Hello everyone!
I'm new to the forum and I'm looking into getting a 2nd Gen TL. I used to have a 98 2.5TL and loved it, but always wanted the 2nd gen bodystyle. I was wondering if there is a big difference in mpg and performance between the 99 4spd trans and the 00-03 5spd trans. I have read they dropped the 4spd and introduced the 5spd for better gas mileage and acceleration but not sure if it was a huge change. Also, if I found a 99 TL with tranny issues, could I replace it with a 5spd tranny? Would I need a 00-03 ecu with the map readings for the trans?

Thanks for all replies!!!

 

Welcome to Acurazine!

The 4-speed transmission is, statistically, more reliable than the 5-speed. But both transmissions have significant reliability issues. Be sure to review the Tranny Failure Thread before you buy any 2nd gen TL:

https://acurazine.com/forums/2g-tl-problems-fixes-117/tranny-failure-thread-566833/

Other forum members can comment on the power and MPG differences.

 

I do not believe you'll be able to drop the 5spd in a 99 without series work.

I personally would buy the 5spd over the 4spd. You can pick up 2g TL for cheap. Tranny or not issue.

 

ok, thanks for the replies. I have found a number of 99s and 00s for under and right at 5k which is my limit. I will make sure I get a 00 model for the 5spd tranny. My only hope is that I find one with a decent tranny.

 

You're getting a 28K car for $5... even if you have to replace the tranny in the first year, it's hard to find a nicer car for the money. Even civic's in my area go for that much.

 

before you buy the car call acura, 1-800-382-2238 x5 have the vin of the car and you can find out if the car has been taken in for any recalls, mainly to see if the trans has been replaced or not, good luck

 

Thats true Rob-2. Thanks for the suggestion DC3328. I see u got the 02-03 tails. Thats the first mod I want to do. Also I see u have the V2. I had one on my RSX Type S, and that thing growled at high rpms. I'd love to get one for the TL I soon hope to get, but I can't find one for under $300. I was lucky enough to get a nicely used one for $100 for the DC5 on ebay.