Older Acura TLs

goodegg

If you're really that concerned about gas reaming your budget you should be looking at small gas sipping econo boxes, not an Acura TL, which BTW, requires premium fuel.

300mva

If I was THAT concerned, I would... the point was I'm not going to look at SUV's that have half the mileage of the Acura (in reply to the response from the other tall person). I'm aware of the TL's requirements, as I originally stated I'm interested in how comfortable "larger" people are in the car. The flip side to the long commute is I'm not willing to spend that much time in a car I don't like, nor would I fit in any econobox save the truly ugly box car ones.

semez

anyone know of any special renewals XM is running for the TL?

newcarman

Good day people. Im looking to buy a 2006, which brand though is a good question. The more i look the more confused i get.
I would like your honest opinion on the TL, compared to the infiniti G35 sedan AWD, BMW 325XI AWD, Lexus IS250 AWD.

The only thing that seems to of bothered me with the TL was all the TSP bulletins i had seen on edmunds under maintanance. The 2006 Tl even supposedly had a recall and i believe the 2004 had both TSP service bulletins and recalls and 2005 had some problems also.

Is this all true what i had seen?? I always thought that the Tl we bulletproof with regard to reliability?
WOuld you say that the TL is as reliable as the LEXUS or infiniti??

Dont mind me its just im a bit nervous now to pull the trigger(buy) the TL after what i read.By the way, how is it in the snow?? Are they still using those Bridgestones?? for the 2006??

Thank you

ontop

All cars have issues. Check the Lexus and Infiniti boards too. 99% of TLs are making their owners very happy. Don't let the few complaints (on any vehicle) sway you from what your test drives and wallet are telling you.

If you let the complaints determine which car you'd buy you probably wouldn't buy any car.

I bought my 06 TL after reading the problems and solutions boards here, as well as those on the G35 and the 325 (too much $ and too small for me). I'm happy with my car. You will be too. Do it!

liferules

The TL, and Acura in general, are well known to have outstanding reliability. This is a car, much more so than BMW and even Infiniti, that will be unlikely to see the service bay of your dealership...

As to which car I would buy now if given the chance between the ones you listed...I can't say as I haven't driven the new IS. The TL is definitely "tighter" than the Infiniti IMO, and more luxurious than the BMW...

newcarman

Thank you for the input but what tires do you have on your car?? Bridgestone? If so what bridgestones? How are they in the snow if any snow??

newcarguy1

I was all set to buy the '06 TL until I drove the G35X AWD. Somehow, I got it stuck in my head that for Montreal, I NEED AWD vs. FWD (which is what I've driven for the past 20 years). I loved the drive of the G35X, but was unimpressed with the interior dash and layout. I LOVE the interior of the TL.

Has anyone else looked at these 2 head to head, and what put you over 1 way or another? My feeling is that the TL offers a better overall package and better value for the $$.

sunbyrne

Hmm, well, I've recently looked at both the TL and the G35, but not the G35x--I'm a driver, so I want a manual transmission (just say no to slushboxes!), which you can't get with the G35x.

I definitely prefer the TL to the G35. The G35 is definitely faster, but I felt the TL has more responsive handling and is in general more refined. And the TL is almost certainly safer, plus it has a much stronger standard feature list--thus, I think the TL is better value. But YMMV.

ivan_99

Not to start a versus here…

You said you’re a driver, but prefer the FWD TL to the RWD G35 in handling?

armand

I own an '04 TL and there have been NO recalls - and I have had no problems with the car except that I didn't like the OEM tires.

laurasdada

Hello, New1:

The '05 TL and G35x were the two finalists in my search. The TL was my decision for the following reasons:

Smoother, quiter ride. The TL isn't a Lexus, but I felt every bit of road surface in the G (and for some, that's a plus!).
Superior interior/exterior style and interior materials of the TL.
Better MPG.
FWD vs. the added weight/complexity and performance hit of AWD. The TL handles very well for a FWD. I rarely drive at 10/10ths...
Just a bit of $$$. Similarly equipped, the TL was a bit less. Although the G offers a couple of features the TL doesn't. Niceties, but not necessities.
Oh yeah. At the time, Honda was offering 2.9% financing, which I took. But that was really icing, as I had decided the TL was the car for me.

I did enjoy the handling/power of the G and the exhuast note. AWD can be a great feature in the nasty weather, but I've lived/skied/driven in New England all my life and the number of times I've wished I had AWD are few and far between. FWD/all-season tires have always served me well...

Until the TL! The OEM Bridgestone Turanza EL42 tires are poor in the snow. I'm getting more TC/ABS action in the snow than I ever had before. Not to mention difficulty getting up my inclined driveway/street. I haven't been stuck yet, but when these tires are done, they're done. I'll move on to higher snow rated tires.

They're both great cars, you probably won't be disappointed with either. Just test drive 'em back to back for a good stretch and you'll be able to decide which is best for you.

After a year +, I'm really enjoying the TL. As I'm sure I would have had I chosen the G.

Let us know your decision.

YMMV.

maxzoey1

The G35x and TL were my two choices. Actualy the G35x was my first choice after owning two TL' s previously. I thoght I would just like a change. But when it came to value you couldn't beat the TL. I ended up buying my third TL. If you can believe this there was $4000 difference in what the two dealerships were giving me for my 2002 TL. I live in Winnipeg, so there is only 1 Acura dealer and one Infiniti dealer so here we pay sticker for both cars.
I have no regrets buying the 06 TL and I feel I got much better bang for my buck.

aaargh

I considered the TL vs G35x as well. It came down to the fact the TL is the best mix of luxury AND performance. The TL is not the better performer compared to the G35x, but it still a great performer none the less.

For luxury, the TL is way ahead of the G35x IMHO. The G35x felt cheap and small to me. I also would have had to pay more for similar options.

The TL is the better balance of performance and luxury of the two. Thus, to me it is the better value.

habitat1

For what it's worth, I consider myself a "driver" and preferred the TL 6-speed to the G35 6-speed in overall handling and driving dynamics. Granted, the RWD of the G35 offers certain advantages over the TL. But the gearbox of the G35 was sloppy compared to the TL 6-speed, which seems to have borrowed some of the S2000's engineering in it's crisp short throws. I also liked the steering feel in the TL better than the G35. And the TL's free reving engine was much smoother to redline than the G35's which seemed choppy by comparison.

I would prefer that the TL come in RWD format. But if I had to have RWD, the G35 would not be my choice. I'd figure out a way to squeeze into a 330i. The G35 needs another round or two of refinement - at least it did in 2004.

newcarguy1

I appreciate your opinions and have come to the same conclusion that the TL offers better value for the money in terms of the options, build quality and interior quality (afterall, we live inside the car).

Thank you for your opinions. I will let you know once I have purchased the car and am loving it like so many of you already are. (and I'm definitely springing for the Navi - it's a great toy!)

sunbyrne

Heh, yeah, I mis-spoke slightly there--good catch, Ivan.

There are indeed advantages to the lack of torque steer on the G35 and I did enjoy that aspect of it, but I nonetheless found the steering and suspension of the TL to be more responsive, more precise and predictable. I'm willing to submit this might be because (despite my preference) I now drive a FWD car so I've become used to it. I certainly agree that the TL would be improved by being RWD, but that alone isn't enough to sway me to the G35.

And, as others have noted, I agree that the shifter in the the TL is better. Though I will admit I'm not a huge fan of the TL's clutch pedal, with its late engagement. In terms of overall performance, the cars are reasonably close, with a slight edge to the G35. But the TL is the (slight) winner on refinement and value, and the clear winner on safety.

This is kind of hair-splitting, IMO--both very fine cars.

taxesquire

I've been enjoying this whole stream, and largely agreeing with what's being said, but Sunbyme, I'm confused with your criticism of the TL's clutch that engages late. :confuse: Mine engages as soon as I start to release it fromt he floor - it's the earliest engaging clutch I've ever experienced, and took me some time to get used to it.

lou_dog

I am getting a very loud sound and vibration that seems to be coming from inside the dashboard, behind the radio. This happens 3-4 times a year. Only on the highway, on clear sunny days. Yesterday the noise and vibration almost made the car undriveable.

Any help is appreciated.

sunbyrne

I don't know what to tell you--it was a test drive, and it was a *brand* new car--still had the plastic sheets on the floor and over the seats. And I got virtually no clutch engagement until the very top of letting off it--I redlined it once by accident because of this.

Maybe that was a foible of that particular car, or perhaps it's something that goes away with a few more miles on the car. Dunno. I guess I'll have to go for another test drive at a different dealer. :P

ivan_99

I actually like it that way…no need for huge pedal travel for a clutch…quicker shifts too.

buyer777

Anyone use the Verizon-Blacberry 7130 with the Acura TL?

bz2

I'm seriously considering an 06 TL but am very disappointed that it doesn't have the same ipod connectivity as the TSX. Can someone provide more details on what ipod connectivity Acura dealers offer for the 06 model in terms of connectivity, functionality as well as cost? Thanks

laurasdada

Sitting here typing as the Nor'easer continues to blow. Heading into Boston in a couple hours for the Celts game. NOw, do I take evil wife's AWD RX300 or my TL with the wonderful Bridgestone EL42s...? I'll live dangerously, take the Lexus. :shades:

dampfnudel

Do you mean the TL doesn't have an aux. jack like the TSX since the music link for the iPod is not standard on any Honda/Acura. The 2007 TL will probably get the aux. jack. I read a rumor that the 07 TL will be introduced at the NY auto show in April.

bz2

yes that is correct the tsx got it in 2006 but tl does not. I'm wondering if the dealer has a work around for 06 models and before. I'm willing to change tracks etc on ipod i just want direct wire connection into the audio unit from headset jack on ipod

heisnstein

I have been trying for some time to get some read, any read, on what the 2007 TL has in store. I would love to believe that the mid model change will be introduced in April, but Honda historically plays it absurdly (and unnecessarily, I think) close to the vest, so I would seriously doubt any such luck.

Nonetheless, can you cite to the source you read claiming an intro at the April show in NY?

thanks.

dampfnudel

I forgot if it was the Vtec or Acurazine forum. I'm going to the show in April (20 mins. by subway) so I'll believe it when I see it. Keep in mind that the 3rd gen TL concept debuted at the NY show and the 07 G37 sedan will probably be there this year. Acura may want to display their updated TL since the NY show is the last major show of the year.

The only thing I think is pretty much certain as far as changes for the 07 model will be a clear element in the taillights for the turn signals just like on the MDX MMC. Maybe 10-15 more HP, aux. jack, mirrors with LED turn-signal lights, updated Gen 4 navi with NavTraffic, revised dash/speedo/tach. It's just speculation on my part based on other Acura models and their MMCs.

I'm not sure if our TLs will have the backup lights in the bumpers, probably not.

http://www.acura.com.cn/newanswer/lineup_tl1.htm

http://www.acura.com.cn/newanswer/lineup_tl3.htm

al57

has anyone paid specifically for one or more of these items or are they really given at no charge to feel the buyer got something for free..They are not listed on window sticker as coming with the car..From previous posters they seem like throw in items

billyperks1

And maybe they will move back the fog lights to where fog lights are suppose to be.

I can't wait for April.

habitat1

Billy,

Thanks for a laugh.

We may disagree as often as we agree, but once you hook onto something - like fog lights - you won't let go. I'm guessing you have some badger or Mako shark in your DNA.

Personally, I hardly ever use my TL foglights. About the only time is when there is actually fog (a novel idea) or possibly when I'm driving though a very dark neighborhood at night and want the added right and left illumination. In 20k miles, I may have had them on 5 times.

Unlike my 1995 Nissan Maxima SE, for which they are permanantly on.

The difference is that the 2004+ TL's Xenons are more than sufficient for 99.8% of driving conditions. Much better, IMO, than the pre 2004 HID lights. And besides, since I suspect your concern is more aesthetic than functional, I think halogen foglights with Xenon headlights look dumb at night. I don't use them with my 911 either (which are in the "right" place), and my former S2000 didn't even have them.

But I do respect you persistance.

billyperks1

Habitat-

It is just one of those thing I can't live without cosmetically on any car.Also, double pipes are a must for me, I guess its just my personal preference.
I just love the look of a car with fog lights (halogen or xenon) and xenons on at the same time.The lexus GS 300 is calling me but I am going to wait for the 350.

My short list stands at the moment

Acura RL- still waiting on some sort of improvements.

Acura TL- I think I might wait for the next generation

GS 300- waiting for the 350

BMW 530XI- very nervous about reliability.

Audi 3.2 or 4.2- Price is going to be a factor

G37- I hope it has a classy interior

Four more payments on the TLS and the "FOR SALE" goes in the back window.

I will then drive our (my wife and I) first car purcahsed together straight out of college- our 1994 Camry (been sitting in our garge for over two years now).

Happy motoring with the beast- of course the "911".

starman98

The TL isn't getting redesigned in 07 maybe some minor improvements but not a whole new car.

Acura isn't one to be quick draw on the redesigns look at the NSX(when it was made) and MDX.

bmwdoug

Does anyone know the Marketing/Demographic Data of the TL Buyer? Or, does anyone have a link? I saw the breakdown of the BMW E60 (5 series) buyer, and it was very interesting. They had the breakdown for the following categories: Gender, Age, Income, Ethnicity, Education Level, kids or no kids, married or single, empty nest, hobbies.

i would love to see the breakdown for the TL buyer.

habitat1

Billy,

You have some nice cars on your list and I agree with almost all of your comments about each. Except, not sure why you are very nervous about the 530ix reliability. Has it dipped since the previous generation received the highest rating ever by Consumer Reports?

Speaking of reliability, both the Lexus GS and a certain other car I'm fond of made the list:

Top 14 Most Reliable

bodble2

My guess for the "typical TL buyer" would be: Male, post-secondary education, middle management or professional, upper-middle class.

pat

Doesn't fit with anything I've seen, quite frankly, at least in terms of gender.

(Now I realize that is not something the male TL buyers want to hear, but it's my anecdotal experience that most TL buyers are women. ANECDOTAL!! That means it's worth exactly what you paid for it! :P )

But I really don't understand what the demographics have to do with whether this is the right vehicle for anyone. It either fits you or it doesn't. Who cares who else it fits and how is it that matters to anyone??

:confuse: :sick:

If it's good for you, it's good for you -- isn't that the real deal?

dap2006

If you don't mind, I (and I suspect, most on this board) prefer to think TL owners are predominately virile 30ish - 50ish successful men with high IQ's and discerning taste, thank you very much! Go back to hosting and don't rain on our highly evolved parades.. :shades:

pat

:P :P :P

aaron_mi

I am 6'4" and 270. Legroom in the car is fine with seat fully back although my 11 old has no room for his legs behind me.

Ingress/Egress is fine for me.

My only complaint is the driver seat could be wider. I have to slide to the left to click the belt which is a minor annoyance.

I have the 2006 TL/Navi.

aaron_mi

My 2006 TL/Navi is toast. Had a front end collision last week with the back of a stopped flatbed truck (lost a pipe off the back and decided to stop and park in the middle of a busy 3 lane intersection to collect it rather than pulling off the road).

After braking, hit the truck at 20-30mph. Front driver airbag deployed and passenger side airbag deployed (curiously). There was no passenger and the passenger front airbag did not deploy.

Side airbags rip the headliner out by the way.

I was astounded when the insurance company decided to 'total out' my 2 month old 2006 TL/Navi after tearing it down.

The estimator told me that cars nowadays are designed to 'crumple' to protect the occupants. This means that an accident which is fast enough to cause airbag deployment is likely to cause massive internal damage to the frame and structures.

There is a lot of aluminum up front too which cannot be repaired, has to be replaced.

There was a tow hook on the back of hte truck with did a number on my hood and apparently the engine was pushed back enough to bend the mounts.

By the way, with no electricity, you cannot open the trunk. No manual release except the emergency release inside the trunk for when kids get locked in there. Fortunately a broom handle through the rear passthru works. Still can't get my CD's out of the changer, somehow the electrical system is hosed.

Luckily my insurance has 'replacement' cost if the vehicle is under 1 year old, so I called my friendly salesmen and told him he has a repeat customer already.

Previously I had a Blue/Grey, but this time I will go for the Red/Camel for something different.

mikefm58

Glad no one was hurt. I'm not sure I understand your post though. Are you complaining that your car was totaled? Those "crumple" things you talk about are specifically designed to absorb the energy of the accident instead of YOU absorbing it.

You say you were only going 20-30 MPH "after" braking. Are you sure it couldn't have been much higher? I'm sure that tow hook did a number on your radiator, engine, and everything else in it's way.

And you have an excellent insurance policy.

bhelsdon

If you reach thru the ski passage there is a manual trunk release just on the other side of the hole hooked on the bottom of the back dash. So there are actually 2 manual releases in there. Very happy to hear that you were not hurt.

ivan_99

Agreed…40K or so, for a new car is nothing compared to medical bills; not to mention the pain and discomfort of any long term problems that may have occurred…

Sounds like the TL did it’s job well.

bartalk3

aaron: Thanks for posting your experience with the TL. Glad you were not hurt. Did the front air bag help? Were you at all bruised by it?

vickib2

I just posted this on the "Care and Maintenance" board, but then noticed that the board doesn't get much traffic.

Briefly, my 2005 Acura TL has a dead battery as of today. My husband is out of town, and I would like to take care of this problem by myself. Is it okay to get a "jump" from another car (although I'm not sure who I would ask since our battery cables are in the car that my husband drove to the airport)? I seem to recall that some luxury cars should not be jumped. Or did I dream that?

Please advise.
Thanks.
Vicki

liferules

I don't know for sure what the manual says, but I would never accept a car-to-car jump start. There are those jump start battery packs all over the place. They are cheap and convenient. I bought one from Sam's for ~$50 that included a tire pump. Very handy for times when the battery dies or the tires are low.

I'm sure if a car-to-car jump is done correctly, there won't be any problems, but the issue is that often people don't do it right and then it can short out the electronics on the TL, which has some very expensive and complicated systems.

Hope this helps...

pat

Someone suggested this already in the other discussion, but the Acura Roadside Assistance should be available to you for no charge.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

vickib2

Our TL was a Certified pre-owned vehicle. From my reading, it looks like the Roadside Assistance coverage lasts only for 12 months/15,000 miles. We have had the car about 16 months. We bought no further coverage.

Vicki

vickib2

*this is a copy of my post to the Care and Maintenance Board.*

I think I'm going to have to call my husband and tell him because I just don't know what to do. *sigh* he claims that I always have a crisis when he travels. And I know that whatever I opt to do will be the "wrong" choice, if I make the decision on my own.

My first thought was that I just needed a battery jump, but even if the car started, I wouldn't want to go anywhere in it for fear of getting stranded somewhere.

And now I remember something that happened when I was getting the tint taken off the windows (had to do it to pass inspection here in Baltimore where we moved in December). The guy who did it remarked to me "hey, after I finished everything, I couldn't start your car -- the battery was dead. I put it on our charger, and it seems to be okay now. It may have been because I had the doors open for a long time, but you'd better take it somewhere and have it checked." But, of course, I didn't.

Another question -- should the battery purchase and replacement be done at an Acura dealer or can it be done anywhere? We're new to this luxury car thing.

Thanks.
Vicki