Hello Everyone,

I've been lurking around this site for a while and am finally about to take the plunge into the Acura side of things. I am about to graduate college and am deciding to reward myself and retire my 2001 Chevy Impala LS w/ 217k miles (and the venerable 3.8 engine) for something more refined and stylish. I was looking at this 2004 with 83K miles (which looks to be a great deal I might add) and was wondering if this would be a good buy. My main concern would be the transmission as I know the 2004's tend to have a higher failure rate.
From my understanding replacing the pressure switches and replacing tranny fluid should ensure the longevity of these transmissions? Any feedback is appreciated, thanks!

Heres the link to the website

Used 2004 Acura TL 5-Speed AT for Sale in Greensboro NC 27407 Minton Motor Cars

 

I'd check to see if the timing belt service was done. The car is now 12 years old but the mileage is under 105k, but it should be done by now. If not bargain for lower as it's relatively costly.

You're on the money about pressure switches and replacing tranny fluid.

These cars are generally bulletproof except with the AT transmissions in the 04-06. Maintaining it every so often with doing the pressure switches and 3x3 ATF drain/fills will increase the longevity of it. As to how much more, that's up to other members with AT TL's to chime in. If you can spring the extra loot, go for an 07-08 TL. They got an improved AT which is much more reliable, feature some new little goodies and got a handsome face-lift.

As with any used car, go for a pre-purchase inspection from a well known mechanic of yours or at your local Acura dealership.

 

I say go for it. I got my 04 a few years ago with 77k miles and did the switches and switched to Redline D4. It's now about to turn 100k miles and running and shifting like new. I must add that I also did my full timing belt service and replaced the motor mounts and alternator...

 

Along with what mtiaz said, I would definitely see how much they can budge on the price. $9000 USD seems like a lot. In comparison, I bought my 05 with 100k km (~62k miles) for $9k CDN w/ timing belt done, so I feel like you can definitely do better with the price, or wait for something better to come along.

 

It's 12 yrs old on a used car lot...yup, they should be able to go lower.

 

I dunno about that one. The mismatched leather is

 

Have you seen it in person? If not I would check out the area of impact visually plus looks like the TL fell off if thats the area where repair was performed I'd check the quality of the repairs.

Looks like sat on brand dealer lot for few months before ending up at these guys. Car has very good maintenance records and if your not concerned cosmetically then I'd say its worth an in person look. Whats the rep of the seller?

 

thanks for doing research on the specific car before buying, wise decision to know what the shortcomings are and what fixes can be done to make inherent "flaws" better. many don't know the information you know and they own an AT haha. good luck OP and update us when you do get one!!

 

Honestly in 2016, if you want an automatic, 2007 or 2008s are the only cars I'd be looking at.

 

Im planning on heading that way this weekend to check it out. The seller has a great rep and is seemed to be very informative and open over the phone. I do plan on seeing if the timing belt and tranny have been serviced as well!

 

mismatched leather?

 

I plan to check it out this weekend and go over the records in person. Cosmetically I'm not too concerned as I'm really handy with a wrench so i'd do that stuff myself and I work in the auto parts industry so most parts won't be a problem

 

Haha I've loved the 3rd gens for as long I can remember. The style is so underrated and sleek. I've also been lurking around azine for a ton so I think I'm prepared!

 

I've been told I'm color blind but take a look at this:

 

I think its just the difference because the seat bottoms are perforated compared to the side bolsters. Maybe they just get dirty and start to look different in colour for perforated tan leather.