2000 — 2004
3.5L C35A V6 - Luxury Sedan
Petrol
Gently accelerate and decelerate between 40-80km/h; listen for any slipping or shuddering in the transmission, as these 4-speed automatics can occasionally show signs of wear in higher mileage examples.
Operate the electric seat adjustments and memory functions; these complex mechanisms can sometimes become sluggish or unresponsive due to the age of the internal motors.
Cycle through the climate control settings and listen for clicking noises behind the dash; this can indicate that a blend door actuator is struggling, a common occurrence in luxury sedans of this vintage.
Check the steering rack for any fluid weepage or heavy resistance; the power steering systems in these V6 models are robust but can eventually develop small leaks at the seals that are worth monitoring.
Usually marks the second major timing belt service interval; confirm this was completed to ensure long-term engine health.
Suspension components such as bushes and ball joints often begin to show their age and may require refreshing to maintain that signature smooth Legend ride.
Consider a thorough inspection of the cooling system hoses and radiator, as plastic components can become brittle over time.
Verify the timing belt replacement history, as the C35A V6 is an interference engine and strictly relies on a healthy belt.
Inspect the transmission fluid color; it should ideally be a clean pink or red, rather than dark or burnt-smelling.
Check all four door locks and the boot release for smooth operation, as the electrical actuators can occasionally be temperamental.
Keep an eye on the oil level regularly, as these high-compression V6 engines can consume a small amount of oil as they age.
Ensure the sunroof drains are clear of debris to prevent any water ingress into the cabin during our classic Kiwi downpours.
Estimated repair costs if issues arise
Since the C35A engine relies on a timing belt, if there is no documented record of this being replaced within the last 100,000km, you might eventually need to budget for this service to ensure engine longevity.
To help the transmission continue shifting smoothly, periodic fluid exchanges are a wise investment. It's a straightforward procedure that helps extend the life of the unit.
To maintain that luxurious, planted feel on the road, you may eventually need to budget for replacing aged rubber bushings in the control arms, which is a common item for cars of this age.
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Disclaimer: This report is generated with the assistance of AI analysis based on verified automotive data. While we strive for 100% accuracy, enthusiasts should always conduct physical inspections and consult service records. View Full Disclaimer