I'm looking into purchasing a TL, 2004-2008 model, and curious what the reliability is for this model. I've researched reviews, but feel like I am going to see much more negative than positives on the internet. I've seen the early 2004 models have transmission problems and have also seen extreme tire wear. Are there consistent problems with this model series?

Overall, does is this model pretty reliable? What are the maintenance costs?

I'm pretty set with the TL, however I've become very hesitant over the past couple weeks from the problems I have read about. Any input would be greatly appreciated, thanks!

 

Disregard. I'm a new member and should have used the search tool first. I found a couple very informative threads pertaining to my topic. Hopefully, I'll have a TL soon : )

 

Holy shit, a n00b that uses the search function.

You will find MANY, MANY happy TL owners here. The tranny problem is primarily with the pressure switches, there are many threads about that and it's a relatively simple fix.

I'm at 84k with NO unusual issues.

 

You did search about TL like me before. I know it's negative more than positive but if you love it and believe in it, everything will be fine with a good care . You know, not a lot of people care about their cars . They just know how to drive and when it's broken, they blame it .

 

Consumer Reports does owner surveys which I fill out every year. If you look at the Reliability for the TL you will see high scores in all areas. The only half-negative score was was in 2007 on Body Integrity- which happens for many cars when there are body-style related changes. The major categories are great: engine (major & minor), Transmission (major & minor), Fuel, suspension, climate control, etc. Check out their web site for the full details.

I have an 06 and have had no major issues after my only dealer visit the first couple of months involving a blown speaker. The car has been fantastic for 4.5 years.

 

I did a ton of research online before I bought, and found that most of the general car websites like edmunds, MSN and consumer reports gave it excellent scores. On sites like this one that goes into a lot more details, there are a few little quirks you'll want to keep an eye on. But they're just that: quirks. Nothing major that is going to be a plague with the car.

The auto tranny needs a bit of attention and TLC as indicated above. But I don't think I've heard of a single automatic transmission failure, just little quirks as far as which fluid to use and the 3rd/4th gear sensor fix.

You'll find most folks on here are very happy with their TL. And since most on here know a thing or two about cars there's some credit to that. Overall it's very reliable and of very good quality inside and out. Still, be cautious on your purchase and check everything out like you would a normal car of course.

 

OP,

Wish you well on finding the TL of your choice. I bought mine new in Sept 2006. I had an issue with the passenger seat making a loud squeaking noise just weeks after I took delivery. Once they nipped that issue, it's been a great love affair. Four years and 71K miles later, I know I made a great choice in buying my TL.

Like the others say: Just do the maintenance and it won't let you down.

 

The biggest problem i can think about with the TL (atleast Type S) is mpg (between 17 to 20 city) other than that it is a car ahead of its time in my opinion and will last you forever