Hello All - great message board. I stayed up till very late last night learning about my potentially new, practical dream car, the TL-S. Despite the transmission nightmare I still like it and am seriously thinking of getting an '03 model.

I currently have a 99 Maxima SE-L with a 5spd. Before I commit to buying a TL though I would like to understand its safety rating.

I have seen the "star results" that the govt does but that is not enough info - that data is kind of like having dummy lights on your dash - anyhow...

I have searched http://www.highwaysafety.org/ but the closest thing they have crash tested to the TL is a Honda Accord.

Does anyone know where I can find some safety/crash test results that an engineer would appreciate.

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

All I found was the starts, but at least is not the accord.

2001 TL

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/NCAP/Cars/2001MidS.html

2002 TL

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/NCAP/Cars/2002MidS.html

 

Unfortunately (but maybe fortunate for you), we've had a few members here that have been in some serious accidents with their TLs and are still here to tell about it. If you use the search function you might be able to find links to some pictures showing the extent of the damage and the intrusion (or lack thereof) into the passenger compartment. No, it's not raw data but it *is* a good look at real-world crash-worthiness of the TL.

 

i remember seeing a post somewhere saying how they saw a tl get into a minor accident yet look so severely damaged that they wouldn't buy one.

but i think that's a reason FOR the tl considering the car is engineered to CRUMPLE and ABSORB the impact rather than transfering all that force to the soft flesh inside the car.

so i think pianoman41 is right that you should check out pictures and stuff, but keep in mind that the damage you see on the outside may be severe, but that's a good thing because the car's body absorbed most of the force rather than the driver.