Tranny Failure Thread
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 854
Likes: 0
From: kansas city
Oil jet was never a fix, it was supposed to address another problem which was not the main reason for transmission failures. I don't know if you read transmission threads, but people say that transmissions replaced after Feb 2005 are less likely to fail, and that their reliability is improved. There is some data to support it, you will see a lot less people complaining about post 2005 transmission failures. I got 70K miles out of my original transmission in 8 years, then it started leaking...
russiandude, leaking? wth?
Suzuka Master
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 6,913
Likes: 845
From: NJ
with ATF, what else can transmission leak with?
Anyway, it was shifting OK, and to fix a leak it was going to cost a lot (had to remove transmission, take it apart, and replace the seal), and there was no guarantee that it won't fail the next day, so it made sense to go with a re-manufactured transmission. BTW, ATF leak is one of the symptoms (not the most common though) before tranny starts going bad, so when dealers see ATF leaks on CL/TL with crappy transmissions -- they advise new transmissions.
Anyway, it was shifting OK, and to fix a leak it was going to cost a lot (had to remove transmission, take it apart, and replace the seal), and there was no guarantee that it won't fail the next day, so it made sense to go with a re-manufactured transmission. BTW, ATF leak is one of the symptoms (not the most common though) before tranny starts going bad, so when dealers see ATF leaks on CL/TL with crappy transmissions -- they advise new transmissions.
Last edited by russianDude; Aug 29, 2009 at 09:41 AM.
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
Oil jet was never a fix, it was supposed to address another problem which was not the main reason for transmission failures. I don't know if you read transmission threads, but people say that transmissions replaced after Feb 2005 are less likely to fail, and that their reliability is improved. There is some data to support it, you will see a lot less people complaining about post 2005 transmission failures. I got 70K miles out of my original transmission in 8 years, then it started leaking...
I've read a lot of tranny threads on different forums and I'm yet to find a reason or explanation for why the transmissions keep failing post-recall.
I've heard something similar about 2005 transmissions, but I wasn't aware that it applied to 2nd generation cars. I know they fixed the most of the problems for the newer models, but 2nd generation models still have the same tranny problems and always will.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 854
Likes: 0
From: kansas city
with ATF, what else can transmission leak with?
Anyway, it was shifting OK, and to fix a leak it was going to cost a lot (had to remove transmission, take it apart, and replace the seal), and there was no guarantee that it won't fail the next day, so it made sense to go with a re-manufactured transmission. BTW, ATF leak is one of the symptoms (not the most common though) before tranny starts going bad, so when dealers see ATF leaks on CL/TL with crappy transmissions -- they advise new transmissions.
Anyway, it was shifting OK, and to fix a leak it was going to cost a lot (had to remove transmission, take it apart, and replace the seal), and there was no guarantee that it won't fail the next day, so it made sense to go with a re-manufactured transmission. BTW, ATF leak is one of the symptoms (not the most common though) before tranny starts going bad, so when dealers see ATF leaks on CL/TL with crappy transmissions -- they advise new transmissions.
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
Now for the most interesting part.
Service department #4: They advised me not to power flush the transmission, especially if is a high mileage car. He said if the transmission had any problems, (even if I hadn’t noticed anything wrong) it could and probably would fail immediately. I ask him if he knew why this would happen. He said that the clutches build up deposits and flushing the system would loosen and remove the deposits, which would cause the transmission to fail. I ask him what would happen if I just change the 2.7 quarts and he said that this would be ok. He didn’t provide an explanation as to why changing was ok, other than it didn’t loosen the deposits.
The previous owner had told me he had never had problems with the transmission. I've called Acura with my VIN number and no transmission replacements are on file for my car. (Although, it is a possibility they went somewhere else, but that's extremely unlikely since Acura would have covered a new tranny under warranty. I don't think the previous owner was that stupid.)
I had suspected that he took it to a mechanic to get the codes reset for the engine light to be shut off before selling the car knowing the imminent transmission failure. He power flushed the tranny immediately before selling it to me which means if the above is true, this is what caused the failure.
Has anyone else had any experience with something like that?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 854
Likes: 0
From: kansas city
Weird. From what I've read, it sounded like it was the "fix" on the oil return line because the original transmission design caused overheating making gears break and lockup.
I've read a lot of tranny threads on different forums and I'm yet to find a reason or explanation for why the transmissions keep failing post-recall.
I've heard something similar about 2005 transmissions, but I wasn't aware that it applied to 2nd generation cars. I know they fixed the most of the problems for the newer models, but 2nd generation models still have the same tranny problems and always will.
I've read a lot of tranny threads on different forums and I'm yet to find a reason or explanation for why the transmissions keep failing post-recall.
I've heard something similar about 2005 transmissions, but I wasn't aware that it applied to 2nd generation cars. I know they fixed the most of the problems for the newer models, but 2nd generation models still have the same tranny problems and always will.
You are technically correct--the oil jet kit is designed to fix that gear breaking/lockup issue. This is listed as a recall because if that problem occurs, it is likely to cause an accident (hard to steer with the front wheels locked up).
"WTF it doesn't?"
The issue addressed by the oil jet is not the one causing headaches for the majority of the population. Inadequate fluid flow to the 3rd gear clutch pack and insufficient size/robustness of aforementioned clutch pack are the more common issue. This was not listed as a recall, because in most cases, the car simply won't move anymore--shouldn't cause one to lose control of the car and crash.
"why do they keep failing"
This depends on what time period you are referring to. Prior to February of 2005, factory replacement transmissions were the exact same design as the originals, meaning they were equally likely to fail (someone had one fail pulling out of the dealership after installation, IIRC). After Feb 05, a redesigned unit debuted with improved fluid flow to the 3rd gear clutch and improved materials for the clutches. While this may not bring reliability all the way up to what one would expect for a Honda/Acura product, reading through this thread should make abundantly clear that the newer design is more reliable than the old one. There are some people on this forum with 175k+ on original transmissions as well.
"2G is screwed"
Yup. On the other hand, I have never seen a company go as far as Acura has in taking care of this issue for as many people as possible. This isn't 1999--the economy sucks right now and Acura is probably hurting too (though Honda is profitable, unlike Toyota at the moment). One cannot expect every single out of warranty transmission to be goodwilled...there's a reason it's called goodwill and not warranty replacement.
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
"WTF it doesn't?"
The issue addressed by the oil jet is not the one causing headaches for the majority of the population. Inadequate fluid flow to the 3rd gear clutch pack and insufficient size/robustness of aforementioned clutch pack are the more common issue. This was not listed as a recall, because in most cases, the car simply won't move anymore--shouldn't cause one to lose control of the car and crash.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 854
Likes: 0
From: kansas city
I know this is an extremely old post, but this information is new and totally relevant to me since my 2002 TL had the original tranny.
The previous owner had told me he had never had problems with the transmission. I've called Acura with my VIN number and no transmission replacements are on file for my car. (Although, it is a possibility they went somewhere else, but that's extremely unlikely since Acura would have covered a new tranny under warranty. I don't think the previous owner was that stupid.)
I had suspected that he took it to a mechanic to get the codes reset for the engine light to be shut off before selling the car knowing the imminent transmission failure. He power flushed the tranny immediately before selling it to me which means if the above is true, this is what caused the failure.
Has anyone else had any experience with something like that?
The previous owner had told me he had never had problems with the transmission. I've called Acura with my VIN number and no transmission replacements are on file for my car. (Although, it is a possibility they went somewhere else, but that's extremely unlikely since Acura would have covered a new tranny under warranty. I don't think the previous owner was that stupid.)
I had suspected that he took it to a mechanic to get the codes reset for the engine light to be shut off before selling the car knowing the imminent transmission failure. He power flushed the tranny immediately before selling it to me which means if the above is true, this is what caused the failure.
Has anyone else had any experience with something like that?
Suzuka Master
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 6,913
Likes: 845
From: NJ
From what I was told leaking is not a common way for transmission to die on these cars, if you read official recall letter for Honda, they list this as one of the symptoms. with that being said, my dealer told me that they have no way of knowing if its a simple leak due to bad sealing, or a sign of up coming transmission failure. I could pick a cheaper road and just fix the leak - $1800 to fix, or go with a transmission $4000 (which after talking to Acura dropped to $1200). Also, fixing a leak carried no warranty. They would only warranty that it does not leak again, but if transmission goes tomorrow they would not be responsible. So obviously I picked the new transmission and 3yr/36month warranty.
Suzuka Master
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 6,913
Likes: 845
From: NJ
After doing a lot of searches on this forum, and TL forum, you won't find many people screaming about post 2005 replacement going bad. You will find StonedCL, but as he found out from the re-builder he most likely had a bad installation... So you will occasionally find examples of bad install (after all its a very difficult job and some mechanics suck). Also, keep in mind that overall defect rate of re-manufactured units is higher when compared to factory build by robots. My understanding that re-mnufacturing process is for most part human process and judgment. But they made some updates to parts, and if re-manufactured and installed right, it should be more reliable, but its not going to be a top of the line transmission.
2003 TL-p
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,587
Likes: 19
From: Reading, PA
went to the sealership yesterday, test drove the car with the technician and he said " you need a new tranny". i am waiting to hear back from them to see if i can get a goodwill.
i just missed the vin number, i hope that i cant get a goodwill tranny for no cost. i have a very strong case against them and let them know that if they dont fix this im finished with honda. iv been complaining to them for the last 30k miles so they have a good record of me too.
i assume i will have little trouble with the rebuilt "new" tranny, i just hope i can get it covered. otherwise i might get rid of the car, they had a nice rsx 6 speed sitting on the lot.
i just missed the vin number, i hope that i cant get a goodwill tranny for no cost. i have a very strong case against them and let them know that if they dont fix this im finished with honda. iv been complaining to them for the last 30k miles so they have a good record of me too.
i assume i will have little trouble with the rebuilt "new" tranny, i just hope i can get it covered. otherwise i might get rid of the car, they had a nice rsx 6 speed sitting on the lot.
Rejected by Acura
This whole transmission thing is beyond frustrating. I have an ’03 TL-S with 83K miles on it. My wife usually drives it, so if there were any tell-tale signs of transmission failure before, I am not aware of them. She says it was driving fine, and I believe her (she grew up in a shop and is pretty savy). So we were driving in the hills of WV, the “!” and the “vsa” lit up. There was no flashing D5. Then there were no gears. Not an altogether unique story, I know.
Well, I get the car back to town and take it to my friend’s shop. He’s a good guy and I’ve known him for many years, so no worries about being taken for a ride. We called 2 Acura shops nearby and they both said that the transmission is not covered under warranty, because my VIN number indicates the problem was fixed by the time my car was manufactured. They both offered to sell and install a transmission for me, and told me they were sorry this happened. I was stunned. So I’ve decided to put in a Jasper transmission. It comes with a 3year, 100K miles parts and labor warranty (which ultimately was the deciding factor for me). According to them, some of the materials used to make the OEM transmission are inferior, leading to many of these failures. I’ve got my fingers crossed and will let you know what I think of the Jasper option when I get the car back. Anyone else try a Jasper trans?
Well, I get the car back to town and take it to my friend’s shop. He’s a good guy and I’ve known him for many years, so no worries about being taken for a ride. We called 2 Acura shops nearby and they both said that the transmission is not covered under warranty, because my VIN number indicates the problem was fixed by the time my car was manufactured. They both offered to sell and install a transmission for me, and told me they were sorry this happened. I was stunned. So I’ve decided to put in a Jasper transmission. It comes with a 3year, 100K miles parts and labor warranty (which ultimately was the deciding factor for me). According to them, some of the materials used to make the OEM transmission are inferior, leading to many of these failures. I’ve got my fingers crossed and will let you know what I think of the Jasper option when I get the car back. Anyone else try a Jasper trans?
Drifting
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,114
Likes: 3
This whole transmission thing is beyond frustrating. I have an ’03 TL-S with 83K miles on it. My wife usually drives it, so if there were any tell-tale signs of transmission failure before, I am not aware of them. She says it was driving fine, and I believe her (she grew up in a shop and is pretty savy). So we were driving in the hills of WV, the “!” and the “vsa” lit up. There was no flashing D5. Then there were no gears. Not an altogether unique story, I know.
Well, I get the car back to town and take it to my friend’s shop. He’s a good guy and I’ve known him for many years, so no worries about being taken for a ride. We called 2 Acura shops nearby and they both said that the transmission is not covered under warranty, because my VIN number indicates the problem was fixed by the time my car was manufactured. They both offered to sell and install a transmission for me, and told me they were sorry this happened. I was stunned. So I’ve decided to put in a Jasper transmission. It comes with a 3year, 100K miles parts and labor warranty (which ultimately was the deciding factor for me). According to them, some of the materials used to make the OEM transmission are inferior, leading to many of these failures. I’ve got my fingers crossed and will let you know what I think of the Jasper option when I get the car back. Anyone else try a Jasper trans?
Well, I get the car back to town and take it to my friend’s shop. He’s a good guy and I’ve known him for many years, so no worries about being taken for a ride. We called 2 Acura shops nearby and they both said that the transmission is not covered under warranty, because my VIN number indicates the problem was fixed by the time my car was manufactured. They both offered to sell and install a transmission for me, and told me they were sorry this happened. I was stunned. So I’ve decided to put in a Jasper transmission. It comes with a 3year, 100K miles parts and labor warranty (which ultimately was the deciding factor for me). According to them, some of the materials used to make the OEM transmission are inferior, leading to many of these failures. I’ve got my fingers crossed and will let you know what I think of the Jasper option when I get the car back. Anyone else try a Jasper trans?
Did you try calling Acura's national customer service number to request help?
Many of the successful goodwill coverage stories for non-covered 2003 TLs detailed above start with an initial "Sorry, we can't help" reply.
Make sure that Jasper installs whatever improvements Acura made to the transmission in February of 2005. Those changes appear to have significantly improved the reliability.
Good luck!
Thanks Bob_F. We did speak to the customer service managers, but didn't call the national number. I was too ticked off to think straight. I'll double check with Jasper about the updates.
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
This whole transmission thing is beyond frustrating. I have an ’03 TL-S with 83K miles on it. My wife usually drives it, so if there were any tell-tale signs of transmission failure before, I am not aware of them. She says it was driving fine, and I believe her (she grew up in a shop and is pretty savy). So we were driving in the hills of WV, the “!” and the “vsa” lit up. There was no flashing D5. Then there were no gears. Not an altogether unique story, I know.
Well, I get the car back to town and take it to my friend’s shop. He’s a good guy and I’ve known him for many years, so no worries about being taken for a ride. We called 2 Acura shops nearby and they both said that the transmission is not covered under warranty, because my VIN number indicates the problem was fixed by the time my car was manufactured. They both offered to sell and install a transmission for me, and told me they were sorry this happened. I was stunned. So I’ve decided to put in a Jasper transmission. It comes with a 3year, 100K miles parts and labor warranty (which ultimately was the deciding factor for me). According to them, some of the materials used to make the OEM transmission are inferior, leading to many of these failures. I’ve got my fingers crossed and will let you know what I think of the Jasper option when I get the car back. Anyone else try a Jasper trans?
Well, I get the car back to town and take it to my friend’s shop. He’s a good guy and I’ve known him for many years, so no worries about being taken for a ride. We called 2 Acura shops nearby and they both said that the transmission is not covered under warranty, because my VIN number indicates the problem was fixed by the time my car was manufactured. They both offered to sell and install a transmission for me, and told me they were sorry this happened. I was stunned. So I’ve decided to put in a Jasper transmission. It comes with a 3year, 100K miles parts and labor warranty (which ultimately was the deciding factor for me). According to them, some of the materials used to make the OEM transmission are inferior, leading to many of these failures. I’ve got my fingers crossed and will let you know what I think of the Jasper option when I get the car back. Anyone else try a Jasper trans?
<-Also from Lewisburg.
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 234
Likes: 0
From: NC
So my 2000 TL-P transmission went out at 105k. I took it in to a local Acura Dealership and was quoted $5000. I asked them about good will but they referred me to Acura customer care who told me to talk to the service manager. So they have basically sent me in a circle.
I hope they will help out with good will, but I'm kind of skeptical because I typically have my service done in North Carolina, but I'm in Louisiana looking for a job, so I do not have a history with this local Acura dealership.
I'm not going to pay $5000 for a new transmission when I could buy a more reliable car to drive back home, so I have been playing around with the idea of taking it to a local transmission shop to see how much they will be able to help me. Is this a good idea or should I still pursue the "good will" route?
Thanks for help!
I hope they will help out with good will, but I'm kind of skeptical because I typically have my service done in North Carolina, but I'm in Louisiana looking for a job, so I do not have a history with this local Acura dealership.
I'm not going to pay $5000 for a new transmission when I could buy a more reliable car to drive back home, so I have been playing around with the idea of taking it to a local transmission shop to see how much they will be able to help me. Is this a good idea or should I still pursue the "good will" route?
Thanks for help!
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
So my 2000 TL-P transmission went out at 105k. I took it in to a local Acura Dealership and was quoted $5000. I asked them about good will but they referred me to Acura customer care who told me to talk to the service manager. So they have basically sent me in a circle.
I hope they will help out with good will, but I'm kind of skeptical because I typically have my service done in North Carolina, but I'm in Louisiana looking for a job, so I do not have a history with this local Acura dealership.
I'm not going to pay $5000 for a new transmission when I could buy a more reliable car to drive back home, so I have been playing around with the idea of taking it to a local transmission shop to see how much they will be able to help me. Is this a good idea or should I still pursue the "good will" route?
Thanks for help!
I hope they will help out with good will, but I'm kind of skeptical because I typically have my service done in North Carolina, but I'm in Louisiana looking for a job, so I do not have a history with this local Acura dealership.
I'm not going to pay $5000 for a new transmission when I could buy a more reliable car to drive back home, so I have been playing around with the idea of taking it to a local transmission shop to see how much they will be able to help me. Is this a good idea or should I still pursue the "good will" route?
Thanks for help!
A privately owned tranny specialist shop will probably quote you around $3,500 (Which will come with warranty.)
But you need to call Acura (Not the dealership) and explain the problem. Dealerships will almost always try to initially "dick" you. Take it higher and press the issue.
B A N N E D
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
From: 703
Jus got a call from the dealership
about 4 months ago i decided to purchase a 02 tl type s
jus so happen yesterday i was driving to the wawa and ping pow puff my car starts jerking and hoppin and then bang downshifts for no reason
so i head back home call acura corp and tell em whats up and got no love
took it to the dealership and
they checked it out waited for 2 1/2 hours for them to tell me my damn tranny is done when i told them that was the case so service writter shows me the paper works and WTF 5202.98 FOR A NEW TRANSMISSION WWWWWWWWTFFF i went nuts i only had the damn car for 4 months and didnt buy a extended warranty so today the service writter calls me with good news and say acura is going to cover my trans and that ill only have to pay 1200 
and the ups man stopped by the crib to deliver the D2 coilovers =] so within the next week my car shall be stuntin so whats up acurazine help me out i need those 5 post?
jus so happen yesterday i was driving to the wawa and ping pow puff my car starts jerking and hoppin and then bang downshifts for no reason
so i head back home call acura corp and tell em whats up and got no love
took it to the dealership and
they checked it out waited for 2 1/2 hours for them to tell me my damn tranny is done when i told them that was the case so service writter shows me the paper works and WTF 5202.98 FOR A NEW TRANSMISSION WWWWWWWWTFFF i went nuts i only had the damn car for 4 months and didnt buy a extended warranty so today the service writter calls me with good news and say acura is going to cover my trans and that ill only have to pay 1200 and the ups man stopped by the crib to deliver the D2 coilovers =] so within the next week my car shall be stuntin so whats up acurazine help me out i need those 5 post?
2003 TL-p
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,587
Likes: 19
From: Reading, PA
acura told me $1650 for a new tranny, and i talked them into giving me a 3 year 36k warranty, and a loner car. i complained further to acura regional trying to get the price down, the dealer told me that its not going to be 0. i am hoping to get a reduction of something, but the news is i am getting a new tranny next week. i am just waiting on the price.
if your car does not fall within the vin number the best your going to be able to do is what i got. maybe a slightly lower price if that.
so my plan is ill be driving this car for at least 3 more years, after that.... no clue... 6speed?
if your car does not fall within the vin number the best your going to be able to do is what i got. maybe a slightly lower price if that.
so my plan is ill be driving this car for at least 3 more years, after that.... no clue... 6speed?
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 234
Likes: 0
From: NC
acura told me $1650 for a new tranny, and i talked them into giving me a 3 year 36k warranty, and a loner car. i complained further to acura regional trying to get the price down, the dealer told me that its not going to be 0. i am hoping to get a reduction of something, but the news is i am getting a new tranny next week. i am just waiting on the price.
if your car does not fall within the vin number the best your going to be able to do is what i got. maybe a slightly lower price if that.
so my plan is ill be driving this car for at least 3 more years, after that.... no clue... 6speed?
if your car does not fall within the vin number the best your going to be able to do is what i got. maybe a slightly lower price if that.
so my plan is ill be driving this car for at least 3 more years, after that.... no clue... 6speed?
How did you get it down to $1600? What was your original estimate and the breakdown?
I was originally quoted $5300, which is straight up a rip off, to fix my car.
The break down was
$2572.43 - New Transmission
$1138.72 - New ECM
$108.00 - Freight for the new transmission
$81. 00 - New Fluids
$990.00 - Labor
Taxes------------> Grand total: $5310.71
After I pleaded my case they said that they are willing to do the job for $3500. I tried calling Acura Customer care, but they were not of help to me at all. They didn't seem to want to help at all. I don't know what to do now, because I think that price of $3500 is still sort of steep compared to the $2500 I've seen. Is this about the same quote you guys have received from the dealer once you guys brought it in to service?
If anyone could help please pm me or scan a copy of your paper that possibly had lower prices for your parts
Thanks!
1st Gear
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Help appreciated....
Hey all,
I'm new to the board and have to say this is a great resource...thanks for sharing.
I have a 2001 TL with 139,500 miles on it. I've owned the car for 4 months, and the previous owner was great - very meticulous about maintenance, all work done at the local Acura dealership, all records included, oil changes done with premium/synthetic oil, all required maintenance 15k/30k/60k105k done, etc.
The original transmission was replaced at 115,000 miles in Jan '08. To date I have not experienced any slippage issues with the tranny. Problem is, the car does have a very loud, abnormal sound that comes from the transmission area when driving it. Sorta sounds like a grinding or rubbing and increases in pitch as the car accelerates.
Other than this I have not had any issues...car runs like a champ and is awesome. I am taking it in to the dealership tomorrow for an oil change and a diagnostic on the transmission to see what the dealership says. My questions are:
- is the first rebuilt transmission covered under any sort of 3/36 warranty?
- is the loud sound coming from the transmission indicative or bad things to come - like a transmission failure? Anyone else deal with this issue and what did they do about it?
any thoughts or comments are appreciated...thanks in advance!
I'm new to the board and have to say this is a great resource...thanks for sharing.
I have a 2001 TL with 139,500 miles on it. I've owned the car for 4 months, and the previous owner was great - very meticulous about maintenance, all work done at the local Acura dealership, all records included, oil changes done with premium/synthetic oil, all required maintenance 15k/30k/60k105k done, etc.
The original transmission was replaced at 115,000 miles in Jan '08. To date I have not experienced any slippage issues with the tranny. Problem is, the car does have a very loud, abnormal sound that comes from the transmission area when driving it. Sorta sounds like a grinding or rubbing and increases in pitch as the car accelerates.
Other than this I have not had any issues...car runs like a champ and is awesome. I am taking it in to the dealership tomorrow for an oil change and a diagnostic on the transmission to see what the dealership says. My questions are:
- is the first rebuilt transmission covered under any sort of 3/36 warranty?
- is the loud sound coming from the transmission indicative or bad things to come - like a transmission failure? Anyone else deal with this issue and what did they do about it?
any thoughts or comments are appreciated...thanks in advance!
1st Gear
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
hi all,
i am here because i have same issues as all of you guys.
I am the original owner on 03 TLS with 96,866 mileage and yesterday my tranny started going bad. I took it to the dealer and my car is not part of the extended warranty, so i brought back and parked it. I am afraid to drive again.
I have not done any service with delear since 47k miles and the dealer is asking me to provide the maintenance records. I did not keep any of the records and i can not get hold the records from the shops. I have spent about $13k with acura dealers for repairs and body work with this car alone. Now my local dealer is asking for the record and i do not have any and he needs it before he talks to the Acura regional rep. He is specifically looking for transmission maintenance work, but i do not have any. What are my chances of getting any "goodwill" from acura for my tranny. I am houston, tx. any luck with the acura rep or dealers in this area? Please help. Thanks in advance.
i am here because i have same issues as all of you guys.
I am the original owner on 03 TLS with 96,866 mileage and yesterday my tranny started going bad. I took it to the dealer and my car is not part of the extended warranty, so i brought back and parked it. I am afraid to drive again.
I have not done any service with delear since 47k miles and the dealer is asking me to provide the maintenance records. I did not keep any of the records and i can not get hold the records from the shops. I have spent about $13k with acura dealers for repairs and body work with this car alone. Now my local dealer is asking for the record and i do not have any and he needs it before he talks to the Acura regional rep. He is specifically looking for transmission maintenance work, but i do not have any. What are my chances of getting any "goodwill" from acura for my tranny. I am houston, tx. any luck with the acura rep or dealers in this area? Please help. Thanks in advance.
Last edited by bmp3185; Sep 3, 2009 at 11:46 PM.
B A N N E D
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
From: 703
jus got my ride back
my tranny went bad so took it up to karen radley acura
got a goodwill tranny and it costed my 1254.00 i was so impressed the car drives like its brand new and takes off like a beast/ my car had 67 thousands miles when the tranny went bad
but atleast my new one is covered till 100k well 3 years lol
got a goodwill tranny and it costed my 1254.00 i was so impressed the car drives like its brand new and takes off like a beast/ my car had 67 thousands miles when the tranny went bad
but atleast my new one is covered till 100k well 3 years lol
Cruisin'
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Just to add to the thread, here's my experience with my failed tranny.
Info:
2003 Acura TL-S
123,000 miles (got the car at 54k)
Original Transmission (far as I know)
Oil Jet Kit installed in 2005 (prior to my purchase).
First of all, I always took my car to a Honda dealership for the major service because there are no Acura dealerships anywhere near where I work or live. When my transmission began to slip (between 2nd and 3rd) I took it to the Honda dealership but they told me they couldn't do anything to help me out with warranty's/good will because that's an Acura issue and not a Honda one.
I called a couple different Acura dealerships hoping to work something out (good will) before I towed the car to the dealership (didn't want to drive it). They all told me that they couldn't work anything out until they had a chance to charge me for something I already know (the transmission needs to be replaced). They also told me that they doubt Acura would provide any good will because all of their recent requests have been rejected.
At my wife's request, I took the car in to Courtesy Acura (Littleton, CO) anyway and reluctantly agreed to pay the $112 diagnostic fee. When I dropped the car off, they told me that the service manager would be out till Tuesday and that I'd have to wait till then so he could call the Acura rep to discuss any possible good will.
This morning I woke up bright and early grabbed all of my car's service records, drove down to Krispy Kreme, bought 4 dozen doughnuts, and headed back to Courtesy Acura to talk with the service manager in person. When I got there the service rep went to go grab the SM but came back and said that the SM was going to be in a meeting for several hours (It looked like some Acura big wigs were in town checking the place out). I asked if I could make an appointment or come back later but the SR said that the SM already had my paperwork and would be calling me one way or another. He asked if there was anything I wanted to say or leave for him, so I started to show him my records, explaining that all of the major service work was done by Honda and that I got all of my oil changes at both Honda and Walmart using Mobile 1. He took all of the info and I left more nervous than ever not having meet with the SM.
Approx 20 minutes after I left the dealership the SR called me and said he took the liberty to contact the Acura representatives to talk to them about the good will. I started to think, "Oh, ****! He's not gonna know how to deal with them." He talked to the Acura rep and explained my good service records, and Acura agreed to split the costs with me 50/50!! He said my total costs for parts/labor/taxes would be around $2,000! That's a crap load of money, but it's still $1,000 cheaper than the quote I got from Aamco, and with Acura I'll be getting the redesigned/remanufactured/more reliable transmission rather than rebuilding my current one.
Again, this all happened about 30 minutes ago, so I still don't have the car, but overall, I'm fairly happy with the outcome.
Info:
2003 Acura TL-S
123,000 miles (got the car at 54k)
Original Transmission (far as I know)
Oil Jet Kit installed in 2005 (prior to my purchase).
First of all, I always took my car to a Honda dealership for the major service because there are no Acura dealerships anywhere near where I work or live. When my transmission began to slip (between 2nd and 3rd) I took it to the Honda dealership but they told me they couldn't do anything to help me out with warranty's/good will because that's an Acura issue and not a Honda one.
I called a couple different Acura dealerships hoping to work something out (good will) before I towed the car to the dealership (didn't want to drive it). They all told me that they couldn't work anything out until they had a chance to charge me for something I already know (the transmission needs to be replaced). They also told me that they doubt Acura would provide any good will because all of their recent requests have been rejected.
At my wife's request, I took the car in to Courtesy Acura (Littleton, CO) anyway and reluctantly agreed to pay the $112 diagnostic fee. When I dropped the car off, they told me that the service manager would be out till Tuesday and that I'd have to wait till then so he could call the Acura rep to discuss any possible good will.
This morning I woke up bright and early grabbed all of my car's service records, drove down to Krispy Kreme, bought 4 dozen doughnuts, and headed back to Courtesy Acura to talk with the service manager in person. When I got there the service rep went to go grab the SM but came back and said that the SM was going to be in a meeting for several hours (It looked like some Acura big wigs were in town checking the place out). I asked if I could make an appointment or come back later but the SR said that the SM already had my paperwork and would be calling me one way or another. He asked if there was anything I wanted to say or leave for him, so I started to show him my records, explaining that all of the major service work was done by Honda and that I got all of my oil changes at both Honda and Walmart using Mobile 1. He took all of the info and I left more nervous than ever not having meet with the SM.
Approx 20 minutes after I left the dealership the SR called me and said he took the liberty to contact the Acura representatives to talk to them about the good will. I started to think, "Oh, ****! He's not gonna know how to deal with them." He talked to the Acura rep and explained my good service records, and Acura agreed to split the costs with me 50/50!! He said my total costs for parts/labor/taxes would be around $2,000! That's a crap load of money, but it's still $1,000 cheaper than the quote I got from Aamco, and with Acura I'll be getting the redesigned/remanufactured/more reliable transmission rather than rebuilding my current one.
Again, this all happened about 30 minutes ago, so I still don't have the car, but overall, I'm fairly happy with the outcome.
Suzuka Master
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 6,913
Likes: 845
From: NJ
Just to add to the thread, here's my experience with my failed tranny.
Info:
2003 Acura TL-S
123,000 miles (got the car at 54k)
Original Transmission (far as I know)
Oil Jet Kit installed in 2005 (prior to my purchase).
s ago, so I still don't have the car, but overall, I'm fairly happy with the outcome.
Info:
2003 Acura TL-S
123,000 miles (got the car at 54k)
Original Transmission (far as I know)
Oil Jet Kit installed in 2005 (prior to my purchase).
s ago, so I still don't have the car, but overall, I'm fairly happy with the outcome.
Cruisin'
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Well, I picked up my car today. I walked in and was helped by the same guy who took my service order and made the call to Acura for the good will help. When I went to the teller to pay he said he did some more things for me to get the cost down even further. What he originally quoted me $2,000 for ended up being only $1,653, which also included $160 for a new engine mount.
As for the trany, I'm not 100% sure, but it should be a MGFA. I specifically asked him if it would be a post 2005 model, and he said it almost certainly should be. I'll take a look in the morning to see if there is an oil jet kit installed. I also don't know if my car is included in the warranty extension group or not.
As for the trany, I'm not 100% sure, but it should be a MGFA. I specifically asked him if it would be a post 2005 model, and he said it almost certainly should be. I'll take a look in the morning to see if there is an oil jet kit installed. I also don't know if my car is included in the warranty extension group or not.
Suzuka Master
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 6,913
Likes: 845
From: NJ
As for the trany, I'm not 100% sure, but it should be a MGFA. I specifically asked him if it would be a post 2005 model, and he said it almost certainly should be. I'll take a look in the morning to see if there is an oil jet kit installed. I also don't know if my car is included in the warranty extension group or not.
B A N N E D
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 4,657
Likes: 3
From: The grande.. Riverdale NJ.. Hopefully moving to skyline village in Lincoln park NJ..yes dirty jersey
I dont understand why acura helps some people but does not help others?
I bought my car new and had ALL service done at the DLR and still acura would not do 50% what I asked for. I thought they stoped helping EVERYBODY but now I read that they are still giving some people 50%..WTF..
Either help everyone or no one what is up with this picking and choosing?
I bought my car new and had ALL service done at the DLR and still acura would not do 50% what I asked for. I thought they stoped helping EVERYBODY but now I read that they are still giving some people 50%..WTF..
Either help everyone or no one what is up with this picking and choosing?
Suzuka Master
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 6,913
Likes: 845
From: NJ
Because they replaced 4 transmissions for you, and they think its enough for one customer, also considering high mileage. You keep showing some example where someone got discounted transmission at 160K, but we don't know if it was his first transmission or it was some rare case.
Cruisin'
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
I gotta say, the new transmission doesn't feel as nice as some people made it out to be. My biggest gripe with this car has always been, and continues to be, with the transmission. Even with the new one, if I accelerate somewhat slowly the car always seems so unsure when it shifts between 1-2 and 2-3. I have no idea why. If I'm accelerating it feels like it starts to shift then suddenly gets confused as to whether or not it should change gears. If I'm cruising at lower speeds then need to accelerate it goes through the same confusion. My 95 Impala shifts more like a luxury car than my TL does. Very disappointing.
Dumped
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 57
Likes: 9
From: nYc
9/15/09 R.I.P
So it finally happened to my car CL-S yesterday. Two weeks ago my VSA/CEL came on, so Torque Converted code. Car shifted perfectly until this weekend. Driving home on the expressway, the car starts to downshift and stall in gears. I made it home on 2 gears. I really don't know what to do, car currently has 99k. I feel like parting out the car. Does the car have to be registered to qualify for a transmission replacement? How do I check to see if I qualify? Im not even angry, I'm actually sad. This was my daily warrior. Comfy, fast, nice factory music and chicks dug the car. Oh god the pain.
So it finally happened to my car CL-S yesterday. Two weeks ago my VSA/CEL came on, so Torque Converted code. Car shifted perfectly until this weekend. Driving home on the expressway, the car starts to downshift and stall in gears. I made it home on 2 gears. I really don't know what to do, car currently has 99k. I feel like parting out the car. Does the car have to be registered to qualify for a transmission replacement? How do I check to see if I qualify? Im not even angry, I'm actually sad. This was my daily warrior. Comfy, fast, nice factory music and chicks dug the car. Oh god the pain.
5th Gear
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: NY
info: TL 03, mileage 77001, previous owner installed a junkyard transmission which was not on the record.
I feel that I should share my story here knowing that how disheartening it can be to have your car break down on you and to thank all the acurazine peeps here for their stories. about 2 weeks ago, my car's gears started slipping from 1st-2nd gear, 2nd to 3rd gear...blinking d5 light and engine light came on. yada yada. I called the headquarter and asked for their assistance, they basically told me to take the car to a dealer and work it out with a service manager. I was worried that they wouldn't try work things out with me but luckily I went to smithtown acura near my university. (which ended up a very good thing) I asked the service manager Ray to work things out with Acura and I explained my situation that I'm a starving college student and have no money. He returned to me with 50/50 at first.
Long story short, they gave me an estimate of about 2500 dollars initially but the cost ended up exactly 1897.74 dollars...(torque converter, transmission, timing belt, water pump) Looking at the invoice, i think they did 75/25 on the transmission and I paid for everything else.
I personally had a pleasant experience with them and i'd recommend people with acuras go there...All in all, the tranny came with 3yr/36000 miles warranty and I'm happy...lol
I feel that I should share my story here knowing that how disheartening it can be to have your car break down on you and to thank all the acurazine peeps here for their stories. about 2 weeks ago, my car's gears started slipping from 1st-2nd gear, 2nd to 3rd gear...blinking d5 light and engine light came on. yada yada. I called the headquarter and asked for their assistance, they basically told me to take the car to a dealer and work it out with a service manager. I was worried that they wouldn't try work things out with me but luckily I went to smithtown acura near my university. (which ended up a very good thing) I asked the service manager Ray to work things out with Acura and I explained my situation that I'm a starving college student and have no money. He returned to me with 50/50 at first.
Long story short, they gave me an estimate of about 2500 dollars initially but the cost ended up exactly 1897.74 dollars...(torque converter, transmission, timing belt, water pump) Looking at the invoice, i think they did 75/25 on the transmission and I paid for everything else.
I personally had a pleasant experience with them and i'd recommend people with acuras go there...All in all, the tranny came with 3yr/36000 miles warranty and I'm happy...lol
Last edited by donoage; Sep 20, 2009 at 12:29 AM.
Cruisin'
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
Torque Converter Shudder.
I have an 03 TL that the dealer has diagonosed with torque converter shudder. The vehicle shudders when accelerating. When you take your foot off the gas, the vibration quits.
My dealer has checked the VIN number and tells me that is is outside of the extended warranty.
Has anyone else run into this problem?
I have an 03 TL that the dealer has diagonosed with torque converter shudder. The vehicle shudders when accelerating. When you take your foot off the gas, the vibration quits.
My dealer has checked the VIN number and tells me that is is outside of the extended warranty.
Has anyone else run into this problem?
5th Gear
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: DE
Hello everyone,
I'm new to the forum, but have been lurking for a bit to pick up info. I've got a 2000 TL that has had the tranny worked on 3 times (2 outright replacements, and one non-replace repair) all at the dealer. I'm at 156K miles now. A couple days ago, my engine light and TCS come on. I took it to a local shop to get it looked at right away, and they said Torque converter. They said they adjusted it, but if the light comes back on, it's a sign of a bigger problems. The next day I'm driving, the 2 lights come back on and when I hit the gas, the RPMs spike but the car doesn't move. I limped the car back to my place, barely.
Since it's the weekend, dealers and most shops are closed. Based on what I read here and a mechanic my fiance spoke to it looks like I've got a shot tranny. I'm bracing myself for a fight with the dealership and Acura to see what they can do for me. Based on what I read here, it looks like I can expect anything from goodwill total replacement (unlikely) to 50/50 split or just "screw you, it's all on you." If the dealer won't help me, is it even worth paying full freight for a new tranny? Or should I just scrap the car for what it's worth (new tires and rear rotors for instance) and get a new car? I don't want to drop 3-4 grand on another tranny, and cross my fingers, and I don't want to have to keep putting thousand dollar band-aids on a 9 year old car. I'm not really in a financial position to buy new, but I'd rather do that than let this car nickel and dime me to death. Any thoughts/advice would be appreciated.
I'm new to the forum, but have been lurking for a bit to pick up info. I've got a 2000 TL that has had the tranny worked on 3 times (2 outright replacements, and one non-replace repair) all at the dealer. I'm at 156K miles now. A couple days ago, my engine light and TCS come on. I took it to a local shop to get it looked at right away, and they said Torque converter. They said they adjusted it, but if the light comes back on, it's a sign of a bigger problems. The next day I'm driving, the 2 lights come back on and when I hit the gas, the RPMs spike but the car doesn't move. I limped the car back to my place, barely.
Since it's the weekend, dealers and most shops are closed. Based on what I read here and a mechanic my fiance spoke to it looks like I've got a shot tranny. I'm bracing myself for a fight with the dealership and Acura to see what they can do for me. Based on what I read here, it looks like I can expect anything from goodwill total replacement (unlikely) to 50/50 split or just "screw you, it's all on you." If the dealer won't help me, is it even worth paying full freight for a new tranny? Or should I just scrap the car for what it's worth (new tires and rear rotors for instance) and get a new car? I don't want to drop 3-4 grand on another tranny, and cross my fingers, and I don't want to have to keep putting thousand dollar band-aids on a 9 year old car. I'm not really in a financial position to buy new, but I'd rather do that than let this car nickel and dime me to death. Any thoughts/advice would be appreciated.
Suzuka Master
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 6,913
Likes: 845
From: NJ
What is the date of your last tranny replacement? There is a rumor going around that trannys replaced after Feb 2005 are more reliable, which appears to be somewhat true, but they still fail. I'd say if you get 50/50 split at the dealer, and only pay $2000 its worth it.
5th Gear
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: DE
What is the date of your last tranny replacement? There is a rumor going around that trannys replaced after Feb 2005 are more reliable, which appears to be somewhat true, but they still fail. I'd say if you get 50/50 split at the dealer, and only pay $2000 its worth it.