Few Problems with a 92 Astro CL EXT

[\Nismo/]

I just bought a 92 Astro with almost 180k miles for $1000 from a used car lot. When I got it, it was in real good shape, with no obvious problems. Later that same day, I had a small wreck in it. Someone hit the back passenger side near the rear bumper. It did no damage other than a little smear of paint. After that happened, the factory radio comes on but only plays static. I have tried looking at the fuse box and the fuse is fine. I have also tried 2 other aftermarket radios and they don't even power up. The horn doesn't work anymore either.

Now, the heater is acting up. If I keep the def on low, it puts out heat. When try to turn it up higher, it starts to blow out cold air after just a few seconds.

It also has developed a clicking noise around the brake pedel when the pedal is pushed hard. If you push gently, it doesn't make that click noise.

If anyone has any ideas about these problems and possible fixes, please let me know.

I have only had my Astro for 2 months and I love this thing. I have 4 kids and it is perfect for my family. It is my second Mini-Van. (My first was a 93 Olds Silhouette) This is what a MV is supposed to be like. I am even thinking about going back to the same car lot were I got this one and getting another one. They have a 97 Astro for $1600. I haven't test drove it yet, so, I don't know how many miles it has or what shape it is in on the inside. If it is in the same shape that my 92 was in, do you all think it would be worth buying?

[scottnhalifax]

ok, first off check the radio or horn fuse to fix the radio, second off does the temp gauge go up at all, if it does then you have air locked in the heater core or you are low on coolant or i just thought about it the heater valve out in the engine compartment by the fan motor may not be functioning properally, and if your gauge doesnt go up then you need to change your thermostat.
third thing, the clicking noise, well my brakes did that too wheni first got it and it turned out to be some beat out bushing that the sliders ride in on the caliper, 20 dollar caliper and change the 2 of em to make the brakes work better....
fourth thing, you paid too much money for that van.. personally i would have paid 500 for it and no more.....
make sure you get that front end checked out for ball joints and idler arms....
scott

[\Nismo/]

I will try running it with the rad cap off. As for the fuses, I have checked them and they seem to be okay, but, I will change them just to be sure.

The clicking when I press the brake is on the inside of the van. It sounds like it is coming from the break pedal itself.

The reason I thought that $1000 for this van was a good price was because I looked up the Kelly Blue Book for that van in my area and the BBV was $2810 in excellent cond. I would rate the van as good condition. It even had a new set of Bridgestone tires put on it 3 months before I bought it. (The reciept was in the glove box.) I have seen other vans like mine go for $2500 or more at other car lots in this area.

Thanks again for the suggestions.