Faults:
Transmission seems to have a late up-shift, and more likely than not, shifts roughly. Down-shifts just fine though.
The rear motor mounts and the transmission mount seem to be worn out. Currently in the process of repairing, and waiting for parts. Hopefully this will fix the rough up-shift.
Front windows go up and down kind of rough. I believe it's the guides, but I'm not sure. I do know that they are starting to lightly scratch the windows.
General Comments:
As long as it's properly maintained, this car runs great.
Interior is spacious, and comfortably accommodates my wife and baby (in a car-seat of course!) in the backseat.
Considering the length of the car, the turning radius is awesome. You can get in and out of fairly tight spaces.
I thought the car would ride a little smoother than it does, but with 125k+ miles on it, I think it just needs new struts.
The 2.5l engine is considerably weaker than the 3.2l model, and my recommendation to anyone looking for a TL, is to get the 3.2l.
12th Jan 2008, 15:14
Bought a 96 3.2 TL 2 years ago.
It has been trouble free except for one thing: the interior heater motor died and it cost 700 bucks to replace. 7 hours labor and $135.00 for the motor.
They had to take the whole dash out to replace it... yikes.
Anyway... all is well and it's got lots of life left on it I'm sure... 180,000 miles and counting.