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Possibly Buying a 1997 Acura RL! Need Help!

4K views 5 replies 6 participants last post by  owlsarepretty102 
#1 ·
Hey whats up everyone.

I will possibly be purchasing a 1997 Acura RL with 89K miles. It is a private party and he is the 3rd owner. I believe there has been no accidents but I will run a Carfax. My question is, what should I look for before I make an offer or possibly purchase? Any helpful suggestions or information to anything about this particular model I will greatly appreciate it.

Thank you and hope to post more in the near future!

Joe
 
#2 ·
Make sure you test drive.

Issues to look for
1. burnt out dash bulbs and non operational dials in instrument cluster
2. loose steering, these cars like to chew up steering racks
3. oil leaks, valve covers and rear main seal
4. transmission clunks especially when cold
5. telescoping steering column tends to fail
6. sagging rear springs
7. leaky sunroof
8. test a/c function
9. bring a scanner and scan the computer for faults
10. check the tires to wear
 
#5 ·
Legal Docs:

Seller has the Title
No liens
Sales Tax Clearance Copy
COR copy

Money Matters:

Fair market value
Cost of ownership
Secure financing
insurance costs

Vehicle Inspection and Test Drive
Check:

The body for dents and scratches
Tires
Tires have 4 digit codes:
eg1. “1206” – means that it was manufactured on the 12th week of 2006.
Odometer
Fluids
Engine
-Check Engine Light Due to EVAP System Fault on Acura RL)
-Acura extended automatic transmission warranty on Acura RL
-Engine Light due to failed EGR valve or restricted passages
interior
Electrical circuits (Electrical Relay to Fuel Pump May Fail)
Reprogram computer to fix shifting problem in automatic transmission

Common Problems with 1997 Acura RL:

Electrical relay to fuel pump failure
Engine Light

Repair Estimates

Timing Belt Replacement $393 to $821
Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement $438 to $746
Water Pump Replacement $470 to $1,336
Alternator Replacement $532 to $807
Steering Rack Replacement $1,636 to $2,182
 
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