My RL is new to me but has 89k miles on her. I should have read this forum before my purchase. I would have probably looked harder for a better deal with fewer miles. Anyway. I'm just now deciding if I should keep her or cut my (anticipated) losses and get an 08 still in warranty.

So far I've:

Replaced the Bluetooth module ($300)
Replaced the battery ($100)
Exchanged the tires ($500)
Repaired a badly replaced windshield (free)
Installed a USA-SPEC iPhone adaptor. ($300)

I like the car although I'm just now learning how to best drive it. I use D3 much more around town now and like driving it better now.

Can you all please post your opinions on what will be the most likely repairs and the costs for those repairs in the next few years? I anticipate timing belt/water pump ($1000) and/or the costs of the major maintenance at 103k miles. Hopefully I won't have a major transmission problem. That would ruin my day.

 

The only thing on that list that looks like it wasn't normal maintenance was the Bluetooth module. The windshield sounds like whoever replaced it last caused that problem.

Battery, tires are normal maintenance

USA-Spec is something you put in to add a feature

 

I would change the ATF fluid, rear diff and transfer case with Genuine Honda fluids. Especially the ATF. Other than that I haven't seen many problems with the RL.

 

I was thinking the same thing. My 98 RL always shifted better with fresh fluid. I was going to try it myself but don't have the time at the moment.

 

I am using Amsoil fluid for my transmission, differential, transfer case, and engine oil and my car is running great. As long as you aren't using some cheap off brand fluid you will be fine.

 

door handle

 

2 yrs later......how has your experience been mike?

 

I love all the features of my RL but am getting ready to trade her in for a new Genisis.

Problems or things I don't like:

* The drivers door handle still works but the pax handle has failed.
* I'm not in love with the relitively harsh ride.
* I'm frustrated with the poor UI with the bluetooth calling.
* I don't like the way the transmission shifts after D3. It shifts around between d4 - d5 and overdrive. I drive around town in d3 most of the time.
* Of course gas mileage sucks. (19-21)

I have 105k miles on it now and have recently done the timing belt and valve adjustment. I'm hoping I can get about $10,000 in a private sale. My next car will be leased. Today's cars are so full of sensors and gizmos. I'm not interested in owning one after a full warrantee. That's the primary reason I'm getting rid of the RL. I foresee plenty of technical problems ahead.

 

Thanks for the feedback. I just bought an '05 with 83k for 10,600....so you should be able to get $10k with the timing belt being done.