I got the inspection back from the mechanic just now on the '99 Solara with 178k. It is in good overall condition, except the following:
- serpentine belts need replacing
- the inner left tie rod has slight play
- Needs brakes and rotors apparently, although they felt fine to me!
- slight valve cover leak in the rear, apparently common?
- power steering pump & shaft leak
- Possibly needs a clutch although the test drive was fine
- My bf thought the tranny shifted a little harder, like the tranny wasn't fully engaging right away. I didn't notice anything and I thought the rough feel was that I was shifting too low. The mechanic couldn't reduplicate that issue and said the tranny seemed just fine. He said otherwise it may be bearing play in the tranny, which could be costly.
The dealer is asking $3875 but with this list plus the need for new tires, radio, vanity mirror cover and passenger seatbelt cover...!! The mechanic said to proceed with caution if I buy this vehicle and keep in mind the repairs it needs, and may need over time.
Since you guys actually own these cars, and of various mileage, does this car sound like a good buy for the right price (>$3000), or should I run far, far away? Are some of these problems normal? I appreciate a little feedback as I really mull this decision over. Its a gorgeous car with an amazing interior!
- serpentine belts need replacing
- the inner left tie rod has slight play
- Needs brakes and rotors apparently, although they felt fine to me!
- slight valve cover leak in the rear, apparently common?
- power steering pump & shaft leak
- Possibly needs a clutch although the test drive was fine
- My bf thought the tranny shifted a little harder, like the tranny wasn't fully engaging right away. I didn't notice anything and I thought the rough feel was that I was shifting too low. The mechanic couldn't reduplicate that issue and said the tranny seemed just fine. He said otherwise it may be bearing play in the tranny, which could be costly.
The dealer is asking $3875 but with this list plus the need for new tires, radio, vanity mirror cover and passenger seatbelt cover...!! The mechanic said to proceed with caution if I buy this vehicle and keep in mind the repairs it needs, and may need over time.
Since you guys actually own these cars, and of various mileage, does this car sound like a good buy for the right price (>$3000), or should I run far, far away? Are some of these problems normal? I appreciate a little feedback as I really mull this decision over. Its a gorgeous car with an amazing interior!