Faults:

OK, I just purchased the car, and drove it home. The thing runs like a scalded dog, but also leaks oil out of every orifice! The main leak is at the cam seal that is running oil onto the alternator and water pump belt, and that needs fixed before I drive it. I found an entire engine gasket kit (except oil pan) for $24.00 + shipping, so all of them on top will be replaced that are oil related.

At the same time, I will replace the timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys, since you have to pull all that crap off anyway to get to the seals and gaskets.

My mechanic says that before long, the axle will have to be replaced, which is expected.

I will replace the oil pan gasket on the next oil change, since I immediately had the oil and transmission fluid changed.

This is all age related stuff, and I'm not disheartened by it. It's almost 14 years old!

The only thing I'm having a hard time finding at a decent price, is a driver's side door window regulator. The window only goes up half way, and the the gears strip out.

General Comments:

The car had new tires, brakes, alternator, and water pump when I bought it.

The car is a lot more peppy than I thought it would be with a 3 cylinder and a 3 speed automatic. I'd guess that the light weight has a lot to do with it.

I'll keep you posted as I go along as to how it does after repairs.