Hi. I currently own a Third generation TL, which I'm looking to upgrade to a Fourth Generation. My only rules are that it has to be a manual and that it is not a 2009 (I'm not a fan, from experience, of first year production vehicles). I was hoping you guys (and gals) could share with me as much information as possible to help me make an informed purchase. Which years have the fewest problems; what were the major issues each year; what areas I should be paying particular attention to when inspecting the vehicle; how many miles are too many; and anything else to help me with the purchase, including if you're generally happy with your purchase and major and/or minor complaints. If this has been asked before, I apologize. In that case, feel free to link me to the thread. Thanks in advance for all your help!

 

I have the same thought with you which is do not go for first year production.
If possible, go for 2013 or 2014 model. Manual should be more solid. some common issue:
TC, propeller for AWD, oil consumption for 3.7.
You can check the TSB.

 

Just FYI, it's impossible to find a MT in 2009 since they came out in '10.

https://acurazine.com/forums/fourth-...ion-tl-945052/

 

The main decision for you - aside from mileage and condition - is whether you want the pre-MMC styling (2010-2011) or the post-MMC look (2012-14). Mechanically, all the cars are virtually identical except for minor interior trim differences. I believe the 2010-11 cars had more exterior/interior color options, but I'm not sure on that last point.


As stated above, some 3.7 owners have experienced varying levels of oil consumption, but others have not had this issue. It seems like some early cars had propeller shaft bearing issues, but that seems less common in later cars. As mentioned, best to look at the TSBs.


These cars in MT trim are hard to find. Good luck in your search. You'll be very glad when you find the right one for you. I have had my '10 for 6 years now and still look forward to driving it every day.

 

This link will give you the full rundown about what refinements they made to the 2012+ year models: Acura | Press Releases Article | Acura.com

 

Common issues with the SH-AWD 6MT:

1. Propeller shaft whine ($1600 replacement )
2. Oil consumption (some burn 1quart in 500 miles, other in 1000 miles)

 

Thanks everyone. How ubiquitous is the oil consumption issue?

 

This is true. Fortunately, I had mine replaced under warranty and I have a 2013. Keep an eye on the oil level when you hit 50% or 3k miles, that's when you will notice a difference. My last oil change, I told the dealer to add extra quart of oil or so.

I'd definitely, look into a 2012+ model for the subtle refinements.

 

I would sell at right price, will send you an IM.

 

For what it's worth, avoiding the first year of a new model is only relevant if one is buying new. Time has shown that, from a reliability standpoint, there are no real differences between a 2009 and a '10 or '11 (factoring in age, of course).

Sitting back in 2016, one can safely look back and see if there were any major problems in 2009 which needed to be addressed/remediated. There were not.

 

True, Used car buyers can now check forums like this or Consumer Reports, Edmunds, KBB, etc for used cars to avoid.
The 4th Gen TLs get pretty high marks from all sources and there are enough of them around that the market is pretty well understood. In the end you should buy what you can afford.

 

I regret not getting Umber interior... Manual will be hard to find.

 

OP I would advise you to read through as many threads in the problems/fixes thread and then read through mods/upgrades/photograph section. You will notice the same issues and trends. 4th G TL is a solid vehicle unless the previous owner beat it up. Are you doing a national search for the MT? Sometimes you have to be VERY flexible for the right deal. I would sell you mine but it's still stuck under the stolen Uhaul truck that cut me off last year.