frederick
These guys do good work. And a fair price. 👍👍
Date: July 3, 2025
Website: Google
Mandy was extremely helpful in...
Don Brindle
Mandy was extremely helpful in getting out 2009 VW beetle back on the road, we are from out of town and he was very compassionate to our situation and helped at every level, if you are in Cambridge and need help, Mandy is your man!
Date: July 3, 2025
Website: Google
Featured Services
Transmission Repair

The evolution of transmissions has made these machines and systems increasingly complex. When transmission repairs are required, determining the cause and cure for what ails can be tricky.

Read More
Transmission Technology

At Mister Transmission we have access to leading-edge diagnostic equipment, enabling us to offer you the fastest and most accurate findings about what’s going on inside your vehicle’s transmission.

Read More
Transmission Maintenance & Service

Just as you have other parts of your car serviced, your transmission needs maintenance to ensure a long life and avoid transmission problems.

Read More
Mister Transmission Blogs
Recent Blogs
Ford Transmission Problems Explained: Sy...
Ford has produced many popular vehicles known for power and innovation. However,
Read More
June 30, 2025
Finding A Reliable Transmission Shop Nea...
The transmission is the heart of your vehicle’s power system. When it starts to
Read More
June 23, 2025
Complete Guide To Transmission Replaceme...
Transmission replacement becomes necessary when wear and damage go beyond repair.
Read More
June 16, 2025
Is Your Vehicle Showing Transmission Pro...
Transmission problems often begin with small signs that many drivers choose to
Read More
June 9, 2025
What Does A Transmission Flush Do? Is It...
A transmission flush is a professional service designed to remove old, degraded
Read More
May 31, 2025
Why Is My Car Not Shifting Gears Properl...
Have you noticed your car struggling to shift gears? Whether it hesitates, jerks, or
Read More
May 23, 2025
What Happens When Transmission Fluid Is ...
Transmission fluid plays a critical role in keeping a vehicle’s transmission system
Read More
May 15, 2025
Used Transmission Vs. Rebuilt Transmissi...
Choosing between a used transmission and a rebuilt transmission is an important
Read More
May 7, 2025
Preventative Transmission Maintenance: 5...
A vehicle's transmission is one of its most critical components, responsible for
Read More
April 30, 2025
Transmission Rebuild Vs. Replacement: Wh...
When a vehicle's transmission begins to fail, owners often face a crucial decision:
Read More
April 23, 2025