Newbie

[zutty]

I'm new here, not very mechanically inclined and just want to learn about the car I've just gotten. It's a 1988 Camry Wagon I got through my long-time mechanic. It has only 42000 orig. miles on it, been garaged and maintained by the proverbial elderly woman whose son doesn't want her to drive any more. It runs like a charm so far. Did I over-pay by shelling out 2800? Would it also be prudent to change all the filters, belts etc. even if it's running well? The only concern so far is the lights warning light is on even though I don't see any lights not working.Also I'm not sure if the a/c is working. I don't hear any click when I try it...Pardon my ignorance..I hope I've finally gotten a decent car after having gotten 2 dogs in the past two years! Don't ask!

[Mike Gerber]

Welcome to Automotive Forums.

1. As far as the price for the car, I would go to Kelly Blue Book (KBB.COM) and check out the price for the car.

2. For the belts and hoses, why not just ask your mechanic who sold the car, when they all were last changed. It seems he has been doing all the service on the car so he should know.

3. For the warning light on, it should indicate if it's a front bulb or a rear bulb by where the lines are coming out of it (if it's like the newer models). Don't forget to check the dual filament bulbs in the car. To do this turn on the lights and then hit the brake pedal and check all around. Also check all the turn signals with the lights on. Obviously you will need a second person to help you do this. Also, remember to check the high mounted brake light in the rear. Many people miss that one.

Mike