Hi,
I have 2005 Toyato Camry with 146,000 miles. Car is 15 year olds and beginning to cost money. This week I had to replace the starter $700. The car has two oil leaks. I do know how to check the oil level. Should I just keeping checking the oil level and adding oil when needed or get the oil leak fixed? The smell of oil burning on the engined comes through the air vents sometimes. The estimate I received to fix the oil leak is $2,600. Do I make the repairs and hope to get the 250,000 miles you hear about or get a new used car? I know this is a financial question as well, but I am asking your opinion. Other parts on the car need replacing. I have spent about $4,000 for car repairs over the years (not including the normal repairs such brakes, etc.).
If it’s a valve cover or oil pan leak, not too hard and pretty cheap to do
@Kingmarki can you copy and paste your answer into the ‘Your Answer’ box down below? Thank you.
I think you need to price around first to see how much it really cost for you. To me, $700 for a 15 years old Camry is rip off.
You mentioned 2 oil leaks. Do you know where it is leaking?
If you can smell the oil burning, the leak may be from the top of the engine and could be fixed easily. If you see oil dripping underneath, then use Scotty's "dye" additive to see where the leak is coming from. Scotty told me recently that it is cheaper to add oil occasionally in my 1999 Camry than change seals for $2000.
Starters for your car cost about $70 at all the parts stores on the planet. Why did you spend $700 to replace it? It sounds like a typical dealer rip off to me. Is this the case?
+1 @doc
You need to stop going to the stealership for your car maintenance & find a good honest independent mechanic to watch your back.
You should’ve ran out the door the second you heard a $700 quote for a starter, for a Camry.
Before you do anything else to your car, go hunting for an independent mechanic in your area. Worst case, find a dealer who has honest reviews from your friends/acquaintances.
