Major Engine Repair a Losing Proposition
This weekly feature for Warranty Direct about car repair and maintenance is written by Tom Torbjornsen, the popular host of America’s Car Show on satellite radio. Below are some recent Q&A from the America’s Car Show email bag.
Dear Tom,
I own a ‘97 Jeep Cherokee Sport with a 4.0L engine and 167,000 miles. The engine has recently developed a “pronounced knock” that is rather annoying and raises a concern about its dependability. This vehicle is quite solid for its age and mileage, and I would like to keep it going for as long as possible. Although the engine continues to run relatively well, it is becoming increasingly noisy despite using heavier viscosity oils. I don’t know if a serious breakdown is imminent, and I am concerned because I drive the “fast-moving” interstate roads on a daily basis. What should I do to keep this vehicle operating indefinitely? Should I rebuild the engine or replace it?
Sal from San Francisco, CA
Sal,
First off, if you continue driving it in a spirited fashion on the “fast moving interstate roads” on a daily basis in this condition, I assure you that catastrophic engine failure is imminent in short order. That said, major engine repair these days is a losing proposition. In years gone by, engine rebuilding was a viable option to replacement. However, with modern day manufacturing processes and great warranties, the price of replacement-remanufactured engines has come down to the point that engine rebuilding is becoming a lost art and is no longer cost effective. I would look into a remanufactured unit from Jasper Engines if the body is in good shape and the rest of the vehicle is in good working order. Success to you.
Tom
Dear Tom,
I own a ‘96 Saturn SL2 DOHC 4-cyl with automatic transmission. I just replaced the transmission in the car and now it’s shifting strangely. I also replaced the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). I’ve noticed that when I shift the transmission manually it shifts fine (for the most part) as long as it’s warmed up. The transmission internals were inspected thoroughly and showed no signs of wear. I called the dealer and they said it could possibly be: (1) The valve body in the transmission isn’t operating correctly. (2) The PCM needs to be flashed. I would appreciate any advice you could give me.
Sincerely,
Scott from Peoria, IL
Scott,
There is a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) from Saturn on erratic shift patterns (bulletin # 01-T-09). It talks about bad connector pins in the shift control circuit. In addition, there is a TSB that has an in-depth diagnostic procedure for the same symptoms. Apparently there are problems with these transaxles. Fixes have run the gamut from replacing the valvebody to wiring harnesses, and reflashing of the drivetrain control module. I believe this one is over your head, Scott, unless you have the factory scanner, tools, equipment, and technical knowledge of the drivetrain systems to track down the cause of the erratic shift patterns. Better take it to the dealer to get it fixed. Good luck.
Tom
Dear Tom,
Is it possible to replace just the front lenses of the lights on my ‘96 Toyota? The lights are scratched, fogged, and yellowed. Thanks.
Eileen from Batavia, NY
Eileen,
The headlight assembly on your car is one molded piece of plastic (called a composite). When the lens yellows, the whole unit has to be replaced. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.
Tom
Dear Tom,
I own a ‘99 Mercury Grand Marquis, 8 cylinders. I discovered a small leak on the “looks like plastic” intake manifold. How difficult is it to replace?
Handy with Tools
Mr. Handy with Tools,
This job calls for 4.5 hours for a trained Ford factory technician to do the job, equipped with a lift and other special tools needed to do the job. My advice? Take it to a qualified tech. Although you are “Handy with Tools,” this replacement task is one for the experts. That is, if you want the car to run after the job is done. You might be able to replace an intake in ’68 model, but with today’s cars it’s no longer a basic operation. It requires scan tools, special factory tools, and the knowledge (re-learn the drivability system after the intake has been replaced). Sorry. “Handy with Tools” just don’t cut it any more.
Tom
Dear Tom,
I own a ‘95 Olds Cutlass Cierra with 60,000 original miles. It has a new muffler and new tires, and it is well maintained. On average, what do you think I could get for this as a private sale? I have been offered from $1200 to $1500. I personally think I might (and should) get more. Can you elaborate?
Sally from Detroit, MI
Sally,
According to Kelly Blue Book, that car in Excellent Condition will bring $2,225; Good Condition: $1,925; and Fair Condition: $1600. Of course, the selling price depends on the exterior and interior condition. Also, pricing varies depending on where you are in the country and what the year, make, model is bringing at auction and local retailers. Check your local newspapers and see what similar vehicles are going for, then price accordingly. Best to you.
Tom
‘‘Til next time…Keep Rollin’
For more articles by Tom Torbjornsen, visit AMERICA’S CAR SHOW web site: www.americascarshow.com
Tom Torbjornsen is an automotive expert of 37 years. An automotive journalist in good standing with the IMPA (International Motor Press Association), Torbjornsen is the Repair and Maintenance Editor for AOL Autos, Edmunds.Com, At Home Portals and many other websites. Torbjornsen is the auto expert of record for Channel 4 WIVB TV, Western New York’s CBS affiliate. Hear his radio show AMERICA’S CAR SHOW, on the Sirius XM Satellite Radio Channel – Stars Too – Sirius 108 and XM 139; Sunday nights – 10PM – Mid EST. Send your car questions to his website at: www.americascarshow.com
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Filed under: Americas Car Show, Maintenance, Vehicle Maintenance
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