increase gas mileage, electrical,computer problems

[WNW]

I have a 97 towncar with 21K miles. I am questioning if a modified exhaust system will improve "mileage' not peformance.
Also, understand breakdown in electrical computer "bells and whistles".
airbags can create great financial implications.
All ideas, definitive information great appreciated.
Bill Wagner,
Portland,Or

[ltdltc]

I personally believe that it will not.

You may get some performance out of it but it will most likely be very small and not worth the money invested. Just keep the car running well and have a light foot or limit how much you drive and you'll lower you fuel consumption.

Airbags, I've owned quite a few cars with them and have had no troubles. I think that you'll have a problem with crash sensor wiring corriding over time if you live in a harsh climate but the airbags themselves last a very long time.

I think you meant "Air Springs" which hold up the rear of your car and are mounted above the rear axle of your car. Then no it is not expensive to replace those components. If you go to a dealership then yes you'll be taken for a ride at the expense of the contents of you wallet. But if you do it yourself then it will cost you under $400 dollars to get all of the components which would include,

2 Air Springs, and most come with solenoids
1 Air Compressor, and it usually comes with the drier assembly

These are the total components, there is also a computer that runs it but it is very rare for it to need replacing and it would be the most expensive part.

The air suspension will not last forever. Common estimate for how long they last is gennerally 5-6 years and around 80,000 miles. Some can go longer some go less. It is usually due to climatic forces that degrade the rubber elements of the air spring it self. If you can turn a screwdriver and follow some instructions from a service manual then it is very easy to replace in, about 2 hours total. I would say that doing your brakes is much more difficult than replacing these components.