I'm having multiple problems with my car?

Question

So I'm having multiple problems with my car. First off, when I got my oil changed, they did a routine check. They found multiple problems. Torn struts, brake needs to be replaced, oil gasket, brake fluid, and power steering are leaking (not at an alarming rate). And now my car has been lurching/surging forward and slowing down randomly, without me pressing the gas or brake pedal. If someone can give me an idea of what's wrong, and an idea on how much it will cost, and if it will even be worth fixing (as opposed to looking into a new car or something) that will be much appreciated. I drive a 98 Toyota Camry, and we got it for 5 grand from a dealership a year and a half ago. Please help.

Answer 1

The lurching may be a simple problem with dirt in your gas line, or it may be another problem with the injectors. Struts can be expensive, brakes also, changing the fluids not so much. Get estimates and make the decision. Your car is really old and I hope you got a CarFax before you plunked down the five grand. If not, that's a lesson for next time. Look for one-owner cars that have some maintenance records available.

Answer 2

Ask your family what mechanic they use.

Get the lurching fixed, and have them look at the brakes.

Ask how long before you need new brakes.



Worn struts are common on an old car.

Getting new struts depends on how hard you drive it, and how bad they are.

Answer 3

My recommendation is that first, never take your car to a dealership unless it's for warranty work that is being paid for 100% by the factory.



Never take your car to any of the chain or franchise type auto service places no matter whose name is on the sign.



Get a personal referral from someone you trust to an INDEPENDENT auto repair shop.



Take your car to them and have them diagnose and repair your problem.



So, yes, get a second opinion and please give some thought to my advice.

Answer 4

Sorry to agree with the last reply but a big decision to make not much help. TG.