When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Girlfriend is eyeing a replacement for her terrible, terrible, terrible Pontiac G5.
Thankfully, my Honda love has rubbed off on her!
Since a Fit or Civic would do the job, why not a TSX? More fun, better styling, and more standard options. Plus, she really prefers the fit and finish of my Acura to that of a used Honda.
When I purchased my RDX, I found it to be priced similarly to CR-V's of equal age/mileage. Also, high mileage CR-V's tended to have more previous owners and generally hadn't received as good of maintenance and care. Those seem to be trends for all Acura's (just a difference in the average Acura vs Honda buyer).
She'll be looking at something with higher miles. Between $5-$10k.
I'm fine with addressing any maintenance issues that may come with purchasing a higher mile car (fluids, struts, brakes, etc.). I enjoy it
In what reading I've done, I don't really see any concerning repair trends (typical Honda reliability).
TSX's seem to be extremely solid. Just look for a well maintained example and it will run forever, regardless of miles.
For 1st gens, 06-08 model years do have quite a bit more to offer as compared to their 04-05 counterparts.
I like the updates to the '06-'08's, but wouldn't pass up a clean '04-'05. Price and condition will be the deciding factors.
She's hoping to hold out until summer (if not longer). Not much selection where we live, but will likely go look around the Dallas area. Looks like $6-$7k may get a clean car.
In the G5's defense, it has been reliable. That said, every interior surface is either faded, cracked, or pealing (or some combination). It makes a disturbing combination of squeaks and rattles. While the drive-train was decent, everything else was made as cheaply as possible.
2006 - 2008 are more reliable and are better built cars. Price and condition should not be the deciding factor because you can find a cheap and clean 04 model but will end up paying for more mechanical repair down the road.
2006 - 2008 are more reliable and are better built cars. Price and condition should not be the deciding factor because you can find a cheap and clean 04 model but will end up paying for more mechanical repair down the road.
I get what you're saying, but I have a hard time seeing that a will maintained generation 1.1 would be less reliable then a thrashed 1.2.
About the only real 'issue' with 04's vs 05+ is the A/C grenade that may/may-not go off.
Aside from that, the 04-05's have a few less features, but the same mechanicals (a few more HP in the 06+ but nothing substantially different).
That being said, I'd probably look at 05+, but 06+ if you like the updated style and additional creature comforts.
Mileage IMO should not a big factor in the decision. Care and pride in ownership are paramount to mileage on a Honda/Acura, as you eluded to in your OP.
Overall, yes the car would be a great replacement for any vehicle if you're looking for a sporty, fun, and reliable sedan.
1st gen RDX's suffer the same AC issue. My thinking is that if the AC hasn't crapped out yet, it probably wont!
Miles don't bother me. I actually prefer a car that's ready for struts, tires, brakes, etc (assuming it's reflected in the price). I like being able to pic the parts and do it myself.
Powertrain
• Horsepower increased to 205 SAE net (Rev 8/04) @ 7000 rpm
• Torque increased to 164 lbs-ft. SAE net (Rev 8/04) @ 4500 rpm
• Reinforced engine block
• Stronger connecting rods
• New crankshaft with more counterbalance weight
• Revised pistons with more valve-piston clearance
• Larger intake valves
----- approx. 1mm oversized
• Increased valve timing and lift
----- Intake cam High lift lobe with 0.9 mm more lift and 12 degrees more duration
• Increased intake flow
----- Throttle body increased from 60 to 64mm
----- Radius on some intake pipes increased from 70-80mm
----- isn't there a difference in the injector base as well?
• Increased exhaust flow
----- Catalytic Converter cell count dropped from xxx to xxx (need these numbers)
----- Exhaust Head pipe increased from 60 to 65mm
----- Main (single) exhaust pipe increased from 54 to 57mm
----- Rear (twin) pipes increased in diameter from 42.5 to 45mm
• Reduced engine pumping losses
----- Additional air passages in crankcase
• Stronger automatic transmission to complement increased horsepower
-----• Higher capacity clutch
-----• Higher capacity torque converter
Exterior Styling
• Restyled hood and grille
----- chrome trim removed from hood, grille redesigned
• Redesigned headlights and taillights
----- reflector design removed in front amber pieces, replaced with cleaner look
----- design change in the ballasts for the front HIDS
----- design change in headlight construction to eliminate condensation problems
----- backup light circles in inner taillights darkened, or smoked
• Redesigned front and rear bumpers
• Fog lamps are integrated into the lower bumper
• More pronounced side sills
• New nine-spoke alloy wheels
----- Made by Enkei of Japan. 17 x 7.5 +55
• Flat wiper blades increase visibility and reduce wind noise
• Four new exterior colors:
----- Alabaster Silver Metallic replaces Satin Silver,
----- Glacier Blue Metallic replaces Meteor Silver Metallic,
----- and Deep Green Pearl, and Royal Blue Pearl are added
Interior
• 2-position memory for driver's seat
• Auxiliary audio jack in center console for digital music players
• Hands Free Link wireless telephone interface
• Sports steering wheel
----- thicker grip area
----- knuckles added at the 10 and 2 o'clock positions
----- redesigned airbag cover and lower grip portion
----- added buttons for the HFL, Bluetooth and MID
• Multi-info display
----- located between the tachometer and the speedometer
• New meter face
• New wood-patterned trim for models with Parchment interior
• Metallic garnish added to shift knob
• Redesign of center console trim
----- faux carbon fiber look replaces flat black finish
----- trim piece around shifter redesigned to be one piece
• Smart Maintenance system
• Enhanced Acura Navigation System (optional)
-----• Larger buttons and fonts
-----• Faster processing speed
-----• Points of Interest (POI) database increased to 7 million
-----• HandsFreeLink calling to POI
-----• More voice recognition commands (653)
-----• Zagat Survey™ restaurant guide
-----• Exit ramp services feature
• Enhanced in-glass antennae for improved radio reception
Not a recent picture, but the best I can pull up at work (looks just the same, anyway). Only changes since the picture were power steering and power disc brakes.
I am selling a very clean, high mile (198k) 04 that needs nothing. New clutch/flywheel, new Acura/Honda trans bearings and 3rd/4th gear low mile 06 spec (acura) shocks, new control arms, etc etc etc.
Its a manual trans with an 07 spec NAV unit that I replaced the faulty 04 spec unit with. Body is in good shape. Mechanicals are in immaculate shape.
They're fantastic cars in any year. Sorry for the shameless plug lol.
Update? Did you find a good one yet? As others have stated it's all about maintenance with these cars. If you can find one in good shape with maintenance records, you're good to go no matter how many miles on it. I'm the original owner of my 2005 TSX & currently have 482,000+ miles on her. Still runs like a top. It's all about the maintenance!
I just picked up an 2004 Carbon Gray Pearl and would say you wont regret the move from a Pontiac G5 to a TSX at all. Mine has its quirks but also has high mileage.
We have yet to look at the only local one I mentioned above, but now that we're on spring break (both of us are teachers), we should be able to go see it next week.
We took a look at the one mentioned above; trashed.
Really awful condition inside and out. I'd say it's worth more for parts.
For the heck of it, we drove a '13 Fit. Tons of interior space (for it's size) and zero power! Drive was smoother than I expected. It really soaked up bumps nicely.
The one we drove was a stripped down base model (and a terrible price). A Sport model may still be a contender; Higher quality fit and finish vs. lots of practical space.....
Still don't have a new car. Her G5 is still going, so haven't been in a rush.
Almost got a Fit last weekend, but it sold the day before we went to get it (couple hours from us).
Found an '06 TSX not far from us. Looks very clean in pics. 140k miles. Nav. Asking $6k.
So, the TSX is still on option. We really like the interior flexibility of the Fit (very clever use of space), but like the styling and drive quality of the TSX. One complaint she has of her current car is the lack of passing power. The TSX has almost 100 more HP than the Fit, so that's a consideration.
As reliable as the Fit's seem to be, I think the TSX's may have them beat (judging by the high-mileage thread).
It had issues that weren't mentioned; cracked windshield, CEL (emissions system), leaky trunk, really dirty interior (in addition to the cracked fog lights that we were told about).
That said, it drove so freaking good. Even needing some TLC, it was a solid as a brick. No squeaks or rattles.
Keep in mind, I have an s2000 and an RDX; I'm particular about how a car drives! The TSX is really a surprise. It felt fairly glued to the road, but also super smooth over bumps (unlike my cars).
The seller would only come down to $5,800. After seeing the work it needed, we weren't going over $5k. It's a shame, because I think there was a good car lurking under those issues......
The good news is that the trip definitely nudged us towards a TSX (over a Fit).
It's a fair distance from us, but just down the road from my folks. The checked it out, and were very impressed with it's condition (they're picky, and have good eyes).
'08 with 130k miles. Silver with black interior (a color combo we like). Nav.
It's had two owners, and has a great record of maintenance. It did start out in New York state (for about 30k miles). I try to stick with purely southern cars, but the salesmen sent me numerous undercarriage shots (even put it on a lift), and it looks great. No signs of rust, corrosion, damage, or repairs.
My folks said the interior is almost new. Exterior has a couple of dings and rock chips, but very minor for its age. Overall, they agreed that it looks like it has far less than 130k miles.
Price is pretty decent compared to KBB and comps in the area (Dallas).
Only weird thing is a high number of alignments. All (but one) were done at a national chain, so I'm thinking the owner purchased lifetime alignments and wanted to make sure they got their moneys worth.
Leaving today. See it tomorrow morning. If it drives as it should, then we'll be bringing it home.
On an odd note, it happens to be across the street from the dealership I purchased my RDX from.
I have lifetime alignment on my TSX, RDX and MDX. I take them back once a year or new tires or any suspension work. My vehicles always seems to ride better after the alignments (it seem to be a little out of spec every time I go back). The lifetime alignments with Firestone was how I was able to determine suspension problems early on my TSX and RDX and fix them cheaper before it caused other problems like tire wear or needing a tow truck (tow truck was needed with a old 88 Accord with broken rear suspension link).
I would download the owner's manual for the TSX so you can double-check the tech features (memory seats, hands free, voice commands, Navi, tpms, sound system/speakers, AUX connector, Power outlets, etc...): Owner's Manuals | 2008 Acura TSX | Acura Owners Site
You are in the mileage and time range for stuff like worn suspension parts, battery, alternator, or starter to go out. I would be surprised if you need more than that in the next 2-4 years if you stick to the M.I.D. maint schedule.
The only down sides about the TSX compared to the RDX is:
- the TSX 360 degree visibility isn't as good because of the rear pillars and no back-up cam (not sure if the 08 have a back-up cam)
- I-4 NA power when you are use to the turbo torque of the 2.3L turbo
- no ELS
- side mirrors don't adjust with memory seats
- a little less leg room compared to the RDX
- less storage in center console
You will love the:
- MPGs
- handling
- making the i-Vtec sing to 7000 rpms
- very quiet on the hwy compared to the RDX
- outstanding H.I.D.s
- fun to drive fast (without the mpg hit like in the RDX)
It looks so good for a 130k mile! Drives perfect. GF got to drive it about 4 hours home yesterday, and loved it.
We had a good buying experience. The dealership (Nissan) is family owned, and I really think that makes a difference. They had just dropped the price, then we got them down another $500. Given its condition, I think she got a good deal.
The only real flaw is cracked fog lights (been the case with every TSX we've seen). I think I remember seeing a DIY on replacing the glass with Lexan. Need to look in to that.
After we arrived back to my parent's house, it occurred to me we hadn't locked it. I stood at the window nearest the car, and hit the lock button on the keyless entry a few times (listening for the beep to know it locked). I'll be damned if the car didn't start! REMOTE START! Nice little bonus!
I think it's going to be a good car!
On a side note, anybody want to buy a fantastic G5?
Will order LED interior lights (a map light is out, so good excuse). I really like them in my RDX.
Spent some time visiting my uncle and aunt with their '05 TL type S, and my cousin with her '06 MDX. For a while, my parent's house looked like a used Acura lot (4 in the driveway). Both have been great cars that they love. My Uncle's TL is racking up some miles (around 200k). He's looked at some other things, but has yet to find something that fits his needs and drives as good.
On the way the TSX drives; it's just about the perfect balance of engagement while still being comfortably smooth. While it's not winning any drag races, it had no trouble keeping up with my RDX on the drive back. It has plenty of power for merging and passing (GF's biggest complaint about the G5). Good job Acura!
I like the simple, clean lines. It's hard to date it (doesn't look 8 years old). In another 8 years, I think it will still look pretty fresh.
We had a just returned from a road trip in the new ride (I did all the driving).
The car has good highway manners. I'd think some would be unhappy with the level of road noise, but it doesn't bother me (low compared to my RDX and s2000).
It really shines in the city. It's big enough to be comfortable, but still easy to maneuver and park.
I did notice an occasional front-end knock over some bumps. At 130k, not a big surprise. I'll check it out in the next few days. If it's struts, I'm thinking Koni Orange's would be a good choice for it. I can't say my feelings would be hurt if it needs struts! My used car buying rule is to get a car that you like enough, and cheap enough, that you feel comfortable spending $1k on maintenance/repairs.
Ordered some goodies for it yesterday (all weather mats and trunk liner, touch-up paint, cut to fit window shade).
I'll also change the oil when I check out the suspension. I'm leaning towards Castrol GTS Magnatec (a current darling over at BITOG).
Hey Jdrum, looks like you got a clean TSX there! I'm actually looking for one myself as a 3rd/work car. If you don't mind, could you tell me what you ended up paying for the '08? You can PM me if you'd like. I've been looking around for the last month, and it seems like everybody within a 300 mile radius is asking well over KBB/Edmunds TMV. I'm looking for an auto so the wife can drive it as well.
I recently got a 2007 RDX tech with 175k, now at 180,250, it's just running great... Paid $7,800...
That TSX is so beautiful!!!
I love the idea of getting these great vehicles for a steal because of high milage, usually means it was loved even more too!!!
My RDX was in the in the 140k's when I got it, but it was just too clean to pass up. I've seen cars with 100k less miles that weren't as clean.
I'm very much a car "bottom feeder". My RDX and her TSX won't/can't lose much value (assuming we take car of them). The depreciation has pretty well taken it's toll. The up side is that we have really nice cars with no payments (and on teacher's salaries).
Originally Posted by passmaster16
Hey Jdrum, looks like you got a clean TSX there! I'm actually looking for one myself as a 3rd/work car. If you don't mind, could you tell me what you ended up paying for the '08? You can PM me if you'd like. I've been looking around for the last month, and it seems like everybody within a 300 mile radius is asking well over KBB/Edmunds TMV. I'm looking for an auto so the wife can drive it as well.
I don't mind. She ended up getting it down around $8k. We focused our search on the Dallas area. Compared to others on the market, it seemed to be a solid deal.
Yesterday I steam-cleaned the engine bay (and gave it a liberal coating of 303) and polished the headlights. Both came out great.
Next on the agenda is wash, clay bar, and wax.
On a side note, we both drove the G5 yesterday.........wow, what a step backwards. Not even in the same category. Hard to believe the TSX is only one year, and 15k miles newer.
We're selling it to a friend (for a great price). Even though it's a beater, it's leaps and bounds better than her '94 Mitsubishi Mirage!
My RDX was in the in the 140k's when I got it, but it was just too clean to pass up. I've seen cars with 100k less miles that weren't as clean.
I'm very much a car "bottom feeder". My RDX and her TSX won't/can't lose much value (assuming we take car of them). The depreciation has pretty well taken it's toll. The up side is that we have really nice cars with no payments (and on teacher's salaries).
I don't mind. She ended up getting it down around $8k. We focused our search on the Dallas area. Compared to others on the market, it seemed to be a solid deal.
Yesterday I steam-cleaned the engine bay (and gave it a liberal coating of 303) and polished the headlights. Both came out great.
Next on the agenda is wash, clay bar, and wax.
On a side note, we both drove the G5 yesterday.........wow, what a step backwards. Not even in the same category. Hard to believe the TSX is only one year, and 15k miles newer.
We're selling it to a friend (for a great price). Even though it's a beater, it's leaps and bounds better than her '94 Mitsubishi Mirage!
I can't justify spending $15,000 on a car, like her TSX, when I can get one with higher milage, maybe even cleaner for half the price... Milage doesn't scare me...
A guy I fallow on here and in his blog, he just hit 500,000 miles on his all-stock, all-original 2005 TSX!!!
So rest assured this is a great choice...
On the bright side, the G5 has a good home... You still get to visit it from time-to-time...
I've noticed high-milage cars seem to be very well loved, I guess because the driver spend so much time with the vehicle, for various reasons, they know to maintain it correctly because if they're driving that much, a breakdown isn't an option...
Jdrum - thanks for the info. That at least gives me an idea of what fair market value is. I definitely agree with you guys that these high mileage honda products are a good buy if they are properly maintained. In fact I'm more concerned with the body rusting out due to the salt that gets used here in the winter than the drivetrain failing. Things like exhaust, cv axles, brakes are items that get worn out pretty quickly even on newer cars due to our weather and potholes. It seems that 130-150k is the sweet spot on the mileage where you are far enough over 100k to get the benefit of depreciation but not so high that you're going to hit 200k the next month. That's not to say I wouldn't consider buying one with more miles, and I had looked at an 09 TSX with 160k on it and almost bought it but the dealer wouldn't take enough off. He had it listed for 8k but I wanted the car for $7500 due to a big scuff mark on the rear bumper and some tears on the interior leather. He'd only come down to $7700 so I walked lol.
Washed, clay bar, and waxed. You really learn a lot about the condition of a car when you spend hours detailing it. The paint is in really good shape for its mileage. Previous owner with good about touching up rock chips.
If you have never cleaned your car with a clay bar, stop reading this and get to it. Even if you think your paint is clean, it isn't!
01-17-2016, 05:03 PM
).
