Hi guys, I am looking to downgrade (for me at least) to a TL. Currently I have a 94 BMW 525iT that I love with all of my heart, but it has way too many problems and I don't have the time/money to fix it. I Just have a few general questions.

What are some of the MAIN BIG problems that occur with 2nd gen TLs?
What mileage is okay to get? I know with my engine in my BMW, 250k is perfectly fine. I don't know anything about Acuras though.
What should I look for when looking at them?
Are they expensive to maintain?

Anything else you'd like to add.

Thanks!

 

good morning.
what is your budget looking like?

maybe you should upgrade and go for the 04-06 TL's instead of the older ones...

switching from one old car to another old car is a lateral move and not really an up or downgrade...

with Honda's, 300k miles is plausible and nothing to worry about.
However, with a car that old, its the little things that are gonna go out.
the maintenance will be cheaper than your beemer tho.

so, if you want to move from one older car to another older car, be my guest..
One of the biggest problems for the 2G TL's are the transmissions. they are the weakest link.

 

Well my budget isn't looking like I have a lot to spend, maybe like 3-5k. I have really always wanted the 3rd gen TL, they actually used to be my dream car (until I was exposed to BMW's haha)

I am basically just trying to get into an all around cheaper car than what I have now so I can save up and get a better BMW that won't have as many problems at once.

Now if the transmission goes out, how much can I expect to pay for labor and the actual trans?
And also, with TL's, do little things break ALL the time? It seems like with my BMW, I fix one thing and another 5 things break. It's nickel and diming me to death, or until I'm broke.

 

because it will be an older car with at least 150k miles on it, expect the little things to go out.
starter, battery, window regulators, door locks, etc.
it'll be cheaper than the old BMW, but again, it will be a 14+ year old car......

find an awesome 2G TL with low miles!!!

 

Yeah that's always true with an older car. I know it depends on whether the PO's have taken care of them, but just in general, are they good cars? And what should I look for (other than low miles) when on the prowl for a TL? Is there a buyer's guide sorta thing on the forum?

 

I dont have a 2G, but rather a 3G TL.
they're good cars, as honda's tend to last a long while.

the tranny sucks tho.

have the specific car go through a pre-purchase inspection

 

Alright, thanks for the info.

 

Don't be afraid of the higher miles if ya find a clean 2nd Gen. Sometimes the common problems and tranny issues have already been resolved, IMO. $3000 for the car and $1500 for possible repairs should keep ya running and buy some time until ya get some more money for a BMW.

 

It's good being reassured by you guys that higher miles are okay with this type of car.
I am not too afraid of higher miles after I got my car, with 220k.
Yeah that's not too bad though, $4500 for a pretty clean one, I wouldn't mind that.
Another question for you guys, is it a rewarding car to drive? Or just a boring, sorta soul-less car? If I do chose to get one, I'd make it mildly VIP/Boso (Just a personal preference) So I can be somewhat satisfied with it.

 

I am not afraid of high mileage Honda /Acuras at all. They work well, and even with basic maintenance will keep on going.

The 2nd gen TL has a transmission issue, but so what ? Most brands have an issue or three of some sort. Our Subarus have pissed us off with head gasket failure, but we love the cars and keep buying them.

I find my TL-S to be a fun car to drive, it can be the sedate family sedan, or turn on the gas and have some fun on a nice secondary road. They are pretty quick and agile for a larger car.

My bro in law has a BMW 7 series coupe ( I think that's what it is ) and it is quite a machine....I drove it once and it was Capital F Fun, LOL

Good luck if you choose an Acura, they are a great overall car, and underestimated by a lot of folks.

 

to keep it short and sweet the car is solid. Built to last if taken care of. Plus the design of the sedan was made waaaay ahead of its time when it comes to looks.

 

2nd Gen TL's are good cars. Transmissions aren't the best but if you want a long lasting one you can do a 6 speed manual swap if the manual interests you

 

I find mine fun to drive. It has a sporty feel while still riding nice. I have driven Lexus and Caddy but they did not have the tight feel of the Acura. I had a BMW 318i when I was younger and handling wise, it is hard to beat a BMW.

It really depends what you like. For me I like the looks of the TL interior and that sold me on wanting a second gen despite the tranny.

 

The 2nd Gen TL's are awesome cars despite the tranny issues.

Check the car's maintenance history out and if in doubt about the tranny....have it professionally evaluated. But most times, tranny problems either have been resolved or they are on the edge of dying. Either way, as with any used car, use caution and get the best deal that you can bargain on a 10 year old car with over 100k. Trust me, any and all used cars......regardless of brand, have issues at this point. But, they can be fun and a deal !!