- Jun 11, 2014
- 14,940
- 20,257
Founding Member
I’m not a car guy at all. A novice on what to do and certainly not a DIY guy when it comes to automobiles. I’m at a fork in the road and would love some advice for those that know more.
I have a 2004 Toyota 4-Runner and been the only owner. I have just over 197k miles. I’ve always been very good at routine maintenance but as of late things have slipped a little. Cosmetically, it’s in mint condition, other than interior carpet and fabric seats having stains due to having 2 boys now 5 & 6.
Recently I noticed oil spots on the driveway and it shimmies a little when starting up while cold. Tires are worn and in need of replacement. I took it to a local shop that I trust to get some diagnosis. Here’s what I found out...
Oil spots were due to drain plug being loose (no biggie)
Front breaks need complete replacement (I knew that was coming)
Front wheel barrings are shot
Catalytic converter is shot
I have coolant leaking into a head gasket (confirmed via scoped?)
There’s a potential for a cracked block? (That’s what I was told)
Need 4 new tires
So... do I dump a bunch of money into repairs or cut my losses and go with something else? I love not having a car payment. I’ve been told there a possibility of getting a repurposed engine from a totaled car that could be an option. My wife is now terrified for me to drive kids in the car.
What would you do?
I have a 2004 Toyota 4-Runner and been the only owner. I have just over 197k miles. I’ve always been very good at routine maintenance but as of late things have slipped a little. Cosmetically, it’s in mint condition, other than interior carpet and fabric seats having stains due to having 2 boys now 5 & 6.
Recently I noticed oil spots on the driveway and it shimmies a little when starting up while cold. Tires are worn and in need of replacement. I took it to a local shop that I trust to get some diagnosis. Here’s what I found out...
Oil spots were due to drain plug being loose (no biggie)
Front breaks need complete replacement (I knew that was coming)
Front wheel barrings are shot
Catalytic converter is shot
I have coolant leaking into a head gasket (confirmed via scoped?)
There’s a potential for a cracked block? (That’s what I was told)
Need 4 new tires
So... do I dump a bunch of money into repairs or cut my losses and go with something else? I love not having a car payment. I’ve been told there a possibility of getting a repurposed engine from a totaled car that could be an option. My wife is now terrified for me to drive kids in the car.
What would you do?