I have a 1997 Honda Accord. I just passed 300,000 miles. I bought the car in 2004 from a known person. At the time it had 140,000 miles. They kept up with maintenence and I have done the same since I bought it.
My goal is to get another 100,000 miles out of my car with minimal expense. The original radiator had to be replaced 2 years ago. I also replaced my second timing belt and water pump in February. I change the oil regularly, check fluids etc etc.
Are there things I should look for that could possibly go wrong enough to leave me stranded on a well maintained car with the mileage I have? I mean, is there some type of preventative repair I may want to do just to be safe?Have the engine rebuilt or something? If spending say $1500 got me another 100,000 miles it would be worth it.
My check engine light is on right now, but they said it’s because the O2 sensor needs replaced and i’m told i’m not harming my car by postponing that.
As far as preemptive repair, nothing really comes to mind. The best thing is to keep up the maintenance, including the various inspections called for (e.g., check brakes, checks hoses, etc.). Be aware of any changes in how it runs, how it sounds, and such, so as to (hopefully) have any budding issues evaluated and addressed before they develop into breakdowns.
I wouldn’t do any major repair (e.g. engine overhaul) unless and until symptoms indicate an actual problem. These types of repairs, if needed, run into the thousands – I’d expect at least 2K for an automatic tranny overhaul, and 3K for an engine rebuild. That’s a lot of money to spend to avoid a breakdown that might not occur.
My limited experience with Honda’s reflect the ops experience. Radiators and water pumps.
Unless the car is being used to drive you through the Sahara Desert with no provisions I would drive it into the ground and move on. Start saving money for a new(er) car.
listen for a clicking sound on either acceleration or turning that would indicate problems with the constant velocity joints, If you’ve had the car for as many miles as you say, and haven’t replaced them, you’re due for new CVs soon, I would bet.