Hey guys im thinking about buying a 03 CL with 124k miles on it for $3700. The owner told me it had a 3rd gear problem (tsb-18-018) so im hesitant to pick it up.

Does anyone know what my options are to get it fixed?

 

The pn# for the third gear set is 23444-RDE-315 and it can be had for about $167.95-$190.85 before shipping, depending on where you buy online.

You could shop a transmission rebuild first, leverage the cost of that against his asking price and try to get the car down to $3K.

I recently had a 'refresh' of my CL-S 6 speed transmission, at 150K miles, and had the two differential bearings replaced with the install of a new OEM flywheel, pressure plate/clutch/pilot bearing, rear main seal for just under $2K in labor. While he was in there he stated that it, all of the syncros/gears, was in great shape. I purchased all the parts myself.

Good Luck!

 

I am in the process of saving money for my own rebuild of my CLS6 transmission.

I bought it with a non existant 2nd gear, severely worn 3rd and somewhat worn 4th gear.

Going to be expensive but well worth it.

 

Not sure of how many miles are on it; however, while you are there put in new differential bearings 91005r08-003; 91006-r08-003. Number 7 & 8 on the link below:

BEARING, TAPER (45X80X21) for 2003 Acura CL|91005-R08-003

Mine where scored when they were replaced and the driver side inner axle connection into the tranny felt sloppy after at 150K mile. They are cheap insurance and worthy of consideration to replace at any high mileage rebuild.

Good Luck!