Check engine light on solenoid issue and burning oil

ROBERTUS

MEMBER
2006 LEXUS GS 350
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
130,000 MILES

For 6 months the check engine light has been on constantly. I took it to the dealership, and their diagnosis was a transmission problem with a solenoid, perhaps $600.00 to repair by an independent mechanic, but they would have to redo the transmission for ten times the price.
Meanwhile, the car has been burning oil for months, first a little, now over a quart per week, though no oil is present on the garage floor. The car seems less able to go up hills than it once did.
Is it time to send this car, which I love, to a farm upstate, or is it worthwhile to fix the solenoid and try to stop the oil burning? I'm assuming the oil burning issue will require a big job, and a big amount of money.
The car needs to pass inspection in September.
What do you think?
Thanks,
Robert

3 Replies

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good evening,

The burning oil could be rings which require major engine work.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-engine-piston-rings

Replacing the engine with a used one would be an option.

Re ring job, $2,500.00 to $3,000.00. Used engine around $1,500.00 to $1,800.00.

As far as the transmission, I need the code to help.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/automatic-transmission-problems

Roy

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Thursday, August 27th, 2020 AT 5:58 PM

ROBERTUS

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Roy,

Thanks a bunch. The potential costs of trying to prolong the life of this car are significant, and I’m trying to figure out if I should throw in the towel. Your comments are much appreciated.
Thanks,
Robert

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Thursday, August 27th, 2020 AT 6:58 PM

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Okay, just be repairing the engine is spending about 80% of the cars value and that is without the cost of repairing the transmission.

That is decision you have to make. I cannot see the car or its condition to give you any idea of whether it is worth it to spend the money on the car.

It would be cheaper than buying a new car but you are the one who has to decide if you want to spend the money on these repairs.

Roy

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Friday, August 28th, 2020 AT 3:43 AM