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95 Civic Rack and Pinion Leak: How Big A Problem?


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Jarmint
Anonymous Poster
jdurlandster@gmail.com

Mar 3, 2009, 11:20 AM

Post #1 of 3 (3008 views)
95 Civic Rack and Pinion Leak: How Big A Problem? Sign In

Hi,

I am considering buying a used 1995 Honda Civic EX 2-door Coupe with 155,000 miles on it. I want this car for commuting purposes, and would be driving about 250 miles a week. The asking price is $2,900.

I took it to a repair shop and they listed several problems, and I would like to know how serious they are and whether I should negotiate the repair costs into the price:

1) The rack and pinion is leaking fluid onto the exhaust, which according to the mechanic may cause a burning smell or possibly a fire if I drive a long ways in hot conditions. The mechanic said he couldn't seal the leak, and would need to replace the rack and pinion at a cost of $790. Does this sound right??? I have a feeling this might not be such a serious problem, since I live in a cool climate and will usually be driving no more than 1 hour at a time.

2) The back tires are wearing unevenly in the back and may need struts. I couldn't tell if from the mechanic's explanation if this was a serious problem (i.e. how much it would reduce gas mileage), but it sounded like it was a relatively common problem in older Honda's.

3) The mechanic also said the "cap and rotor" are dirty and would require a tune-up at a cost of $200.

Any advice on how serious these problems are would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Jarmint


Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Tom Greenleaf profile image

Mar 3, 2009, 11:40 AM

Post #2 of 3 (3005 views)
Re: 95 Civic Rack and Pinion Leak: How Big A Problem? Sign In

You did the right thing having it checked out. Expect to have to do the rack job as you don't know when that will leak so fast you can't keep up with it.

Struts wearing tires should have been an easy diag - just bounce the rear and they should behave as good shocks. Rack, tune items and struts are over $1,000 and it will need an alignment and tires too. Factor it all in with your offer if you wish to persue this car vs another that needs less and make your offer based on the knowns. There will always be unknowns with used - this much you know......

T



Loren Champlain Sr
Veteran / Moderator
Loren Champlain Sr profile image

Mar 3, 2009, 4:14 PM

Post #3 of 3 (3000 views)
Re: 95 Civic Rack and Pinion Leak: How Big A Problem? Sign In

Another to factor in: When was the last timing belt and water pump replaced?
Loren
SW Washington






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