TSB TC001-05...would you let this deter you from buying?

[sPaulp]

Hello all,

I have found a cherry '04 one owner with only 76K miles. No accidents, and 9/10 pristine condition. However, upon researching this great site, I came upon a TSB TC001-05 for model years '04-'05 that fall under a certain Vin#. The only fix for this TSB is a new transmission and breather tube which is major $$$. The 5th gear shudder is caused by water entering the transmission through the faulty breather tube. The warranty was only good for 6 years/70k miles. So, even though the LX shifts smoothly now, is this a LX to avoid? How many '04-'05 owners have this issue? Thanks for any insight.

 

[txtortoise]

Consider dropping by your Lexus dealer and see if a revised breather tube mitigates the exposure. I'm guessing the TSB is for vehicles with the old tube, that then ingested water...thus the new transmission.

 

[Sandroad]

I would not worry about a transmission failure in an otherwise well-cared for '04. Just do a transmission fluid change as part of the overall preventative maintenance work after you buy it and you'll be fine. I like the idea of checking on installing a revised breather, in case you ever cross a river, drive through a flooded area, or otherwise drown the original breather. There is a very low incident of failure reported.

 

[LonghornLX]

I would not worry about that TSB personally.

I DID just had my transmission replaced for the Torque Converter Shudder issue that the 03-05 LX 5 speeds had. It was a TSB but I forget the number. Luckily for me it was replaced with an aftermarket warranty I had purchased with the vehicle.

Just make sure it doesn't shudder with your foot lightly on the gas between 35-45 Mph (happens more regularly going up a grade)

I know it sounds silly but I had it occurred only once on my test drive before I knew what it was.

Here is hoping your '04 doesn't have this problem.