So first of all, I'm not exactly sure what's wrong with my car, but whatever it is is definitely not good. I was driving the other day when the engine started making this very loud clanking/grinding noise. Apparently I hadn't checked my oil level and it was basically gone. After filling it up with Oil, the noise is still there, but much quieter. So I'm thinking I might need a whole new engine. The thing is, I found a nearly identical car on Craigslist for $1750, which would probably be just a few hundred more then a new engine, and I could just drive the thing until I get around to repairing my old one. On the other hand, I don't really want to spend that much in a panic. The car is a 1997 Toyota Tercel. [more inside]
posted by delmoi on Aug 21, 2009 - 41 answers

I was topping off the windshield washer fluid on my 1999 Toyota Tercel. That was easy enough, but now the hood won't completely shut. It will catch on the very first latch, but will not completely shut. How do I make it shut on my own? And if I can't do that, will it be safe enough to drive (not on major highways) until then? [more inside]
posted by BlzOfGlry on Jun 30, 2006 - 16 answers