Hi everyone,

We are considering upgrading out trusty old 1998 Acura Integra for a newer 2006 to 2008 Acura TL. We have a kid now, so four doors are in order, and we're just ready for something a little newer and nicer. We thought we wanted a TSX, but when actually test driving them, we liked the smooth, luxurious TL compared to the smaller, sportier TSX.

Doing my research, it seems that this generation TL has a great reputation for reliability, just like our Integra, which is a huge draw for us. We will be looking for something with less than 100k miles, hopefully in the 60-80k range. Are there any known issues that I should be on the lookout for with this car?

So far, I have read about getting the timing belt replaced after about 7-8 years regardless of mileage, so I will definitely be checking to see if that has been done on any car we look at. And apparently doing the water pump at the same time is ideal. Anything else that is a common issue on these cars that you would want to take a closer look at before purchasing a used model?

If purchasing from a local Acura dealer, would you also take the car to an independent mechanic for a check? I haven't purchased a used car in quite a while and I'm not sure how much I should trust a dealer. With a private sale or a non-Acura dealer, I would almost certainly get an independent mechanic to take a look.

Thanks for any thoughts you have!
Erik

 

Erik, I would advise you to get the newest TL you can afford/find.

the 07-08s received transmission changes for the better.
I believe the 06 still is plagued by transmission problems.

 

I have a 08 and love it. Ride is smooth and still has that sporty feel, but more than enough luxury to have it being far more comfortable than a same year TSX, imo.

Unless it's your only option, I'd probably stay away from a dealer just because it's a hassle. Their prices are marked up and the same car can be found for thousands less with a private seller. I don't know if a dealer will let you bring the car into a private mechanic either.

 

Thanks Justnspace.

Found this thread after posting, so I'll check some of those things as well: https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-2004-2008-93/2006-tl-common-problems-reliability-730491/

 

06 is the older 3G prior to the mid-cycle refresh. Even though the 06 isn't a bad car by any means, I would recommend sticking with the refreshed and most up to date technologically and cosmetically 07 and 08 models. They are well built cars with no major problem areas. Find a clean, as low owner as possible 07 or 08 and you should have a very enjoyable experience.

 

^agreed.

 

Definitely a 07-08 MY. Has an updated Navi, tranny, etc. Less rattles as well from what i've read.

 

Read the Fixes & Problems sub forum to get an idea of the things to keep an eye out for, but the most common 'mechanical problem' I've read about to date are:

1)04-06 AT are subject to problems

2)Front suspension the lower control arms compliance bushing/bearings are subject to wear/failure.

More veteran posters could add more detail, but in general agreement with the sentiment to get an 07-08 with as few miles as you can find.

Rev

 

Thanks everyone, hadn't realized there was such a clear difference between the 2006 and the 2007/08 refresh. We'll focus in on those two years since the price difference is pretty marginal at this point!

 

just bought a 2006 tl couple weeks ago . went from 02 type s and its a VERY nice upgrade. No probs with the car at all drives great. I would agree though 07-08 are better. I missed a 2008 type s for 12k, it didn't last more than a day on the lot LOL

 

The guys are right, Erik. Go for the newest you can afford.

 

Well, my wife was at the dealer by herself and drove a 2009 with 50k miles thinking it was in our price range. I know the 2009 is the next generation, but she loved it and of course they are asking 24k. Still keeping my eyes out for a local 2007-08 with low miles and the right colors, but that might take a while!

 

I hate the 09-2011 tl looks, I could buy one back then
But I choose the tl-s instead.

 

^ to the Nth power for me too

Rev