1995 Buick LeSabre Custom
Maintenance, Repair, & Improvements Log

 

Date Description of Work Done Odometer Parts Cost Labor Cost Warranty Notes
           
           
           
           
12/16/19
Sold (gifted) to Carlos C.
 
         
9/20/19
-Turned in license plate tag this morning to tax collector's office.
-Will not be renewing insurance policy that expires 9/23.
-Plan to sell the car.
 
         
8/17/19


Fluids & tires check:

-Battery Water Level: pass

-Battery Load Test: not checked

-Brake Fluid Level: pass

-Coolant Level: topped off

-Power Steering Fluid Level: not checked

-Serpentine Belt Inspection: not checked

-Tires Air Pressure: Topped rears to 36psi & front to 36psi.
 (car will continue to not be used)

-Tires Visual Check: Not checked

-Transmission Fluid Color & Level: Not checked

 
         
5/26/19
Topped off oil & coolant. Oil was 1qt low.
 
108,908        
4/21/19
Topped off oil & coolant.
 
108,067        
3/30/19
AK got into accident with LeSabre. Front-end damage.
The worst part is that the headlights, esp. the left, are pushed in and pointed slightly downward. We have zip tied in the grill, and moved the bent bracket that was in the way for the hood safety catch. The hood will not open without one person to pull out the hood release lever, and another person to lift the hood at the same time (or wedge something between grill and bumper).

Update 3/31/19> I reaimed the headlights best as I can. They are pretty good.
 
         
2/16/19
Checked:

-Oil Level: 1/2 qt low. Added 1/2qt RK 10W30.

-Coolant Level: Added some.
 

107,216        
2/2/19
Mileage check.

Fluids & tires check:

-Battery Water Level: The water level in several cells was below the top of the plates. Added water to every cell. Added 17oz of water total.  Need to keep an eye on this battery.
-Battery Load Test: Passed, though almost on the weak side.

-Brake Fluid Color & Level: pass

-Coolant Level: topped off approx. 1/2 - 1 pint.

-Oil Level: Added 1/2at RK 10W30

-Power Steering Fluid Level: pass

-Serpentine Belt Inspection: pass

-Tires Air: Topped off with air.
-Tire Visual Check: pass.

-Transmission Fluid Color & Level: pass

106,802        
12/1/18
Repaired RR wheel ABS sensor wire which was previously ripped apart presumably by running over something that caught it.
ABS light no longer illuminates on dash.

Topped off oil & tires.
 

105,743        
11/5/18
AC is still blowing cool & compressor is engaged, which is surprising.
Sprayed sudsy leak detector in each of the two schrader valves and determined that the low side valve was leaking.  Tapped it a couple times and the leaking slowed significantly. Installed cap very tightly.
If the refrigerant runs low again, replacement of the low side schrader valve would be a good idea.

Checked fluids:
-Added some coolant.
-Added 1/2qt oil - RK 10W30.
 

         
10/20/18
Changed oil and filter;  oil = 4.5qts Rural King 10W30  Filter = AC Delco PF47
(I don't see any other filters in the garage cabinet but I didn't look real hard).

AC was blowing warm.  Added stop leak with dye. Added R134a.  Borrowed Jimmy's leak detector and searched for leak but couldn't find a leak anywhere.
 

105,063        
9/29/18
AC was blowing warm. Added refrigerant.
There is clearly a leak in the refrigerant circuit that causes loss of AC performance in under 2 weeks.
 
         
9/16/18
Preparing car for Amber again.
-Topped off coolant.
-Topped off tires to 35lbs
-AC wasn't performing. Low side pressure was around 25lbs. Brought rigerant pressure to 55lbs.  Not sure what pressure it should be running at.
-Added oil: 1/2 qt RK 10W30 to bring to top of crosshatch.
 
104,514        
7/21/18
AC compressor was cycling frequently so added some R134A.
AC blows cold.
(Still need to rig closed the fresh air intake under the dash for maximum AC cooling).
 
104,512        
6/11/18
Replaced LF side marker lense as it came apart a month or two ago while AKA was driving it.
 
         
5/13/18
Checked over all fluids & tires.
-Added 1qt oil to top it off.
-Added 1/4in coolant

Squeek from front right side was resolved by spraying & saturating lube under rubber cover that goes over the top of strut nut.
 

103,935        
4/12/18
AKA reported car has been shaking and accelerating on its own.

I determined 3-6 coil pack functioning. Switching around coil packs proved that the 3-6 coil pack was NOT the problem.  I assume that the ignition control module (which is what the 3 coil packs plug into) is the next logical culprit.  Replaced ignition control module with brand BWD part # CBE47.
 

103,000 $138 minus online discount. Final cost $109.70   Lifetime  
3/29/18
Problems with the 3-6 coil pack again. The car was running rough and there was no spark coming from coil 3 (I did not test coil 6) until I tapped that pack with a hammer. Seems to me there is a problem with either ground or one of the two blade connections.

Took off all 3 coil packs which freed mounting surface.  Removed wiring harness from mount surface and checked pins:  All clean and shiny.  Cleaned all other electrical connections including the left-side screws that ground the coil packs. Lubed all electrical contacts with lithium grease. Wire #5 has lots of corrosion on the connector and may need to be replaced eventually.

Car in good running condition.
 

102,720        
3/23/18
Registered LeSabre and got a 3rd tag at the DMV.

Replaced wiper blades with Rain-X 22in.

To add approx 1 pint of Dexron III transmission fluid (Harvest King brand), as the trans fluid level is at the bottom of the crosshatch.  (Added 3/24/18).

Delivered car to AKA at work.
 

         
3/22/18
Preparing to re-register the car as a 3rd vehicle.

Topped off oil as it was slightly low.
Oil is black. Oil was last changed 8/2015 at 99,330mi.
 

         
1/20/18
Periodic run of car.
Car runs crappy off and on again. Determined once again that 3-6 coil pack is intermittently producing no spark, and has become warm to the touch. The other coil packs are not warm at all. 

Obtained a new coil free of charge from Autozone using lifetime warranty. Replaced coil pack 3-6.
Threw away today's exchange receipt.  Car runs great again.
 

102,585        
8/12/17
Periodic run of car.
Noticed car runs crappy (and has in the past). Added 2 gal fresh gas and still runs crappy.
Determined 3-6 coil pack is intermittently producing no spark, and has become very hot to the touch.

Obtained a new coil free of charge from Autozone using lifetime warranty from replacement of coil pack 4-1 on 10/7/14. Replaced coil pack 3-6.
Threw away today's exchange receipt.  Clerk said I can keep getting replacements under this lifetime warranty.  Car runs great again.

Found that rats had chewed through several of the ignition wire ends (at the ignition end) exposing the metal connectors. Glued over top of the exposed area to insulate them.
 

102,578        
4/27/17
Periodic run of car.
ABS light still illuminated.
AC still blows cool/cold. Could use some refrigerant eventually.
Added some air to tires.
Oil is full.
Coolant tanks is getting low (did not add any coolant).
 
         
3/4/17
Periodic run of car, and noticed ABS light is illuminated.
Drove car, and restarted several times, and ABS light remains illuminated.
 
         
8/16/16
Car registration was transferred to the MGM, and the LeSabre is now going to sit in driveway until I decide what to do with it.
 
         
6/18/16
Checked AC system
-Static pressure 79lbs
-Low side pressure: approx 40lbs.
-Ambient temp: 92
-Added some R134A (not much)
-After adding R134A: 45lbs / 225lbs
-AC blows cold but continues to suffer from an anomaly that activates and causes outside air to pull in and AC isn't so cold. This is some sort of issue with the blend door.
-I rigged the cabin recirculation door to stay open with velcro but the velcro might slip off over time at which point it may have to be rigged another way. This is directly above the gas pedal.
See also 8/11/12 entry below.
Forum discussion / notes

Checked all fluids
-Oil: Bottom of crosshatch so added 1 qt.
-Coolant: radiator full; overflow tank nearly empty so added to FULL COLD.
-Transmission fluid: Full
-Power Steering fluid: full

Load-tested battery: good

Road tested: Car pulls hard to the right at all times.  Inspected front tires: LF tire belts are exposed, rusted and breaking.  This may be the cause of the pull. Need to replace this immediately. Tire size: 205 70 R15 .

Replaced LF tire at Walmart and rotated back to front, and front to back. Therefore this new one ended up on LR.  The oldest tire is now RR.   The pulling issue no longer exists and was solved by replacing the problem tire.
 

102,300        
3/26/16
Added 1/2 qt oil and a little coolant to bring full.
 
         
2/13/16
Checked all fluids, lights and tires. 
Fluids: Coolant slightly low: Topped it off.  Remainder of fluids all OK, including oil.
Lights: Outer right brake light burned out: Replaced bulb.
Tires: LF & LR a little low: Topped them off to 35lbs.
 
101,244        
1/8/16
Determined battery has gone bad as it will no longer hold a charge enough to crank the engine. Last replaced 4/13/11.  It seems to have internally shorted.

Replaced battery with Rural King brand.
2 year free replacement, 72 month limited warranty.
 

101,004        
12/12/15
Checked oil: Nearly a quart low. Topped it off.
Checked coolant: slightly low. Topped it off.
 
         
11/14/15
Noticed transmission fluid has leaked from fitting to radiator.  Removed and teflon-taped threads. Topped off transmission fluid.

Coolant continues to fall slowly in recovery tank: Noticed coolant leaking from radiator to recovery-tank-nipple.  Installed new tighter clamp to stop leak.
 

         
11/6/15
Replaced radiator.
To observe coolant level.
 
100,476        
11/2/15
Radiator is leaking from upper epoxied area.
Purchased new radiator from Advance Auto (#432019 lifetime warranty)
To install.

11/3/15> Coolant recovery tank goes empty every day due to leak in radiator.
 

         
10/17/15
checked oil: Near bottom of crosshatch.  Added oil
 
100,150        
9/22/15
Re-glued fallen rear-view mirror.
 
         
9/11/15-
10/17/15

Fuel leak
Several pinhole fuel leaks were discovered in nylon line near fitting to fuel rail. 
9/11-9/12 : Leak areas were cleaned, sanded and treated with 4 coats of epoxy.  To watch this area for any further problems.
Forum Discussion / Notes

Update 9/15/15> Fuel has begun leaking from below the epoxy.  Used rubber hose, cut a slit in it, and encased fuel line with rubber hose, clamping it tight with two hose clamps.  Fuel appears to no longer be leaking.

Update 9/16/15>Replaced 3/8in right-angle fuel rail connector and a few inches of fuel line where leaks were.  This is to be the "permanent" repair.
Part is Needa #800-059 (1 yr warranty) , not to be confused with Dorman same part #.
-Used zip ties to reinforce holding the right-angel connector onto fuel rail nipple.
-Wrapped the downstream metal union and clamps with 5 pieces of electrical tape, in attempt to shield the metal components from excessive heat absorption (Which would potentially cause rapid degradation of the fuel line).

Update 9/21/15> Fuel line LEAKING AGAIN, this time at clamped connection/s. A slow drip.
The Fourth Attempted Solution
I cut the old short barbed coupler out (hardly "barbed"), and installed longer double-barbed (on each end) coupler (Needa #800-011), using 2 screw clamps each side. I accidentally bent the supply line a bit near the power steering fluid reserve (hopefully it is not damaged). Draped the clamped assembly in rubber hose & secured using zip ties.
Ran to hot: no leaks.
Note: It gets EXTREMELY hot in the area where the repair is. To keep an eye for leaks.
If this ends up leaking fuel, the only option that remains will be to replace the 3/8in nylon fuel line from the rail to the body.
Note: To install the nylon-to-nylon coupler, I applied a thin coat of grease to each end and inside the 3/8in tubes, then used a hair dryer on highest heat setting to heat both the tube and the metal coupler, and shoved them together. Some people have reported using hot water to accomplish the same thing, but this method seemed to do just fine (easier and with less mess).

Update 10/17/15> Found fuel to be leaking where connection is made to fuel rail using the poor quality Needa 800-059 connector.  Cut that out of line and put a new Dorman connector in place with a few inches of new nylon hose and used hose clamps. No leaks.

Update 10/21/15> Found area of barbed junction wet with fuel.  No obvious leaks so tightened 2 clamps closest to center of union in hopes to stop the leak.
 

approx. 99,500        
9/10/15
While testing the car's radiator repair early this morning, and running the throttle at higher RPM, I noticed all of the exhaust manifold pipe were glowing a dull red.
Forum Discussion / Notes
 
         
9/9/15
Significant Coolant leak and near total depletion of coolant during operation.
Car was driven 5 miles, left to cool, then driven 5 more miles and warning signs were disregarded. 

At home it was found to be very low on coolant (possibly empty?), and I determined a leak was under alternator in a formed hose that leads from lower intake manifold to water pump. Replaced hose. Ran the car and determined that the leak was fixed.

However, another leak was discovered: At the radiator, on the driver's side, on top of the plastic side of the radiator - An inch or so long crack which was bubbling.  It was likely caused by continuing to drive the car and subsequent overheating.

Attempted Solutions
Used soldering gun and melted the crack and added plastic material (excess plastic sawed off of radiator and used), but it still leaked.  Re-treated area with soldering gun, then applied 2 coats of Locktite epoxy.  Letting dry overnight and to test in the morning.

Update 9/10/15> 8 hours after epoxy treatment I ran car at least 3 warm-hot cycles: The epoxy held and coolant is NOT leaking.

9/12/15 jca> Repair continues to be holding.

9/16/15 jca> Repair continues to be holding and there is no coolant loss.

If if does begin leaking again, try using Quick Steel epoxy.

11/2/15> See 11/2/15 entry above. To replace the radiator since it is leaking again.

 
 

         
8/23/15
Changed oil and filter;  oil =Penzoil 5W30  Filter = AC Delco PF47
 
99,338        
8/9/15
Treated LR tire with approx 8oz Slime (for bicycle tubes) in effort to seal plugged hole which still leaks.
9/13/15> NOTE: It has been determined that adding Slime to tire is likely to cause imbalance.  I will try to extract the Slime when I receive a thin tube that fits through the valve stem.

Checked fluids:
-Oil: Added nearly 1qt to bring to top of crosshatch
-Coolant: Recovery tank nearly empty so filled it. Radiator full.
-Power steering fluid: OK
-Transmission fluid: OK
 

99,184        
6/28/15
Changed front brake pads:
Left outter pad was worn much more then the other 3 front pads, and the squeal was coming from this pad.
Pads last changed nearly 22,000mi ago.

Checked oil: Top of crosshatch

Checked coolant: slightly below FULL HOT.
The previous thought coolant leak seems to no longer exist.
 

98.456        
6/27/15
Brake squeal coming from left front wheel. 
Has been happening about 2-3 weeks.
 Likely time for new pads.
 
98,545        
FUTURE
-Clean the air filter (last changed at 57,000mi)
 
         
6/24/15
Last night Karla complained that a noise is coming from left side of car.
I test-drove car today and didn't notice anything unusual.
 
         
5/15/15
-Checked coolant level: Full cold.  Added to FULL HOT. It appears to be no longer losing a significant amount of coolant.  Oil still present in coolant.

-Checked oil: Still overfull.

-Checked power steering fluid: OK

-Checked tires: All OK except LR which was very low. Plug is still leaking.  Will have to get tire patched internally in order to stop the leak.
 

98,039        
5/3/15
-Checked coolant level: Full hot.  No signs of losing coolant.
-Checked oil level: It is about 1qt overfull (as I added a bit too much last time).

-Approximately today: Replugged LR tire due to plug leaking.
 

97897        
Approx. 4/26
-Checked coolant level: (I don't think I had to add any but not sure)
-Checked oil level: A bit low so added oil.  Added a little too much.
 
         
4/23/15
Removed screw from LR tire and plugged hole.
 
         
4/19/15 Topped off coolant overflow tank.  It was a little low.  More oil is getting into the coolant.  Cause might be a leaky lower intake manifold gasket (Replacement video series).

Forum Discussion / Notes

         
4/10/15
Checked oil & coolant levels:
-Oil level close to full.
-Coolant level: Overflow tank is empty and radiator is down slightly. There is a little bit of oil sludge found in the radiator and under the cap. Added approx. 1/3 gal of 50/50 to radiator & coolant tank to FULL HOT.
Checked for signs of coolant leakage around engine but found none.
Unk where coolant is leaking from.

Note 4/11/15: Ran car until hot and attempted to observe any coolant leaking: Couldn't see or hear any leaks.
 

97,624        
2/27/15
Checked and topped off all fluids and tires.

Note: There seems to be a minor coolant leak somewhere as coolant level has been dropping faster than normal.
 

96,907        
2/25/15
Plastic under the hood around the AC ducting been deteriorating for years exposing the yellow insulation.  This could be causing:
-Poor AC performance at a stop.
-Poor heat performance always.

Forum Discussion / Notes
 

         
2/24/15
Replaced starter/solenoid assembly
-Duralast DL6317S (rebuilt) $71.99 Lifetime warranty.

-Changed it myself. It wasn't that difficult.

Forum Discussion / Notes
 

96,859        
2/24/15
Car won't start.
-Coolant low: added coolant.
-Oil a little below bottom crosshatch: Filled.
-Security light does not blink so it doesnt seem to be related to the VATS mod.
-Banged frame with hammer to see if starter might be intermittently faulty.  Starter engaged for a split second.
-Disconnected battery for a few minutes.
 
96,859        
1/12/15
Starting problem: Karla claimed it took 3 turns of the key before car would start.

Update 1/28/15: This recurred once with Amber, then did not recur.
 

         
12/13/14
Starting problem: Sometimes nothing happens when key is turned to start position - no noise, no nothing.  Security light blinks.

Forum discussion/Notes

Considering VATS as the possible problem.
Key resistor is 1.475Kohms

Performed the modification to the VATS system as described (onlinelocal) assembling a set of resistors resulting in 1.451k ohms.  The car starts.  To observe over the next few days.


Checked all fluids and tires.  Added a little coolant. 
 

95,551        
10/25/14
Changed oil and filter;  oil =Valvoline 10W30  Filter = AC Delco PF47
 
94,700        
10/18/14
Topped off tires to 35lbs.
 
         
10/13/14
Replaced belt tensioner pulley with Duralast #231110 (1yr warranty):
Belt tensioner pulley bearing had seized destroying the pulley.
Turn belt tensioner pulley clockwise to loosen (reverse threaded).

Forum discussion/Notes
 

         
10/7/14
Coil pack 4-1 failed (No spark ignition for cylinder #1).
Out of its 2 yr warranty.  Coil lasted just short of 10,000 mi.

Replaced it with same: Duralast C849 (this one has lifetime warranty).
 

94,439        
9/28/14


-Topped tires to 35lbs.

-Checked fluids:
*Oil: Added 1/2 qrt to bring to top of crosshatch.
*Coolant: Added a little to bring to full-hot.
*PS: OK
*Transmission Fluid: OK: Checked while cold/not running: Seems fine.
*Brake Fluid level: OK
*Battery electolyte level: OK

-Did not check exterior lights.
 

94,300        
9/7/14
Replaced RF tire due to puncture. Douglas Xtrac 2.
 
93,897        
9/6/14
Noticed RF tire losing pressure. Found that it is plugged at the edge of the sidewall.  Pulled out old plug.  The hole is large.  Replugged it & used glue.  It appears that the hole is trying to expel the plug.
UPDATE: The hole almost fully expelled the plug.  Unplugged it and replugged with 2 plugs this time.  Seems to be holding. Need to watch it.
 
         
9/1/14
Topped tires to 35lbs.
 
         
8/7/14
Recurring problem with interior courtesy lights not shutting off which is causing the battery to drain.

Update 8/18/14
Ordered a replacement used BCM (Body Control Module).  "25615094 Model ABO0303R"

Forum discussion / Notes
 

         
7/15/14
-Rear tires balanced then rotated to front.

-Front tires (put on rear) replaced with Douglas Xtrac II 45,000mi warranty.
Walmart would not offer pro-rate citing no proof of rotation, rotation, or balancing.
 

93,350        
5/31/14
-AC Service
Outside ambient temp:90F
Initial blow temp: 69F
Low side pressure: 34
High side pressure: 195
Added approx. 815 R134a
Final blow temp: 69F (no difference)
Low side pressure: 55
High side pressure: 250 (goes into the 300s when eng revved)
AC in this car seems to perform much better when RPMs are increased.

-Checked tires: They were all at 40lbs (car had been driven) except for LR which was low. Topped it to 40lbs.

-RF tire is balding on outter edge: Replace front tires soon.

-Checked fluids:
*Oil: Added 1/2 qrt to bring to top of crosshatch.
*Coolant: OK (Right at full-hot)
*PS: OK
*Transmission Fluid: OK: Top of crosshatch.
*Brake Fluid level: OK
*Battery electolyte level: OK

-Checked exterior lights: Middle window brake light was out. Replaced it (1156 bulb).  All working now.

Scratchy noise coming from left side of engine or transmission.  Not too much cause for concern.
 

92,990        
3/15/14
-Topped tires to 35lbs (including spare to 60lbs).

-RF tire is balding on outter edge: Replace front tires soon.

-Checked fluids:
*Oil: Added 1/2 qrt to bring to top of crosshatch.
*Coolant: Added about 1 pint to bring to Full Hot.
*PS: OK
*Transmission Fluid: OK: Top of crosshatch.
*Brake Fluid level: OK
*Battery electolyte level: OK
*Drivebelt: looks OK.

-Checked exterior lights: Replaced RR sidemarker. All working now.

-Test drove car to observe:
*Engine performance: GOOD
*Braking:  LF seems to lock up sooner and therefore antilock braking activates. Overall, braking is GOOD.
*Emergeny Brake: OK

-Lubed all door hinges, locks & catches, including hood and trunk.

-Tested windshield wipers and washer: GOOD.

Car has a GOOD mechanical bill of health.
 

92,293        
1/12/14
-Topped tires off to 35lbs (LR to 40lbs for extra.)
-RF tire getting very worn on outer edge. Replace front tires soon.
 
         
12/4/13
-LR tire which was previously plugged is running quite low. Replugged it. Hole is big but hopefully the new plug will stay sealed in cold weather.
-Topped tires off to 35lbs (LR to 40lbs for extra.)
-Topped off coolant (was 0.5in below full cold. Topped it to full hot)
-Oil low 1 qt. Topped off (Oil seems to be leaking faster lately).
 
91,562        
10/27/13
Topped tires off to 35lbs
 
         
8/24/13
Changed oil and filter;  oil =Castrol 5W30  Filter = AC Delco PF47
 
90,113        
8/22/13
RF tire went flat and Karla had someone put on the spare
-Found and plugged tire. Object no longer present but looked like it could have been a nail or screw with round head.
 
90094 (approx.)        
8/2/13
-Replaced waterpump under warranty (Advance Auto)
ToughOne New Water Pump --- Warranty:LLIFE Mod#:130-1590 UPC:762164199869

-Replaced serpentine drive belt as a gratis replacement by Advance Auto
Drive Rite-Dayco Automotive V-Ribbed Belt --- Warranty:1YR Mod#:1025K6 6PK2605 UPC:038244102563
 
89,896        
8/1/2013
-Waterpump pulley separation left car undriveable.
-Serpentine belt was damaged as a result.
Forum Discussion / Notes
 
         
6/29/2013
-Replaced windshield wiper blade assemblies with Anco 31-22.

-Checked fluids:
*Oil: Almost a full qt low.  Filled to top.
*Coolant: At Cold Full.  Filled to Hot Full.
*PS: Full
*Transmission Fluid: Seems OK (did not run car)
*Brake: full

-Some oily-type fluid found in bottom of the same area where coolant was once collecting.  Tightened the lower intake bolt that I had once added a cork gasket to.  It is likely leaking up from there (very slightly).
 

89,440        
6/27/2013
-Cleaned outside windows and applied RAINX.
-Windshield wipers NEED to be replaced.
 
89,428        
3/1/13
Checked over tire pressures, fluids & lights:
*Oil: 1/3 qt low; topped it off.
*Coolant: Halfway between full hot and xtra full.
*Transmission Fluid: Near top of crosshatch (hot, idling)
*Tires: Most at 30lbs; filled to 35lbs
*Spare tire: At 50lbs; filled to 62lbs
*Exterior lights: All working
*Sprayed oil at PS pump pulley and belt tensioner
*Observations: Sounds usual under hood.
 
87,931        
12/21/12
Checked over tire pressures, fluids & lights:
*Oil a bit low - topped it off.
*Coolant appears to no longer be dropping but filled it to the Xtrafull mark anyway.
 
86,904        
12/9/12
Replaced upper intake manifold
(with Dorman # 615-179 UPC 019495046592)
due to coolant leak near throttle body.
Forum discussion  / Notes
 
86,750     limited lifetime  
11/1812
*Topped off coolant. Recovery tank was almost empty.
Note: Do NOT fill to my fuller line anymore as coolant begins to leak out from intake when at this high level.

*Added air to all tires to bring to 35lbs.
Note: LR tire was considerably lower than the rest

*Found object puncture in LR tire almost at sidewall.  Removed object and plugged (used NO rubber cement as it had dried up).
This explains why the LR tire has been running lower than the rest.
 

86,526        
11/3/12
Topped off coolant. Recovery tank was almost empty.
Checked other fluids: All OK.
 
86,347        
10/?/12
Topped off coolant.
 
?        
10/?/12
Topped off coolant.
 
86,080        
9/23/12
*Added 1/2 qt oil to reach top of crosshatch

*Topped off coolant @ 85,924 (124mi since top-off). Added 30oz of 50/50 (mix calculated by weight, not by volume.  Next time be sure to calculate by volume).


(Weighed 1 gal of coolant: 148oz (after weight of container subtracted)  This means coolant is denser than water.)
1gal water = 128 oz.
 

85,924        
9/16/12
*Coolant level continues to decrease while water accumulation around bolt increases: Put washer and cork gasket on bolt.

*Pulled & cleaned out coolant recovery tank.

*Added coolant to about 1cm above my "Xtra Full" mark

Measured:
Full cold = 35 oz fluid in tank

Xtra Full = 72oz fluid in tank

*Found coolant leaking out below intake above and to right of bolt.
 

85,800        
8/11/12
Found that AC recirculation door is not responding properly. 
AC door remains in normal mode and will not go into max mode.
*Disconnected battery cable, reconnected: max mode working again. 

Seems to have resolved on it's own.  Possibly intermittent.

See 6/18/16 entry above.

Forum discussion / notes
 

85,396        
7/20/12
Mileage Check (returned from Miami yesterday)
(Miami trip was comprised of 420mi)
 
85,219        
7/12/12
Checked all fluid & tire pressures in prep for Karla's 2nd summer trip to Miami (to depart tomorrow)
 

*Added some coolant for safety since it seems to leak a bit.

*Topped off all tires to 35lbs.  LR was slightly lower than the rest but nothing to worry about.
Spare was at about 46lbs.  Pumped to 62lbs (tire specs call for 60lbs).

*Oiled power steering pulley as it has been squeaking in the past. Also oiled idler pulley.

*Cleaned all windows inside and out, then applied Rain-X to all outer windows.

Car in good mechanical order (except for aging & whiny starter).
 

84,799        
6/25/12
Replaced fuel filter with Fram G7315: No change, even though old fuel filter was restricted somewhat.
Fuel Filter Notes
*AC Delco GF627
*Fram G7315 (AZ $13, AA $15, WM $12, RA $9.41)

*Replaced spark plug wires with same model - Xact: No change.
(Old wires were returned under new receipt, so keep old receipt -5/17/07- for warranty).

*Cleaned MAF sensor with carb cleaner & compressed air: No change.

*Replaced coil pack 2-5 which shows signs of weak spark: No apparent change though I did not road test it.

*Replaced coil pack 4-1 which showed signs of weak spark: Problem is now solved! (84,646mi)

*Coil pack 3-6 was replaced 12/4/10 due to similar performance problem.

All 3 coil packs are now Duralast #158964 / C849 (2 yr warranty).
 

84,640        
6/24/12
Changed oil and filter;  oil =Castrol 10W30  Filter = AC Delco PF47

*Noticed engine has a miss during engine acceleration.  Karla said it started doing that yesterday coming back from Miami.  May be related to water (rain).
Forum discussion / Notes

Troubleshooting:
*Washed crankshaft sensor with water: no change.
*Reseated all plug wires: no change
*Checked spark at end of all plug wires: Good spark
*Cleaned several air intake sensors: no change
*Additional troubleshooting performed 6/25/12.

Noticed a very minor coolant accumulation around a bolt near thermostat housing (but not coming from thermostat housing).
8/11/12> Loosened and tightened bolt.
Forum discussion  / Notes
 

84,632        
6/23/12
Karla returned from Miami
(Miami trip was comprised of 627mi)
 
84,632        
6/6/12
Checked all fluids in prep for Karla to go to Miami since Carlos is sick.
All fluids were fine.  Added a little more coolant just for safety.
LR tire showed no signs of leak.
Karla left for Miami tonight.
 
84,005        
5/12/12
Checked & topped off all fluids:
Oil: Added approx. 1 pint
Coolant: above full
Transmission (cold): good
Brake: good
PS: good
Battery: good
Tires: topped off all tires to 35lbs as the new standard
LR tire was unusually low at 22lbs.  Possible leak.

Thoroughly washed down engine compartment with water.

Thoroughly washed car.

Oiled idler pulley and PS pump pulley shafts with spray grease.

AC blows cold.

Paint: Paint is dulling significantly.  Paint is starting to chip as noticed on RR door.
 

83,660        
1/29/12
Checked & topped off all fluids:
Oil: Added 1/2 qt
Coolant: Added approx. 1qt
Transmission (hot): good
Brake: topped off
PS: good
Battery: good
Tires: topped off

Thoroughly washed down engine compartment with water.
 

82,739        
11/5/2011
Investigated starter "twang" that has been noticed recently.  Accidentally broke off part of the starter cover.

Forum discussion/Notes   

Starter Replacement Procedure

Added approx 1qt coolant/water.
 

82,084        
10/14/2011
Added oil
(Oil level was down about 3/4 qt from top of crosshatch)
 
81,874        
8/7/2011
AC Service:
Ambient temp: Approx 94F
AC blow: 62F
AC low side pressure: 40lbs
Action taken: None.  Seems like AC charge is OK.
 
         
7/15/2011
Harmonic Balancer was on the verge of failing.
Purchased new one (Dorman part # 594-004): lifetime warranty
Installed by self on 7/16/2011
(John @ M&F Auto quoted $65 for labor.)

*3/20/12> Obtained a spare HB (Dorman #594-004). Keeping in garage.

Forum discussion/notes.
 

80,825 $106 + tax 0    
5/21/2011
changed oil and filter;  oil =Castrol 5W30  Filter = AC Delco PF47

*Filled oil approx 3/4" above crosshatch.
Shouldn't be a problem; it will actually leak out some over time.
 

79,892        
4/13/2011
Replaced battery since previous one left Karla stranded this morning. Everstart MAXX-78S; UPC 681131442070
Measured car-off amp-draw to be less than 1mA (good).
 
79,589     Assuming
-3yr free rplcmt
-NO pro-rated
 
4/11/2011
Serpentine belt replaced as preventative maintenance with one originally purchased 12/23/07.  Duralast 1025K6, 6PK2605.
Old worn one kept in trunk as "emergency spare."
 
79,576        
3/2/2011
Exhaust smells very potent.

Forum discussion / notes
 

79,279        
3/2/2011
Replaced PCM due to old PCM suddenly going bizurk.

Original Complaint
Car was suddenly/hesitating/missing very badly.  Shut off when at an idle.  Found that after car shuts off, fuel pump clicks on and off in seemly a random fashion, also cooling fan comes on and goes off.

Seems to be an electrical problem.  I suspect the computer has malfunctioned.
Checked all fuses: OK.

Forum discussion / notes
 

79,279        
12/5/2010
-Troubleshooting poor heater operation:
Checked inlet and outlet flow of heater core.  HC does not appear to have a restriction.  Inlet flow from engine is weak and likely the cause of poor heater ability.  I assumed that the 180 deg thermostat must be causing low flow rate in the heater circuit.  Changed Thermostat:
Removed 180 deg thermostat and installed a 195 deg Stant thermostat # 45849 with new gasket.  This did not seem to help heater function although I did not check heater circuit flowrate after changing the thermostat.

Unknown what could be causing poor coolant flowrate. Forum discussion/notes.
 

78,636 10.58      
12/4/2010
-Since 12/2/2010 which was a very cold day, car runs very rough when both cold and hot. 


*Check Engine light has not illuminated but does work
(6/25/12: Check Engine light does indeed work)

*No vacuum tubes seem to be leaking.

*Found that 3-6 coil pack was weak.  Replaced it and it solved the problem. Duralast #158964 / C849. Forum thread.
 

78,629 $29.67   2 years  
8/30/2010
-Rear tires rotated to Front.

-New tires put on rear: X-TRAC II;

-valve stems

-Lifetime balancing
 

77,830     45,000mi?  
8/17/2010
Replaced both windshield wiper assemblies.
(Brand "Anco" model "31-22" - 22 inch)

Topped off coolant
(Added about 1 pint of 50/50. Now the level is slightly above full-hot).

Checked other fluids: All are at correct levels.

Oiled door, hood, and trunk hinges and locks.
 

77,675 $10 total      
5/31/2010
Checked AC refrigerant charge, oil, PS fluid, Transmission fluid, coolant: Coolant slightly below full-cold.
 
77,130        
3/14/2010
Replaced front brake pads;
Calipers & hoses look good.

Inspected Heat system: Heat does not work; probably due to thermonstat stuck open or too low (previous replaced a 195deg thermostat with a 180deg thermostat.)
 

76,822 $25.00   lifetime Duralast brake pads #MKD623
3/6/2010
Front left brakes are squeeling.  Time to replace pads soon.
 
         
2/6/2010
Oil is below crosshatch and is very dark;
changed oil and filter;  oil =Castrol 5W30  Filter = AC Delco PF47

New oil level is a bit above crosshatch area (not worrying about).

Cleaned underside of eng area with water hose.

Hood does not release without tugging on hood.  Oiled it: Working better

Karla's remote not working so replaced 2 weak batteries (CR2016) with 2 strong (but thicker) batteries (CR2032): Remote works good now but may come apart due to thicker batteries.
 

76,200        
12/15/09 -Replaced battery with Everstart Maxx from Walmart
UPC 681131318235
75,513     -3 year free replacement
-9 year pro rated
 
12/12/09
-Applied WD40 to front and rear of belt tension pulley to eliminate squeek.
 
         
12/7/09
-Replaced 2 rear tires, valve stems - X-TRAC II;
-Lifetime balancing
 
75,399     45,000mi  
9/6/09
-Checked and corrected all fluids, battery voltage under load, tire pressures, and lights:
No significant issues.

-AC Service
Low Press: 40lbs
High Press: 225lbs
Outside Ambient Temp: 98F
Added 12oz can R134A
Low Press: 40lbs
High Press: 240lbs
AC was blowing cold before this but according to pressures chart, high pressure side was a bit low. That is why I added a can of refrigerant.

-Brake observation
Test drove and observed loud RR brake noise (heavy vibration) approaching stop. My guess is that there may be a slight brake leak at that cylinder that is contaminating the braking surface, causing the noise.  Brake fluid is not significantly low, and brake function is still good.  To continue to observe.  Sometime in the future to pull RR tire and drum to take a look.
 
74,608        
6/7/09
Another Seafoam treatment to brake booster vacuum hose (approx. 4oz) (Lots of smoke generated)
 
73,726        
6/6/09 Replaced water pump - forum post
(This water pump failed 8/1/2013)
73,726     Limited Lifetime
ASC Industries, Inc.
Airtex
WP-891
09112
UPC 611176004022
 
6/4/09
Replaced windshield washer pump
 
73,684        
6/4/09
Replaced most vacuum lines
 
73,684        
6/3/09
Seafoam treatment to brake booster vacuum hose 
X3 (total approx. 4oz) (Lots of smoke generated)
 
73,684        
6/3/09
Found coolant leak a slow drip at waterpump shaft
Need to replace waterpump.
 
73,684        
3/8/09
changed oil and filter;  
oil =Castrol 10W30  Filter = AC Delco PF47
 
73,074        
2/22/09
Found coolant reservoir empty, and radiator slightly low.
Filled both.
 
72,584        
approx.
2/3/09

Added approx. 1 qt oil before 
Karla's West Palm/Miami trip (Emma in hospital).
 
         
11/23/08
Mileage check
 
71,582        
9/6/08
Mileage check
 
70,925        
8/17/08
Lightbulb, tire & fluid check & top-off: Nothing outstanding noticed.
 
70,744        
6/21/08
rotated tires: Backs to front, fronts to back (same side);
Removed screw and plugged RR tire.
 
69,699        
6/21/08
changed oil and filter;  
oil =Castrol 10W30  Filter = AC Delco PF47
 
69,699        
5/3/2008
Lightbulb, tire & fluid check & top-off: Nothing outstanding noticed
 
69,234        
5/2/2008
NEXT OIL CHANGE DON'T USE FRAM;
USE AC DELCO PF47
 
4/5/2008
Checked fluids & tire pressure:  All full.
 
69,079
2/2/2008
full fluid & tire pressure top-off
 
67,594
2/2/2008
NOTE: Battery information: EverStart MAXX-78S UPC: 0681131734936; 3 year free replacement
 
1/13/2008
changed oil and filter
 
67,228 4,092 since last
Dec-Jan
9 day Trip To Ohio & Back - 3000mi +
 
         
12/26/2007
replaced trunk lid release actuator (prior one failed)
 
12/23/2007 Changed transmission fluid and filter 63,905 Replacement filter is "Champion Laboratories Inc" 800-882-0890 champlabs.com UPC 0 52948 03060 1; replacement fluid is 6 qts of Coastal ATF Dex III  UPC 0 33322 19501 7; kept existing pan gasket (did not use the Champion cheap crappy gasket)
12/23/2007 Inspected serpentine belt: No need to replace 63,905 Spare serpentine belt purchased today - Duralast - and to be placed in trunk.
10/28/2007
changed oil and filter
 
63,136
10/28/2007
inspected and attempted to troubleshoot front right sound.  Noticed creeking sound in RF strut.  Unable to stop creak (days later found unsecured brake line.  Secured it and this stopped the creek).
 
63,136
10/13/2007 Checked then adjusted rear brakes 62,??? Prior to today I though rear brakes needed to be replaced due to metal-on-metal type of sound.  Found that the rear brake shoes as well as drums are in very good condition.  Adjusted shoes using star wheel.
10/11/2007
Completed installation of headlight functionality control box
 
10/6/2007
Installed 2 extra horns
 
7/15/2007
changed oil and filter
 
60,219
7/15/2007
removed nail and plugged hole in RR tire
 
60,219
7/8/2007
Found that dipstick indicates oil 1 full quart low (bottom of hash).  Filled to top of hash.
 
60,111
6/12/2007 car fully repainted by Maaco 4 years: 2 years limited, 2 years pro-rated Lots of overspray, some bubbling noticed on trunk, rear bumper face scratched, runs on LR door and drunk lid
5/17/2007
changed spark plugs (Autolite Platinum),
wires (Xact-sp?)
and fuel filter (Fram G7315)
 
59,505 Car accelerates without hesitation after changing plugs & wires.
5/15/2007
changed thermostat (Duralast 180 deg F)
 
59,455 10 Orig thermostat was 195 deg F.
5/15/2007
replaced plug/nipple that connects heater hose to block because the plastic one was leaking and broke apart
 
59,455 2 Located under and to the left of the alternator when facing alternator.
5/15/2007
flushed radiator.  Added at least 50% green Prestone coolant.
 
59,455 20
5/15/2007
added 1 12oz can R134a refrigerant
 
59,455 8
1/12/2007
changed air filter
 
57,410
1/12/2007
washed engine compartment
 
57,410
1/10/2007
Purchased car from Don Vogue $3395
 
57000 est

 

 

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