JDM 2011–2012 Acura RL M8EA 3.7L J37A V6 SH-AWD 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

Replace your slipping, harsh-shifting, delayed-engagement, noisy, damaged, or failed automatic transmission with this low-mileage JDM Acura RL M8EA 6-speed automatic SH-AWD transmission from J-Spec Auto Sports.

This genuine Honda/Acura JDM transmission targets compatible 2011–2012 Acura RL models equipped with the J37A 3.7L V6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).

This individual inventory unit carries transmission code M8EA, serial number M8EA 1001827, Item ID 53824, and SKU MT611 M8EA AWD Trans. The live J-Spec listing also confirms the 2011–2012 Acura RL 3.7L AWD application, actual inventory photos, installation availability, and a 30-day warranty.

The primary drivetrain relationship is:

Acura RL → 2011–2012 → J37A 3.7L V6 → M8EA → 6-Speed Automatic → SH-AWD

Acura introduced a new Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission for the 2011 RL, and the RL continued with the 6-speed automatic and standard SH-AWD for 2012.

Quick Details

• Make: Acura
• Model: RL
• Model Years: 2011–2012
• Engine Code: J37A
• Engine Size: 3.7L
• Engine Configuration: SOHC VTEC V6
• Transmission Code: M8EA
• Serial Number: M8EA 1001827
• Transmission Type: Automatic
• Number of Gears: 6-Speed
• Drivetrain: SH-AWD / All-Wheel Drive
• Transmission Fluid: Honda / Acura ATF DW-1
• Condition: Used JDM / Low Mileage
• Origin: Japan
• Item ID: 53824
• SKU: MT611 M8EA AWD Trans
• Actual Product Photos: Yes
• Warranty: 30 Days
• Shipping: Nationwide Freight Shipping
• Installation: Affordable Installation Available
• Local Pickup: Richmond / Henrico, Virginia

M8EA 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

The M8EA is the transmission identification associated with this 2011–2012 Acura RL application.

For these model years, the RL uses a 6-speed automatic transmission, not the 5-speed automatic found in earlier RL models.

Acura’s 2011 RL specifications identify:

• 6-speed automatic transmission
• Sequential SportShift
• Paddle shifters
• Grade Logic Control
• Shift Hold Control
• SH-AWD drivetrain

This transmission uses six conventional forward gears and a torque converter.

It is not a CVT.

J37A 3.7L V6 APPLICATION

This M8EA transmission targets the J37A 3.7L V6 used in the 2011–2012 Acura RL.

The J37A is part of Honda’s J-series V6 engine family and features:

• 3.7L displacement
• SOHC architecture
• VTEC
• Transverse engine layout
• SH-AWD integration

For fitment purposes, the important relationship is:

J37A 3.7L + M8EA + 6-Speed Automatic + SH-AWD

Engine family alone does not guarantee transmission compatibility. The transmission code and AWD configuration should also match.

SUPER HANDLING ALL-WHEEL DRIVE – SH-AWD

The 2011–2012 Acura RL uses Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system as standard equipment.

SH-AWD distributes torque between the front and rear axles and can vary torque between the rear wheels to improve traction and handling.

This transmission should therefore be identified as:

SH-AWD / AWD

rather than simply “automatic.”

VEHICLE COMPATIBILITY

2011 Acura RL 3.7L V6 SH-AWD

• J37A 3.7L V6
• M8EA
• 6-speed automatic
• SH-AWD
• Verify original transmission code
• Verify electrical and physical configuration

2012 Acura RL 3.7L V6 SH-AWD

• J37A 3.7L V6
• M8EA
• 6-speed automatic
• SH-AWD
• Verify VIN and complete transmission configuration

The live J-Spec product page lists both 2011 Acura RL 3.7L V6 AWD and 2012 Acura RL 3.7L V6 AWD as applications.

2011–2012 vs. 2005–2010 ACURA RL TRANSMISSION

Earlier Acura RL models should not automatically be treated as interchangeable with the 2011–2012 M8EA.

The earlier RL used a 5-speed automatic, while Acura upgraded the RL to a new 6-speed automatic for 2011.

Earlier J-Spec Acura RL inventory also uses transmission codes such as MJBA for 2005–2008 3.5L SH-AWD applications.

Potential differences can include:

• Number of gears
• Internal ratios
• Transmission case
• Valve body
• Solenoids
• Sensors
• Electrical connectors
• Torque converter
• Control-module calibration
• AWD interfaces
• Mounting points

Always match the original transmission code and model year.

M8EA TRANSMISSION IDENTIFICATION

This individual unit carries:

Transmission Code: M8EA
Serial Number: M8EA 1001827
Item ID: 53824
SKU: MT611 M8EA AWD Trans

The current live page lists the Product Code as:

JDM Acura RL AWD Automatic Transmission J37A

For cleaner inventory identification, the product code can simply be:

M8EA

while vehicle, engine, years, and drivetrain remain in their own structured fields.

JDM-TO-USDM FITMENT

This transmission comes from a Japanese-market application.

Before installation, place the JDM replacement transmission beside the original U.S.-market transmission.

Compare:

• M8EA identification
• Serial number
• Transmission case
• Bellhousing
• Torque converter
• AWD output configuration
• Electrical connectors
• Shift solenoids
• Pressure-control solenoids
• Speed sensors
• Pressure switches
• Range switch
• Cooler fittings
• Transmission mounts
• Axle interfaces
• External brackets
• Wiring

Transfer compatible original USDM external components when required.

Keep the original transmission and all external components until installation and road testing are complete.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

The sale includes the actual M8EA transmission represented in the product photographs.

Depending on the components shown, the assembly may include:

• M8EA 6-speed automatic transmission
• Transmission case
• Internal transmission components
• Valve-body components
• Attached sensors
• Attached solenoids
• Electrical connectors
• Torque converter when pictured
• External brackets when pictured

Only components shown in the actual product photographs or specifically stated in the listing should be considered included.

ACTUAL PRODUCT PHOTOS

The product photographs represent the actual J-Spec inventory unit offered for sale.

Customers can use the photos to compare:

• M8EA identification
• Serial number M8EA 1001827
• Transmission case
• Bellhousing
• Torque converter
• Electrical connectors
• Sensors
• Solenoids
• AWD output areas
• Cooler fittings
• Mounting locations
• Overall condition

Actual product photography provides an additional fitment reference before purchase.

TRANSMISSION FLUID

Use:

Honda / Acura ATF DW-1

for current service of the M8EA 6-speed automatic transmission.

DW-1 is Honda/Acura’s automatic transmission fluid specification for this transmission family.

Do not use:

• Honda CVT fluid
• HCF-2
• Gear oil
• Unverified universal ATF
• Fluid drained from the failed transmission

Correct ATF supports:

• Hydraulic operation
• Shift quality
• Clutch operation
• Torque-converter lockup
• Lubrication
• Temperature control

NEVER REUSE OLD TRANSMISSION FLUID

Always start the replacement M8EA with fresh ATF.

Used transmission fluid may contain:

• Metal particles
• Clutch debris
• Friction material
• Oxidized fluid
• Dirt
• Other contaminants

Contaminated fluid can damage the replacement transmission.

FLUSH THE TRANSMISSION COOLER AND LINES

Thoroughly flush and inspect the transmission cooler and cooler lines before installing the replacement transmission.

J-Spec Auto Sports’ published transmission installation requirements specifically call for flushing and inspecting transmission cooling lines according to manufacturer recommendations.

A failed transmission can circulate:

• Metal particles
• Clutch material
• Friction debris
• Contaminated ATF

through the cooling circuit.

Therefore:

• Flush the transmission cooler.
• Flush all cooler lines.
• Inspect for restrictions.
• Remove contaminated fluid.
• Replace components that cannot be properly cleaned.

Never install a replacement transmission onto a contaminated cooling system.

INSPECT THE TORQUE CONVERTER

Compare the replacement torque converter with the original unit.

Inspect:

• Converter hub
• Splines
• Mounting points
• Seal surface
• Physical configuration

Make sure the torque converter seats completely inside the transmission before installation.

J-Spec’s published installation requirements specifically require proper torque-converter alignment on automatic transmissions.

Never use the bellhousing bolts to force the transmission against the engine.

Improper torque-converter installation can damage the transmission pump.

REPLACE ACCESSIBLE SEALS

Inspect accessible seals before installation.

Replace worn or questionable:

• Front / torque-converter seal
• Axle seals
• AWD output-area seals
• Cooler-line seals
• Transmission-pan gasket when applicable
• Other accessible transmission seals

J-Spec’s transmission installation requirements specifically identify front and axle seals among the items that should be replaced.

INSPECT ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS

Compare the replacement M8EA with the original transmission.

Inspect:

• Electrical connectors
• Shift solenoids
• Pressure-control solenoids
• Speed sensors
• Pressure switches
• Range switch
• Wiring
• Harness connections

Look for:

• Bent pins
• Corrosion
• Broken wiring
• Damaged connectors
• Physical differences

Transfer compatible original components when necessary.

INSPECT SH-AWD DRIVETRAIN COMPONENTS

Because the Acura RL uses SH-AWD, inspect the complete drivetrain before installation.

Check:

• AWD transmission outputs
• Front axles
• Intermediate shaft components
• Driveshaft
• Rear differential
• Mounts
• Bearings
• Splines
• Seals
• Related hardware

A drivetrain problem outside the transmission can create vibration, noise, or binding that may be mistaken for transmission failure.

INSPECT ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION MOUNTS

Check all mounts for:

• Cracks
• Separation
• Excessive movement
• Damaged brackets
• Loose hardware

Worn mounts can cause vibration, clunking, and harsh engagement.

SCAN THE VEHICLE BEFORE REMOVAL

Record all diagnostic trouble codes before removing the original transmission.

Pay particular attention to:

• Gear-ratio codes
• Shift-solenoid codes
• Pressure-control codes
• Torque-converter codes
• Speed-sensor codes
• SH-AWD codes
• Engine codes
• Communication faults

Use the diagnostic information to identify problems that may have contributed to the original failure.

TRANSMISSION INITIALIZATION AND RELEARN

After installation, complete all applicable:

• Diagnostic trouble-code resets
• PCM reset procedures
• Transmission initialization
• Adaptive learning procedures
• SH-AWD system checks
• Road-test relearn

J-Spec’s installation requirements specifically call for resetting control-module codes after transmission installation.

Use Honda/Acura-compatible diagnostic equipment when required.

INITIAL STARTUP CHECKLIST

Before road testing:

• Confirm 2011–2012 Acura RL application.
• Confirm J37A 3.7L V6.
• Confirm M8EA transmission.
• Confirm serial number M8EA 1001827.
• Confirm 6-speed automatic configuration.
• Confirm SH-AWD drivetrain.
• Compare original and replacement transmissions.
• Verify torque-converter configuration.
• Flush transmission cooler.
• Flush cooler lines.
• Replace or inspect accessible seals.
• Properly seat torque converter.
• Fill with Honda / Acura ATF DW-1.
• Verify correct ATF level.
• Connect all electrical connectors.
• Inspect sensors.
• Inspect solenoids.
• Check cooler connections.
• Verify front axles.
• Verify AWD drivetrain connections.
• Confirm Park engagement.
• Confirm Reverse engagement.
• Confirm Drive engagement.
• Check warning lights.
• Scan transmission and SH-AWD modules.
• Inspect for ATF leaks.

INITIAL ROAD TEST

Begin with a gentle road test.

Monitor:

• Reverse engagement
• Drive engagement
• 1–2 shift
• 2–3 shift
• 3–4 shift
• 4–5 shift
• 5–6 shift
• Downshifts
• Paddle-shift operation
• Sequential SportShift operation
• Torque-converter lockup
• Shift flare
• Slipping
• Shudder
• SH-AWD operation
• Driveline vibration
• Abnormal noise
• Warning lights
• ATF leaks

Avoid aggressive acceleration until normal transmission and SH-AWD operation have been confirmed.

After the road test:

• Recheck ATF level.
• Inspect for leaks.
• Scan for diagnostic trouble codes.
• Check cooler connections.
• Inspect drivetrain connections.
• Check mounting hardware.

COMMON SIGNS OF ACURA RL TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS

A failing M8EA automatic transmission may produce:

• Delayed Drive engagement
• Delayed Reverse engagement
• Harsh shifting
• Transmission slipping
• Shift flare
• Shudder
• Failure to upshift
• Torque-converter problems
• Abnormal transmission noise
• Burnt ATF
• Warning lights
• Diagnostic trouble codes
• Fluid leaks

Similar symptoms may also result from:

• Valve-body problems
• Solenoid faults
• Sensor failures
• Wiring problems
• Torque-converter faults
• Incorrect ATF
• Low ATF
• Contaminated fluid
• Worn mounts
• Axle or driveshaft problems
• SH-AWD system faults

Proper diagnosis should be completed before replacing the transmission.

WHY CHOOSE THIS JDM M8EA TRANSMISSION?

This JDM M8EA transmission provides an OEM Honda/Acura-based replacement option for compatible RL models with a damaged, worn, slipping, or failed original transmission.

Key features include:

• Genuine JDM Honda/Acura transmission
• M8EA transmission code
• Serial number M8EA 1001827
• J37A 3.7L V6 application
• 6-speed automatic configuration
• SH-AWD drivetrain
• Used JDM low-mileage unit
• Actual inventory photographs
• Individual Item ID
• 30-day limited warranty
• Nationwide freight shipping
• Affordable installation available

WHY BUY FROM J-SPEC AUTO SPORTS?

J-Spec Auto Sports has specialized in Japanese engines, transmissions, and drivetrain components for more than 20 years.

Customers benefit from:

• Actual product photographs
• Exact transmission-code information
• Individual serial numbers
• Application-specific fitment information
• JDM Honda/Acura drivetrain experience
• Nationwide freight shipping
• Local Richmond / Henrico, Virginia pickup
• Affordable installation options
• Limited warranty coverage

INDIVIDUAL INVENTORY INFORMATION

Vehicle: Acura RL
Years: 2011–2012
Engine: J37A 3.7L SOHC VTEC V6
Transmission Code: M8EA
Serial Number: M8EA 1001827
Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain: SH-AWD / AWD
Fluid: Honda / Acura ATF DW-1
Item ID: 53824
SKU: MT611 M8EA AWD Trans
Condition: Used JDM / Low Mileage
Warranty: 30-Day Limited Warranty

30-DAY LIMITED WARRANTY

This individual Item ID 53824 includes a 30-day limited warranty, subject to J-Spec Auto Sports’ current warranty terms and installation requirements.

Keep installation and service documentation for:

• Honda / Acura ATF DW-1
• Transmission cooler flushing
• Cooler-line flushing
• Seal replacement
• Torque-converter installation
• Professional installation
• Diagnostic procedures
• Control-module reset
• Related maintenance

SHIPPING

Nationwide freight shipping is available throughout the continental United States.

Large drivetrain components are prepared for freight shipment. Inspect the shipment and packaging for visible damage when it arrives.

Local pickup is also available in Richmond / Henrico, Virginia.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What transmission does the 2011–2012 Acura RL use?

The 2011–2012 Acura RL uses a 6-speed automatic transmission, and this individual JDM replacement carries the M8EA code. Acura introduced the six-speed automatic for the 2011 model year.

Is the M8EA a 5-speed or 6-speed transmission?

The M8EA application in the 2011–2012 Acura RL is a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Is this transmission a CVT?

No. This is a conventional torque-converter 6-speed automatic transmission.

What engine works with this transmission?

This listing targets compatible J37A 3.7L V6 Acura RL applications.

Is this transmission AWD?

Yes. The 2011–2012 Acura RL uses SH-AWD, Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.

Will it fit a 2011 Acura RL?

It targets compatible 2011 Acura RL 3.7L V6 SH-AWD applications after complete fitment verification.

Will it fit a 2012 Acura RL?

It targets compatible 2012 Acura RL 3.7L V6 SH-AWD applications.

Will it fit a 2010 Acura RL?

Do not assume direct interchangeability. The 2010 RL used the earlier 5-speed automatic, while the 2011 RL received a new 6-speed automatic.

Is this the same as the MJBA transmission?

No direct interchange should be assumed. MJBA appears in earlier 3.5L RL SH-AWD applications, while this 2011–2012 unit is identified as M8EA and pairs with the J37A 3.7L V6.

What is the transmission serial number?

The serial number is M8EA 1001827.

What transmission fluid does it use?

Use Honda / Acura ATF DW-1.

Can I use Honda CVT fluid?

No. This transmission is not a CVT.

Should the transmission cooler be flushed?

Yes. J-Spec Auto Sports’ installation requirements call for flushing and inspecting transmission cooling lines.

Can I reuse the old transmission fluid?

No. Always start the replacement transmission with fresh correct-specification ATF.

Should the front and axle seals be replaced?

Inspect and replace applicable front and axle seals before installation. J-Spec’s transmission requirements specifically call for servicing these components.

Does the torque converter need to be seated correctly?

Yes. Proper torque-converter alignment is required before installing the transmission against the engine.

Does the transmission require programming or relearn?

Depending on the repair, applicable PCM/TCM reset, initialization, adaptive procedures, and control-module code resets may be required.

Is this transmission rebuilt?

No. This is a used OEM JDM transmission, unless specifically stated otherwise.

Are the photos of the actual transmission?

Yes. The live listing uses actual inventory photographs for the M8EA transmission.

Does this transmission have a warranty?

Yes. Item ID 53824 currently carries a 30-day limited warranty.

Does J-Spec Auto Sports offer installation?

Yes. Affordable installation is available.

Does J-Spec Auto Sports ship nationwide?

Yes. Nationwide freight shipping is available.

ORDER YOUR JDM ACURA RL M8EA TRANSMISSION

Replace your damaged or failed transmission with this low-mileage JDM Acura RL M8EA 6-speed SH-AWD automatic transmission.

This genuine Honda/Acura JDM transmission targets compatible 2011–2012 Acura RL models equipped with the J37A 3.7L V6 and SH-AWD.

Vehicle: Acura RL
Years: 2011–2012
Engine: J37A 3.7L V6
Transmission Code: M8EA
Serial Number: M8EA 1001827
Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain: SH-AWD / AWD
Fluid: Honda / Acura ATF DW-1
Item ID: 53824
SKU: MT611 M8EA AWD Trans
Warranty: 30-Day Limited Warranty

Verify the VIN, original M8EA transmission code, J37A engine application, SH-AWD configuration, electrical connectors, sensors, torque converter, drivetrain interfaces, mounts, cooler fittings, and complete physical configuration before ordering.