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I currently have an 02 RSX Base 5MT and recently was blessed with a healthy daughter....that means i need to rid the coupe and get a sedan!
I didn't like the look of the 4g initially but there is room for it to grow especially the 3.7 Tech package. Leaning towards a 3g base auto but might be sold if i find a 4g 3.7 6MT.
Would like to think i am going to run whatever TL i purchase for the rest of it's life. So i'm looking for some insight or guidance on which way might be better to go.
The 3g i looked at today, i didn't see the vins on the front and rear bumper where they are easily found on my 08 RSX. Where is it? The rear bumper looked a little off shade but i think i read that is an issue with the WDP.
1.) $11,000 listed
-08 WDP 3.2 Auto trans
-78k miles
-2nd owner since 45k
-Looked at it and drove today, has only seen one winter and so it's in great shape for a North Eastern vehicle
2.)$16,500 listed
-09 CBP 3.7 Tech AWD Auto trans
-85k miles
-2nd owner since 75k
-Rust protected undercoated
-Looking at it weds
With the 4G I've heard about oil consumption issues, torque converter issues and propeller shaft issues. Read the 4G section for more information on these problems
For the base 3G, look into maintaining the transmission often with 3x3 flushes every so often as well as changing pressure switches. The WDP is common to have mismatch issues from the factory. Easy way to tell if its a mismatch or if its been repainted is to run your finger across the edge of the bumper towards where the bumper & trunk meet to feel the roughness of overspray. Not too sure if the vins are on the bumper or not.
Have you thought about going for a TL-S with a 6spd?
With the 4G I've heard about oil consumption issues, torque converter issues and propeller shaft issues. Read the 4G section for more information on these problems
For the base 3G, look into maintaining the transmission often with 3x3 flushes every so often as well as changing pressure switches. The WDP is common to have mismatch issues from the factory. Easy way to tell if its a mismatch or if its been repainted is to run your finger across the edge of the bumper towards where the bumper & trunk meet to feel the roughness of overspray. Not too sure if the vins are on the bumper or not.
Have you thought about going for a TL-S with a 6spd?
I have not looked into the 4g issues. I will definitely before I consider buying one.
From my understanding the tranny was upgraded at 07 for the 3g and you don't need to go every 20k with a 3x3 like some members on these boards do. But I have no issue with that! I like preventive maintenance.
I wish I could go TL-S 6MT but idk if I want to pay the S type tax especially if there is a good chance it was already molested lol
The tranny was upgraded but its still advised to do so, some members have had their tranny's fail in the upgraded 07-08 models.
With a 6MT TL-S you would still have the fun of a manual and they keep their value pretty well. Very reliable too, even though some have had 3rd gear synchro issues, most were able to cure it with GM fluid changes. If you're willing to shop around and travel further you can find a clean one at a decent price.
I'm guessing an 04-06 TL would be too old for you? If not try finding a 6MT in one of those maybe and you won't pay that "Type-S" tax lol
The tranny was upgraded but its still advised to do so, some members have had their tranny's fail in the upgraded 07-08 models.
With a 6MT TL-S you would still have the fun of a manual and they keep their value pretty well. Very reliable too, even though some have had 3rd gear synchro issues, most were able to cure it with GM fluid changes. If you're willing to shop around and travel further you can find a clean one at a decent price.
I'm guessing an 04-06 TL would be too old for you? If not try finding a 6MT in one of those maybe and you won't pay that "Type-S" tax lol
I wish I was up for driving 175+ miles but I don't like to get committed to something like that if I haven't even seen the car in person yet. I was already burned once by a dealer that I drove 150 miles to go buy a jeep. Probably would for a steal TL-S 6MT. There isn't a big selection in Western NY.
04-06 Isnt too old for me. I just see that I'm only saving 2-3g if I go that route which I would rather take the upgrades that game along with the 07+.
The 4g has oil consumption issues only on the awd with the 3.7 If awd isn't absolutely necessary you could get the 3.5 and avoid the problem.
Thanks for the info but if it's just a matter of dumping half a qt in between oil changes then that is a minor issue. My Honda cbr1000rr burns oil too. Just keep an eye on it and add more when needed
https://acurazine.com/forums/problem...mption-905239/ take a read, it may not be just half a quart between oil changes which can turn into a big problem since you're deciding for keep the car in the long haul. Maybe find out if the 4G you're looking at has the warranty still or an extended plan
The 3.5 FWD model would be ideal for the 4G since they seem to avoid many of the common 4G issues
That 4G you posted looks sexy due to the interior, but beyond that, man, the exterior is still something
After having one of my cars under coated, I honestly think it's a waste of money. I know you guys use a lot more salt out east, but, I've never seen a newer car (since like 2000+) rusting from the underside in a horrendous manner. Also, the undercoating only covers the body and none of the suspension or brake parts, meaning the nuts and bolts will still be seized as fuck. You also have to redo the undercoating every so often, as it eventually begins to deteriorate. I had a '99 civic that I bought used in 2010 and it had the undercoating done also. You could see it falling off in a number of places and even when I sold the car in 2013, the body still looked good from underneath. Everything else? Not so much.
While the 3G has it's share of problems, oil consumption isn't one of them. I hate oil consumption. If you're burning oil, you're also losing a bit of compression and if you're losing compression, you're losing a bit of power. Plus, it just seems to get progressively worse over time. You also don't know if the current owner ever starved the engine of oil, until the light came on indicating so. If that happened, engine damage has already occurred.
I like the concept of the 4G (AWD, 6MT, nice OEM wheels, nice interior), but I feel it was somewhat poorly executed. I feel the 3G is definitely a timeless design. I can't even count how many times people say "I like your car. It looks fancy" and I reply with "yeah it's not bad for a ten year old car", followed by looks of from them. People seem to think its half that age.
I'm surprised you left the 3G TL-S 6MT off your list. If I was to do it again, that's what I'd be hunting for.
https://acurazine.com/forums/problem...mption-905239/ take a read, it may not be just half a quart between oil changes which can turn into a big problem since you're deciding for keep the car in the long haul. Maybe find out if the 4G you're looking at has the warranty still or an extended plan
The 3.5 FWD model would be ideal for the 4G since they seem to avoid many of the common 4G issues
I really wouldn't even be considering that 4G if it wasn't for that Carmel interior or whatever it is. It would at least make it seem like to me that I'm in a whole different class of car.
Thank you for the OC issue. I was just generalizing the and am not informed about the specific 3.7 motor.
Originally Posted by TacoBello
That 4G you posted looks sexy due to the interior, but beyond that, man, the exterior is still something
After having one of my cars under coated, I honestly think it's a waste of money. I know you guys use a lot more salt out east, but, I've never seen a newer car (since like 2000+) rusting from the underside in a horrendous manner. Also, the undercoating only covers the body and none of the suspension or brake parts, meaning the nuts and bolts will still be seized as fuck. You also have to redo the undercoating every so often, as it eventually begins to deteriorate. I had a '99 civic that I bought used in 2010 and it had the undercoating done also. You could see it falling off in a number of places and even when I sold the car in 2013, the body still looked good from underneath. Everything else? Not so much.
While the 3G has it's share of problems, oil consumption isn't one of them. I hate oil consumption. If you're burning oil, you're also losing a bit of compression and if you're losing compression, you're losing a bit of power. Plus, it just seems to get progressively worse over time. You also don't know if the current owner ever starved the engine of oil, until the light came on indicating so. If that happened, engine damage has already occurred.
I like the concept of the 4G (AWD, 6MT, nice OEM wheels, nice interior), but I feel it was somewhat poorly executed. I feel the 3G is definitely a timeless design. I can't even count how many times people say "I like your car. It looks fancy" and I reply with "yeah it's not bad for a ten year old car", followed by looks of from them. People seem to think its half that age.
I'm surprised you left the 3G TL-S 6MT off your list. If I was to do it again, that's what I'd be hunting for.
Thanks for the input. The 4g exterior doesn't compare. 3G is much more of a timeless design.
As far as undercoating goes, if you have the right shop doing it, you will still want to keep up with it every couple years. It can save a lot.
I guess I am misleading in my original post. The dream is a TL-S 6MT but I guess they are referred to as unicorns around here for a reason?
I think the 4G has a nice futuristic design. Maybe people will think it looked nice in 10 years from now?
About rusty nuts...I bought an 04 from up North and BOY was that rusty as hell...shoot, even the subframe had to be swapped out from another one already.
I've owned both. 4G is performance, power and if you have the right color combo absolutely amazing, the finishes on the interior in my opinion are great and the seats are very very very nice.
3G is an awesome vehicle other than green...I can't with a green car. I would suggest grabbing that TL-s Manual. Else you will be driving your car drooling over wanting that TL-s manual. Trust me, it happens all the time to Aziners.
TL-S 6MT's are considered unicorns, especially in colours such as Kinetic Blue Pearl, Moroccan Red Pearl & Carbon Bronze Pearl.
As much as they are said to be unicorns, it's not like these were made in super low production numbers. Good examples (well maintained mechanically and physically) are starting to pop up a little more frequently. You just have to act timely when you see these cars pop-up. Check the AZ black market as you can usually find good examples of 3G & 4G's popping up there.
I currently have an 02 RSX Base 5MT and recently was blessed with a healthy daughter....that means i need to rid the coupe and get a sedan!
I didn't like the look of the 4g initially but there is room for it to grow especially the 3.7 Tech package. Leaning towards a 3g base auto but might be sold if i find a 4g 3.7 6MT.
Would like to think i am going to run whatever TL i purchase for the rest of it's life. So i'm looking for some insight or guidance on which way might be better to go.
The 3g i looked at today, i didn't see the vins on the front and rear bumper where they are easily found on my 08 RSX. Where is it? The rear bumper looked a little off shade but i think i read that is an issue with the WDP.
1.) $11,000 listed
-08 WDP 3.2 Auto trans
-78k miles
-2nd owner since 45k
-Looked at it and drove today, has only seen one winter and so it's in great shape for a North Eastern vehicle
2.)$16,500 listed
-09 CBP 3.7 Tech AWD Auto trans
-85k miles
-2nd owner since 75k
-Rust protected undercoated
-Looking at it weds
I don't know about the undercoating. I've seen some manufactures state in the manual that an underbody coating voids the corrosion warranty because it typically plugs/blocks the underbody drain plugs.
If it looks to be in good shape tho, I'd go for the 4G. The Bluetooth implementation in the 3G is horrible.
I've owned both. 4G is performance, power and if you have the right color combo absolutely amazing, the finishes on the interior in my opinion are great and the seats are very very very nice.
3G is an awesome vehicle other than green...I can't with a green car. I would suggest grabbing that TL-s Manual. Else you will be driving your car drooling over wanting that TL-s manual. Trust me, it happens all the time to Aziners.
You're right I would love to get TL-S 6MT if I come across one. But at the same time I think the 3G 5AT will be good for possible resell. I'm not looking to get a great performer. I want a comfy sexy smooth ride with a touch of luxury which is what I expect from the TL. If I was concerned enough with the performance aspect, I might go all in and buy a Focus RS.
I drove the 3g 5AT and floored it from about 10mph and it felt Meh but good enough. Idk if I'd want a 280hp FWD.
I had a 2014 4G SH-AWD TL as a loaner and didn't really care for the interior, I would go for the 07-08 3G hands down. It's a great hwy cruiser, my parents TL netted 33 MPG between MI and WI this past weekend.
You're right I would love to get TL-S 6MT if I come across one. But at the same time I think the 3G 5AT will be good for possible resell. I'm not looking to get a great performer. I want a comfy sexy smooth ride with a touch of luxury which is what I expect from the TL. If I was concerned enough with the performance aspect, I might go all in and buy a Focus RS.
I drove the 3g 5AT and floored it from about 10mph and it felt Meh but good enough. Idk if I'd want a 280hp FWD.
The TL-S isn't a full balls-out performance car so it still maintains its comfortable and smooth driving qualities. The TL-S 6MT isn't a handful to drive unless you matt it to the floor from a dig. Drives like a normal TL in regular cruising
If your considering a 4th gen auto than why not a Type s auto?? I REALLY wanted a manual S BUT AM VERY HAPPY with my auto type S.They are not "balls ouy'' performance cars .Just nicer and a touch quicker than their lesser siblings.
If your considering a 4th gen auto than why not a Type s auto?? I REALLY wanted a manual S BUT AM VERY HAPPY with my auto type S.They are not "balls ouy'' performance cars .Just nicer and a touch quicker than their lesser siblings.
I have my 2006 3g TL 6MT black for sale in Las Vegas. 74,500mi 18" rims, Conti tires. Absolutely NO issues. Not sure how to list it here but it is on Craigs.
The TL-S isn't a full balls-out performance car so it still maintains its comfortable and smooth driving qualities. The TL-S 6MT isn't a handful to drive unless you matt it to the floor from a dig. Drives like a normal TL in regular cruising
I'm sure having that extra torque and hp is definitely a nice feeling. And that 6th gear would be nice too.
Kind of leaning more towards an 09 G37 now to be honest. Very similar pricing to TL Base and it's a rwd with similar specs to the TL-S....And more of an aftermarket. I would bet a tad more fun to drive. Also appear to be very reliable cars along with the TLs. Just not as finished on the inside as Acura.
I know it's probably been debated 1000s of times on here.
I'd rather have a rwd v6 than a fwd. Unless I get the owner of the white 08 TL 5AT 80K miles to take $9500. It was in great shape and has only seen 1 winter or two.
I'm sure having that extra torque and hp is definitely a nice feeling. And that 6th gear would be nice too.
Kind of leaning more towards an 09 G37 now to be honest. Very similar pricing to TL Base and it's a rwd with similar specs to the TL-S....And more of an aftermarket. I would bet a tad more fun to drive. Also appear to be very reliable cars along with the TLs. Just not as finished on the inside as Acura.
I know it's probably been debated 1000s of times on here.
G37 is a nice car to drive but as you said the finish inside is not as great. Another thing the TL-S has over the G37 is that you don't see as many on the road which makes it feel special to some people and the resale value is much better on Acura's in general compared to Infiniti's. The TL-S (6MT anyways) is much better on fuel than the G37 with a comparative 6MT or the 7AT even. Not sure if they still used a 5AT in the G37 in the early years though. VQ motors tend to use more fuel than J-series from my past experience anyways in real-world driving and word of mouth from other owners.
A big plus to the G37 is that it is a timing chain motor whereas the TL-S will need roughly $600-$900 for the 105k (mile) maintenance which consists of the timing belt, water pump, spark plugs, thermostat and depending on how noisy the motor is, a valve adjustment too
That 3G TL doesn't have nav and you'll regret not getting one with the nav!
Go with the 4G and keep an eye on the oil level. Some burn oil but many don't. It's believed that the issue is the Nikasil liner pitting/wearing due to bad fuel or 0W-20 oil being used. Acura is helping out customers whose cars are burning 1quart/1K miles by replacing the engine.
Torque Converter warranty is now 10yrs/100K on 2009 TL's.
4G is the much better buy, newer and you don't have to worry about ipod input! Insurance will be close to the same too.
12-21-2015 | 09:49 PM
from them. People seem to think its half that age. 
