Hey guys,
I'm looking to buy a TSX and i'm fairly new to them. I will be buying a used one probably 04 or 05 in white. What can i look out for when looking at them?
Are there any engine differences between the regular tsx and aspec?

any other information will be helpful

Thanks

 

i forgot to mention
what are the major differences between 04 and 05+

 

there's nearly no difference between the 04 and 05 models. the 05 models come with xm radio, which I don't think the 04 does. because of this feature, 05 (and up) all have that fin on top of the car.

aspec is either the suspension or the lip kit. the aspec suspension gives the car a conservative drop. this comes with added handling abilities. there's no difference in engine modifications between aspec and non aspec.

if you are looking at used tsx's, I suggest looking into the 06 models if possible. That model year has a larger throttle body, which gives it a couple more hp compared to the 04/05 models. also, i would recommend getting the manual transmission rather than the automatic transmission in order to get as much power out of the engine possible. Plus, complaints about a lack of power won't be as severe.

Another thing about the 06 is that they have 2 memory seats. If you have family members who also drive the car, this will be a great benefit to them. However, the sidemirrors aren't automatic, so you'll still need to adjust those manually.

Navi is also a very handy feature if you live in the continental U.S. it's probably the most advanced navigation system that's factory made. it looks good and has a large 7inch screen to boot. however, since you're looking at used, the non-navi models are also well worth the purchase.

All in all, this is a really well balanced car that focuses mostly on handling rather than speed/power. It's also stylish and gives that professional look that a honda civic can never get you.

 

Other differences between the 04 and 05 are power passenger front seat, heated outside mirrors and bluetooth.

 

^^ Yup, all those things I don't have (04 driver). BTW, if performance upgrades are your cup of tea then you should know that Hondata still has not cracked the code for the 05AT so there is no reflash available for that year/transmission combo.

 

This is so true, the auto feels sleepy but the manual is as fast as a car can practically be in the city. Even when I wind it up on free way on ramps, I'm riding someones bumper within seconds and have to back off. Maybe if I had a weaker car I'd feel like I was accomplishing a little more.

 

I'd say you have to get a manual with nav.

A lot of people without nav say they regret not getting it, and it should make the car a lot easier to get rid of some day. It's useful without even having to touch a button. If your ever stuck in some akward little neighborhood trying to find your way out all you have to is glance over at it and find a path to freedom.

You should get the manual because automatics are boring and the manual on this particular car is exceptional. The difference between the two is extreme. I wouldn't have bought a TSX if manual weren't an option.

 

I don't think bluetooth was available until '06.

 

I love my tsx but the two things I love the best about it-6 speed manual transmission and nav. I first looked at the tsx when the 04 came out-did not like the parchment int. which what the milano red came with. I waited and was able to get my 06 milano red with ebony. highly recommend ebony int.

 

thanks guys for the reply
i kinda wanted to get an Auto because my mother doesn't know how to drive stick
but from reading what people have said about the big difference between manual and auto, i must give manual a chance.

 

I'd skip the '04. Too many problems to deal with. You'll be better off with an '05 or newer.

 

but you mother will prefer stick once you show her how.

 

why share a car with your mother?

 

Not sharing, just when she doesnt have a car to drive

 

Try teaching your mother how to drive manual transmission-it has become alot easier than when I learned back in the dark ages. My brother taught me-hated it when I first learned. He really must have been a great teacher as I own only vehicles with manual transmission.

 

how often would that be? i wouldnt let my mom drive my car

 

if you paid for the car without any help from your parents then you do not have to let them drive it. If they helped in anyway then you should.

 

Goddamn. Issues to work out there?

 

i would try to get a used '06 personally.

and ya, i regret not getting one with nav.. it came to be about an extra $2k when I bought mine though, just too expensive.

 

I know 2k is a lot in general but being as the car costs nearly $30,000 I don't understand how 2k pushes anyone over a threshold. That's some damn tight budgeting. How do you even prepare for a "rainy day"?

 

if you want to buy now most of your choices will be 04's as a lot of them are coming off lease at dealerships. If you want an 05 you will be looking at sales by private parties and such. Getting an off lease car usually means lower mileage and fewer problems, especially if you get it certified.

 

other than my mom sucks at driving and she has her own car? no

 

1. I'm 25 and watch my money
2. I got an '06 year end after much haggling for $25,100
3. After $2500 down payment I was just under 400/mo. Another 2k onto the price kills that.

I see nothing wrong with fiscal responsibility, and I keep a savings account with 5.05% apr for a "rainy day".

 

I can apreciate that, but the nav is awesome. I would have riden a bike around in order to save up the scratch for the nav.

 

heh, i hear ya. my altima was on the out and i wanted a TSX.

anyways, i plan on getting a garmin or a nice cell phone with GPS eventually.