Found a 2010 tl down here in Florida that was driven in NJ for 40k miles. There no obvious rust signs. Anything I should be worried about? Had some people tell me to never buy a used northern car. Car is at a dealership so I can't ask the original owner about any maintenance.

Any input will help. Thanks

 

Rust would be the major item from the road salt. Other than that, perhaps a weaker battery from cold starts in winter??

 

I have a 2008 Civic with 200,000+ miles that has spent it's life in Minnesota and the rust is just starting to show in a few spots you have to look for. I imagine Acura's rust resistance is similar if not better.

Certainly 10,000 miles/year average can't have that much exposure to NJ winters. If you can't see any rust with a good inspection, you're probably OK. To be sure, get an independent inspection you can put on a lift.

 

I practically live in NJ (PA side) and have all ages of cars (>1 year to 20 yrs). My 1995 Jeep has spent all of its 20 years here, and there is not enough rust that it looks remotely bad or has any issues because of it. You should definitely be fine with a modern TL... If you plan to keep it for 30 years, not a good idea. But based on my 20 year old Jeep, it should be fine. (There is some noticeable rust underneath the car, but again, the car is structurally good.)

 

Round 3... even if the car looks perfect, don't forget it may have been re-painted, entirely or at spots. Best bet is ask for a body shop expert to take a look. These guys can tell from a mile away if the paint is original or re-done. A good hint is around the sun roof. If all looks smooth then it hasn't been re-painted. Another hint is to look for the labels on the door sills and trunk. If they are still there that means no new paint. Other, other hint is definitely the engine bay. If you see too many rusted bolts, if the battery terminals are rusted, or wires and aluminum surfaces look like salty white-ish then you got problems. Also take a close look at the brake calipers. At least make sure they are not sticky (i.e. after a drive around the block the wheels aren't super hot).

But, just like I wrote above, have a mechanic or better a body shop paint specialist look at it. It may cost you a few bucks but it will save you a lot in the long run.

PS. So far, after 4.5 harsh Canadian winters, I got no rust on mine. But then again I am paranoid about washing it to prevent layers of road salt sticking under fenders, doors, trunk...

 

Honestly buying a car from the north makes no difference as buying a car from the south or anywhere sunny all reason. I've been told to avoid florida cars because of their faded paint.

Just look for a car that looks to be in good condition and check the undercarriage. Where it comes from doesn't really matter.

 

Yeah it's tough to say cars from certain parts will be better or worst. Definately have a trustworthy mechanic give it a look even if you are buying in CPO. Only thing I've always been weary about is buying a vehicle that comes from an area wear salvage tiltles are more relaxed. Good luck!

 

Not sure if this is at an Acura dealership but one thing I would look for is water damage in hidden areas. With Sandy 2 years ago there were a lot of cars which were flooded that have been put back on the road. Just better safe than sorry when you are investing a decent amount of $$. Not everything shows up on CarFax.

http://www.app.com/story/money/busin...cars/14579347/

 

Bring the VIN to an Acura dealer and see its history. It'll show you a lot about the cars history and maintanence records.

 

Make sure that car wasn't secretly involved in the hurricane Sandy stuff up there. I have seen an influx of cars being traded in that I would bet a pretty penny on, to have been slightly flooded with salt water...