An honest question about reliability. Please weigh in.
#1
An honest question about reliability. Please weigh in.
Hey guys, I just have a quick question you all may be able to help me with. We bought our TL new in 2007. It's a base. It has been treated with respect, and adult driven from day 1. Most of its life has been garage kept. It now has 79,000 miles on the clock, and still looks nearly brand new.
Here's the problem...
- lower control arm bushings bad @ 67,000 miles
- oil leak (timing belt tensioner) @ 69,000 miles
- power steering pump replacement @ 69,000 miles
- a/c compressor going out @ 78,000 miles
- alternator replaced @ 79,000 miles
This is all within 12,000 miles.
Does this seem excessive to you all, or is this par for the course with a $37,000 luxury car? I honestly feel that if I had purchased an IS300 I would not be having these issues.
I have been in contact with the service manager at the dealership where we purchased the car, and I'm currently compiling information for him, and all previous Acura/Honda vehicles we have owned (brand loyalty) to see if I can get something done about the LCA and A/C compressor. If not, I'm moving to Lexus.
So, your thoughts, are these issues reasonable for this type of car, with this miles?
Here's the problem...
- lower control arm bushings bad @ 67,000 miles
- oil leak (timing belt tensioner) @ 69,000 miles
- power steering pump replacement @ 69,000 miles
- a/c compressor going out @ 78,000 miles
- alternator replaced @ 79,000 miles
This is all within 12,000 miles.
Does this seem excessive to you all, or is this par for the course with a $37,000 luxury car? I honestly feel that if I had purchased an IS300 I would not be having these issues.
I have been in contact with the service manager at the dealership where we purchased the car, and I'm currently compiling information for him, and all previous Acura/Honda vehicles we have owned (brand loyalty) to see if I can get something done about the LCA and A/C compressor. If not, I'm moving to Lexus.
So, your thoughts, are these issues reasonable for this type of car, with this miles?
#2
Registered Bike Offender
iTrader: (3)
Were these dealer-recommended repairs? Or do you maintain and inspect the vehicle yourself?
If they are dealer repairs, have you ever asked them to show you the problem areas or problem parts prior to performing the repair(s)?
Also, the compliance bushings aren't an uncommon issue. And the PS pump replacement may have not been necessary - many members have just had theirs rebuilt (or rebuilt themselves).
If they are dealer repairs, have you ever asked them to show you the problem areas or problem parts prior to performing the repair(s)?
Also, the compliance bushings aren't an uncommon issue. And the PS pump replacement may have not been necessary - many members have just had theirs rebuilt (or rebuilt themselves).
Last edited by Vlad_Type_S; 02-19-2015 at 10:21 AM.
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#3
06 Anthracite TL
All I can say is at 106+K miles, mine (06) has been incredibly reliable and has had none of what you described. Some of what you describe does seem a bit excessive for a Honda product.
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VisualEchos (02-19-2015)
#4
Chapter Leader
(Northeast Florida)
(Northeast Florida)
iTrader: (1)
I have 11 years worth of experience in reliability engineering.
Long story short - your car is basically the enigma or outlier of the reliability calculation. People define reliability in different ways.
Parts on cars go bad. You would not believe the amount of factors that go into determining the reliability of a part. The reliability a lot of times is determined by the manufacturer in a controlled environment under strict conditions, and then (maybe) a factor will be applied to it to lessen it by some amount due to "real world applications."
I'm not going to bore people with the ins and outs of reliability calculations, but suffice to say that for every case that's similar to yours, there will be several others with parts that rarely go bad in the same amount of mileage, same environment, same driving techniques, etc.
My best advice is to save a certain percentage of your income for car parts going bad.
Long story short - your car is basically the enigma or outlier of the reliability calculation. People define reliability in different ways.
Parts on cars go bad. You would not believe the amount of factors that go into determining the reliability of a part. The reliability a lot of times is determined by the manufacturer in a controlled environment under strict conditions, and then (maybe) a factor will be applied to it to lessen it by some amount due to "real world applications."
I'm not going to bore people with the ins and outs of reliability calculations, but suffice to say that for every case that's similar to yours, there will be several others with parts that rarely go bad in the same amount of mileage, same environment, same driving techniques, etc.
My best advice is to save a certain percentage of your income for car parts going bad.
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#5
Senior Moderator
Some of the things you listed are known issues with this gen's TL
namely LCA and power steering pump.
the rest I attribute to just time. (it's 8 years old after all)
Here's a tip though OP: Lexus have problems of their own. ALL cars will run into issues. Agree with gatrhumpy that part of owning a car = maintenance. It just comes with the territory.
namely LCA and power steering pump.
the rest I attribute to just time. (it's 8 years old after all)
Here's a tip though OP: Lexus have problems of their own. ALL cars will run into issues. Agree with gatrhumpy that part of owning a car = maintenance. It just comes with the territory.
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#6
Thank you guys for the responses.
At the core of my issue is the oil leak I developed at 69,000 miles. Honda is the world's largest engine manufacturer, and I honestly don't believe under any circumstances I should have had an oil leak at this mileage. Adding fire to that flame is the fact that my mother bought a Ford Taurus used with 40K on the clock (against my better judgement), and has over 100K on it right now...with the original ps pump, a/c compressor, and narry an oil leak. That more than stings.
At the core of my issue is the oil leak I developed at 69,000 miles. Honda is the world's largest engine manufacturer, and I honestly don't believe under any circumstances I should have had an oil leak at this mileage. Adding fire to that flame is the fact that my mother bought a Ford Taurus used with 40K on the clock (against my better judgement), and has over 100K on it right now...with the original ps pump, a/c compressor, and narry an oil leak. That more than stings.
#7
Were these dealer-recommended repairs? Or do you maintain and inspect the vehicle yourself?
If they are dealer repairs, have you ever asked them to show you the problem areas or problem parts prior to performing the repair(s)?
Also, the compliance bushings aren't an uncommon issue. And the PS pump replacement may have not been necessary - many members have just had theirs rebuilt (or rebuilt themselves).
If they are dealer repairs, have you ever asked them to show you the problem areas or problem parts prior to performing the repair(s)?
Also, the compliance bushings aren't an uncommon issue. And the PS pump replacement may have not been necessary - many members have just had theirs rebuilt (or rebuilt themselves).
I understand if the PS pump didn't need replacement, but if it needed work it's the same thing in my mind.
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#8
Drifting
OP...stuff happens with cars. They are mechanical. Vehicle reliability ratings are based on more than one example. There will be cars with zero issues other than normal maintenance items and there will be cars with more than their share of issues. Your oil leak is quite unusual. A question, where was it leaking? was it a seal or gasket? because those fail.
I wonder, you have a 9 year old Lotus, those are not known for their reliability.
None of us know your driving habits, or how well you maintain your car, but to answer your question, your problems are not indicative of the typical Acura/Honda reliability.
I wonder, you have a 9 year old Lotus, those are not known for their reliability.
None of us know your driving habits, or how well you maintain your car, but to answer your question, your problems are not indicative of the typical Acura/Honda reliability.
#9
Registered Bike Offender
iTrader: (3)
A failing pump and a failing o-ring shouldn't be regarded as the same type of failure, in my opinion.
gatr pretty much nailed it though. Your situation is atypical. My car just broke through 96k (2008) and the only problem I've had so far is a rear main seal leak. I've read a number of articles like this one: Acura TL - In Photos: 10 Most-Reliable Used Cars - Forbes
And the 3G TL is consistently reviewed to be one of the most reliable cars in its class. You never know what will happen with a car, it's all risk based. But statistically speaking, the 3G TL is a very safe bet.
gatr pretty much nailed it though. Your situation is atypical. My car just broke through 96k (2008) and the only problem I've had so far is a rear main seal leak. I've read a number of articles like this one: Acura TL - In Photos: 10 Most-Reliable Used Cars - Forbes
And the 3G TL is consistently reviewed to be one of the most reliable cars in its class. You never know what will happen with a car, it's all risk based. But statistically speaking, the 3G TL is a very safe bet.
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#10
She has been garage kept except for the last 2 years.
Summer. by VisualEchos, on Flickr
#11
So I guess you guys are saying that I should pay for these repairs because I'm a statistic? A bad one, unfortunately, but still a statistic. $1300 for the A/C compressor?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
#12
Senior Moderator
So I guess you guys are saying that I should pay for these repairs because I'm a statistic? A bad one, unfortunately, but still a statistic. $1300 for the A/C compressor?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
Maybe lease the next car so you don't have to worry about these types of things.
Best of luck selling the car and on whatever you get next.
#13
Three Wheelin'
Look into used or refurbished parts and independent mechanic to save $$
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VisualEchos (02-19-2015)
#14
Drifting
They just said timing belt tensioner.
You must be thinking of the older Lotus cars. My Lotus is dead reliable; Toyota engine and transmission.
I'm an adult, and use this car as my cruiser, and daily driver. I bought it to keep it forever, and have treated it with respect from day 1. In my opinion, there is very little that needs to be maintained in 80K, but I've done everything except the timing service, which I feel is unnecessary from everything I've read.
She has been garage kept except for the last 2 years.
Summer. by VisualEchos, on Flickr
You must be thinking of the older Lotus cars. My Lotus is dead reliable; Toyota engine and transmission.
I'm an adult, and use this car as my cruiser, and daily driver. I bought it to keep it forever, and have treated it with respect from day 1. In my opinion, there is very little that needs to be maintained in 80K, but I've done everything except the timing service, which I feel is unnecessary from everything I've read.
She has been garage kept except for the last 2 years.
Summer. by VisualEchos, on Flickr
I was thinking about all British cars forever...none have ever been known for their solid reliability.
I didn't mean to offend you. That being said, you saying the timing belt service recommended at 7 years/105K is unnecessary doesn't make sense to me. Since your car is now 8 years old.
#15
Chapter Leader
(Northeast Florida)
(Northeast Florida)
iTrader: (1)
So I guess you guys are saying that I should pay for these repairs because I'm a statistic? A bad one, unfortunately, but still a statistic. $1300 for the A/C compressor?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
What about shopping around for an AC compressor? I understand that you go to the dealer, but there are certainly cheaper prices to be had.
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VisualEchos (02-19-2015)
#16
Drifting
So I guess you guys are saying that I should pay for these repairs because I'm a statistic? A bad one, unfortunately, but still a statistic. $1300 for the A/C compressor?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
Good luck to you, but if you get an 8 year old Lexus with 79K on the clock, it will most likely have some issues too.
Last edited by GKinColo08TL; 02-19-2015 at 11:33 AM.
#17
Yes, the car is 8 years old, but all my research suggests that the timing service can go much, much longer than the dealer recommendation, and that it's a waste to do it so early. I won't argue the point though.
#19
Rebuild AC
I would not buy a new compressor. Mine was making a growl noise and I just rebuilt it. For pulley, bearing, and stator was around $170. Not sure what your compressor is doing but here's a link to my thread of what my problem was;
https://acurazine.com/forums/problems-fixes-114/faint-grind-noise-engine-895322/#post14650012
BTW, i like your choice of wheels.
https://acurazine.com/forums/problems-fixes-114/faint-grind-noise-engine-895322/#post14650012
BTW, i like your choice of wheels.
Last edited by 0utl; 02-19-2015 at 11:57 AM.
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VisualEchos (02-19-2015)
#20
So I guess you guys are saying that I should pay for these repairs because I'm a statistic? A bad one, unfortunately, but still a statistic. $1300 for the A/C compressor?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
I'm sorry guys, but I'll sell the car and get a Lexus before I do that. IMO it's completely unreasonable, especially given the other issues, and how the car has been treated.
Maybe I got a car made on Friday?
PS. If you think your TL is "unreliable", please own a Pontiac or a Ford for a while. Shit even the high end German cars are mostly garbage these days and are even more expensive to fix.
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VisualEchos (02-19-2015)
#21
Moderator
iTrader: (7)
everything seems reasonable(and easy fixes if you can DIY) on your list except the alternator and AC compressor. My 07 TL-S is on the original alternator and AC for the last 158k miles...never missed a beat. If it went out tomorrow I wouldn't think any less of my car because of the miles I've gotten out of them. I'd simply replace it myself and be on my way. your car may be many miles less, but time-wise it's the same age.
Last edited by paperboy42190; 02-19-2015 at 01:01 PM.
#22
Race Director
Known issue, easy DIY.
There's no way a TB tensioner is causing an oil leak. TB tensioners are known to go bad and leak themselves. Is this what the dealership meant? If so, did they actually pull the lower TB cover to look? I doubt it.
Note: If the tensioner is indeed bad, then you need to get it replaced because it could result in a broken, shredded TB and a blown engine if it fails totally.
Did Acura perform the PS safety recall on your car?
Exactly why did they say the pump needed to be replaced?
Why do they say it's "going out"? What tests did they run, if any?
Why? Post the service write-up from the dealer if you still have it.
There's no way a TB tensioner is causing an oil leak. TB tensioners are known to go bad and leak themselves. Is this what the dealership meant? If so, did they actually pull the lower TB cover to look? I doubt it.
Note: If the tensioner is indeed bad, then you need to get it replaced because it could result in a broken, shredded TB and a blown engine if it fails totally.
Did Acura perform the PS safety recall on your car?
Exactly why did they say the pump needed to be replaced?
Why do they say it's "going out"? What tests did they run, if any?
Why? Post the service write-up from the dealer if you still have it.
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#25
Senior Moderator
iTrader: (1)
It's a Honda dealership that the OP used to work at...
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VisualEchos (02-19-2015)
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#27
First, thank you all for your input, it is much appreciated! Let me take these in order.
My noise is different from yours. The Honda dealer told me that it was likely the compressor going out ($1,160.25 to replace), $1,231.15 with clutch and coil. I have a video that I took with my phone, I'll see if I can upload it to YouTube later. At any rate, looking at it, I don't think it's a job I want to do myself, unless it's easier than the alternator was.
And Lexus is even rated higher.
I'll live out my days without ever having owned an American, or German car as a reliable mode of transportation. A fun car? Sure. But not reliable transportation.
Could be, but does that mean it should be an issue? I mean, they can't make it any better than they did? Hard for me to believe honestly.
The leak was originally diagnosed as leaking crank shaft main bolts. They re-sealed these...twice, then had to dig deeper to find the leak. In the end it was found to be the timing belt tensioner, which they replaced at their cost since it was a mis-diagnosed.
No, I never got any info about this at all.
I took it in with a nose, they said it was obvious, and had seen it before.
Couldn't tell you.
I'm sure life would be easier if I weren't 110 miles from the dealer, but it's the choice I made because I trust my local dealer to be able to diagnose, and fix any problems that I can't fix myself.
Could be, but does that mean it should be an issue? I mean, they can't make it any better than they did? Hard for me to believe honestly.
No, I never got any info about this at all.
I took it in with a nose, they said it was obvious, and had seen it before.
Couldn't tell you.
I'm sure life would be easier if I weren't 110 miles from the dealer, but it's the choice I made because I trust my local dealer to be able to diagnose, and fix any problems that I can't fix myself.
#28
Racer
I believe all the 3rd gen TL have a recall for hydraulic power steering assist hose or something.
I would be cautious about the dealership you go to OP.
Also, I hope you know you could have gotten those repairs for more than half off at a local mechanic shop.
How much do you want for the TL? Knowing all the problems I hope you are reducing the price substantially?
I would be cautious about the dealership you go to OP.
Also, I hope you know you could have gotten those repairs for more than half off at a local mechanic shop.
How much do you want for the TL? Knowing all the problems I hope you are reducing the price substantially?
#29
Thanks, but I think I've explained that the dealership I go to is a good one.
I understand that, but I allow very few people to touch my car, and beyond that, repairs done by Honda is the next best thing to repairs done by Acura IMO, and in most buyer's minds as well.
When I sell the car I'll get top dollar for it, hell, everything will have been replaced .
Elemental II Desktop by VisualEchos, on Flickr
Elemental II Desktop by VisualEchos, on Flickr
#30
Senior Moderator
iTrader: (1)
I personally wouldn't do any repairs and just trade it in for the Lexus you've been talking about. In the end, you'll end up spending more on repairs than what you'll get on a trade in excellent condition.
#32
The biggest problem is finding a new car I like, the new IS is just impossibly ugly.
#33
Senior Moderator
That's not the type of person I am. I sold cars for 4 years, there is no way I'd trade the car, I'll sell it outright, free of any problems, and full documented history. I'll get top dollar within 2 weeks. It's obvious the car has been taken care of.
The biggest problem is finding a new car I like, the new IS is just impossibly ugly.
The biggest problem is finding a new car I like, the new IS is just impossibly ugly.
I don't know if it's a matter of principle or ego.. but just fix the damn thing and drive it to the ground. Unless you wanted a reason to get a new car, I don't really seewhy you're complaining if the end goal was to fix it anyway.
#35
So the type of person you are is just to see that a company has "WRONGED" you by having a "UNRELIABLE" car. So you'll fix the car (i.e. spend money on it anyway) and just sell it. What does that accomplish? Are you sticking it to Acura? "Oh, they sold me an 'unreliable car' I'm going to fix it (read: pay Acura money anyway) and then sell it! "That'll show them"
Thanks, but the car isn't for sale yet, I have to find something I like, that I also think will be more reliable as it ages. I'm pretty certain, looking at the numbers, it'll be a Lexus.
#36
Safety Car
iTrader: (7)
$1,100 to replace the AC compressor?
My girlfriends mom has a 06 Accord V6. AC compressor gave out. Hooked up gauges to diagnose it and turns out the compressor wasn't working at all.
Bought a 100% brand new (not refurbished, not remanufactured, not rebuilt) DENSO A/C compressor w/ clutch, oil & o-rings. Denso is the OEM supplier that Honda/Acura uses for the AC Compressor (as well as some other parts)
Installed it and took it to the shop I was working at and performed a full A/C service myself (Recovered, vacuumed & charged it) and it's been working ever since.
Guess how much the AC compressor w/ clutch, oil & o-ring costed? ~$200 from amazon.
It took me maybe 3 hours to do it myself the first time.
Sounds like the dealership that you worked at is ripping you off like every other dealership. Probably charging you $600-$700 for the same AC compressor you can buy yourself from amazon for only $200. And making you pay 3 hours labor (~$100/hr) and 1 hour for A/C service
Here's a link to the Denso AC compressor that fits all 2004-2008 Acura TLs
On a side note, I think it's funny how some people say "I am very picky about who gets to work on my car" and they only let the dealership service it. I can kind of understand that you bought a Acura so you only want Honda/Acura dealers working on it however there are times that independent shops can do the same job for a cheaper price.
A customer takes their car to a independent shop and the shop recommends services that needs to be done, the customer is quick to say that the shop is trying to rip them off and decline services.
BUT.
If that customer took their car to a Honda/Acura dealership and the dealership recommended services that DID NOT need to be done, the customer has no problem doing it because they are the "dealership".
One of the best mechanics I know never worked at any dealership before. Unlike the mechanics that work at the dealership my buddy is very knowledgeable about all car makes and models ranging from Dodge, GM, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Volkswagen. He's aware of TSBs, recalls & common issues for specific make, model & years.
My girlfriends mom has a 06 Accord V6. AC compressor gave out. Hooked up gauges to diagnose it and turns out the compressor wasn't working at all.
Bought a 100% brand new (not refurbished, not remanufactured, not rebuilt) DENSO A/C compressor w/ clutch, oil & o-rings. Denso is the OEM supplier that Honda/Acura uses for the AC Compressor (as well as some other parts)
Installed it and took it to the shop I was working at and performed a full A/C service myself (Recovered, vacuumed & charged it) and it's been working ever since.
Guess how much the AC compressor w/ clutch, oil & o-ring costed? ~$200 from amazon.
It took me maybe 3 hours to do it myself the first time.
Sounds like the dealership that you worked at is ripping you off like every other dealership. Probably charging you $600-$700 for the same AC compressor you can buy yourself from amazon for only $200. And making you pay 3 hours labor (~$100/hr) and 1 hour for A/C service
Here's a link to the Denso AC compressor that fits all 2004-2008 Acura TLs
On a side note, I think it's funny how some people say "I am very picky about who gets to work on my car" and they only let the dealership service it. I can kind of understand that you bought a Acura so you only want Honda/Acura dealers working on it however there are times that independent shops can do the same job for a cheaper price.
A customer takes their car to a independent shop and the shop recommends services that needs to be done, the customer is quick to say that the shop is trying to rip them off and decline services.
BUT.
If that customer took their car to a Honda/Acura dealership and the dealership recommended services that DID NOT need to be done, the customer has no problem doing it because they are the "dealership".
One of the best mechanics I know never worked at any dealership before. Unlike the mechanics that work at the dealership my buddy is very knowledgeable about all car makes and models ranging from Dodge, GM, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Volkswagen. He's aware of TSBs, recalls & common issues for specific make, model & years.
Last edited by vietxquangstah; 02-20-2015 at 07:52 PM.
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#37
Drifting
$1,100 to replace the AC compressor?
My girlfriends mom has a 06 Accord V6. AC compressor gave out. Hooked up gauges to diagnose it and turns out the compressor wasn't working at all.
Bought a 100% brand new (not refurbished, not remanufactured, not rebuilt) DENSO A/C compressor w/ clutch, oil & o-rings. Denso is the OEM supplier that Honda/Acura uses for the AC Compressor (as well as some other parts)
Installed it and took it to the shop I was working at and performed a full A/C service myself (Recovered, vacuumed & charged it) and it's been working ever since.
Guess how much the AC compressor w/ clutch, oil & o-ring costed? ~$200 from amazon.
It took me maybe 3 hours to do it myself the first time.
Sounds like the dealership that you worked at is ripping you off like every other dealership. Probably charging you $600-$700 for the same AC compressor you can buy yourself from amazon for only $200. And making you pay 3 hours labor (~$100/hr) and 1 hour for A/C service
Here's a link to the Denso AC compressor that fits all 2004-2008 Acura TLs
Amazon.com: Denso 471-1001 New Compressor with Clutch: Automotive
On a side note, I think it's funny how some people say "I am very picky about who gets to work on my car" and they only let the dealership service it. I can kind of understand that you bought a Acura so you only want Honda/Acura dealers working on it however there are times that independent shops can do the same job for a cheaper price.
A customer takes their car to a independent shop and the shop recommends services that needs to be done, the customer is quick to say that the shop is trying to rip them off and decline services.
BUT.
If that customer took their car to a Honda/Acura dealership and the dealership recommended services that DID NOT need to be done, the customer has no problem doing it because they are the "dealership".
One of the best mechanics I know never worked at any dealership before. Unlike the mechanics that work at the dealership my buddy is very knowledgeable about all car makes and models ranging from Dodge, GM, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Volkswagen. He's aware of TSBs, recalls & common issues for specific make, model & years.
My girlfriends mom has a 06 Accord V6. AC compressor gave out. Hooked up gauges to diagnose it and turns out the compressor wasn't working at all.
Bought a 100% brand new (not refurbished, not remanufactured, not rebuilt) DENSO A/C compressor w/ clutch, oil & o-rings. Denso is the OEM supplier that Honda/Acura uses for the AC Compressor (as well as some other parts)
Installed it and took it to the shop I was working at and performed a full A/C service myself (Recovered, vacuumed & charged it) and it's been working ever since.
Guess how much the AC compressor w/ clutch, oil & o-ring costed? ~$200 from amazon.
It took me maybe 3 hours to do it myself the first time.
Sounds like the dealership that you worked at is ripping you off like every other dealership. Probably charging you $600-$700 for the same AC compressor you can buy yourself from amazon for only $200. And making you pay 3 hours labor (~$100/hr) and 1 hour for A/C service
Here's a link to the Denso AC compressor that fits all 2004-2008 Acura TLs
Amazon.com: Denso 471-1001 New Compressor with Clutch: Automotive
On a side note, I think it's funny how some people say "I am very picky about who gets to work on my car" and they only let the dealership service it. I can kind of understand that you bought a Acura so you only want Honda/Acura dealers working on it however there are times that independent shops can do the same job for a cheaper price.
A customer takes their car to a independent shop and the shop recommends services that needs to be done, the customer is quick to say that the shop is trying to rip them off and decline services.
BUT.
If that customer took their car to a Honda/Acura dealership and the dealership recommended services that DID NOT need to be done, the customer has no problem doing it because they are the "dealership".
One of the best mechanics I know never worked at any dealership before. Unlike the mechanics that work at the dealership my buddy is very knowledgeable about all car makes and models ranging from Dodge, GM, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Volkswagen. He's aware of TSBs, recalls & common issues for specific make, model & years.
#38
Moderator
iTrader: (7)
I will admit, yes the TL has its own little problems like the PS pump leak and the compliance bushing cracking. But those are very easy DIYs that don't cost even $50 if you can do it yourself. I'm a big DIYer so stuff like that doesn't bother me at all.
Would a lexus PS pump leak and have cracked bushings? Maybe not, but the car does cost more, and if you have any other repairs, I guarantee it's going to cost more than the TL to fix.
So the choice is buy a TL and have cheap and easy fixes, or spend more to buy a lexus and maybe have slightly less problems. Overall the lexus will still cost more though. Acura and lexus are 2 diff manufacturers and honestly they aren't true competitors. I don't think there's a wrong choice going with either
Would a lexus PS pump leak and have cracked bushings? Maybe not, but the car does cost more, and if you have any other repairs, I guarantee it's going to cost more than the TL to fix.
So the choice is buy a TL and have cheap and easy fixes, or spend more to buy a lexus and maybe have slightly less problems. Overall the lexus will still cost more though. Acura and lexus are 2 diff manufacturers and honestly they aren't true competitors. I don't think there's a wrong choice going with either
#39
OP, by your own logic, you should not sell the TL to buy a Lexus. You should sell the TL ... to buy another TL.
Please note, this logic makes no sense, but essentially that would be the correct approach to replacing what you are effectively calling a one off lemon in an otherwise stellar quality brand based on your own experience and brand loyalty. In other words, THE TL is not the problem, rather YOUR TL is the problem, and you are unlikely to get another "lemon" especially since you already own one of the rare ones.
Please note, this logic makes no sense, but essentially that would be the correct approach to replacing what you are effectively calling a one off lemon in an otherwise stellar quality brand based on your own experience and brand loyalty. In other words, THE TL is not the problem, rather YOUR TL is the problem, and you are unlikely to get another "lemon" especially since you already own one of the rare ones.
#40
OP, by your own logic, you should not sell the TL to buy a Lexus. You should sell the TL ... to buy another TL.
Please note, this logic makes no sense, but essentially that would be the correct approach to replacing what you are effectively calling a one off lemon in an otherwise stellar quality brand based on your own experience and brand loyalty. In other words, THE TL is not the problem, rather YOUR TL is the problem, and you are unlikely to get another "lemon" especially since you already own one of the rare ones.
Please note, this logic makes no sense, but essentially that would be the correct approach to replacing what you are effectively calling a one off lemon in an otherwise stellar quality brand based on your own experience and brand loyalty. In other words, THE TL is not the problem, rather YOUR TL is the problem, and you are unlikely to get another "lemon" especially since you already own one of the rare ones.