So, your TL is barely broken in, why are you thinking the need for an engine rebuild kit? I ask because these engines typically go for an easy three-hundred thousand miles with no more maintenance than oil changes, timing belt/water pump/tensioner services, and gasket replacements.

 

Well that’s A new one, I’ve come to learn that anywhere near 100k miles on A vehicle in Hawaii. Is either to start looking for A different vehicle, or start saving to rebuild very soon lol..

So that’s why I’m already in the market for Parts to do A Rebuild with, Ive also looked for complete replacements to be honest. I know with me being in Auto Mech school I should do my own research and open it up, but just A few searches online also led me to believe I’d be needing to rebuild soon. Most likely the trans before the block though.

 

If it is new to you then you haven't been paying attention. The fact is, many cars these days are often good for a half million miles with relatively minimal maintenance; other than your transmission and a few other minor issues, your TL is one of those cars which can see the far side of 500,000 miles with some care.

As for the transmission, yes, the 2004 5-Speed automatic transmission in your car isn't considered the most reliable; were it I was in your shoes and wanting to stockpile parts, I'd be on the lookout for a transmission from a 2006-2007 V6 Honda Accord (often called an AV6 transmission); these transmissions have some important upgrades in them compared to earlier 5-Speed units, and these upgrades make them significantly more reliable.

Then again, if you're training to be an auto mechanic, it would probably be significantly less expensive to buy the kit to remanufacture the transmission yourself. It is my understanding there are aftermarket kits available which, when completed, render the 5-Speed unit quite robust.