1997 ES 300, 115k miles. Just put in 3 motor mounts ($500), now have differential problem that will cost another $2200, plus an oxygen sensor gone bad. This should run a LOT longer than 115k without being a money pit. It's been well-maintained. Do I just have a lemon? Any thoughts on whether it's worth fixing, or just get rid of it?

 

I cant really help you... but... wat i would do is go find a used 97 ES. ive seen a 96 ES for $3k, i dont think a 97 would be too much more than that. Just compare ur pricings on the repairs to a used 97.

 

Ok:
1) Change the fluid & flush the fluid more often. They've proven to be very stout & I've never heard a case of one failing yet.
2)
A) Oxygen sensors last 100,000 miles - deal with it. Routine maint. items & should be replaced every 100-150 @ the most.
B) Trouble shoot the o2 sensor malfunction & make sure it's an o2 sensor malfunction & not a problem throwing the code (i.e. tell us the code)
3) The differential used is going to cost between $100-$200. Find one for a '97+ 1mz-fe's A541-E transmission. From there it's simply taking the axles hardware off, draining the transmission & dropping it. If it's a real good shop, they can determine if it's quicker to drop the transmission & differential, or just pull the diff off.

The moral, is that it shouldn't be close to $2200 for changing the differential.I would question why they want to change the differential. What is your problem?

 

Thanks, Pheonix. The o2 sensor doesn't bother me much. Any recommendations on where to go to find a differential for '97+ 1mz-fe's A541-E transmission? Assume I get the differential for $200, how much should I expect to pay for the labor?

I readily admit I know little about cars, but I'll take some time to research and hopefully avoid getting ripped off.

Thanks again.