Hi All

First time TL buyer here (as of tomorrow) Trading in my 03 G35 with 190,000 miles on it...which has been amazing in the 4 years I had it. But before I dump a bunch of money into suspension issues, etc I figured I would look for something new. I drive a ton of miles, live in Philadelphia, and park on the street so it's not smart for my to dump a bunch of money into a car because I kill them.

Here are the details:
White 2004 with Nav (a late 04)
73,000 miles
Immaculate shape (for a 7yr old car)
No paint work other than maybe front bumper b/c it is flawless
Clean 2 owner carfax. No leases, fleet, rental, etc
Brake/rotor pulsating that dealer will fix
$12,000 after trade. (owe $3200 on my G35, $4000 for trade)

So, my request is for some help in what to look for with these cars. Pitfalls, shortcomings, preventative maintenance, etc.

I appreciate any assistance. Thanks.

 

Take it out and see if you notice any drive train vibrations around 55-65mph. If you have some, it may need new axles. I would also request an alignment before you take it home. If they let you take it out for a bit, take note on the seat memory as they have a tendency to go senile. Just hit Mem and then 1 to save a setting. After a couple restarts, see if the light is still illuminated. If it isn't, the module probably needs to be replaced.

Check over all the usual, coolant, belt, etc. Check for dash cracking. I am sure someone will chime in with some more info.

 

Thanks for the help.

How do I check for dash cracking? Is it a hidden problem or something as obvious as on the surface?

 

Check motor mounts, LCA bushings, blown bulbs in the interior(seat heater and nav console), make sure windows roll up and down freely and visible body damage.

 

Check the Navi and the Bluetooth/HFL to make sure they work-- problems can be expensive to fix in either of these.
Activate the Navi and do a couple of searches; then verbally change radio stations or the climate control settings. The voice controls for the Navi are on the back of the steering wheel and activated by pulling the switches.
With the HFL/Bluetooth, try to connect your phone (if it's one that is approved by Acura-- check the Acura website for phone carriers & models) and make sure the system talks and responds to commands. The voice control buttons are on the front of the wheel and activated by pushing.

You can look at the dash surface. If the passenger airbag outline is visible, that is normal and can be hidden by applications of vinyl cleaner and 303 Aerospace protectant.

Welcome to AZ, and G/L!

 

Thanks. I would have noticed the dash cracking but will look closer tomorrow. So applying X-303 will act as lubricant and should help prevent??

 

Still seems expensive after a $4,000 trade

Good luck though! Post up pics when you get it

 

I still owe $3200 on the car so it's actually an $800 trade.

I know wholesale on the car is right at $11,000 but there are new Potenzas on it, they are most likely replacing brakes & rotors to fix the pulsating, and in addition to the normal recon they are buffing it. I am OK paying a price fair to both parties...

 

I'd second the alignment. The new tires may be hiding the issue.

All 04s needed new rear bump stops (most 05s and newer are OK) installed due to increased toe wear when loaded. Toe should be zeroed out front and back as well.

 

Turn the sub woofer bass up and listen for any rattles in the back deck. Very common issue that the back deck rattles with bassy songs.
At least you'll save a little money with the TL's better fuel economy over the 03 G35