Ken, the way I read it was that it's his own lease the friend is buying out - he already knows the history of the car.
Stereoeguy, I'm the one that's had the tranny er.. transmission problems. (No wise cracks Peter)
We've owned 2 Civics and 2 Accords that were flawless. (all 4cyl & all auto) All were bought new, and sold around the 150,000Km mark. Couldn't have had a better experience.
We currently own a 99 Odyssey, and a 99 Acura TL. (Which is essentially a stretched & massaged Accord) Both were bought used, are 6cyl & auto, and have had transmission troubles.
Doing a quick search, I've found that there were far more complaints for the 2000 to 2003 model years. Honda may have fixed the design flaw by the time the 05's were released.
Two things to consider before buying it out. First, if he hasn't done the transmission service religiously by the book, I'd ditch it. Second, if he drives aggressively, or harder than the average person, I'd ditch it. I'm guilty of both.
