Ok, here's the rookie's first post:One month ago bought used '97 i30 from reputable Honda dealership. Exterior/Interior in great shape. Briefly talked to prior owner - said it did need a tune-up, oil change, but that was about it.I have some concerns:I do not know the overall mechanical condition of this i30. Engine runs smooth, somewhat quick response, avg 25 mpg. In morning start (50-60 degrees out) the belts will slightly squel for first 5 minutes, if idling. The brakes warning sound is occurring. Car rides rough (dipping up/down and some shock pinging?) when going over midwest county roads. I live in a small town and know a reputable mechanic, but he doesn't have infiniti knowledge. Nearest infiniti dealer is 80 miles.#1 - Should I have him perform the tune-up and overall inspection OR should I probably make the 80 mile trip and have Infiniti do tune and inspection? (I am not a rich man, but I definitely care for my cars.) I have no problem spending the money for repairs that ARE required.#2 - I have to get the brakes, front rotors, and tires replaced very soon. Can't I have this done locally? The BIG question is Tire Recommendation - I'm looking at Bridgestone Turanza LS-H 205/65R15. I would encounter snow. Your thoughts on tires?#3 - I don't know if it's the current tires (Goodyear Eagle HS?) that are contributing to the rough ride at times, but could my shocks be going out w/ 102K miles?
All replies are appreciated. Additional comments are also welcomed. Thanks.
I forgot, what info do I need on belts/timing chain?
102K: maintenance unknown
Tell your shop that your car is nearly identical to a 97 MAxima as far as mechanicals are concerned (not a bad thing).
A chilton or Haynes for that car will work for suspension+engine and such.
1) Yes. No need at all for the dealer on this one.Use NGK plugs only.2)Yes all can be done local.3) Yes your shocks can eb going otu at 100k+ miles, actually most cars shocks are done at 40k miles, its just PPL dont notice it then.
As for tires if you will see snow, I strongly recommend to buy performance tires for summer and change over to real winter tires (not 4 season) in winter.
I will let others more familiar with I30 particulars, cover the rest.
Fred...
A chilton or Haynes for that car will work for suspension+engine and such.
1) Yes. No need at all for the dealer on this one.Use NGK plugs only.2)Yes all can be done local.3) Yes your shocks can eb going otu at 100k+ miles, actually most cars shocks are done at 40k miles, its just PPL dont notice it then.
As for tires if you will see snow, I strongly recommend to buy performance tires for summer and change over to real winter tires (not 4 season) in winter.
I will let others more familiar with I30 particulars, cover the rest.
Fred...
All the work you mentioned can be done locally. Your mechanic won't see the need for NGK's. Get them anyway.
get the alternator belt tighten ASAP so you can think clearly when you start the car
If the brakes are sounding you must do the pads immediately if you think the rotors are not already warped / groved
Shock wear is not so much a function of miles but the beating it's gotten. Unbalanced tires / rough roads can wear shocks in short order.
my dad's I30 (lived in southern KS 80 miles from the infiniti dealer) got about 29 MPG on long highway trips.
dan
get the alternator belt tighten ASAP so you can think clearly when you start the car
If the brakes are sounding you must do the pads immediately if you think the rotors are not already warped / groved
Shock wear is not so much a function of miles but the beating it's gotten. Unbalanced tires / rough roads can wear shocks in short order.
my dad's I30 (lived in southern KS 80 miles from the infiniti dealer) got about 29 MPG on long highway trips.
dan