I am picking up my first Acura (2001 3.2TL) on Friday in Atlanta and driving it back to Virginia. I will be the second owner and will have all of the service records, backed up by the dealer service records.

It has 128k mi and is in spotless condition. Any helpful hints on things to look out for, maintenance, etc?

Thanks.

 

have you checked if the transmission has been replaced?

these cars are known for having issues with them.
the easiest way is to look for bolts painted blue underneath the car in various spots around the transmission housing.

has the timing belt and water pump service been done (usually around 100k miles)? if not it will be be a $1,000+ job and its due for it.

 

I am not sure about the transmission. I will find out. The orgininal owner is a family member. As far as the timing belt and water pump go, those have been done. As well as the engine mounts and pulley.

 

well you wont have to fool with those for another 70k miles or so!
sounds like it was taken care of.

other than the faulty tranny's in these cars they are very reliable.. great styling and comfort!

hope all turns out good, and welcome to Azine...

 

the blue painted bolt heads can be seen all over the trans from above too
they indicate its a warranty replaced unit from acura

 

^ yea try and find out about that tranny cause if it hasnt been replaced thats gonna be another 3k or so down the road when it comes time to replace it

 

just dont worry about tranny...nothing you can do to prevent it anyways...enjoy your new ride....

 

its not so much worrying about it--as knowing what to expect may happen
an educated consumer can make a better purchase price
or know to set aside money each month for upcoming repairs

when I worked at a private Bimmer shop- we told customers to put aside 100 a month for maitenance
you may not see me for 6 months--then its going to be $500 for a brake job!!

 

All,
I appreciate the replies and advice. I am looking forward to the drive on Saturday, the weather is supposed to be great!

 

do the standard road trip cks before taking delievery
tire pressures, glass -no chips, oil level good..all lights work

use the cruise control or the TL will be going 90+ by itself without you noticing

 

Trip completed. 592 miles in just over 9 hours.

Found out the tranny was replaced under warranty some time ago.

She rode like a dream, especially through the mountains of SW Virginia. I am extremely happy with it.

 

congrats!
register with 800 382 2238x5 and online acura owner site as new owner
make sure all recalls are taken care of--800 knows that info

change 3.4 qts atf with the new honda dw1 fluid
do that once a year to protect trans life