I am in the market for a new car, specifically a 02-03 TL-Type S. I know that these cars have had the notorious transmission issue, but I had a few questions:

1.) How can I tell if the transmission has been replaced/repaired? (VIN/Sticker or something on the trans?) I searched but couldn't find anything

2.) I saw a FAQ regarding the symptoms, A "whining torque converter" is not listed as one. Is this a common problem or is the precursor to transmission failure? the seller told me this was a common problem, but I haven't looked at the car to diagnose the symptom more.

 

it shouldnt have a whining torque converter. usually its just 3rd gear that gets jerkey, then its toast. the torque converter is not a common problem on the tl-s.

 

I built one of these for a guy last summer and that's exactly what it was, 3rd gear clutch pack was destroyed, but everything else looked fine. These transmissions have a very high failure rate, just keep that in mind.