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Hey there folks. New guy here. I don't currently own a TL (I'm a 4runner guy at the moment, but looking to get back into a car), but am very seriously considering trading for a 2005 TL, 6sp mt. Looks to be in good shape for 130k, with a bunch of work done recently (timing belt, water pump, clutch) and some aftermarket stuff (wheels, lowering suspension, exhaust).
A) Is this something I should consider? The higher mileage doesn't bother me too much (almost all of my vehicles have had more than that). Anything I should be watching out for or looking at when I go check it out?
B) Is there any way to tuck the exhaust in more than it is right now (pic below)? I think it's super tacky and looks terrible, but not necessarily a deal breaker if I can do something about it. Car would also come with the stock exhaust.
yes, the 6MT's are more stout than their automatic counterparts!!!! TL's are basically honda's...so, you get Honda reliability with the engine, regardless of miles. (high miliage doesnt scare you anyway)
your 2nd issue; the tips.
they are just tips and can be cut off with a new set welded on.
also, since waterpump and timing belt have been replaced, you're good on that front for another 100,000 miles.
you're going to need to have him further explain what that entails.
as it looks like just the tips were cut off. but who know what the previous owner may have done to that exhaust.
if he can explain or show you pictures of the stock exhaust, that will be a plus!
That rear tail light needs to go and that exhaust either returned to stock or tucked in. But the quad exhaust still looks ricey, only the type-s oem can pull it off.
I can't tell from those horrendous quality pics if there is a slight alignment issue along the hood? I'd check to see if there is any accident indicators. Proof of the work done?
That rear tail light needs to go and that exhaust either returned to stock or tucked in. But the quad exhaust still looks ricey, only the type-s oem can pull it off.
I can't tell from those horrendous quality pics if there is a slight alignment issue along the hood? I'd check to see if there is any accident indicators. Proof of the work done?
I should mention that it has a 2004 steering wheel airbag, opposed to the 2005 airbag.
Suspicious? Yes indeed.
What's the difference between the two? I just did a quick Google search and they look the same, but what do I know?
As for everyone else? I appreciate all the advice and input. I think I'm still going to take a look at it, but definitely not committing to anything before an inspection (if it gets that far).
I just dropped off my 2005 6mt with 236,000 miles (95% highway) and original clutch to get new front struts, new tires, front brakes and a new catalytic converter. The car will probably go another 150,000 miles easy and at this point i will probably keep it even when i get a new vehicle. The key is to do the maintenence faithfully.
That's incorrect. the 05 and 06 had the same airbag style as the 04.
They changed for 07 and 08. I know because I bought the newer steering wheel.
By the way, to the OP, there is a big difference between 04-06 and 07/08. The 06 got Tpms. That's about the only thing like the 07/08's it has. Otherwise the 06 is very close to the 04 and 05. There are subtle differences through out the car. Like 05 did not have a backup camera. I think 07 was the first year for that. The 07/08 will have a better transmission, and DRL's, and a Aux in for the radio, and some refinements.
I would look for an 07/08. The first thing your are going to have to do is fix that exhaust.. And I bet the list will go on!
I love my 05 TL! I would personally get a more stock TL as they are easy to come by, and then do any mods you'd like to do instead of removing theirs. Good luck!
Well, despite potential issues, I was willing to at least take a look at it. I asked about whether it had been in any accidents and haven't heard anything back in a couple of days. If that isn't a good enough answer, I'm not sure what is.
Thanks for all the help and hopefully I'll be able to find another one in decent shape (if I don't find a nice S60 first... Ha ha).
2004 TL is between 11-12 years old depending upon build date
Things I would be concerned about in no particular order
Timing belt done?
6MT syncro issue, has it been dealt with?
Suspension, is it stock or is it aftermarket?
how does the paint look close up?
how does the underside of the car look leaks, stains? excessive rust?
suspension not making any unwanted noise?
tires worn evenly?
Tires all matched or at least matched pairs?
Dash cracked?
Leather all still in one piece?
does owner have all maint records for car?
does it smell funny when running?
does it have any leaks? J series will leak at the oil pump area as mileage gets up there
2004 TL is between 11-12 years old depending upon build date
Things I would be concerned about in no particular order
Timing belt done?
6MT syncro issue, has it been dealt with?
Suspension, is it stock or is it aftermarket?
how does the paint look close up?
how does the underside of the car look leaks, stains? excessive rust?
suspension not making any unwanted noise?
tires worn evenly?
Tires all matched or at least matched pairs?
Dash cracked?
Leather all still in one piece?
does owner have all maint records for car?
does it smell funny when running?
does it have any leaks? J series will leak at the oil pump area as mileage gets up there
To add to that, check out the lower control arm bushings and compliance bushings
Motor mounts may also need to be replaced
