Car work: Legit or not?

Madsaw · #21 03/18/14, 08:30 AM

Well I'm not sure what engine they used in the alero. But if its a 2.2 design in the cobalts it could have been ignition all along.
Go to the shop have him prove to you with a compression test that there is head problems. Compression should be with in 10-15% between each cylinder. With GM vehicles if the ignition module goes bad. They will miss on half the cylinders. Our cobalt did that. Then ask to see the invoice for the parts. Go armed with prices from local suppliers for the timing set.
Bob

MichaelZ · #22 03/18/14, 09:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by plowjockey

When the pistons hit the valves, they can be damaged, also, as can the cylinder walls. Rods could be stressed also.

I'd be careful about pouring a large amount of money, in what could be a engine grenade, maybe sooner than later.

I am thinking this is what might have happened in my case. I got new valves and valve seats. And actually the engine ran a little quieter than before. But the power is down and oil consumption up - probably some damage to the pistons or cylinders. I don't think I would want to load up my KIA now with 5 adults and drive it up a long steep mountain or hill - it might not make it! But for my commuting it is still fine. I guess I was fortunate to get by with a $1500 repair. At that price, even 2 years of use almost makes it worth it.

GoldenCityMuse · #23 03/18/14, 03:12 PM

I would recommend not putting any more money in that car.

Too many miles, and too old for that type of damage.

topofmountain · #24 03/18/14, 04:00 PM

I'm with the not to fix it crowd. Buy another cheap car with lower miles that is clean & fix what is needed. Or if you want to keep it & it is clean & in good shape overall then get an ENGINE from a wrecking yard complete running & install it. Reputable wrecking yards will know the mileage & condition of engine. Those that sell used engines as a rule start them & run them before pulling them & shelving them. They will have a crossover chart to tell you what other cars those engines came in if they did. Then just bolt all your computer stuff up & go.