Hey guys n gals,

Just wanted to run this by the experts here to make sure I’m not looking at a disaster as a good deal...

Short version is I’m a service manager at a large independent auto repair shop (8 mechanics, 16 Svc bays) with a pretty high car count. So one of our customers has a 2003 TL (non S) and is the original owner. She has had the struts replaced at our shop but no other maintenance other than oil changes and wipers. She had a minor accident which scratched up the RF fender and both right doors.

We have told her it’s due for timing belt, water pump, fluid svcs, etc but she is done maintaining it at this point, has 4 cars and doesn’t need them all. With the paint scuffing, she is asking somewhere around $1000, would you all say that is a fair price for a good running TL with VERY clean interior and 91K?

I’m very mechanical so timing belt and kit I would do, even if the transmission is in the future it doesn’t scare me too badly. I’m looking for a better commuter that’s fun, quiet, and better mileage than my lifted Toyota Land Cruiser.

Any my recommendations of what I should look out for on 2nd gens besides the transmission (and a good long test drive looking for shift flare or slippage)?

Thanks!

Thanks for the heads up on the possible oil leak location, that’s good advice. The damage to the right side is minimal, I would only replace the right rear door and calling around those seem to go for around $75.

My my thoughts exactly about the overall build quality on these models, except for the tranny they are pretty stout. BTW, I’m in Colorado so the body and undercarriage are clean and rust free.