Tranny Failure Thread
6th Gear
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
First post here on the "A-zine"...hello to all 
Just purchased a '99 Acura TL w/ Navi...88K miles. Engine and tranny were smooth as silk (the warranty work on the transmission was performed per the carfax report) so I thought it was a good deal for $6500. I'm having the 60K service performed now (previous owner did fluids, but did not do timing belt/water pump). Navi screen needs replacement (delaminating)...hopefully, I can find a replacement screen and install it myself.
I've heard the 4 speed trannys are more reliable than the 5 speeds?
Also, per the 60K service my mechanic is replacing the tranny fluid...heard about failures after trans fluid replacement? Wondering if this affects the 4 speeds?
As soon as I perform some minor cosmetic tune ups and "shine-it-up", I'll throw on some pics. If the car turns out to be reliable, I'll lower the bizatch just a tad, repaint it a new color, and throw on some RonJohns and Sumitomos. Of course the day after I spend all that money, my tranny will then drop...
FRJ
Just purchased a '99 Acura TL w/ Navi...88K miles. Engine and tranny were smooth as silk (the warranty work on the transmission was performed per the carfax report) so I thought it was a good deal for $6500. I'm having the 60K service performed now (previous owner did fluids, but did not do timing belt/water pump). Navi screen needs replacement (delaminating)...hopefully, I can find a replacement screen and install it myself.
I've heard the 4 speed trannys are more reliable than the 5 speeds?
Also, per the 60K service my mechanic is replacing the tranny fluid...heard about failures after trans fluid replacement? Wondering if this affects the 4 speeds?
As soon as I perform some minor cosmetic tune ups and "shine-it-up", I'll throw on some pics. If the car turns out to be reliable, I'll lower the bizatch just a tad, repaint it a new color, and throw on some RonJohns and Sumitomos. Of course the day after I spend all that money, my tranny will then drop...
FRJ
Drifting
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,114
Likes: 3
Originally Posted by flyregionaljets
First post here on the "A-zine"...hello to all
Just purchased a '99 Acura TL w/ Navi...88K miles. Engine and tranny were smooth as silk (the warranty work on the transmission was performed per the carfax report) so I thought it was a good deal for $6500. I'm having the 60K service performed now (previous owner did fluids, but did not do timing belt/water pump). Navi screen needs replacement (delaminating)...hopefully, I can find a replacement screen and install it myself.
I've heard the 4 speed trannys are more reliable than the 5 speeds?
Also, per the 60K service my mechanic is replacing the tranny fluid...heard about failures after trans fluid replacement? Wondering if this affects the 4 speeds?
As soon as I perform some minor cosmetic tune ups and "shine-it-up", I'll throw on some pics. If the car turns out to be reliable, I'll lower the bizatch just a tad, repaint it a new color, and throw on some RonJohns and Sumitomos. Of course the day after I spend all that money, my tranny will then drop...
FRJ
Just purchased a '99 Acura TL w/ Navi...88K miles. Engine and tranny were smooth as silk (the warranty work on the transmission was performed per the carfax report) so I thought it was a good deal for $6500. I'm having the 60K service performed now (previous owner did fluids, but did not do timing belt/water pump). Navi screen needs replacement (delaminating)...hopefully, I can find a replacement screen and install it myself.
I've heard the 4 speed trannys are more reliable than the 5 speeds?
Also, per the 60K service my mechanic is replacing the tranny fluid...heard about failures after trans fluid replacement? Wondering if this affects the 4 speeds?
As soon as I perform some minor cosmetic tune ups and "shine-it-up", I'll throw on some pics. If the car turns out to be reliable, I'll lower the bizatch just a tad, repaint it a new color, and throw on some RonJohns and Sumitomos. Of course the day after I spend all that money, my tranny will then drop...
FRJ
I've owned my 1999 TL for over two years now and it's been a great car.
Yes, the 4-speed transmissions used in the 1999 TL are more reliable than the 5-speed model used in the 2000-2003 TL. But they still have significant reliability issues. The 4-speed transmission gets a "worse than average" reliability rating from Consumer Reports subscriber based surveys. The 5-speed gets a "much worse than average rating" and that's the lowest score they hand out.
If you replace the transmission fluid, be sure to use the "drain and fill" method that Acura recommends. Do not flush these transmissions.
FWIW, the original transmission in my 1999 TL made it to about 175,000 miles before failing. So you may have a lot of miles left.
88K is a little early for the timing belt and water pump. You might want to wait on that unless you have some concern about either of those items.
You can replace the navigation screen yourself. I replaced the screen in my TL since the touch sensitive feature started to fail. It's a bit of a task since you need to remove the center console and the plastic dash bezel. But, if you take your time, it's more time-consuming than anything else.
I got lucky and I was able to find a perfectly functioning nav screen, with a warranty, for less than $50 shipped on eBay. But be prepared to pay more than that. (A new replacement through Acura is over $1,000, IIRC.)
You might also want to install an MP3 or iPod adapter to the back of your radio while you have the center console out. I installed a BlitzSafe adapter when I replaced my nav screen. I also upgraded the OEM radio to the 6-disc player used in the 2002-2003 TL. The new radio plays burned CDs without a problem. The 1999-2001 head units sometimes have trouble with burned CDs.
6th Gear
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Just got my TL back today from the mechanic....sweet ride! They replaced the transmission fluid per Honda/Acura specifications with Honda/Acura trans fluid (no flush). Fortunately, my mechanic is very familiar with Honda/Acura products.
Next three items: installing a Blitzsafe for Ipod/Iphone, new Nav screen, new rearview mirror (currently enroute)...that will keep me busy for awhile.
Went to the local dealership to get a new gas cap (old one is 9 years old)...they tried to convince me to give up my '99 TL for a new one. NO WAY...I paid cash for it and I don't need a car payment...plus the 2nd gens look better than the 3rd gens.
Great forum!
FRJ
Next three items: installing a Blitzsafe for Ipod/Iphone, new Nav screen, new rearview mirror (currently enroute)...that will keep me busy for awhile.
Went to the local dealership to get a new gas cap (old one is 9 years old)...they tried to convince me to give up my '99 TL for a new one. NO WAY...I paid cash for it and I don't need a car payment...plus the 2nd gens look better than the 3rd gens.
Great forum!
FRJ
Scooby doobie crusin
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 744
Likes: 0
From: Chicago
just called the dealership because my trans has most of the symptoms = ( guy told me for them to road test my car and tell me if my trans is going to be replaced is going to cost $99. true or false? lol
Race Director
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 11,395
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From: Charlotte(home) /Raleigh (school), NC
Originally Posted by abptltypes02
just called the dealership because my trans has most of the symptoms = ( guy told me for them to road test my car and tell me if my trans is going to be replaced is going to cost $99. true or false? lol
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
Thats a standard LEGAL thing about diagnosis fee
In order for your car to be IN the shop it needs a work order- so they write one for check trans problem and 1 hour labor to cover it
WHEN the trans is found to be defect- warranty covered, a new work order for warranty work is generated
acura pays the diagnosis fee, the parts and labor and fluid to replace the trans
So you pay nothing in the end
The fee statement is really to cover the dealer when someone wants inspections and diagnosis of needed repairs like brakes- then goes down the street to have the work done for less.
The dealer has the right to charge for its techs time
In order for your car to be IN the shop it needs a work order- so they write one for check trans problem and 1 hour labor to cover it
WHEN the trans is found to be defect- warranty covered, a new work order for warranty work is generated
acura pays the diagnosis fee, the parts and labor and fluid to replace the trans
So you pay nothing in the end
The fee statement is really to cover the dealer when someone wants inspections and diagnosis of needed repairs like brakes- then goes down the street to have the work done for less.
The dealer has the right to charge for its techs time
Subaru Guy
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 21
Likes: 1
From: GTA, ON
Originally Posted by abptltypes02
just called the dealership because my trans has most of the symptoms = ( guy told me for them to road test my car and tell me if my trans is going to be replaced is going to cost $99. true or false? lol
And, it might just be that dealer's policy is to bill the customer for that anyway since you pay a higher rate for the tech's time than the Acura Warranty rate, but you could argue that with Honda/Acura USA and probably win. But that's a hassle.
I would try phoning other dealerships in your area to see if they have the same policy, or ask to speak to the service manager at the first one and have them explain their policy on refunding that to you. Service advisors work on commission, often with insufficient training or knowledge of the subject matter and aren't always the best people to talk to about these issues. Like a good and trustworthy mechanic, a good and trustworthy service advisor is hard to find as well. You might have just found someone without sufficient customer service training.
From their side of things, they might have nervous TL owners asking for tranny road tests four times a year and have to cover the tech's time. They can't do them all for free.
Subaru Guy
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 21
Likes: 1
From: GTA, ON
*** Looking back over that message, the first statement is there without explanation, and thus is a little unfair to the dealership. I tried to edit it, but the system administrator says that my time has expired. So, since I'm apparently not qualified to edit or delete my own post, please ignore the post above and replace with the following: ***
They will hook the code reader up to your car, maybe drive it, and that costs $99. If it turns out that your transmission is defective, they might bill Acura. If they don't see enough evidence through the codes and the road test, they'll probably still charge you the $99+tax.
And, it might just be that dealer's policy is to bill the customer for that anyway since you pay a higher rate for the tech's time than the Acura Warranty rate, but you could argue that with Honda/Acura USA and probably win. But that's a hassle.
I would try phoning other dealerships in your area to see if they have the same policy, or ask to speak to the service manager at the first one and have them explain their policy on refunding that to you. Service advisors work on commission, often with insufficient training or knowledge of the subject matter and aren't always the best people to talk to about these issues. Like a good and trustworthy mechanic, a good and trustworthy service advisor is hard to find as well. You might have just found someone without sufficient customer service training.
Aside: We're on our third service advisor at the local dealership, and I had to have a discussion with the service manager about one of their advisors scaring my wife into believing her rear brake pads were "done, GONE!" when they still had over 5mm (~6/32") equal thickness left which is about half the starting thickness and well above the service limit. On another occasion, the same guy billed her the $99 to pull a code on the coldest day of the year, and told her "You need a new oxygen sensor. You're outside the warranty for that." When I asked a different advisor the next day for the exact code so that I could figure out exactly what was wrong because it wasn't documented on her $99+tax bill, he pulls up the technicians service notes and tells me it wasn't an oxygen sensor fault at all. It was a code related to an ECU problem. (I have it somewhere in the service records but can't remember it offhand.) But, he didn't want to tell her that because our ECU WAS still covered under the emissions warranty. Reporting both of these issues to the service manager, she apologized for our "misunderstanding" and she still has that same Service Advisor working the counter. So it seems that she approves of the money that his tactics generate. But... everyone has stories like these, and they're not the point of this thread. The point is... be an educated consumer: politely ask questions before the service, of more than one person, and shop around.
From the service department's side of things, they might have nervous TL owners asking for tranny road tests four times a year and have to cover the tech's time. They can't do them all for free.
Originally Posted by abptltypes02
just called the dealership because my trans has most of the symptoms = ( guy told me for them to road test my car and tell me if my trans is going to be replaced is going to cost $99. true or false? lol
And, it might just be that dealer's policy is to bill the customer for that anyway since you pay a higher rate for the tech's time than the Acura Warranty rate, but you could argue that with Honda/Acura USA and probably win. But that's a hassle.
I would try phoning other dealerships in your area to see if they have the same policy, or ask to speak to the service manager at the first one and have them explain their policy on refunding that to you. Service advisors work on commission, often with insufficient training or knowledge of the subject matter and aren't always the best people to talk to about these issues. Like a good and trustworthy mechanic, a good and trustworthy service advisor is hard to find as well. You might have just found someone without sufficient customer service training.
Aside: We're on our third service advisor at the local dealership, and I had to have a discussion with the service manager about one of their advisors scaring my wife into believing her rear brake pads were "done, GONE!" when they still had over 5mm (~6/32") equal thickness left which is about half the starting thickness and well above the service limit. On another occasion, the same guy billed her the $99 to pull a code on the coldest day of the year, and told her "You need a new oxygen sensor. You're outside the warranty for that." When I asked a different advisor the next day for the exact code so that I could figure out exactly what was wrong because it wasn't documented on her $99+tax bill, he pulls up the technicians service notes and tells me it wasn't an oxygen sensor fault at all. It was a code related to an ECU problem. (I have it somewhere in the service records but can't remember it offhand.) But, he didn't want to tell her that because our ECU WAS still covered under the emissions warranty. Reporting both of these issues to the service manager, she apologized for our "misunderstanding" and she still has that same Service Advisor working the counter. So it seems that she approves of the money that his tactics generate. But... everyone has stories like these, and they're not the point of this thread. The point is... be an educated consumer: politely ask questions before the service, of more than one person, and shop around.
From the service department's side of things, they might have nervous TL owners asking for tranny road tests four times a year and have to cover the tech's time. They can't do them all for free.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
As I stated above- the `diagnosis fee` is a legal requirement that produces a work order that you sign- this allows them to inspect, drive, and work on your car.
Without that signed work order, they can be accused of car theft / car parts stripping!!!
If ANY symptoms are found- the codes, or the test drive,- there is a published list of known failure symptoms (see begiinning of this thread for it)
- the tech tells the manager- parts dept orders the replacement unit, a NEW work order specially marked `Warranty` is generated, and Acura pays the diagnosis fee-
you pay NOTHING on a warranty problem
The dealer likes to replace these trans- warranty work makes them less money but it beats no work at all.
The dealer is NOT out to screw you out of warranty when its possible to get you covered!
Dont be surprised if its a broken motor mount,, or if trans- it needs a motor mount too- they break and are seen when under the car- very easy and 20 minutes to replace when the trans is already out- pain to replace with trans in but can be done
We have a few current acura techs and writers and managers on here- some known, some stealth- I am not one of them--- but do communicate by PM when I need confirmation,
they are saying they want to cover you when able!!
Do service writers make mistakes- yes!- do you ever make a mistake?- perhaps~
Try knowing what car year and model has what warranty on each part.
Yes they should look it up, but often are overworked and rushed.
There can also be an issue when the writer is not a car person and doesnt understand what the tech means.... and makes up their own story- brakes especially with percentages - thats often on the tech for not giving numbers.
Changes occur in warranty coverage after the cars are made- warranty extensions- smog equip warranty now 80k miles on certain parts like O2 sensors,,,
trans warranty now 114.5 with the odometer error court case figured in!!! not all writers know this when you call-
It is still up to the car owner to read and know the exact warranty provisions for your car. Sadly that is life on Earth- caveat emptor
If they test the car- nothing is wrong- like, its perfect,,, and you come across as someone who is looking for a free trans at 100k just because- they can charge the fee if they want.
Its really used to protect them on major problem diagnosis where the customer turns around and has joe cheapo shop next door do the work-
they want acura to do a free diagnosis, but pay someone else to do the fix- how is that reasonable? you want someone else to work on it- let them diagnose it too.
Each dealership is a private business trying to survive. Service Dept covers a lot of the cost of running the building.....every minute of a techs day needs to be productive income generating time- billed to one dept or the other~
Acura has a service writer training program, but it takes time to learn and complete, and I have encountered the new writer who didnt know much and tried to make things up as he went.
If you are better than they are- go get a job at acura!!!!!
Without that signed work order, they can be accused of car theft / car parts stripping!!!
If ANY symptoms are found- the codes, or the test drive,- there is a published list of known failure symptoms (see begiinning of this thread for it)
- the tech tells the manager- parts dept orders the replacement unit, a NEW work order specially marked `Warranty` is generated, and Acura pays the diagnosis fee-
you pay NOTHING on a warranty problem
The dealer likes to replace these trans- warranty work makes them less money but it beats no work at all.
The dealer is NOT out to screw you out of warranty when its possible to get you covered!
Dont be surprised if its a broken motor mount,, or if trans- it needs a motor mount too- they break and are seen when under the car- very easy and 20 minutes to replace when the trans is already out- pain to replace with trans in but can be done
We have a few current acura techs and writers and managers on here- some known, some stealth- I am not one of them--- but do communicate by PM when I need confirmation,
they are saying they want to cover you when able!!
Do service writers make mistakes- yes!- do you ever make a mistake?- perhaps~
Try knowing what car year and model has what warranty on each part.
Yes they should look it up, but often are overworked and rushed.
There can also be an issue when the writer is not a car person and doesnt understand what the tech means.... and makes up their own story- brakes especially with percentages - thats often on the tech for not giving numbers.
Changes occur in warranty coverage after the cars are made- warranty extensions- smog equip warranty now 80k miles on certain parts like O2 sensors,,,
trans warranty now 114.5 with the odometer error court case figured in!!! not all writers know this when you call-
It is still up to the car owner to read and know the exact warranty provisions for your car. Sadly that is life on Earth- caveat emptor
If they test the car- nothing is wrong- like, its perfect,,, and you come across as someone who is looking for a free trans at 100k just because- they can charge the fee if they want.
Its really used to protect them on major problem diagnosis where the customer turns around and has joe cheapo shop next door do the work-
they want acura to do a free diagnosis, but pay someone else to do the fix- how is that reasonable? you want someone else to work on it- let them diagnose it too.
Each dealership is a private business trying to survive. Service Dept covers a lot of the cost of running the building.....every minute of a techs day needs to be productive income generating time- billed to one dept or the other~
Acura has a service writer training program, but it takes time to learn and complete, and I have encountered the new writer who didnt know much and tried to make things up as he went.
If you are better than they are- go get a job at acura!!!!!
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
Its the same policy everywhere because its the LAW that a work order giving them permission to work on your car be made.
When warranty prob is found- a new work order is made- its a special form just for warranty, but until they know its warranty problem they cant write it!
see how it works...the paper trail
You dont pay upfront- so there is no refund to deal with
If you have a legitimte trans problem- and by now you know what are real symptoms- its a non issue- they test the car- its bad- its warranty- it will be ready in a week- maybe sooner
You wont get a loaner car at age 19 sorry- insurance company rules
When warranty prob is found- a new work order is made- its a special form just for warranty, but until they know its warranty problem they cant write it!
see how it works...the paper trail
You dont pay upfront- so there is no refund to deal with
If you have a legitimte trans problem- and by now you know what are real symptoms- its a non issue- they test the car- its bad- its warranty- it will be ready in a week- maybe sooner
You wont get a loaner car at age 19 sorry- insurance company rules
Racer
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 496
Likes: 0
From: Va
So what are the people out of the VIN doing ?
I bought my car used when it had about 14k . Of course, I was told my car was not going to have a problem with the tranny , just to make sure I got the sales dept manager to give me a paper stating that the tranny had a 75k warranty . My tranny started having some symptoms at 74900 miles . By the time I took it to the dealer the tranny had exactly 75k miles . I sure gut lucky on that one . The dealer is going to replace the tranny but I wondered what would ve happened if I didnt have that warranty , and what is going to happen is that tranny fails after the 12 month warranty of the new one . I have a 2003 tls which is not included in the recall .
. I sure gut lucky on that one . The dealer is going to replace the tranny but I wondered what would ve happened if I didnt have that warranty , and what is going to happen is that tranny fails after the 12 month warranty of the new one . I have a 2003 tls which is not included in the recall .
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
the replacement trans have a new case with better oiling allegedly- and seem to last well- if its going to have a problem it happens within the 12 month and you get another trans no charge.
Ask if you can purchase a 3/36 from them for 300$- that was offered to a ziner with same 03 out of vin range-
Or you can buy a bumper to bumper acura warranty at the dealer on your car- doesnt matter where you bought it--certainly worth asking the sales MANAGER about it
- should cost about $1000-1500
Ask if you can purchase a 3/36 from them for 300$- that was offered to a ziner with same 03 out of vin range-
Or you can buy a bumper to bumper acura warranty at the dealer on your car- doesnt matter where you bought it--certainly worth asking the sales MANAGER about it
- should cost about $1000-1500
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
have you registered with acura 1-800-382-2238 x5 gets a human- need your VIN
some 03s got a timing belt recall,,, and you can pay a little for the water pump to be replaced at the same time- saves you big money for something due at 105k anyway
some 03s got a timing belt recall,,, and you can pay a little for the water pump to be replaced at the same time- saves you big money for something due at 105k anyway
Racer
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 496
Likes: 0
From: Va
I have registered , hopefully I wont have any problem but everyone here talks about getting a 2nd, third and even four trannys replaced . I am almost done with the car payments so I might trade it before it goes bad again .
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
If you are warranty covered- hope for another failure-
the newer ones seem to be better, and if you still want to sell the car- having a fresh $4000 transmission is a good sales point over other cars
2nd replacement is about to happen on mine- has a shudder shifting thats gotten worse- dealer said bring it back when it was going to be obvious to them - not just me, no sweat they will replace it again
I hope it makes it thru the ziner meet this weekend and drop her off Tuesday.
Never drop off on Mondays- all the emergency repair cars from the weekend are there in line already!
the newer ones seem to be better, and if you still want to sell the car- having a fresh $4000 transmission is a good sales point over other cars
2nd replacement is about to happen on mine- has a shudder shifting thats gotten worse- dealer said bring it back when it was going to be obvious to them - not just me, no sweat they will replace it again
I hope it makes it thru the ziner meet this weekend and drop her off Tuesday.
Never drop off on Mondays- all the emergency repair cars from the weekend are there in line already!
5th Gear
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
tranny question
I have a 02 tl with about 75K miles. Sometimes its a little rough going into 2nd or 3rd...mostly 2nd. I know there was some kind of recall on the tranny.My question is does this include the 02 and what exactly does it cover. I have no kind of warranty on the car so when the tranny goes is it covered in any kind of way?
Drifting
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,114
Likes: 3
I have a 02 tl with about 75K miles. Sometimes its a little rough going into 2nd or 3rd...mostly 2nd. I know there was some kind of recall on the tranny.My question is does this include the 02 and what exactly does it cover. I have no kind of warranty on the car so when the tranny goes is it covered in any kind of way?
I'd take it to your local Acura dealer to have it checked out.
And there was a recall to install an oil jet kit but that was not a recall on the entire transmission.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
the recall is to install an external oiler system- but it includes a borscope inspection of the gears- if any heat damage is seen- they replace the entire transmission
This helps the 03 out of vin cars- that never got the recall performed.....
This helps the 03 out of vin cars- that never got the recall performed.....
7th Gear
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: Cali!
i got my 02 TL type S at a Body shop i know the guy And he's willing to Fix any Problems i have with the car . My car has a salvage title and i was wondering If it would still have the Tranny Warrenty on it cause I really need a new tranny Cause i already feel the gears Running =[ Current Miles on my TL is 33k =[ I was Hoping if he can't Fix it that he would trade me for a Differnt car Lol i mean i love my TL but The Tranny Problem Is Really Killing me =/
10th Gear
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: ALEXANDRIA,LOUISIANA
Second tranny failed at 120K. Brought it to the dealership that replaced the last tranny, and they got acura to goodwill 90% of the tranny replacement. I had to pay for them to update the ecu program. Out the door I only had to pay 470.00 Thank you Acura.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
Salvage title = no trans warranty= sorry
If your buddy has EXPERIENCE with the tiptronic trans, NOT just- he wants to ~fix~ yours because he thinks he knows how,,,,
you are better off at the pro rebuilder shop where $2500-2800 will get you all the new parts it needs inside , and your parts that were good get reused too,,,thats why price varies
Call a few trans shops and ask how many TL trans they have personally done in that shop by a tech currently employed there~
Or hit the junkyard and hope to find a winner
If your buddy has EXPERIENCE with the tiptronic trans, NOT just- he wants to ~fix~ yours because he thinks he knows how,,,,
you are better off at the pro rebuilder shop where $2500-2800 will get you all the new parts it needs inside , and your parts that were good get reused too,,,thats why price varies
Call a few trans shops and ask how many TL trans they have personally done in that shop by a tech currently employed there~
Or hit the junkyard and hope to find a winner
Respect Freedom
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 63
Likes: 3
From: Maryland
01tl4tl et all.
I appreciate your informative posts. As for the transmission issue, please provide any pertinent info in preparation for what seems inevitable. My ride is a 99 2G, 152k miles and still has the original tranny! Tranny fluid changed at 106k with synthetic. Not into hard shifts or burnouts, but I run it fast on mountain highways frequently, keeping revs above 2800 rpm - translates into speeds that the constables would frown upon. Thank you Valentine.
I would appreciate your providing the definitive primer of what to expect, the recall info., law suit settlement, etc. Many thanks.
I appreciate your informative posts. As for the transmission issue, please provide any pertinent info in preparation for what seems inevitable. My ride is a 99 2G, 152k miles and still has the original tranny! Tranny fluid changed at 106k with synthetic. Not into hard shifts or burnouts, but I run it fast on mountain highways frequently, keeping revs above 2800 rpm - translates into speeds that the constables would frown upon. Thank you Valentine.
I would appreciate your providing the definitive primer of what to expect, the recall info., law suit settlement, etc. Many thanks.
7th Gear
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: Cali!
Thanks for the Info . yeah that Guy is willing to Get me a new trans Free of cost .. But i'm scared it might happen again and i really like my car but i'm having 2nd thoughts and the other side of me is wanting to trade in for an other car But i don't know do you guys think i should just keep my tl for a Bit longer ? Or just trade it
Suzuka Master
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 9,863
Likes: 439
As I stated above- the `diagnosis fee` is a legal requirement that produces a work order that you sign- this allows them to inspect, drive, and work on your car.
Without that signed work order, they can be accused of car theft / car parts stripping!!!
If ANY symptoms are found- the codes, or the test drive,- there is a published list of known failure symptoms (see begiinning of this thread for it)
- the tech tells the manager- parts dept orders the replacement unit, a NEW work order specially marked `Warranty` is generated, and Acura pays the diagnosis fee-
you pay NOTHING on a warranty problem
The dealer likes to replace these trans- warranty work makes them less money but it beats no work at all.
The dealer is NOT out to screw you out of warranty when its possible to get you covered!
Dont be surprised if its a broken motor mount,, or if trans- it needs a motor mount too- they break and are seen when under the car- very easy and 20 minutes to replace when the trans is already out- pain to replace with trans in but can be done
We have a few current acura techs and writers and managers on here- some known, some stealth- I am not one of them--- but do communicate by PM when I need confirmation,
they are saying they want to cover you when able!!
Do service writers make mistakes- yes!- do you ever make a mistake?- perhaps~
Try knowing what car year and model has what warranty on each part.
Yes they should look it up, but often are overworked and rushed.
There can also be an issue when the writer is not a car person and doesnt understand what the tech means.... and makes up their own story- brakes especially with percentages - thats often on the tech for not giving numbers.
Changes occur in warranty coverage after the cars are made- warranty extensions- smog equip warranty now 80k miles on certain parts like O2 sensors,,,
trans warranty now 114.5 with the odometer error court case figured in!!! not all writers know this when you call-
It is still up to the car owner to read and know the exact warranty provisions for your car. Sadly that is life on Earth- caveat emptor
If they test the car- nothing is wrong- like, its perfect,,, and you come across as someone who is looking for a free trans at 100k just because- they can charge the fee if they want.
Its really used to protect them on major problem diagnosis where the customer turns around and has joe cheapo shop next door do the work-
they want acura to do a free diagnosis, but pay someone else to do the fix- how is that reasonable? you want someone else to work on it- let them diagnose it too.
Each dealership is a private business trying to survive. Service Dept covers a lot of the cost of running the building.....every minute of a techs day needs to be productive income generating time- billed to one dept or the other~
Acura has a service writer training program, but it takes time to learn and complete, and I have encountered the new writer who didnt know much and tried to make things up as he went.
If you are better than they are- go get a job at acura!!!!!
Without that signed work order, they can be accused of car theft / car parts stripping!!!
If ANY symptoms are found- the codes, or the test drive,- there is a published list of known failure symptoms (see begiinning of this thread for it)
- the tech tells the manager- parts dept orders the replacement unit, a NEW work order specially marked `Warranty` is generated, and Acura pays the diagnosis fee-
you pay NOTHING on a warranty problem
The dealer likes to replace these trans- warranty work makes them less money but it beats no work at all.
The dealer is NOT out to screw you out of warranty when its possible to get you covered!
Dont be surprised if its a broken motor mount,, or if trans- it needs a motor mount too- they break and are seen when under the car- very easy and 20 minutes to replace when the trans is already out- pain to replace with trans in but can be done
We have a few current acura techs and writers and managers on here- some known, some stealth- I am not one of them--- but do communicate by PM when I need confirmation,
they are saying they want to cover you when able!!
Do service writers make mistakes- yes!- do you ever make a mistake?- perhaps~
Try knowing what car year and model has what warranty on each part.
Yes they should look it up, but often are overworked and rushed.
There can also be an issue when the writer is not a car person and doesnt understand what the tech means.... and makes up their own story- brakes especially with percentages - thats often on the tech for not giving numbers.
Changes occur in warranty coverage after the cars are made- warranty extensions- smog equip warranty now 80k miles on certain parts like O2 sensors,,,
trans warranty now 114.5 with the odometer error court case figured in!!! not all writers know this when you call-
It is still up to the car owner to read and know the exact warranty provisions for your car. Sadly that is life on Earth- caveat emptor
If they test the car- nothing is wrong- like, its perfect,,, and you come across as someone who is looking for a free trans at 100k just because- they can charge the fee if they want.
Its really used to protect them on major problem diagnosis where the customer turns around and has joe cheapo shop next door do the work-
they want acura to do a free diagnosis, but pay someone else to do the fix- how is that reasonable? you want someone else to work on it- let them diagnose it too.
Each dealership is a private business trying to survive. Service Dept covers a lot of the cost of running the building.....every minute of a techs day needs to be productive income generating time- billed to one dept or the other~
Acura has a service writer training program, but it takes time to learn and complete, and I have encountered the new writer who didnt know much and tried to make things up as he went.
If you are better than they are- go get a job at acura!!!!!
1st Gear
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
i'm very interested in purchasing an '03 TL, but after reading all the horror stories of the transmission problems i'm extremely hesitant.
my questions to you all being, has there been any known issues with the tranny after the March 2005 fix?
am i better off looking for one with an already rebuilt transmission, cross my fingers and hope that i get, what sounds to be rare, one of those with a good tranny, OR should i just spend my time looking elsewhere?
my biggest concern being reliability. i'm extremely dependent on my car. i have to travel over 80 miles every week to pick up my son!
i appreciate your input!
my questions to you all being, has there been any known issues with the tranny after the March 2005 fix?
am i better off looking for one with an already rebuilt transmission, cross my fingers and hope that i get, what sounds to be rare, one of those with a good tranny, OR should i just spend my time looking elsewhere?
my biggest concern being reliability. i'm extremely dependent on my car. i have to travel over 80 miles every week to pick up my son!
i appreciate your input!
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
any car you really like- you call acura with the VIN and ask its warranty history and outstanding recalls? 03 had a timing belt pulley issues- get the water pump done for a few dollars and you saved &800 on that 105k miles service!
1-800-382-2238 x5
They can tell you if covered vin for trans on 03, late production ~allegedly~ not covered- but acura goodwill covers them
Everything you need to know is on the first and last few pages of this thread
a 99- at 150k miles- dont count on any help- your past both limits by a lot!!!
AAmco or similar trans shop can rebuild a 99 trans for $2500
The problem is better since mid 05 replacement units- but I got a bad replacement in nov 06, go figure
dibb- these are awesome cars- and get about 29 on straight freeway mileage, in town it drops to 19!! The rest of the car is extremely reliable- change the oil every 7500 miles and the motor will outlast you
Recently, out of vin 03s (read beginning of failure thread- the cutoff vin was to settle court case- not meaning problem was ever fixed as it cant be! not enough room to install the extra clutch depth we need for HP the car makes now)
for those cars acura has been going 500 labor to R&R trans and then offer a $300, 3 yr/ 36k miles warranty- get it!!!!!
1-800-382-2238 x5
They can tell you if covered vin for trans on 03, late production ~allegedly~ not covered- but acura goodwill covers them
Everything you need to know is on the first and last few pages of this thread
a 99- at 150k miles- dont count on any help- your past both limits by a lot!!!
AAmco or similar trans shop can rebuild a 99 trans for $2500
The problem is better since mid 05 replacement units- but I got a bad replacement in nov 06, go figure
dibb- these are awesome cars- and get about 29 on straight freeway mileage, in town it drops to 19!! The rest of the car is extremely reliable- change the oil every 7500 miles and the motor will outlast you
Recently, out of vin 03s (read beginning of failure thread- the cutoff vin was to settle court case- not meaning problem was ever fixed as it cant be! not enough room to install the extra clutch depth we need for HP the car makes now)
for those cars acura has been going 500 labor to R&R trans and then offer a $300, 3 yr/ 36k miles warranty- get it!!!!!
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 2,348
Likes: 33
From: Louisville, KY
So what was the design improvement post 2005 that I've read about on here- you're saying it doesn't matter and NONE of them are going to last very long?
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 2,348
Likes: 33
From: Louisville, KY
01tl4tl: Here's one reference, post #14 by the mod.....
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthr...57#post9932557
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthr...57#post9932557
Advanced
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 94
Likes: 0
From: South Jersey
The tranny on my '02 TL-S was replaced in September of 2005. I was on my way to Philly last thursday and after a bit of spirited driving I got the CEL/VSA/Traction control lights on. I stopped to get gas, then after, the CEL was still on but the others went away. We noticed a bit of a burning type smell when we stopped about 45 minutes later. So it looks like this tranny is toast. CEL is the only light on, however it is noticeably slipping a little during the 2nd to 3rd shift and then a bit more while it's in 3rd.
The last replacement was at 96K and I have 169K on the car right now. Beside the transmission issue I have had absolutely no other issues with the car whatsoever. I'll find out tomorrow what the local aamco has to say. I've used them before with another vehicle and was happy with their service. At this point it looks like I have to decide if it's worth it to put a couple grand into the car. Sucks that we just bought another brand new vehicle, so getting another vehicle is probably not going to happen and I was really hoping to hold onto the TL for at least 3 more years.
The last replacement was at 96K and I have 169K on the car right now. Beside the transmission issue I have had absolutely no other issues with the car whatsoever. I'll find out tomorrow what the local aamco has to say. I've used them before with another vehicle and was happy with their service. At this point it looks like I have to decide if it's worth it to put a couple grand into the car. Sucks that we just bought another brand new vehicle, so getting another vehicle is probably not going to happen and I was really hoping to hold onto the TL for at least 3 more years.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 33,535
Likes: 1,142
that sept 05 rebuild will have the new design changes to the case and they are much better than before
BUT
There are still failures- just like any part-
Many TL owners who dont belong to azine- suffer no failures and never even aware of a problem
BUT
There are still failures- just like any part-
Many TL owners who dont belong to azine- suffer no failures and never even aware of a problem
That was my Jeep :(
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 30
Likes: 0
From: UTAH
Sorry, I am new to the TL scene and I have a newbie question (so go easy on me), but my question is; with the transmissions having problems getting the transmission rebuilt by a transmission shop isn’t the best choice. Because the shops only rebuild the tranny and not replace it with a newer tranny with a different design to fit the problem. Is that correct?
2nd Gear
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
any car you really like- you call acura with the VIN and ask its warranty history and outstanding recalls? 03 had a timing belt pulley issues- get the water pump done for a few dollars and you saved &800 on that 105k miles service!
1-800-382-2238 x5
They can tell you if covered vin for trans on 03, late production ~allegedly~ not covered- but acura goodwill covers them
Everything you need to know is on the first and last few pages of this thread
a 99- at 150k miles- dont count on any help- your past both limits by a lot!!!
AAmco or similar trans shop can rebuild a 99 trans for $2500
The problem is better since mid 05 replacement units- but I got a bad replacement in nov 06, go figure
dibb- these are awesome cars- and get about 29 on straight freeway mileage, in town it drops to 19!! The rest of the car is extremely reliable- change the oil every 7500 miles and the motor will outlast you
Recently, out of vin 03s (read beginning of failure thread- the cutoff vin was to settle court case- not meaning problem was ever fixed as it cant be! not enough room to install the extra clutch depth we need for HP the car makes now)
for those cars acura has been going 500 labor to R&R trans and then offer a $300, 3 yr/ 36k miles warranty- get it!!!!!
1-800-382-2238 x5
They can tell you if covered vin for trans on 03, late production ~allegedly~ not covered- but acura goodwill covers them
Everything you need to know is on the first and last few pages of this thread
a 99- at 150k miles- dont count on any help- your past both limits by a lot!!!
AAmco or similar trans shop can rebuild a 99 trans for $2500
The problem is better since mid 05 replacement units- but I got a bad replacement in nov 06, go figure
dibb- these are awesome cars- and get about 29 on straight freeway mileage, in town it drops to 19!! The rest of the car is extremely reliable- change the oil every 7500 miles and the motor will outlast you
Recently, out of vin 03s (read beginning of failure thread- the cutoff vin was to settle court case- not meaning problem was ever fixed as it cant be! not enough room to install the extra clutch depth we need for HP the car makes now)
for those cars acura has been going 500 labor to R&R trans and then offer a $300, 3 yr/ 36k miles warranty- get it!!!!!
Two other things of interest. The front struts make a rattling noise when going over any light bumps in the road. Acura told me this is "normal" for the TL. I told Acura this was unacceptable but they said sorry.
The steering wheel volume controls mostly cause a channel change instead of increasing the volume. Are all of these items something that Acura should address or will all three things be written off as "normal"?
2nd Gear
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
How does one verify that a tranny was actually replaced? I have the numbers from the tag on the current replaced transmission. Somehow, this should be able to be verified, right? My vin is 19UUA56643A082340. The tranny shows the following three sets of information: 2P7W32 B7WA9030862 P7WA75C1RMS
Anyone have access to check?
Anyone have access to check?
A-SPEC DUDE
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
From: rural manitoba canada
Hiyall. I'm new to this although I've been doing a lot a unpleasant reading.Dec./07 I purchased my baby. She's ABP 3.2TL typeS A-SPEC from Acura dealer,was a lease return
with 92k km. At 96k km did timing belt and other belts at the time. I've had no issues I
absolutely love this car. I'm 62 and this is my first offshore car. It;s awesome,luxury,SPEED,comfort,handling, and ohh SOOO much fun to drive when I want to get on it LOL. It's specially nice when young guys just DROOL over it. Makes old fart feel as good as when I had my muscle iron in the 60s/70s. But once in a while I notice
that when I come off the highway and start slowing down to stop sign I occassionaly feel a shudder in the car seems like tranny going down 3-2. Simalarily occassionaly on 2-3 upshift but not when I've got my foot in the oilpan, just part throttle not all the time tho. Q? is this , do I have a problem and do I have warranty coverage.I'm in Canada and I have 122k km (aprox 62k mi.) Any feedback would ease my mind. Thanks to ALL. BTW GREAT forum NICE work.
with 92k km. At 96k km did timing belt and other belts at the time. I've had no issues I
absolutely love this car. I'm 62 and this is my first offshore car. It;s awesome,luxury,SPEED,comfort,handling, and ohh SOOO much fun to drive when I want to get on it LOL. It's specially nice when young guys just DROOL over it. Makes old fart feel as good as when I had my muscle iron in the 60s/70s. But once in a while I notice
that when I come off the highway and start slowing down to stop sign I occassionaly feel a shudder in the car seems like tranny going down 3-2. Simalarily occassionaly on 2-3 upshift but not when I've got my foot in the oilpan, just part throttle not all the time tho. Q? is this , do I have a problem and do I have warranty coverage.I'm in Canada and I have 122k km (aprox 62k mi.) Any feedback would ease my mind. Thanks to ALL. BTW GREAT forum NICE work.