Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Nissan Altima Repairs ... How crucial ?

I am in process of buying a 97 nissan altima , 120k , the quote is $2800. I got it checked from mechanic and he suggested following repairs.



1) Strut Assembly

2) Strut Mounts

3) Motor Mounts

4) Flat Belts

5) Valve Cover Gasket, cover, outer

6) Valve Cover Gasket, spark plug, inner

7) flat P/S flush

8) flat tranny flush

9) flat coolant flush

10) axle shaft seals



In all repairs worth 1900 $ including labour. I understand the motor mounts and struts .. but are other things required. how crucial are they. This might be a little bit silly as you havent seen the car, but still any suggestions.



The biggest cost in all is motor mounts. It costs about 900 including labour. They have never been changed in 120k. The car does vibrate a bit due to that, but if i dont change them what will be the effects ?



While driving, other then a little vibration the car drives pretty ok.



Looking forward to your help.Nissan Altima Repairs ... How crucial ?
Have a good look at the previous driver, was it a kid that thought he had a hot rod? Or was it a person who never maintained it, which seems to be the case. The machanic told you only what he could see, so how do you know there isn't something about to go out inside the engine like a spun crank bearing or a cracked valve guide?



I would suggest looking for a different vehicle for the price they are asking.



Unless you are like uncle moneybags and don't mind wasting the money on labor and parts which will make the cars price up in the $5-6k range. I am sure that you can find a better value out there for your money.Nissan Altima Repairs ... How crucial ?
No way it needs all that. My kid's 97 has 185K on it and hasn't needed any of that. Original axles, seals, gaskets, struts. Check the drive belts, see if it leaves much of a stain on the driveway overnight and just drive it.



And take it to a mechanic who doesn't have a drug habit to feed.Nissan Altima Repairs ... How crucial ?
Do you know this mechanic? Ask another mechanic, if he says the same thing, buy a different car for $4000.00 that doesn't need all this work.