I plan on buying a 2008 tl type-s [maybe a 2007] My research says they fixed the transmission problem in 2008 and so that would be my choice. This will be my first acura and my nicest car since my 1979 trans am [30 years ago] any advice, tips, secrets will be appreciated.

 

07-08 automatic transmissions are better than 04-06 automatic. Nevertheless, transmission maintenance is often overlooked and it's a good idea to do a transmission fluid drain and fill.
Manual cars do not suffer from these issues.

Otherwise the TL is a pretty reliable car.

 

I am confused now, another new guy says he has a 2006 type s, did they make the s in 2006?

 

Absolutely not. 07 and 08 are the only years for third generation Acura TL-S.

 

Thanks!

 

 

so.......a 2004-06 tl base with the 6 speed MT is about the same as a 07-08 type s? what is different on the 04-06 base tl with MT or the AT? Just the trannys or are other things different?

 

is that a base tl? with a 6mt? what else makes it a "sport"?

 

Difference between 04-06 AT and 04-06 MT is transmission, stiffer swaybars, bigger brakes in the front. Engine is the same. Look is the same.

Nobody really calls it "sport". It's usually called "6MT".

 

ok. another ? are the mt reliable and what is an aspec kit and how do i get one and how hard are they to put on?

 

MT is as reliable as they come. Fluid change is always a good idea to improve responsiveness (plus often ignored maintenance) and so is the clutch valve delete (easy mod).
A-spec kit is an aerodynamic package made by Acura to fit on the car to give a more aggressive look. They are starting to become quite rare and you might want to contact one of the approved vendors on Acurazine or look at the marketplace for one.

 

My two cents:
The '07-'08 got the new AT, and I'd lean in that direction. But don't let that stop you from a pampered '04-'06...
I've had earlier ones still going strong heading for 200K territory, and never had a problem--preventive maintenance goes a long way!
The Type-Ss carry a $2-5K premium, and my takeaway is they've been driven a tad harder, but owners put a lot more into 'em, too.
The TLs have a major maintenance milestone around 100K, so take that into consideration.

Otherwise, the combined knowledge here can help get you through anything that might come up.
Happy hunting!

 

Some good advice posted. Welcome to AZ and good luck with your 3rd Gen TL (TL-S) search.