Faults:
The only problem I have had with this car is the Service engine Light came on at about 130,000 miles, the car needs an Oxygen sensor.
My parents had to replace the battery once and have a short circuit in the electrical system fixed (bad ground strap) at around 80,000 miles. The front brakes have been completely replaced (out of safety, not necessity... you don't take chances with brakes!)
General Comments:
This is one great car. It is simple (by modern standards) in that it has only PW, PDL, AC, PS, PB, Load Leveling Rear Shocks and RR Window Defogger.
It is a 2 door model which is kind of rare in a full size car.
The 3.8 Liter V6 has ample torque and horsepower for everyday driving. It is smooth and efficient, I usually average around 25 mpg even with the bad O2 sensor. It doesn't burn a drop of oil. I'm certain it will go at least 250,000 miles.
The handling is good for a vehicle of its size. it has the FE3 Firm Ride Suspension, which I think helps a lot.
The only problems with the exterior are that the paint on the hood is checked and faded, but the rest of the paint is OK, save for 2 small rust spots on the drivers door. The lace-style alloy wheels still look good.
It's on it's 2nd set of Goodyear Eagle GT+4's which are about near the end of their useful life. But 75K miles out of tires is pretty darn respectable. Even with nearly spent tires, I made it through this past winter without a single problem. I saw many SUV's that had gotten stuck where I just breezed right through.
I doubt I'll ever get rid of it. It ws my Mom's car (parents bought it new in '89) and has sentimental value. But even if that was not the case, I'd still keep it until the wheels fell of of it.
24th Sep 2006, 12:52
I have one also, that has been in the family since new. Unfortunately someone just ran into my right door and having much difficulty finding one.Are you aware of any resources?