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Should I fix or trade in?

G

GrandPrixlbc

New member
Sup fellas,


I have a 2003 Grand Prix SE with 100,000 on it.

My mechanic just told me that it needs transmission work. He doesn't do that type of work, and plus I think he's pretty honest, so I don't for a second think he's lying.

Anyways, he hooked it up to the computer, and came back with the following codes -

P0141 - O2 Heater BIS2

P0440 - EVAP Control System

P0742 - Coverter clutch stuck on



I know it's a good time to buy a car right now, so I'm very tempted to trade this car in, but I really like it, and plus it'd be nice to just keep it and save money.

My concern is not only getting it fixed right, but wondering if this is only the beginning of more major problems to come.

Can you guys give me your feedback?

I'm no expert with cars...


Also, if any of you have a referral of someone in the Los Angeles/Long Beach area, please let me know.


thanks
 


The trans code that you have, the P0742 TCC Stuck On, has a handful of causes but since you have 100K on the clock it is going to likely require more than a simple fix to get you back to working how it should. Often the lockup clutch in the torque converter will deteriorate for a number of reasons and can contaminate the valve body and TCC solenoid, more importantly the TCC solenoid. When the solenoid becomes contaminated it will plug up the exhaust port on it and can cause lockup to apply when it isnt supposed to be and this is the most common cause of the code you have that I have seen over the years. Sometimes replacing the valve body, solenoids, and torque converter fix the problem but you have to keep in mind you still have a 100K mile trans that is showing its age and you will likely have other issues pop up over time. If you had under 75K miles I would probably suggest trying to fix it or have it fixed by a shop but with 100K I would seriously consider a rebuild or replacement. If the car is in good shape and you like the car then I would keep it and not have a car payment VS getting a new car and having a car payment 5 or more years. 10 years ago I would have gave you a different answer lol but I enjoy not having a car payment more than a new car!
 
TM, thanks so much!


A rebuild or replacement though.... how much would that run me?


And isn't there a danger that the place I take it to doesn't do it right?
 
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