Hello,

I'm interested in getting an early 3rd gen TL (2004-ish). Just joined the forum to learn more about them.

Is there a sticky on what to look out for when buying a used model? As they all say, I tried the search but couldn't find anything...

I noticed there are TSBs but any other advice would greatly be appreciated.

 

Check service records, also look for any body work on the car that the seller is not telling you about. Also check car faxs.
open the hood and remove the covers, check of oil leaks around the motor, if you go to the seller house ask where they park and check of oil.
check for coolant leaks, smell around the motor if you don't see any thing.
have the seller start the car cold, most cars run great after the have warmed up.
let the car run for a few mins. parked, make sure it does not over heat.

remember to take your time, don't rush, there will be other cars out there.

I just picked up a TL a few weeks a go, i found this to be a good read on the topic

http://www.edmunds.com/advice/buying...5/article.html

 

ladius- Welcome to the forums. I encourage you to look in the 3G Garage. There is alot of good info in there.

 

an 04 TL isnt likely to have major oil or coolant leaks BUT you want to call acura with the VIN number and ask for a records search on recalls or warranty extensions-
1-800-382-2238x5 gets a human

Make sure the RECALL for power steering hose and wiper motor have been completed

TSB are technical service bulletins for the acura techs to share info- not a recall- just info for them to find problems and share fixes

Have a private shop look the car over underneath- brakes remaining?- will it need rotors$$$?
how many miles?- 105k miles is first big service- untill then its mostly oil change type stuff.
but then its suddenly 1200-1500$$$$$ for the service
If buying from acura delaer- get a CPO car with 100k mile warranty- on top of current miles if possible
The transmission likes to go out on these and thats 4 grand!!
You want a warranty to cover that for you

If buying private owner car- ask the local dealer how much for an extended 100k warranty thru acura- should be $1000-1400 iirc bumper to bumper coverage
The TPS - part of the fly by wire throttle, likes to fail also!!

Tech will check normal things like brakes- exhaust, for damage or leaks- tire wear- shock condition and frame damage from accidents etc.

CarFax is helpful BUT only knows what it was told- If you pay for a crash repair yourself- it never gets reported to carfax- only accidents the insurance paid out for get recorded.
Dont trust it as the know all source!!

For more info on what fails on 04s just read the thread titles in gen3 TL- thats whats wrong or right about the car!
The minimum repair cost starts at 400 and goes up- these are nice well built cars- and it cost to own one
Be Aware- gas needs 91 or 93 octane to run correctly- so figure the extra gas cost in your buying decision