'93 Lumina - Is it a good car?

[clancaster23]

I haven't had a chance to look at it jus tyet but I may be buying a 1993 Lumina soon. It has about 150k miles and is in pretty good condition. I was wondering if one could tell me common problems in the cars and what I should look for? How long does a normal engine in one last? Anythign else I should know about them? Thanks.

[broughy84]

my inlaws have a 1991 and a 1992. The 91 has a 3.4 DOHC and the 92 has the 3.1.

The 91 has 213,000 miles and still runs as strong as the day they bought it.

The 92 has 198,000 miles and the only problem they have had out of it is the fuel pump, but that is wear and tear.

These vehicles have been to Utah SEVERAL times and West Virgina probably 15 times in the last year. We live in Southern Indiana. I wouldn't think twice about driving cross country in a Lumina. I would trust my father in law's before I would trust my 98 Venture.

Normal maintanance is the key here. Has it been Maintained?

[richtazz]

the only known problem on the car is rear brakes that sieze. If the current owner never uses the parking brake, then you can bet you'll be putting rear calipers, pads and rotors on it. Other than that, it's an excellent, troublefree car. my 91 grand prix (mechanically identical) has 235k on it and still runs and drives perfectly.

[clancaster23]

Well, as of now, it's owned by an old couple, well widow now since her husband just died recently and she wants to get rid of the car cause she don't drive and she just doesn't want it to sit and waste away. This is my girlfriend's aunt BTW. She said it's in excellent condition though I haven't gotten a first hand look at it just yet. Maintenance I don't know about. I will check on it and reply here. She said it was one of the more expensive ones for the year so I am guessing it has all/most of whatever options that were available for that year.

I'm very strict on keeping a well scheduled maintenance plan so I know if I get it, it will be well taken care of.

[clancaster23]

Just found out that the car was well maintained. Regular oil changes and all. They said they never had problems with the brakes though.

[clancaster23]

Quick question, are these cars dual exhaust? If its the Euro model?

[goldwinger]

Does the Euro have a duel exhaust??

3.1 engine No 3.4 Yes

Great car I have a 92 3.1 270,000KM can still spin the front wheels with little effort. Drives and shift smoooooth as silk. As mentioned above, maintenance is the key.

[clancaster23]

Went to go look at the car today and it looks to be in great condition aside of the fact that it needs a major wash/wax due to it sitting near a tree for about a year Has 166K miles on it and chances are I will get it. Needs an exhaust and possibly a power steering pump. Will also probably need a full tuneup once I get it from it sitting for so long but that's all just basic tuning that always needs done. When I get it, I'll let you all know how she sounds.

[KenInKenmore]

well power steering pump should be an easy job, 3nuts and it's in your hand...... try not to make a mess with the fluid though

[wafrederick]

Stay away from one with a 3.4.It is expensive to repair if it has problems