Hi all,

I'm new to the forum and am considering purchasing an 07/08 Acura TL or TL Type-S with an automatic transmission. My 97 Camry was unfortunately rear-ended at a yield sign, and it is very likely that the other drivers insurance is going to total the car.

From the research I've done so far, it seems there are a few trends of common issues experienced by owners:

1. Cracked dashboard (manufacturing defect, despite care taken it seems to be a matter of when and not if)

2. Transmission issues (my understanding is that the automatic transmission's in 04-06 TL's had 2nd gear issues, but transmission's for 07/08 had all issues resolved). Can anyone clarify this or confirm?

3. Electrical issues (I've seen something about the HFL failing but am not sure what other sensors to check or keep an eye out for).

If anyone can provide additional information or insight as to what I should be aware of or considering while having the car inspected prior to purchasing it would be greatly appreciated!

 

1.) Yep, that sums it up.
2.) I don't have an auto...but in general, less complaints about the 07-08. Overall maintenance of the transmission seems to be more important here than which year of the car.
3.) HFL and TPM are the only "common" ones I can think of. Lately there has been more talk about the relays for the fans, but that still isn't exactly "common".

Anything else? There are lots of previous posts about this exact topic out there. Pretty sure at least 3 in the past 6 months.
- Check the all the bushings in the front suspension
- Check the power steering for leaks
- Check the mileage and when the TB was last done

As I already stated, I know someone had posted a much longer list of items to check in the past few months.

 

Thanks! I will make sure to go back to locate other posts on the forum related to this.

I think I've also seen a few issues with iPhones beyond the 6 having issues connecting to the factory bluetooth system. I am considering purchasing one with a nav system and swapping out the factory audio system for a double DIN receiver with Apple Carplay.

I'm trying to find something with around 80K miles or less, I assume that would still be a milage that is going to net me a reliable car for 3-4 years with a thorough pre-purchase inspection?

 

I have had my '05 for 11 years now and have put 140K additional miles on it (180k miles now) with very little issues. As long as maintenance has been kept up over its lifetime, these will generally run for a long time.

 

i just picked up a 08 Type S less than a week ago... but i'm pretty experienced in the acura lineup..but here was my checklist you can use:

Air conditioning / HVAC - blowing cold?

Lights internal/external - all working?

Heated seats - works fine, switches light up when ON?

Wipers - works fine?

Windows roll up/down/auto - works fine?

Stereo – CD readable? -

2 keys - yes (and gray valet key)

Hood struts lift properly - hood are gas struts and dont need a prop.

Sunroof open/close/tilt - working

Underbody leaks - TLs are notorious for engine seal leak

Any CEL or dash lights -

Power steering noise - if you hear moaning, but its an easy fix via a o-ring.

Horn - working?

Matching VINS on all panels

Windshield chips/cracks -

Wheel curbage

Car idle feel - engine at idle was smooth, no chirping noises

overall paint condition - superficial scratches. minimal dings, any paint peeling off?

dashboard cracks -

bluetooth module connection test

timing belt /water pump done? ask for proof.

signals/hazard lights work?

codes for navi./stereo?

age of battery?

condition of tires?

 

1. Cracked dashboard (manufacturing defect, despite care taken it seems to be a matter of when and not if)

Yes this is true


2. Transmission issues (my understanding is that the automatic transmission's in 04-06 TL's had 2nd gear issues, but transmission's for 07/08 had all issues resolved). Can anyone clarify this or confirm?

Transmission in the 07-08 has improved design over the 04-06 its completely different than 04-06, they also come with couple newer techs found within the cabin and driver comfort.


3. Electrical issues (I've seen something about the HFL failing but am not sure what other sensors to check or keep an eye out for).



Beside HFL, 3g tl doesn't have much of electronic issue (if the car has navi make sure it work or use non working navi as room for negotiation)

 

1. Mine if fine with no sign of any cracking....knock on plastic.
2. 07 is much improved over previous generation....I had a 99 with 2 replacements. Change fluid (3x3) on regular basis and you are fine. Again, I have original transmission with 290,000 miles and doing fine.
3/4. HFL very common. As far as other mechanicals, check rear main seal or oil pump for leak. Can be minor and not need fixing, but common problem. Be sure that common issues like power steering hose and O ring have been fixed. Give suspension a good look for wear.

If properly maintained, the 07+ models can be great cars.

 

1) Power-Steering O-Ring has been known to be of improper size and may need to be replaced. If possible, check the car out on a cooler, damp morning.
2) The control arm bushings in the front have been known to crack prematurely. Rotate the wheels and attempt to inspect; bring a flashlight with you.

As other members have noted, the car is wonderfully robust. I'm at 230k at the moment on my original clutch.

 

Another thing to check is the axles; they have a tendency to rust out between the damper and the axle shaft and break.