Should I buy a TL?
08-09-2012, 01:35 PM
#1
7th Gear
Thread Starter
Should I buy a TL?
I have recently begun searching for a new (to me) car and I have always loved the 3rd Gen TLs.
In my very limited time here I've read a few threads in an attempt to determine what kind of issues are common to these cars.
A lot of what I've been able to find is somewhat old info. However, I've not had the time to really search through the forums. I just joined today, but have lurked for a couple of weeks.
I've noticed a fair amount of discussion on transmissions - especially autos. Would a manual tranny be a better choice for reliability? Yes, they are more fun to drive, but reliability is much more important to me.
I drove an '04 TL and noticed a vibration when cruising at highway speeds. I believe this seems to be a common problem, but I have not been able to tell if a diagnosis has been found. Has this been addressed or is there a known cause? Does this impact certain model years more than others?
Finally, would I be better off avoiding 2004 cars? Seems manufacturers always have more bugs to work out when introducing a new generation.
Basically I want a car I can drive into the 300k mark so I need something that will last me a LONG time.
Sorry for the noob questions, but any information provided by you TL veterans would be GREATLY appreciated!
In my very limited time here I've read a few threads in an attempt to determine what kind of issues are common to these cars.
A lot of what I've been able to find is somewhat old info. However, I've not had the time to really search through the forums. I just joined today, but have lurked for a couple of weeks.
I've noticed a fair amount of discussion on transmissions - especially autos. Would a manual tranny be a better choice for reliability? Yes, they are more fun to drive, but reliability is much more important to me.
I drove an '04 TL and noticed a vibration when cruising at highway speeds. I believe this seems to be a common problem, but I have not been able to tell if a diagnosis has been found. Has this been addressed or is there a known cause? Does this impact certain model years more than others?
Finally, would I be better off avoiding 2004 cars? Seems manufacturers always have more bugs to work out when introducing a new generation.
Basically I want a car I can drive into the 300k mark so I need something that will last me a LONG time.
Sorry for the noob questions, but any information provided by you TL veterans would be GREATLY appreciated!
08-09-2012, 01:40 PM
#2
YES, the 6mt tranny is pretty much bullet proof.
the only thing to have to worry about is the clutch. since you're going to be buying USED, the condition of the clutch might be well, USED.
Yes, please avoid the 2004s as they were the first of this generation.
they since fixed several kinks out.
I'd try to get an 06 or newer.
in 06 they implemented TPMS, or tire pressure monitoring system.
My '06 6MT has 54k miles on her. and she will EASILY last 10 years.
with the problem of buying used, is that you're going to be looking at BEAT up cars.
with mileage in the 80's-100k mark.
these cars are generally bullet proof, but that doesnt stop it from breaking down if some one didnt care for the car.
the only thing to have to worry about is the clutch. since you're going to be buying USED, the condition of the clutch might be well, USED.
Yes, please avoid the 2004s as they were the first of this generation.
they since fixed several kinks out.
I'd try to get an 06 or newer.
in 06 they implemented TPMS, or tire pressure monitoring system.
My '06 6MT has 54k miles on her. and she will EASILY last 10 years.
with the problem of buying used, is that you're going to be looking at BEAT up cars.
with mileage in the 80's-100k mark.
these cars are generally bullet proof, but that doesnt stop it from breaking down if some one didnt care for the car.
Last edited by justnspace; 08-09-2012 at 01:42 PM.
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Darth Tabasco (08-09-2012)
08-09-2012, 01:47 PM
#3
Moderator
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^Agreed with everything BUT the 2004 thing. Mine has almost 123k on it and runs like a champ.
The only gripe I have against my car is that the rear calipers keep seizing and have to be replaced. I think I've gone through 3 or 4 total and it gets annoying.
Besides some interior rattles and the fact that the rear seat can't be folded down, the TL has treated me great!
The only gripe I have against my car is that the rear calipers keep seizing and have to be replaced. I think I've gone through 3 or 4 total and it gets annoying.
Besides some interior rattles and the fact that the rear seat can't be folded down, the TL has treated me great!
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Darth Tabasco (08-09-2012)
08-09-2012, 02:06 PM
#4
takin care of Business in
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^^^ I concur with both these reviews....also to mention Tyler and I have an AT....justn has a MT....
I have a 162K miles on my AT and she runs just fine
If $$$ permits, do look into a Type S....they do offer many things
I have a 162K miles on my AT and she runs just fine
If $$$ permits, do look into a Type S....they do offer many things
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Darth Tabasco (08-09-2012)
08-09-2012, 02:07 PM
#5
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Get a Type-S. Navi and Brembos standard are a win. Plus you get all sorts of other goodies.
08-09-2012, 02:24 PM
#6
7th Gear
Thread Starter
I wish a Type-S was in the budget, but I'm only looking to spend around $12k. I know that puts me in the ballpark of 100k mileage cars, but I'm coming from a '94 Honda Accord with 296k...lol
Great responses so far.
What about the vibration issue? Is this a widespread problem?
Great responses so far.
What about the vibration issue? Is this a widespread problem?
08-09-2012, 02:26 PM
#7
Moderator
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My car is lowered so I don't experience the same stuff as a TL at stock height. However, before I lowered it, I don't recall having any vibrations at highway speeds.
Maybe the car you drove needed an alignment or new tires? Maybe the wheel weights have come off?
Maybe the car you drove needed an alignment or new tires? Maybe the wheel weights have come off?
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08-09-2012, 02:33 PM
#8
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^^^ THIS
no vibrations....yeah there are some rattles here and there but no vibrations....
no vibrations....yeah there are some rattles here and there but no vibrations....
08-09-2012, 02:59 PM
#9
Drifting
i had some minor vibration back on the OEM wheels, but was cured by putting hub centering rings. i think some of the OEM wheels arent a snug fit on the front hubs, causing it to not be centered and that uneven-ness (i think) caused the vibration. others fixed their issue by alignment.
overall if you can find a nice, low miles model thats at least 06 or newer, you should be fine.
overall if you can find a nice, low miles model thats at least 06 or newer, you should be fine.
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Darth Tabasco (08-09-2012)
08-09-2012, 03:24 PM
#10
7th Gear
Thread Starter
I mentioned to the salesman the vibration and asked if the alignment or wheel balance could be checked. He told me he'd look into it and never called me back.
Car shopping is such a PITA. I find it sad that consumers can easily know more about cars than the people that actually sell cars for a living. I can rattle off numbers and stats and problem areas, and they basically nod their head in agreement basically showing they are pretty much unfamiliar with the car.
Thanks again for the replies. Please continue to share the pros and cons of the TL.
Car shopping is such a PITA. I find it sad that consumers can easily know more about cars than the people that actually sell cars for a living. I can rattle off numbers and stats and problem areas, and they basically nod their head in agreement basically showing they are pretty much unfamiliar with the car.
Thanks again for the replies. Please continue to share the pros and cons of the TL.
08-09-2012, 03:39 PM
#12
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I've met so many stupid ass salespeople. Granted I've met a few great ones but for the most part they are stupid.
08-09-2012, 03:48 PM
#13
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hahaha aint that the tuff....
i was helping a friend of mine buy a 2006 TL....while taking a test drive the sales man was telling her...."this is soo powerful has like 270 HP to the wheels"....i almost choked on my spit....
i told him thats how much the engine makes and its only 210-ish to the wheels....and he kept saying how i dont know anything about Acuras....when we got back i showed him my car and he shut up after that LOL
i was helping a friend of mine buy a 2006 TL....while taking a test drive the sales man was telling her...."this is soo powerful has like 270 HP to the wheels"....i almost choked on my spit....
i told him thats how much the engine makes and its only 210-ish to the wheels....and he kept saying how i dont know anything about Acuras....when we got back i showed him my car and he shut up after that LOL
08-09-2012, 07:46 PM
#14
Suzuka Master
OP vibration while driving is issue common with most used car, the cause can be simple as tire balancing issue or tire has an uneven spot. Bending rim, bad tire rod, suspension component wear out that could be also an issue. 04 AT seem to have issue but I seen people in my area bought brand new back in 04 and still ran like a champ, but to be safe just trying to stay away from that year going to 05-06 model. If you ever end up buy a AT just get the 3x3 ATF and do 3rd&4th pressure switch replace.
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Darth Tabasco (08-10-2012)
08-09-2012, 08:45 PM
#15
I have a 04 6Mt with 190km on her. After I gave her some love, she ride's like new except some interior rattles.
I did experience some vibrations in the past, changed the axles and bammmm, nothing since.
I would not be afraid to buy an 04 if the exterior paint is clean and you have all maintenance records
I did experience some vibrations in the past, changed the axles and bammmm, nothing since.
I would not be afraid to buy an 04 if the exterior paint is clean and you have all maintenance records
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Darth Tabasco (08-10-2012)
08-09-2012, 11:06 PM
#16
before you buy a TL check to see what your insurance rates will be. a Type S will cost you more to insure.
2004-2005? stay away from the auto version. that trans is glass and it will most likely die
2006+ you are good to go auto or manual
2004-2005? stay away from the auto version. that trans is glass and it will most likely die
2006+ you are good to go auto or manual
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Darth Tabasco (08-10-2012)
08-10-2012, 07:15 AM
#18
7th Gear
Thread Starter
08-10-2012, 07:23 AM
#19
as mentioned, the trannies are made of glass.
you'll want to change out the fluid.
and to do that, you'll have to do a 3x3 drain and fill.
you'll want to drain 3 quarts, then fill 3 quarts.
then a short ride around the neighborhood.
DO THIS 3 TIMES.
in order to get ALL of the old fluid out
you'll want to change out the fluid.
and to do that, you'll have to do a 3x3 drain and fill.
you'll want to drain 3 quarts, then fill 3 quarts.
then a short ride around the neighborhood.
DO THIS 3 TIMES.
in order to get ALL of the old fluid out
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08-10-2012, 02:21 PM
#22
Burning Brakes
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as mentioned, the trannies are made of glass.
you'll want to change out the fluid.
and to do that, you'll have to do a 3x3 drain and fill.
you'll want to drain 3 quarts, then fill 3 quarts.
then a short ride around the neighborhood.
DO THIS 3 TIMES.
in order to get ALL of the old fluid out
you'll want to change out the fluid.
and to do that, you'll have to do a 3x3 drain and fill.
you'll want to drain 3 quarts, then fill 3 quarts.
then a short ride around the neighborhood.
DO THIS 3 TIMES.
in order to get ALL of the old fluid out
know that if you took it to a dealer, they'll just do a single drain and refill. They will not flush 3x3.
So I would highly recommend doing this yourself to ensure it is done properly (not worth taking the chance), and we have DIY threads on the forum for this.
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Darth Tabasco (08-13-2012)
08-10-2012, 04:37 PM
#23
Advanced
Yes most definitely should get a TL. I have a 06 AT and the only major issue I can tell you with 06 AT is the tranny going bad. I had mine rebuilt recently after hitting 100k. Some people have gone through 2-3 already. Other than that, there really isn't any issue. Minor things like transmission mounts wearing out and HFL (Hands Free Link) unit burning out are also common but lot cheaper to get fixed.
I love my TL! It just needs tender love and care =]
I love my TL! It just needs tender love and care =]
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Darth Tabasco (08-13-2012)
08-10-2012, 05:00 PM
#24
David_Dude
To add what everyone said of the possible vibration issues in the car you tested, did it vibrate as you were accelerating? Could've been a bad motor/tranny mount(s). If it was more of a constant thing then I would've checked into what was posted earlier (tires, suspension, etc).
hahaha aint that the tuff....
i was helping a friend of mine buy a 2006 TL....while taking a test drive the sales man was telling her...."this is soo powerful has like 270 HP to the wheels"....i almost choked on my spit....
i told him thats how much the engine makes and its only 210-ish to the wheels....and he kept saying how i dont know anything about Acuras....when we got back i showed him my car and he shut up after that LOL
i was helping a friend of mine buy a 2006 TL....while taking a test drive the sales man was telling her...."this is soo powerful has like 270 HP to the wheels"....i almost choked on my spit....
i told him thats how much the engine makes and its only 210-ish to the wheels....and he kept saying how i dont know anything about Acuras....when we got back i showed him my car and he shut up after that LOL
as mentioned, the trannies are made of glass.
you'll want to change out the fluid.
and to do that, you'll have to do a 3x3 drain and fill.
you'll want to drain 3 quarts, then fill 3 quarts.
then a short ride around the neighborhood.
DO THIS 3 TIMES.
in order to get ALL of the old fluid out
you'll want to change out the fluid.
and to do that, you'll have to do a 3x3 drain and fill.
you'll want to drain 3 quarts, then fill 3 quarts.
then a short ride around the neighborhood.
DO THIS 3 TIMES.
in order to get ALL of the old fluid out
08-10-2012, 05:06 PM
#25
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I have an 04 TL with AT & 92k miles. No AT problems; have done 3 quart drain & refill every 30K miles. Recently replaced filter (well hidden) and did 3x3 fluid change. IMO many of the reported AT problems are due to lack of maintenance. Would advise reviewing service records if considering a used 04 AT.
08-10-2012, 05:48 PM
#26
08-11-2012, 12:19 AM
#27
I have an '04 AT with 203,000 miles and no AT problems. Engine mounts and internal and external cosmetic issues seem to be bigger problems. Things like the dash cracking, (nonfunctional) parts of the door handle falling off, etc.
08-11-2012, 09:51 PM
#30
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my ex girls younger brother had an 2002 Accord coupe that also the 2.4 I4 and the insurance company had that as a "sports car" since it was a coupe
their insurance rates went off the roof....then they moved him to the family minivan and his dad to the honda coupe and the insurance rates went down....
so i wont be surprised if they have the type s are a sports car....
08-11-2012, 10:15 PM
#31
I live in a house, married and no accidents......and 1 car (wife does not drive) and my insurance agent has been with me for 15 years so I doubt she has a reason to LIE about what goes on...
08-11-2012, 10:20 PM
#32
i agree....but it all depends on the age....
my ex girls younger brother had an 2002 Accord coupe that also the 2.4 I4 and the insurance company had that as a "sports car" since it was a coupe
their insurance rates went off the roof....then they moved him to the family minivan and his dad to the honda coupe and the insurance rates went down....
so i wont be surprised if they have the type s are a sports car....
my ex girls younger brother had an 2002 Accord coupe that also the 2.4 I4 and the insurance company had that as a "sports car" since it was a coupe
their insurance rates went off the roof....then they moved him to the family minivan and his dad to the honda coupe and the insurance rates went down....
so i wont be surprised if they have the type s are a sports car....
the insurance company factors in age, what kind of car, how old the car is...etc.
MANY MANY MANY MANY factors.
you certainly cannot base it on a performance aspect, when there are MANY other factors in play.
to expound; credit score applies, etc.
basically, if you're a fucking delinquent you'll get charged more.
08-11-2012, 10:23 PM
#33
Why do people keep saying it isn't so when you can just flat out ask your insurance agent? Mine told me exactly what was up when I got insurance for my car. If I had bought the base CL instead of the Type S my rates would have been cheaper....... I too can cite the example.....it was cheaper for me to insure 2 cars (a 94 accord and a 98 accord V6) than it was to insure this one car that i repalced them with. She said and I quote "When you choose the bigger engine or the upscale model it will always be more expensive than the base model"
I live in a house, married and no accidents......and 1 car (wife does not drive) and my insurance agent has been with me for 15 years so I doubt she has a reason to LIE about what goes on...
I live in a house, married and no accidents......and 1 car (wife does not drive) and my insurance agent has been with me for 15 years so I doubt she has a reason to LIE about what goes on...
you basically said what Im saying.....
MANY FACTORS are determined when factoring in insurance rates. NOT just the .3 liters.
Dingis......i swear.
08-12-2012, 12:22 AM
#34
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you're contradicting your self.
the insurance company factors in age, what kind of car, how old the car is...etc.
MANY MANY MANY MANY factors.
you certainly cannot base it on a performance aspect, when there are MANY other factors in play.
to expound; credit score applies, etc.
basically, if you're a fucking delinquent you'll get charged more.
the insurance company factors in age, what kind of car, how old the car is...etc.
MANY MANY MANY MANY factors.
you certainly cannot base it on a performance aspect, when there are MANY other factors in play.
to expound; credit score applies, etc.
basically, if you're a fucking delinquent you'll get charged more.
you said "not just because you have .3L more"....i read it as "not because you have .3L more"....hence my reply....
maybe I should be on Azine so late on a Saturday night LOL
08-12-2012, 01:57 AM
#35
I recently bought an 05 TL with 92K miles on it for just barely under $12K. Only problem ive had in over 6 months of owning it is the battery dying and having to get replaced. No vibration problems or anything, love this car.
08-12-2012, 02:02 AM
#36
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everyone totally forgot this one....I have read a lot about the OEM battery going out pretty quick...
08-12-2012, 03:30 PM
#37
Suzuka Master
^^^they can last you somewhere between 24k miles to 55k miles.
08-12-2012, 07:00 PM
#38
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^^^ well i wont put a mileage on it....my original battery lasted me 150K miles....it all boils down to your habits when you turn the car off
08-13-2012, 08:45 AM
#39
7th Gear
Thread Starter
To add what everyone said of the possible vibration issues in the car you tested, did it vibrate as you were accelerating? Could've been a bad motor/tranny mount(s). If it was more of a constant thing then I would've checked into what was posted earlier (tires, suspension, etc).
Thanks to all for your input. I am heavily leaning toward a TL. Now I've just gotta find "the one" for me.
08-13-2012, 08:59 AM
#40
Why do people keep saying it isn't so when you can just flat out ask your insurance agent? Mine told me exactly what was up when I got insurance for my car. If I had bought the base CL instead of the Type S my rates would have been cheaper....... I too can cite the example.....it was cheaper for me to insure 2 cars (a 94 accord and a 98 accord V6) than it was to insure this one car that i repalced them with. She said and I quote "When you choose the bigger engine or the upscale model it will always be more expensive than the base model"
I live in a house, married and no accidents......and 1 car (wife does not drive) and my insurance agent has been with me for 15 years so I doubt she has a reason to LIE about what goes on...
I live in a house, married and no accidents......and 1 car (wife does not drive) and my insurance agent has been with me for 15 years so I doubt she has a reason to LIE about what goes on...
Yep. Best to ask your insurance agent or get quotes online. Each insurance insurance company has their own way on how they rate policies. State Farm is also most double than what I pay via Geico in NYC.
Geico charges more on a TL-S than a base TL. NOT SURE if it's due to higher value of TL-S or higher expected claims. To sum it up, ask your insurance agent for accurate answer.