So far, so good...
'95 XLT 4x4, 281k, bone stock, new rack at 180k+/-, tranny ohaul at 235k (original trans, yes it was, yes), 17-21MPG depending entirely on my mood. It hasnt been perfect, but hey, I cannot complain. I bought it used with 167k on it, and so far, so good. It was Maine car until 2005, so the paint is above average for an AZ car...
Needs:
- thermostat or radiator or hose(s) temp gauge fluctuates
- rack, it creaks like an old rusty gate
- brakes, changing pads/rotors this weekend
- console recover, eBay baby!
- air blend door creaks like the rack going cold to hot
- radio on/off doesn't stay off
- sunroof rattles like the rear hatch
- headlights are seriously sandblasted
- lh brake light lens, my wife crushed my table saw with it
- alternator squeals terrible at certain temperatures, for last 100k
- drivers door lock actuator weak
- driver's 6-way seat got it's first crack in the leather last week oh my
- standard Arizona crack and pits in windshield
- loose wiper arms, massive play
- dare not let a mechanic touch the front end, or i will be facing ball joints/tie rod ends/bushings/you name it
- shocks are probably original, don't ask
Other than that, I would drive it cross-country again. My wife says it will not die.
Now, all I want really is a commuter car. '90 CRX Si maybe...