1988 Chevy Astro Keep it or sell it?

ASTROGIRL

MEMBER
1988 CHEVROLET ASTRO
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
253,000 MILES

Hi, I have a 88 Chevy astro with 253,000. I drive it to and from work (about 17 miles each way) and although it is a runner, I think it might be time to let go. I change the oil more often than the recommended "every 3,000 miles" and there is a leak in the radiator I believe (I have to fill with anti freeze about every other day or so). Recently the top middle light has been flickering on & off (overheat light?) And the check engine soon also lights up once every few days. I'm hesitant to let it go but. What would you suggest?

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

That is a tough one for me to call because I'm not there to see the condition of the vehicle. The coolant has me concerned. As far as the oil, does it use that much oil or is it just leaking?

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Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010 AT 10:43 AM

ASTROGIRL

MEMBER
3 POSTS

No it's great on oil! (Thankfully), no leakage and after an oil change it runs better (for a little bit at least). Overall, battery/brakes - new. Tuneup was done last year. I just think all these miles is slowly but surely killing it =(
sometimes (as in every other day or 2) it hesitates to start, like the ignition wont spark or something. The only time I was really concerned is when it wouldn't start for 10 min last week, I tried starting it twice - sat there for about 5-10 min and tried again and finally got it started. Ever since then it starts but like I said, sometimes its just very hesitant about it.

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Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010 AT 11:37 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

It does have a lot of miles, but if you have taken care of it, I've seen them go a lot longer. I really think you are dealing with a fuel pressure issue. Have you ever checked it? Also, if it happens again, at that point check for spark and fuel to the engine. That way we will know where the problem is coming from.

Joe

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Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010 AT 1:21 PM

ASTROGIRL

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Well, My bf bought it for $200 - it was sitting for a looooong time and when the people did have it they said it wouldn't go over 30 mph (I cruise it to about 55-60 on the highway, starts slow but once it gets going it runs with the best of them). It has come a long way (had it for a year), is replacing the fuel pump/injector important? How long do you think it can go without that?

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Wednesday, November 3rd, 2010 AT 1:39 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

It is hard for me to say from here. If you feel the vehicle is unsafe, please fix it asap. However, before replacing anything, make sure the pump, injectors. Are the issue. When you get to that point, let me know and I'll guide you.

Joe