Picking up 2001 Solara this Monday

[Disclover]

I think, I got best deal out of this car for $3,000 with 126K. It has no major issues but just need new oil nut with little oil dip and fog light needs to be replaced. It has 4 cyl which helps MPG for me to use.

Is there anything I should be aware of any issues to fix before I can drive it a lot. I plan to clean up the engine and get nice tune up.

How many miles you have on your car just like mine? I was just wondering how long it can last so I can feel better about this deal.

[lilm]

regular maintenance makes these cars last forever

[Gadgetjq]

Try to get the owners manual along with all the maintenance records and receipts with the car. That'll give you a huge head start determining what you have to do. Check the record agianst the maintenance schedule in the manual and do the things the PO didn't.

If there are no records you're kind of stuck starting fresh.

1. Change all fluids. Oil, coolant, brakes, transmission lube/fluid (depending on the tranny you have)
2. Check dates on tire sidewalls. If they're more than six years old even if the tires have plenty of tread it's time for new. Tires have a 'shelf' life. Make sure all tires (don't forget the spare) are somewhere between the Toyota specified pressure and max pressure from the tire manuacturer (sidewall).
3. You probably did this during your pre-purchase inspection but if not, check door, window and trunk seals. If they're cracked replace them or you could see leaks in the rain.

The really good news is the four-cylinder doesn't have a timing belt to replace so if the other normal maintenance (spark plugs @ 100,000) have been done you're good to go. There isn't much to "tune up" but if you're going to pay for one ask for a compression test (really easy on the 4-cyl). That'll give you a good idea about the internal codition of valves and rings. Give the car a nice wax job and just enjoy it.

Cheers

[Disclover]

Thanks for the kind of information. I just wanted to get more understanding about the car for me to take care of. I knew it will be long lasting car to use after based of my research.

It has bridgestone tires that are pretty fresh. I can't wait to drive with real good handling when the ride makes more interesting.

I will take pictures and post it up my ride.

[bronzemaxell]

since the car has 126K, i would change the timing belt for safe incase the timing belt break in the worst moment like in highway or in a rush, all the hassle, and leaving you stranded.

and recommend changing the AC belt, Power steering belt, cam shaft seal, crank shaft seal, oil pump seal, oil pump o-ring, water pump, and thermostat while you are there, even though there might not be a oil leak yet. and it should last you another 60 to 80k with out any oil leak.

and change 4 spark plugs, fuel filter if you want further tune up, and check ATF, it is getting brown, drain and refill a few time.

[Disclover]

Thats what I would do to check when I open the hood.

I'll make sure to check all and replace what you listed.

Thanks

[meterme]

love the old toyota. i drive a 94 camry. beautiful reliability

[angel_rolla]

3k? man i hope i got the same price on the solara i am picking up but i will have a v6 se 5 spd w/ 101k.. 5.5k though.