QuestionMoney really isn't the issue. It's whether it's worth investing the money in that particular car. Because it was a cheap car to begin with, I'm concerned about the longevity of the major parts of the car. Is there a place I can find information on how well this car is holding up for people? Also, I live in Houston. A/C is more important than brakes here. =)
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Followup To
Question -
Hi,
I have a 1997 2D Sunfire SE 2.2L with approximately 86,000 miles on it. I bought it new and have taken good care of it - body and maintenance. The A/C went out on it a year and a half ago, and I decided not to have it fixed since I didn't use the car last summer. It's the first major problem I've had with the car. I was told there was a crack in the hose (or might have been a seal) in the compressor, so the compressor would have to be replaced. We tried to seal the crack with some gooey stuff they put it, but it didn't even last a day. It's now summer again, and I'm trying to decide if it's worth fixing considering the car's value. I've been given repair quotes over the phone ranging from $600-1400. What I'm most concerned with is spending the money to fix the A/C now, to turn around and have something else break and have another high dollar repair. I'm concerned the car could be headed downhill because it's started idling a little rough and missing out, and also needs new brakes. I've tried to find historical information concerning major repairs on this car but haven't had any luck. Is this model a well built car and worth investing the money in or is it time to find something else?
Thanks!
Answer -
Well if money is an issue, I would fix the brakes and the running problems first.
A/C repairs are always expensive, so it all depends on how bad you want your A/C to work. You could try used parts from a local junk yard, or buy the parts from a local parts store and install them yourself, then take it to a shop to have it recharged. That will save you the cost of the labor to relace the parts. Its all up to you.
These are good cars if you keep them maintained, but things do wear with age.
AnswerI dont know where you can find any info on how long the car will last, but I can tell you this. I have an 89 Grand Am with the same motor and transmission as you have in your Sunfire. I have a little over 225,000 miles on it and it still runs great. My AC doesn't work right now but I live in Ohio so if I want cold air I just open the window.
I worked in a Pontiac Dealer for a long time up until about 8 months ago and I have had a lot of Sunfires in my shop but rarely for any major problems.
