Hey guys, I am the new owner of a 2003 TL-p with 99,000 miles. Its Nighthawk Black with Type-S wheels (calipers painted red), a spoiler, and a sunroof deflector . It carfaxed clean, ( a week ago I looked at an 01 CL with 120k on the dash, that later turned into 230k after a carfax) looks great, and after driving briefly and some negotiating I bought it for $7000.

Its my first car and I want to keep it well-serviced, but I don't know of a reputable mechanic in the area (nor do I have any experience in dealing with them), I don't have any experience maintaining a car, and none of my friends drive Acura's so I can't ask any of them for an opinion on where to bring my new ride.

I was wondering if I would be better off taking it to an Acura dealership's service department or a local mechanic ? What do I want to ask for when I bring it in ? I know I am going to need to change my timing belt soon but first I really want to make sure their are no known issues with the car and that the routine things like transmission fluid and oil are up to date. Anyone have any insight into what to have checked out and whether I'd be better off taking it to a dealership or a mechanic ?

Also, I have been trying to read up as much as possible about the transmission issues with our cars, but is there anything specific I should look for or be aware of when driving the car in regards to the transmission? I haven't noticed any problems with rough shifts or anything else in general, other than the steering wheel shaking/slightly vibrating when slowing down to make a turn.

Any insight as to what directions I can take to keep my TL running for as long as possible are much appreciated.

 

Honestly its a car. Its no different than any other car. Same things to look for on a ford, chevy, lexus apply. Any mechanic can go over the car give it an inspection and tell you what needs to be done (should have been done before the purchase) Your first service i would recommend bringing it to the acura dealer as they know the main things to look at if your that concerned to have someone look at it. If its not leaking fluids or making weird noises i wouldnt worry about any thing personally.

As for the trans, not much. Just be aware of harsher shifts or slipping between shifts (mostly the 2-3) and thats about all you can do.

 

be nice to her and she'll be nice to you.

 

get it checked out at the dealership for the first and only time and they will tell you what you need. most likely the car is not in perfect mechanical condition and plus they are a dealership and they wanna make money so they WILL find something that needs to be replaced or serviced. after they tell you the things/thing that needs to be replaced/serviced buy your parts and go to your local shop and get the work done there.... you'll save yourself some cash.

 

^, or start up a relationship with the dealership...let them do some jobs; it might come in handy down the road.

 

Did you buy your car in Louisiana? Sounds like Mark's car but I'm not sure if he sold it or not. Just curiuos.