Or does it matter?
Looking online, looks like there was a slight refresh in 2006 - slight tweak on the engine 5 more hp, and slight modification of exterior design.

I have found a great deal on a 2005, but didnt know if there was enough of an improvement in the refresh version.

May primary concern is really reliability, but if there is enough difference to get the 2006 and later version please let me know.

 

Most folks with any knowledge of the 1st Gen TSX will advise to not purchase a 2004 model, simply because of the 1st model year gripes (faulty A/C, rattles, etc.) However, the 2005's were less problem-some. The 2006's have more features (Bluetooth, extra HP) but if you got a solid deal on a 2005 and it checks out, my advice is to go for it. Ultimately, any year TSX is going to be bulletproof and provide many years of reliable service if it had proper preventative maintenance.

My 2004 has 112K miles, and hasn't had anything more than a hiccup. Best of luck and good choice on going with a TSX!

 

I pretty much agree with this advice. We have an 05 and an 07, and in my opinion, there's not enough difference between the two to justify passing on a good deal on an 05 if you find one.

 

I bought a 04AT last year because it was all I could afford at the time. If I had to do it all over again I would buy a 06MT. It has bluetooth, XM radio and you can do a lot more with Mods!

 

Good advice from everyone. I think the 05's are safe from the AC and dash light failure issues that plagued some of the 04's...and at the right price are worth a look.

The 06+ models added a lengthy list of upgrades...some have been listed here, I'd also mention iPod hook-up.

But here's a good explanation of the changes made that year from Road & Track, which details the changes under the hood, (which actually yielded 13 extra HP, still not massive, but better than the 5 mentioned above. Also, I've driven both and the HP increase is particularly noticeable with the 6MT.)

http://www.roadandtrack.com/tests/drives/2006-acura-tsx

 

buying new, i choose 06 over 05 simply because of the updated styling (fogs included and more stylish front bumper) and the tech improvement (more information on trip computer, bluetooth, aux cable). Also 06 has slightly more power.

 

06 has a different wheel style too - not that its better, just different depending on tastes.

I have an 06 AT and I love it. Personally, for me, the bluetooth alone would have pushed me to an 06. We have a "no cell phone while driving" law in Washington and I was glad I had a hands-free option. But the hands-free phone was a big safety issue with me anyway.

 

I have an 07 and wish I could go back in time a year to 06 due to the mod-ability. I think the only difference between 06 and 07,08 was the tire pressure monitor but I could be wrong.

 

I have owned 2 6speed 04's. My first one(navi. model) I owned for 2 years, sold with 66k miles,and the only issue it had was the CD changer was jammed when I bought it. My second and current 04 (non-navi.) has 163k miles(I bought it @ 160K with some issues) and has had to have the cd changer replaced(jammed when purchased),left rear hub bearing assembly replaced,passenger front door lock accuator replaced,and my 3rd gear syncro is going bad(slight grind 85% of the time).Everything work perfectly without noises,rattles,or issues. Point being 04's aren't all that terrible as everyone makes them out to be. I have seen all these same issues in 05+ models.These are great cars. I prefer the 06+ styling,but I like to pay cash for my stuff and the 04's are in my price range. If you get a great deal on an 05,do it. BTW,04-05 vs 06-08 power wise is unnoticable. Therefore don't let that make your decision.

 

I just bought a 04 6mt and navi. It will be here Wednesday!!

 

06 ftw

 

My 04 had the dash light problem, it was fixed at no cost to me. The crank seal went out and it leaked oil, easy fix. The seat track sucks, and in certain positions it will slide while braking, but no biggie, I just put it in a spot where its good.

If it were me, I'd prob. get the 06-> just because its got sat. radio, which I had to add to mine. Other than that, that's it, really.

 

Having owned both an 04 and an 06, I would lean towards the 06 for the additional features that it is available with.

 

I have an 04 with 122k miles and the A/C compressor just froze. I'd recommend sticking with 05 or newer. No other big problems with my 04 aside from "hiccups".