Used Luxury Car Buying Guide: Acura TL (2004-2008)
Used Luxury Car Buying Guide: Acura TL (2004-2008)
by James Hamel
As the first TL to feature a design intended solely for the United States market, the third generation model sure did look a lot like an Italian Alfa Romeo 159 sedan from that era. But as sales figures for this model TL showed, that was no bad thing. For the years that it was on sale in the United States this was the best selling luxury sedan in the marketplace right behind the iconic and venerable BMW 3-series.
What to Look For—The third generation TL was available in a few subtly different (and some not so subtle) forms. Because of this prices for nearly new versions of this “near luxury” car (Acura’s term, not mine) can vary greatly. For the first few years that this third generation TL was on sale the only decisions a customer had to make were “automatic or manual” and “navigation or no navigation.”
Regardless of which transmission customers chose (a slick-shifting six speed manual or five speed automatic) all TL models came with a 3.2 liter V6 engine making 253 horsepower and 232 pound feet of torque. As the manual transmission models were geared towards “sporty drivers” they also came with updated Brembo brakes and an electronic limited slip differential. Whichever model you choose, the TL has no problem spinning the front tires and torque steer (while noticeable) is far less prevalent than in most front drive cars.
The installation of Acura’s class leading navigation system is perhaps the biggest influence on the cost of a used TL. Most buyers simply demand it. Why? Because with the navigation upgrade you also get voice activation for all controls (you know, if the radio knob by your hand is too far away), Bluetooth phone capability and the installation of an 8 speaker 225-watt DVD audio sound system (the first of its kind in a car) specifically designed by a Grammy winning music producer for optimal quality. Rated by many in the business as one of the best audio systems available in any car at any price, audiophiles might just want a TL for how good the sound is from the stereo.
Starting with the 2007 model year Acura reintroduced the sporty Type-S version of the TL. Picking this “sporty” version of the TL upped power to 286 horsepower and 256 pound feet of torque from an enlarged 3.5 liter V6. With the introduction of the Type-S, Acura dropped the manual transmission option for regular TL models and made it available only with the S. A five speed automatic was also available with this sport option that also included ten-spoke alloy wheels, four wheel Brembo brakes, red interior lighting (as opposed to the usual blue), alloy pedal covers, sport seats and a slightly restyled grille. The Type-S doesn’t make the TL any less livable on a day to day basis but does add just a touch of visual menace.
Pricing—As the TL comes in so many different flavors prices really can fluctuate based on options and most especially, mileage. These TLs have solidly built interiors and are well known in the industry for being able to tackle epic mileages. And as many parts you never see are shared with the plebian Accord, repair and maintenance costs are very reasonable. We recommend going to the classifieds to find your next TL or an upscale used car lot as an Acura dealer would be less likely to have a wide selection of this generation. Private parties are usually more willing to bargain yet dealers offer the security of having had one of their mechanics check the car before the sale.
Problem Areas and Recalls—Problems are few and far between as is usual for most Honda products. A few of the first 2004 models to be manufactured did have some automatic transmission shifting issues (usually typified by harsh upshifts under hard acceleration) so if you are planning to buy that model year make sure the shift action is clean and crisp without any slippage. Honda makes transmissions that should shift as cleanly on mile 1 as on mile 100,000 so if you detect the slightest hesitation when upshifting just walk away. Manual transmission models should easily slide into gear and the clutch should bite cleanly mid-take up. Again, any anomalies in this regard should be a warning sign. There are enough TLs on the used market that you shouldn’t have to buy a less than stellar example.
As is the case even when Honda releases an entirely new car on a new platform, the first year was the most troublesome. On 2004 models with the Brembo brakes some customers complained of too much brake noise and updated rotors and pads were made available. If you are looking into a manual 2004 model make sure it has the updated brakes.
If your 2004-2005 model has a malfunctioning memory system for the power seats be sure that the control module under the seat was replaced. Also on the 2004-05 models there was a service bulletin regarding engine harshness in fifth gear for the automatic versions when the engine speed was around 1,500 RPM. If your car has that problem then you need to have an updated rear engine mount installed.
But perhaps the most bizarre problem evidenced by an Acura service bulletin is an issue only for people who live in freezing climates. Apparently if your windshield washer fluid bottle freezes and the driver tries to use the sprayer repeatedly this could cause one of the fuses to blow rendering power seats, power mirrors, the automatically dimming mirror and windshield wipers to stop functioning. If this happens you just need to replace the fuse with an updated unit.
As for recalls there was one that required replacement of a power steering hose that could bind and cause a groaning noise when you cranked the steering wheel. It could, conceptually, also cause a power steering fluid leak if left unfixed. If the owner is unsure if the work has been done just call an Acura dealer with your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number—you can find it on your registration or proof of insurance card) and they will be able to let you know. Always remember that any recall repair should be free regardless of the age or mileage of the vehicle.
Costs of Ownership—With a miles per gallon rating of 20 city/29 highway the TL is easy on gas when compared to rival luxury sedans especially considering the performance that is being offered. Expect to average 22-25 miles per gallon based on your driving style. I owned a 2006 TL and averaged 21 miles per gallon. Maintenance is easy to keep track of as the vehicle will notify via the trip computer you when an oil change is needed. Depending on your mileage your car will either get an “A maintenance” which should cost in the $35-$65 range or a more extensive “B Maintenance” for somewhere near $95-$115. These prices are examples from dealerships and do not reflect prices found at independent repair shops or your local particular local dealer.
While it is not mandatory to rotate your tires at every 7500 mile service interval, it will help even out tire wear and will allow the mechanic to check your brake pads for wear. Under normal driving conditions brakes should last anywhere from 25K-40K miles. Most other service work like changing the brake fluid, transmission fluid and replacing spark plugs are not needed for at least 100,000 miles according to the manufacturer but some dealers will recommend it sooner.
Happy Acura TL hunting!
