I'm about to close a deal on a 2008 TL Type S (auto). It has ~70K miles. From what I've read here, transmission (3 pressure) and vibrations (mounts, etc) are seem to be the top "issues". When I test drove the car yesterday, I did experience the vibration/shaking under light to heavy acceleration from stop to about ~35 mph?? As soon as I let off the gas pedal; it stops. The Acura dealer is looking to replace whatever is the culprit. Based on what I've read...could be axle and/or drive shaft. Hopefully they'll fix that. I didn't notice any issue with the trans "slipping". Anything tips to help pin point the issue? Also, anything else I should pay close attention to? Thanks in advance.

 

welcome and sub'd for results

 

Hi

I have had a couple automatic Type S TL's and cant say I have ever felt what you are describing. If I had to guess though like you said engine mounts sound like a good place to start. As far as I know the 07 and 08 Type S tranny is pretty solid unlike the 04-06 TL's. Hopefully they get that sorted out and you can get that thing!! :-)

 

I've never experienced the vibrating you are getting, but make sure you check out:

The hfl is functional and not stuck at 'booting up'.
Check the condition of the lower control arm bushings and motor mounts (look for cracks, etc.)

 

Sounds like a engine mount, but it should persist at any speed so long as they are under load.

 

Under load, check inner CV joints, half-shaft (intermediate driveshaft) bearing.

At 70k, make sure it has had the AT fluid serviced on record and have them do a fresh 3x3 before buying.

It would be more useful to post the gear and RPM you experienced the shudder / vibration. Was there any noise as well?

 

Could also be warped rotors or bent wheels. Make sure those are checked as well?

 

Here's what I've experienced with my Type S: https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-2004-2008-93/new-tl-s-owner-4-month-impressions-884488/

If it's into 3rd or 4th gear, it's probably Transmission related (and possibly switches)--which is what it sounds like because it ceases when you stop accelerating. Mine felt like a periodic fast pulsing or rubber-banding feeling before shifting into the next gear--like it couldn't make up it's mind to shift for a couple seconds. Others have had other symptoms. Count the shifts from a dead stop by watching the tach to help identify which gear has the problem.

Definitely get satisfaction on this problem before you buy, and see what standard included drive train warranty you can negotiate. It's a great car when maintained, and this one has very low mileage. Hope it's a good buy price wise.

 

Thanks all for the responses. Here's the update....and yes I brought her home yesterday!!!

The dealer replaced the driveshaft (R). The issue I described has been fixed. I guess it was more like a shudder-like shaking. So far, I'm very happy with it. I did get a 2yr/24mo extended warranty...just for peace of mind. I did read a lot here about transmission going bad. It was only $1700...so why not. Pretty much their top of line tier. Only thing it doesn't cover is maint...but that's standard. Plus, I don't expect it to "break and fall apart"...hence, why I purchased an Acura!!

 

congrats hybrid!

 

welcome to the site, you can register your color here https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-2004-2008-93/tl-owners-please-chime-855960/ thnx.

 

You'll love it!

 

BTW post pics for us.

 

Some pics finally. Sorry, I'm sure I could have done a little better "photography", but you all get the idea The main reason is I wanted to show my recent "mod"....tint. SunTek CPX 35% all around. It does look darker in the pic...how it was taken.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/6690524...in/photostream

Correction....CXP, not CPX. Also, in case the other pic didn't show up.

 

Welcome Hybrid-enjoy your new ride.


Be sure to join our Type S and our Silver TL Social Groups from the links below my signature.