I am looking at getting a new (for me) Gen 1 TSX and want to 'get to know' the problems. Looking at True Delta and the forums, the only really common one I've found is the AC. But, I am willing to accept a $700 problem every ~100K miles. Some people complain that the 04 is rife with problems, but I haven't been able to find a trend (other than the driver side door lock seems to have issues and the front windows are buggy).

TL;DR:
Other than...
- AC Compressor
- Power Locks
- Power Windows

...what breaks?

 

Starters seem to be fairly common failure. Mine failed at about 100K. Easy 1-2 hr diy job. There's a good post w/ pics on this subject.

My 06 has been very reliable w/ no problems at 120k miles. Both wife and I love this car.

good luck

 

If you can, try to look for 06-08 model. Yes I know that new models will always be better, but the extra upgraded features in the 06-08 will make you love your car more.

Another thing the 04-05 have problems with would be losing engine oil too quick.

 

Thanks. I'm not to worried about the starter. I should be able to rebuild it if it goes bad for ~40 for a new solenoid. The hard part is finding the part number for it

Can't afford a new model. More accurately, I have more important priorities for my money than an 06 on up. Thanks for the heads up on the oil loss issue. Will have to research that.

 

I've had both, and the 06-08 upgrades are overrated (in my opinion). And them losing oil is for the most part, news to me (and I've been here since early 07). My 05 (sold with 178K miles) used no oil, ever. My wife's 07 (over 210K miles on that one) still uses no oil either. Some of the Canadian 04's do burn oil (quite a bit), but that's about it (except for the usual exceptions that exist w/ all cars). For the most part, it was only some 04's that had new model blues. The 05's were/are bulletproof, and that's what you should looking for if you're on a budget. Pay close attention to a maintenance history if you can. As long as they're properly maintained, the TSX has been very reliable, and for a very long time.

 

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