Good morning everyone!
I am in need of some advice. I own a 2006 Acura TL, black on black, 6 speed with 166,XXX miles. Recently I have had some issues with it. The check engine light came on and a local Honda dealer ship charged me a $300 diagnostic fee to tell me they think i need a new computer which would cost $1200, the TPMS light is going off and whenever I turn on my heater is starts to smell like smoke. I don't know if I should put $$$ in to fixing it or just selling it for what I can get. I absolutely love my car! I know it's an uncommon car. Also, when I took it to the Honda dealership they were trying to dissuade me from fixing it and offered to buy it from me. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

 

Time for a second opinion.

 

1. About that diagnostic: what computer they think is bad? MICU, ECU, something different? If they said only "computer" and "$1200 to fix" they just want to get rid of you. If that is the case then don't go back in there, unless to get your money back.

2. You need to get the codes read. You would need either OBDII Bluetooth adapter, handheld code reader, or go to Autozone/Pepboys/etc., and they will read the codes for free. Write them down (codes look like "P0300"), we don't need description what they mean. Does car behaves in weird way?
3. TPMS light is on or blinking? Any other messages? If it's on then at least one of the tires has low pressure. If it's blinking then most likely one of the sensors is failing (they are battery powered, normal for them to go out). Set all tires to 32-33PSI, then go to the tire pressure menu in the car, and check the display. If one wheel is weirdly off, then it's most likely this sensor.
4. Smoke doesn't really have particular smell. Smoke from burning wood will smell different than smoke from burning tires. Describe it better. Does it smell like coolant (sweet smell)? Did you check the cabin filter?

5. Do you have tools or/and can work on the car by yourself?