Need input....Looking to buy a Legend

1022 Views 14 Replies 8 Participants Last post by PoodleHead, May 28, 2002

RKNY

Discussion Starter · Apr 25, 2002

Hello! I'm researching on buying a used legend (coupe 93-95). I didn't for my first car and had to suffer by paying costly repairs and buying the wrong type.
Here are my questions...

How are the transmissions in these cars? I know that trannies are dependent on the driver, but was the transmission made bad or does it have any known faliure problems?

What other problems should i or might expect to see with these cars?

Last, (I know, I should search), but can somebody distincly tell me the trim levels and differences between them?

Thanks a lot for your input guys.

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G

· #2 · Apr 25, 2002

Just go to www.inexpro.com/legend_temple and then look under the models section to see the differences.

LPB

· #3 · Apr 25, 2002

The transmissions require PM on schedule. Known problems is the Vehicle Speed Sensor and Rear Trans Mount. 1-2 Upshift may be viewed as rather harsh, but that is the way it is. You need to use only Honda A/T fluid and although the manual calls for 24/24 changes, it would not hurt to do it 12/12 and perform a "flush" 3x drain/refill with 50 miles or so between changes. This will smooth out the shift somewhat.

Other problems are the radiator upper tank failure (contributing to head gasket failure) wheel speed sensors, ABS pressure switch, Master door switch, antenna mast, A-arm bushings, CAT shield mount rust-out, Heat shield clamp rust-out, and power lock actuator becoming erratic (fix is replacement).
You need to religiously silicone the window run channels esp on the Cpe as failure will cause the window to jump and pinch/break the weatherstrip. Oh yes, the inner door handle assy's cable mounting tab breaking prematurely. Almost forgot to add what I had repaired this week; under warranty the RT seat belt assy. Problem with no retraction--also common.

Not as problem-free as you would have imagined in an Acura. Now, what say we put you into a Lexus?

I have a 1992 LS Cpe (84K miles).

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ILOVELEGEND

· #4 · Apr 25, 2002

wow LPB! you did a good job of describing all the problems! But you need to remember that car is 10 years old and hence problems do creep up! But I am sure you must have thoroughly enjoyed every single one of those 84k miles!

In general, we also need to understand that the last Legend that rolled off in 1995 is 7 years old!

However, I would also say that the build quality of our Legends is one of the best of all times!

RKNY, you have made a good decision to go with Legend. Make sure you wait for the right car - Do not take any hasty decisions. Check out the car, drive it and even get it inspected by your mechanic. But you have to remember that you are buying a used car and things will go wrong as the car ages.
This forum is a great place to ask questions and people are very friendly!
Best of Luck in your search!

silko82ny

· #5 · Apr 26, 2002

wow LPB! you did a good job of describing all the problems! But you need to remember that car is 10 years old and hence problems do creep up! But I am sure you must have thoroughly enjoyed every single one of those 84k miles!

aww, man hes just tryin to sell his Lexus, he must have mentioned every problem in Legend history! Good technique though.

damn, i guess you really cant knock the hustle, huh? i think im gonna make that my new motto. **props to Jay Z**

LPB

· #6 · Apr 26, 2002

I realize that many of you are continuing to experience "Legend Lust" and as such tend to overlook "minor" problems. I can only compare my 1992 Cpe with my 1987 Maxima; both vehicles having similar mileage. The Maxima has required less repairs than the Legend. Sure has surprised me.
Even my 1995 BMW 540 has required slightly less repairs than the Legend; albeit more PM costs. But that is to be expected with a BMW.

On the plus side, the Legend is the vehicle of choice for any long driving, and even 10 yrs later continues to turn heads (my emissions facility tech thought it was a new car!).

RKNY

Discussion Starter · #7 · Apr 26, 2002

yea, i've always wanted the coupe legend.

LPB, with those problems...those are problems that a lot of people have? or are they problems that you have had?

Thanks again.

FutureX 2001

· #8 · Apr 26, 2002

Vehicle Speed Sensor happens to almost everyone, it's a $100 fix.

HEAD GASKET failure are the biggest problems in the Legend, this is usually due to failure or a not 100% operational radiator. They should be replaced more often, than normal.

LPB

· #9 · Apr 26, 2002

RKNY:
The problem list I provided was a list of common "typical" problems. I have experienced most of them myself. In fact, one of the main reasons I check both this site and the old Legend.org site is that over the past two + yrs "common" problems have slowly emerged and this monitoring has allowed me to buy parts and have them in "inventory" in expectation of repairs. Case in point: radiator replacement and rear trans mount. I currently have a VSS on the shelf.

RKNY

Discussion Starter · #10 · May 25, 2002

How much do these problems range around in cost? The legends that I am looking around have about 90K to 100K miles. Is that an OK amount? Obviously, I would be test driving it and looking for wear and tear.

PoodleHead

· #11 · May 27, 2002

Have patience...

RKNY,

I'm a newbie to this list and I'm real happy I found this site before I bought my Legend. Listen to these people when they say look around and don't get in a hurry. I was 'hot to trot' on a 95 L with 86K miles. The guy wouldn't take less than $11,300 and the most people on the list said to keep looking, so I did. Last week I stumbled across a 92 LS with 58K miles for $8000. After taking it for a pre buyers inspection I was able to get $650 knocked off the price. Yes there are little things wrong with the car, but the Helms manuals are on order along with the rear tranny mount and power steering rack bellows. Once the mount and bellows are replaced I'll be getting an alignment and new tires. The car is schweet and looking forward to a Long Term Relationship with it!

Look and look and look till you find the right one, it will be worth it! Good Luck!

jose3030

· #12 · May 27, 2002

Re: Have patience...

PoodleHead said:
RKNY,
The guy wouldn't take less than $11,300 and the most people on the list said to keep looking, so I did. Last week I stumbled across a 92 LS with 58K miles for $8000. After taking it for a pre buyers inspection I was able to get $650 knocked off the price.

Sounds like a good deal man.
Coupe?

Congrats!

PoodleHead

· #13 · May 27, 2002

Nope, they were both Sedan's. The 95 looked brand new on the inside. This 92 is not quite as nice on the inside, but almost. I'm sure my wife can change that though.

I'm happy, thanks!

tnelson

· #14 · May 28, 2002

not everyone experiences all of the problems, no. But many, did you mention cv boots i forgot to check, on the front. What i love about the legend is it is big, fast, great looking(chicks dig it), is getting(finally) some aftermarket support, and it is luxury. It is an all around great car, and, yes every car has problems, they all have things wrong, and you might get a crappy one, but if you look around, you'll be fine. Legends are the one of the best cars on the road. Good luck with your search
peace
Tnelson

PoodleHead

· #15 · May 28, 2002

Yep, both my CV boots are leaking a little, but at least they aren't split. I agree about the looks and performance of the Legend. I've like em ever since my sister bought one brand new in 92. Now they are finally getting down in my price range...

1 - 15 of 15 Posts

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