JLsTypeS

Hey guys! First post in a while. I used to have a 2007 TL Type-s 6sp. Sold it for a 2008 Lexus ISF. I loved both cars even though they are very different in many ways. My wife is pregnant with our second child, longer work commute, harsh suspension, and offset tire size has me looking into something more family friendly and cost friendly.

I want something that is going to still be somewhat luxury and something that I enjoy to drive. I would rather not get a plain old Accord or Camry just yet.

With that being said. The main issue I can find about the 2012 is the oil consumption. Is there anything else that is a cause for concern?

Have any of you owned a Lexus ISF and switched back to the TL? What is your opinion? I need to find one close enough to me to test drive but I would love to get the input and opinions of folks who actually own the SH-AWD with Advance Package. I'm really picky about how my cars drive and ride. Are they smooth? Quiet?

Thanks!

JLsTypeS

Come on! Who drives a 2012-2014 SH-AWD Advanced package? Would you buy it again?

hadokenuh

Hi there,

I don't have a SH-AWD model but have a 2013 FWD. Besides the oil consumption, there are torque converter and propeller shaft issues as well. Check the airbag recall too. Other than that it's pretty solid.

I think the AWD Advance model with 19" wheels and tires rides pretty harsh and is not quiet (the FWD model has a softer suspension). Be sure to test drive to see if you like it. The good thing is the TL is much roomier than the ISF. Rear facing infant car seat should fit just fine in the middle.

LostProphet

I used to have a 09 fwd Tech Pkg before switching to my '12 SH-awd Advance. So glad I did the switch!! The Advance model comes with 19" wheels which are very good looking but it gives a harsher ride compared to a 17" or 18".

Lee C

I have a 12 Advanced (Elite in Canada) I have had it for about 2 years I love the car also works great in the winter with the Shawd Good luck

allykahn

iTrader: (1)

I have only had mine for a few months. I had a 2005 TL 6speed. Although it doesn't have a manual, I really enjoy the car. It is more roomier than my '05, more luxurious and solid. It is my first time with 19" wheels but I don't feel much of a difference, provided I keep the tires inflated to the proper levels.

JLsTypeS

Would you consider the AWD to be louder than the FWD? Or just more harsh because of the larger rims? I would probably buy the 18s if I bought the advance package with the 19s.

JLsTypeS

I appreciate the responses guys! I'm meeting the guy tomorrow. It's a 2012 SH-AWD Advance package. 123k miles on it for $11k. Newer Michelin tires, timing belt and water pump completed. Seem like a good deal?

hadokenuh

The AWD comes with a more sport tuned suspension so it's definitely harsher than the FWD, plus the larger rims. As for noise, you'll be hearing a little more due to the larger rims. Acura doesn't have the most quiet suspension so there are noises going over expansion joints.

I think for $11K it's a great deal from your description and no accidents of course. Oil consumption is probably a concern though.

2snail

2012 advanced owner here, I also own a 2010 tsx v6. Haven't really seen excessive oil consumption on mine. I usually check each oil change. I originally planned to buy an ISF and at the time, held off and got the tl instead. Find out if the owner did the propeller shaft per the dealer's TSB. It causes a whining noise at freeway speeds. There should have been a transmission update to improve shifting as the torque converter on these can be finicky so they programmed it to shift very early to protect the transmission. After the updates it doesnt short shift as frequently but definitely takes getting used to coming from another car.

My tsx feels like it holds gears much longer so part throttle works really well on the tl to avoid the "hesitation" feeling.

Also ensure there is no whining noise from the alternator. Had to replace ours as it was on its way out. Regarding how the ownership experience has been. I really like the car. I think i like it more now than when i first got it. I feel the styling has aged really well. The advanced package is nice, the cooled and heated seats are probably my favorite feature. Suspension is just fine for daily driving. Coming from anything hardcore sporty like an ISF or for me EvolutionX its just right for daily use.

Also the the awd system is solid, to me it feels like 60-70% of what the EVOX handling was like. Good luck.

yali

I love my 2012 Advance Package. You get all the options, the 19's look great IMO, and SH-AWD is an amazing system. The ride is harsher due to the 19's than the 17's or 18's (previously test drove various 2009/2011 models on 17's and 18's). The AWD is really fun for handling and cornering, really keeps the car tight on the twisties, plus when you mash the gas the car feels like it squats and you can feel the rear contribute the power.

I bought the car with 76400 miles on it and its now at 81800 six months later. I have changed the oil myself although I had no major consumption. The only thing is that you should check the TSB's for the car before you buy it and see it has service records on those. I personally changed out my external tranny filter and give it some new fluid due to some gurgling noises in the morning when the car is cold. The gurgling is a sign of blockage/contaminants and is not a regular service item (only costs $30 for the parts.) I have had no torque converter issues on my car and no recalls either.

The ride can also depend on the tires the car is running. Mine came with Michelin Primacy MXM4s and they have a bit of road noise. They are plenty grippy and smooth on the highway. City driving and bumps can be a little harsher.

I recommend the car myself, go test drive it and see how you like it.

deanoatkinson

I have a 2012 TL with 206k miles AWD advance. Just did my second timing belt job. Suspension is more sport tuned and ride is harsh on 19 inch rims. I had to go a size taller to give myself some relief.

I will Be getting rid of this for an RDX or MDX after our first kid is on the way. Your getting your second kid... I think your kidding yourself with a sedan. I would be shopping for CRV RDX MDX or Pilot.

For me the 2019 RDX Advance is my next target car, but i will be driving this one until I absolutely need a bigger car after our first kid is born.

If I totaled my car before then i would be picking up a 2014-2015 MDX Advance SH-AWD with entertainment for under 20k with aound 100k miles