rikkistein

There are photos posted on my profile page. We just hosed the car down so excuse some water spots. Any white spots are reflections of the overhead lights. Let me know if you need to see anything else. There are no marks or dings on the exterior of the car. Sorry we couldn't get a head on view but the nose was too far under the storage space.

Fritz330

Wow, it's in amazing shape for a 97. Maybe it would be worth it to replace the engine.

rikkistein

that's why it's such a heart breaker for me. I've taken really good care of it all these years. But even the two mechanics, who stand to make money if I replaced the engine, have told me to get rid of it. Of course they both offered $650 for it because they know they can replace the engine and make a good profit from it.

Mythotical

I'm the mechanic who would replace/rebuild the engine and keep it!

Hayk

iTrader: (1)

Wow the car is mint and it's fully loaded with brand new adaptive suspension. I think you should get a new engine in there.

ES300NZ

I can't believe I'm saying this but: that car is very tidy, you'd struggle to find a tidier car if you got something newer. I'd stick with it and pay the money for another engine.

rikkistein

I know! What would you pay for it?

rikkistein

I would keep it if I trusted the engine that either mechanic would put in it. There's only a one year warranty on the engine and I fear all sorts of other things could start going wrong. The $3K that they are quoting me could go toward a brand new car.

ES300NZ

well, you take the risk of things going wrong with any car you own. ultimately it is your choice though.

rikkistein

it does need rear shocks which I haven't put in because they are expensive. We just tightened the front end and replaced bushings and other parts to make it ride better. Now I'm thinking I should fix the car... It feels so wrong to give it away for so little money.

Hayk

iTrader: (1)

$3k seems a bit way overboard, but then I've never had an engine replaced before. I think it should be more like $800 for the engine + $1000 for labor.

Fritz330

Shop around. Get a few more quotes.

Mythotical

That's my quote, and most mechanics would just drop the used engine in where as I would do all new seals, gaskets and TB water pump n such...

rikkistein

My mechanic said he'd change all those parts as well and would not nickle and dime me every time he found something else that needed replacing, like a hose or belt. But his price is $3000 all in and you're in Montana. I'm looking at a brand new 2014 es350 to lease for two years and then see if I want to keep it or turn it in for the newer model. The deal is almost the same as leasing a new Honda...hard to resist. Frankly, with my health, at this point, I really need something totally safe and reliable. And a brand new car would lift my spirits. The hardest part is giving my old car away for no money. If I had the space, I would have it fixed and keep it as a second car...but that is not possible at this time.
Do you want your nephew to stop by and look at it for yourself? You had mentioned that possibility in another post. I would love for it to go to a good home with someone who would love it and take good care of it. I know it''s just a machine, but as you can see, I'm very attached to it.

Mythotical

I am loving mine too, but I am looking for a second ES. That way I'll have a second one to give to my oldest boy when he turns 16 so I can keep mine too. I'll get in touch with my nephew and keep you posted.