Honda B7XA 4-Speed Automatic Transaxle · Honda / Acura · Expert rebuild service since 1987. Lifetime warranty. Free diagnostic.
1999–2003 Acura TL 3.2, 1999–2003 Acura CL 3.2
| Configuration | 4-speed automatic FWD transaxle |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratios | 1st 2.77:1 · 2nd 1.54:1 · 3rd 1.02:1 · 4th 0.71:1 · Rev 2.00:1 |
| Fluid Type | Honda ATF-Z1 |
| Fluid Capacity | 7.5 qts total, 3.5 qts service refill |
Same design defect as B7TA — the 3rd clutch wave plate is thermally overloaded and warps. Acura TL and CL 3.2 units suffered this even more frequently due to higher engine output.
Symptoms: Slipping or loss of 3rd gear, transmission drops to limp mode, DTC P1768, metal particles visible in ATF
The TCC lock-up clutch friction wears prematurely under repeated highway cycling, producing a characteristic vibration.
Symptoms: Shudder at 40–55 mph, vibration felt in seat and floor during light cruise, DTC P0740
Countershaft bearings develop play after 100,000 miles, producing a whine that changes pitch with vehicle speed.
Symptoms: Whining or humming noise proportional to vehicle speed (not engine RPM), noise present in all gears
B7XA rebuild mirrors the B7TA process with the mandatory 5-plate 3rd clutch upgrade. Countershaft bearing set is replaced as standard procedure. Valve body solenoids are replaced. Torque converter is rebuilt. All seals, O-rings, and clutch packs are replaced.
Honda ATF-Z1 only — every 30,000 miles. Given the known 3rd clutch weakness, avoid aggressive WOT acceleration between 2nd and 3rd gear. If you feel any RPM flare during the 2-3 upshift, have the fluid inspected immediately.
The B7XA is the Acura TL/CL 3.2 version, rated for higher torque output than the B7TA used in the Accord/CL 3.0. Both share the same 3rd gear clutch design defect.
Failure rates are very high — many units fail before 120,000 miles due to the 3rd gear clutch design issue.
Yes. All B7XA rebuilds include a 5-plate 3rd gear clutch upgrade, which is the industry standard fix for this platform.
A properly rebuilt B7XA with upgraded clutch packs and regular fluid service typically lasts 150,000+ additional miles.
Often yes — if the rest of the vehicle is sound. The transmission repair itself is the main high-failure item on these cars.
Free diagnostic, written estimate, lifetime warranty. Chicago's B7XA rebuild specialists since 1987.
