Which Impreza should I buy?
Hello Paul Kaganzi,
I liked your article in the Monitor titled “The fast Subaru Impreza WRX”, It was timely, I want to replace my Subaru Legacy 2001 with a turbo Subaru Impreza STI OR WRX 98-2000, whose performance impressed me at last week’s Namanve drag race. Between 98,99, and 2000 models, which one would you recommend. Have checked online dealers from Japan, but such cars are very expensive say CIF 5000. What is the price range of those from U.K.? And what are the credible online U.K. dealers you know of? Where can I get performance and decorative products in Uganda, U.K or Japan at genuine and low prices.Denis Tibenda.
Hello Denis, the original WRX STI 1998 or pre 1998 Impreza with a five speed manual gearbox is the best if you are looking for a dose of adrenaline rush every weekend. History will prove that material and design updates in the subsequent 2000 WRX Sti produced a problematic more powerful ‘boggle eyed’ monster.
The post 2000 WRX STI Impreza although bigger and more powerful does not really ‘bite’. They are not as tough as their predecessors and are more costly to repair.
The 1998 WRX STI combines the light weight and compact fluid design with excellent grip courtesy of All wheel drive to guarantee good handling. The 1998 Impreza WRX delivers its 155KW of power promptly. Perhaps that explains the high speed crashes when some gear heads get carried away by the thrilling performance.
The issues to look out for when buying the 98’ Impreza: potentially damaged engines which can be detected by looking out for extreme sludge build up under the oil filler cap, very dark engine oil and a failure of the compression test (if buying locally).
Look out for signs of major accident repair on the seams and door /bonnet lines. A manual gearbox that struggles to shift and a clutch that shudders or slips will point to a damaged driveline. Prices in the U.K for the 1998 Impreza WRX range from GB Pounds £.2,500 - 3,000 before shipping. You can check out available options on www.autotrader.co.uk. Accessories and performance parts can be found on www.brilliantsave.co.uk. Be adventurous as long as you can make online visa card purchases. Also make friends amongst the local Subaru Impreza fraternity.
Why does my car leak water?
Hello Paul, I drive a Toyota Corolla car and it has been running well. Recently I noticed drops of clear water from between the engine and gearbox. My mechanic says the water is from the engine and I need to buy a new engine and gearbox. I have doubts because my engine runs well. I recently serviced the coolant and it’s level is normal. What is your opinion? Ivan, Ishaka.
Hello Ivan, your reservations are justified. An engine leaking any fluid should be attended to immediately. These fluids are important for lubrication and cooling of the engine among other protective functions. That said, there is a contradiction caused by the fact that the fluid leaking between your engine and transmission is clear water yet you had just serviced your engine coolant which should be colour red or bright green.
I think you need to get a second opinion which might reveal that the drops of water are another fluid such as air conditioning condensation which leaks under the car by design.
Which Toyota Noah can I buy?
Hello Paul, I would like to buy a field tourer vehicle. But what is the economical and quality difference between Toyota Noah Field Tourer and Toyota Liteace Noah and Toyota Townace field tourer. I will be grateful for your response soon. Rose Adeke.
Hello Rose, Toyota produced the Noah with two variants: LiteAce, which refers to light duty work and TownAce which refers to suitability for Urban run about lifestyle. In Uganda, the 1999 and 2003 models are most popular. Both LiteAce and Town Ace variants share common platforms (chassis), body shape, engines and transmissions (5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic) with optional 4WD available. Both variants share performance and safety features such as ABS brakes and driver SRS airbag and airconditioning. So there are no major economy, performance or maintenance cost difference between the two.
The main difference is in stylish design and interior comfort. Toyota Noah Town Ace targets an urban lifestyle. It comes with more stylish exterior features .Town Ace has a more luxurious interior and stylish finishes. So your choice will be driven availability, your taste for luxury and the budget implication.
Hello Paul, my name is Ambrose. I drive a Land Cruiser V8 petrol. I need some advice. This car jerks when it attains 80km per hour on the road. However, when I acceelerate beyond that speed, it becomes stable. Sometimes at idle I notice it shakes a bit. What could be the cause?
Hello Ambrose, engine hesitation or poor performance when you accelerate is often caused by a restriction of fuel supply pressure. This is usually due to a dirty long life fuel filter which should have been replaced at 100,000 kms. It is prudent to check or clean fuel injectors as well. If symptom persists widen the search curve to check spark plugs, tension leads and distributor. Also rule out vacuum leaks and ask your mechanic to clean the throttle potentiometer.
Ask the mechanic / By Paul Kaganzi (0772316145)
Send sms: mycar (space) your comments and questions to 6933, or email them to [email protected]
