Hi everyone. New to this TL forum. I don't own a TL yet until the end of september. But i am just so excited about the TL. (kind of like a ideal car for me!!) However, i read alot of tranny failure about the TL!!! WHAT IS GOING ON?!?! I mean it sounds like a lot of you folks out there are spending some bucks fixing it. I really need to know more about the tranny problem before i really take it home. Is it only the 2000+ TL-P/S has the tranny problem? So, does that mean the 1999 won't have the same problem occur? and do you folks think it will help if i put a A/T cooler kit to reduce the heat will going to help AT ALL??? tell me " " please.....i really would like to get the TL but i don't want to get it and then have to fix the tranny. Thanks everyone!

 

Welcome to the forum!

The transmission problems are very real. Consumer Reports gives the 2000-2003 TL models a "full black dot" on transmission reliability which is the lowest rating they give out.

The 1999 TL uses a 4 speed transmission that is generally more reliable than the 5-speed transmission used in the 2000-2003 models. But it still has worse than average reliability. (It gets a "half black dot" in the Consumer Reports reliability ratings.)

To learn all about the transmission issues do a search on "transmission" and read a pile of threads.

If you do buy a TL, try to select one that has the 7 year/100,000 mile extended warranty on the transmission. (Some 2003 TL models, are not covered by this warranty and that's determined by the car's VIN number.)

Anyway, in spite of the transmission issues, I recently bought a used 1999 TL and I love the car. I'd buy it again without hesitation. It's just a great car.

Bob

 

Save your money. unless your like spending money on tranny parts.

 

Do you guys think that A/T cooler kit is gonna help protecting the tranny from chipping or even breakage?