jwats

I live in Minnesota and need a " winter car" to save other vehicles like my 2003 CL from corrosion and wear.

I ran across a 98 TL with 98,000 miles which has never been driven in winter...and highway miles.

the exciting part is no winters--not the mileage--because Salt and corrosion kill cars here--not the mileage.

Here are my questions:

1. Is this a reliable vehicle? known issues?

2. i am doing a pre purchase inspection...but plan to offer about $7500 if results are good. It needs tires. Does this make sense?

3. How many trouble free miles do you think I might expect if car is in good shape?

4. any other advice or questions I should ask. I am doing a pre-purchase inspection with an Acura expert.

thanks

John

KaMLuNg

iTrader: (5)

i bought my 98 3.2 4 yrs ago, and i have not had any major rapairs to date **knock on wood***.... i love the car.. i also have 98k+ miles on it... but there are a few things i know i will have to do soon.. CV boot and timing belt/water pump...

if they already changed the timing belt then u have one less thing to worry about.. and the 1st gens don;t have the tranny issues the 2nd gens have... if u don't plan on modding the car, u will be satisfied, its a few of the last vehicles that were still built in japan..

Ken1997TL

The 1st gen TL is rock solid in terms of reliability.

1. The only real issue most people experience is the starter. The contacts get worn out around 100,000 miles.

2. Makes sense

3. Engine and transmission are reliable.. and the same as the Legend. Many owners of Legends have gone over 300,000 miles.

4. Make sure the timing belt has been done, if not thats going to cost you anywhere from 500 to 1000.

jwats

What other questions should I ask owner or make sure mechanic covers?
thanks
John

KG.3.2

I have a 98 with 72000 on it. So far the only problem that I have encountered, was the starter contacts wore out and had to replace said starter. extremely happy with this car. Wouldn't trade it for anything right now...

KG

HQuakers

Well, I have *almost* 160k on my 2.5 and the only major problem I have had with mine so far is the one oxygen sensor went bad. Other than that, with regular oil changes and the timing belt issue, you should be fine.

Mikes96TL03CLS

Bottom line these are SOLID cars, I loved mine for the 4 years I had it!!

Altitude

Youll like it better than your CL. Its really really good in snow.