₦airaland Forum

There is a comprehensive user/ service manual accompanying this gen. The following pictures are from the manual:

@George_D!

Thanks for the offer. Am sorry your offer was not good enough sir.

I hope you understand what I mean by marine/wet exhaust as against dry exhaust?

I am thankful to be here, insurance has said the process will take up to six months as the police have to send a final report stating they have not been able to recover the vehicle. There is a reason for everything I believe, so in all this I'm thankful.

Take heart sweetie! lets hope that Insurance coy responds faster. Its their duty to carry on with the trouble.

Good luck

@Seal777.

You have gotten the advice on how to procure the shocks. Having done that, you can change the shocks all by yourself if you have time at your disposal Its easy as 123 .DIY( do it yourself),  Buy a Haynes service manual for that car. someone said you could order it for just N2500( though am still skeptical about that price ). The manual will help you save a lot of money, and you may not need a mechanic for minor repairs.
Personal l like taking little challenges. Goodluck

I love the flow of info here. Nice research guys. Keep it up.


Note: diesel is louder than petrol at low engine speed only

Thanks. more to come

READ ATTACHED pdf file for more. source: http://www.warrantydirect.co.uk/Honda-Accord_guide.html?cart=126860684218134630&id=864

Honda Accord (1998-2003)
By Richard Dredge
Get a Honda Accord Warranty Quote














Click thumbnails to enlarge





It may have had the reliability of a Swiss watch, but Honda's Accord was generally as unexciting to drive as it was to look at. That's with the exception of the cracking Type-R of course, which is a vastly under-rated performance car that'll have you grinning every time you drive it. If you want something large and reliable but you haven't got much in the way of readies to pay for it, you could do worse than take a look at the Accord.


Key Dates


8/98: New Accord saloon introduced with 1.8 petrol engine.

2/99: Type-R now on sale.

6/99: VTEC version of 1.8 engine now available. Hatchback also now offered.

10/99: Accord Type-V arrives.

12/00: Most models get a minor facelift with minor styling changes and improved equipment levels.




Checklist


• Manual gearbox can give problems with gear selection; Honda has been known to replace the 'box even when long out of warranty.
• Automatic transmission can play up, with hesitation in selecting ratios and lots of hunting. Again, Honda has renewed these boxes even out of warranty.
• The Type-R had self-levelling headlamps, but sometimes the mechanism fails - expensively.
• Make sure the seatbelts are all working properly - sometimes the retractor mechanism fails.
• The engine is peaky, especially in VTEC form - but that's how they're designed to be.
• Ignition switches play up.




We Like


• Reliability
• Space
• Type-R's dynamics
• Generous equipment levels





We Don't Like


• Dull design
• Lack of diesels

@ONWAN!

your choice of BMW was great. check out the post on BMW report from experts

SEE ATTACHMENT FOR DETAILS

source:http://www.warrantydirect.co.uk/BMW-5%20Series_guide.html?cart=126860577418129441&id=853

BMW 5-Series (1996-2003)
By Richard Dredge
Get a BMW 5 Series Warranty Quote














Click thumbnails to enlarge





With its blend of fabulous dynamics, generally excellent build quality, discreet styling and superb engines, the 5-Series has it all. It's no surprise that these are some of the most sought after saloons and estates around - especially examples with BMW's brilliant diesel engines. Buy a 530d Touring and you've got the perfect blend of practicality, economy and performance available anywhere - at any price.


Key Dates


4/96: Fourth-generation 5-Series saloon launched.

6/96: 540i now available.

9/96: 535i appears.

1/97: 528i and 525tds join the range.

4/97: 5-Series Touring goes on sale.

9/98: 530d arrives, replacing the 525tds.

3/99: The mind-blowing M5 goes on sale, in saloon form only.

9/00: 525i replaces the 523i, while the 530i replaces the 528i. Also, the 525d is launched.

6/02: 520i Sport arrives, along with the Avus Blue special edition.




Checklist


• Door seals can be noisy, as well as leaky; check for water ingress.
• Electronics can play up, especially climate control, airbags and parking sensors.
• Post-2000 nav/phone system can be temperamental.
• Steptronic transmission plays up if rear tyres wear unevenly.
• Rear suspension bushes wear, leading to clonks.
• Some older cars are prone to overheating.
• Some diesels suffer from cracked inlet manifolds.
• Huge alloys get kerbed easily.
• Some early 2.8-litre petrol engines have worn bores from high-sulphur fuel.

soure :http://www.warrantydirect.co.uk/Nissan-Murano_guide.html?cart=126860449918124868&id=1396


View the attached pdf file for more

Nissan Murano (2005-2008)
By Richard Dredge
Get a Nissan Murano Warranty Quote













Click thumbnails to enlarge


Over 90 per cent of 4x4 buyers choose diesel power, so when Nissan introduced the petrol-only Murano there were many who questioned the Japanese car maker's judgement. Sure enough sales proved hard to come by, but the Murano's used values are on the low side, so if you don't mind the 20mpg thirst and costly road tax (CO2 emissions are 295g/km), this could be just the car for you. If you're partial to a bit of towing, the Murano is especially worth a look - but be warned, the fuel consumption will plummet even further,

Key Dates

10/04: The Murano is introduced with a 3498cc V6 petrol engine only, mated to a six-speed CVT gearbox.

6/06: The Murano gets a Euro IV-compliant engine.


Checklist

• Check that the gear ratios engage smoothly, as CVT belt failures have occurred in some cars, although this generally affects Muranos sold overseas.
• Check that the tyres aren't worn; they're 225/65 R18 items and only Dunlop and Toyo make this size, so finding stocks can be tricky.
• The Murano makes an excellent tow car; if it's already been used as one, make sure the transmission and brakes haven't been overloaded.
• Few Murano owners will have taken their car off-roading, but check the underside for scrapes, just in case.

hmmmmmmmmmm! Good question. But then does the price stay @ N150 for long. I think on the average your yearly savings on a diesel car will be better than on a petrol car of same engine capacity.

HELLO HOUSE!

USE THIS INFO AS A GUIDE IN YOUR CHOICE OF USED CARS!

Best and worst used cars
The most reliable models and those to avoid
Last reviewed: April 2010
The average new car loses 47 percent of its value in the first three years of ownership. That’s why savvy consumers know the smart money is on used cars, which have already taken that hit. But finding a good, reliable used car can be a challenge.
The Best of the Best list on these pages guides you to 2000 to 2009 models that scored well in our tests when new and have been consistently reliable over time. Each has achieved multiple years of above average used-car verdicts, indicating that owners have had relatively few problems.
Models built by Honda and Toyota dominate the list. Several Toyota models that would normally have been included were left off this year’s list, however, because at the time this issue went to press they were recalled for a sticking accelerator pedal but dealers were only beginning to get the necessary parts to fix them. Some models listed here, including the Toyota Highlander, Prius, and Tacoma and the Lexus ES and IS, have been recalled for "floor-mat entrapment," which can also cause unintended acceleration. That can be easily remedied by removing the floor mat; a hardware fix is also available at dealerships (for more information on the Toyota recalls, see our unintended acceleration guide). When buying any used car, always check that any recall work has been performed.
The Worst of the Worst list shows models that have had multiple years of belowaverage reliability, so you can steer clear of them. Reliability data are derived from our Annual Auto Survey, which generated responses from subscribers on about 1.4 million vehicles.

BEST OF BEST

These are the most well-rounded vehicles in nine categories. We highlight the top choice and list other contenders in order of their overall reliability scores for model years 2000 to 2009. Each model has at least three years of reliability data.

Small cars

Honda Civic

The Civic is reliable, economical, and fun to drive. In 2003 the Hybrid model arrived, and 2006 brought standard antilock brakes and curtain air bags. But electronic stability control is available only on later high-end models. The Honda Fit hatchback is smaller than the Civic.
Other good choices:

• Honda Fit
• Toyota Echo
• Volkswagen Rabbit
• Scion xB
• Mazda3
• Subaru Impreza (nonturbo)
• Mazda Protegé

Family cars

Honda Accord
Honda Accord
The Accord is a very reliable choice and is enjoyable to drive. It's a quiet, agile car that received a standard antilock brake system with the 2003 redesign. In 2006 the V6 models received standard ESC, which was added to all models with the 2008 redesign. The Toyota Prius hybrid is a good choice for the fuel-economy-minded, and the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan have very good reliability and are affordable.
Other good choices:

• Toyota Prius
• Ford Fusion (FWD)
• Mercury Milan (FWD)
• Mazda 6 (4-cyl.)

Upscale cars

Lexus ES

The ES has continually been a very reliable choice. It's quiet and comfortable and became more fuel efficient in 2004. In 2007 standard ESC was added. The Lincoln MKZ and Zephyr are reliable domestic cars.
Other good choices:

• Lincoln MKZ, Zephyr (FWD)
• Acura TSX
• Acura TL
• Lexus IS
• Infiniti I30, I35
• Infiniti G
• Hyundai Azera
• Volvo S60 (FWD)



Luxury cars

Infiniti M35
The M35, a reliable, luxurious sedan, is enjoyable to drive whether you're cruising on a highway or navigating a twisty road. A more luxurious but less sporty choice is the Lexus LS.
Other good choices

• Lexus LS
• Lexus GS (RWD)
• Acura RL
• Mercedes-Benz E-Class (V6, RWD)

Sports and sporty cars

Mazda Miata
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Miata is affordable and fun to drive, with its nimble handling and slick shifter. Look for models built after 2006, when the Miata got standard ABS. The Honda S2000 is a more hard-core roadster, and the Lexus SC is geared more toward luxury.
Other good choices

• Honda S2000
• Lexus SC
• Toyota Camry Solara
• Acura RSX
• Toyota Celica
• BMW Z3, Z4 ('00-06)
• Nissan 350Z
• Ford Mustang (V6)
• Porsche 911

Small SUVs

Honda CR-V
The comfortable, carlike CR-V has a smooth, spirited four-cylinder engine and gets good fuel economy. Look for models from 2005 on, when ESC and curtain air bags became standard. Reliability has been better than average each year.
Another good choice:

• Acura RDX
• Hyundai Tucson
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Kia Sportage ('05-09)
• Ford Escape Hybrid
• Mercury Mariner Hybrid
• Subaru Forester

Midsized & large SUVs

Honda Pilot
Honda Pilot
The Pilot is a roomy, refined, and fuel-efficient SUV. It has flexible seating for eight passengers, and crash-test results are impressive. The Toyota Highlander is another good car-based SUV, and the truck-based 4Runner is a good choice for serious off-roading.
Other good choices:

• Toyota 4Runner
• Toyota Highlander*
• Lexus RX
• Toyota Land Cruiser
• Acura MDX
• Infiniti FX35
• Infiniti QX4
• Hyundai Santa Fe (V6)
• Lexus GX (except '08-09)
• Subaru Tribeca

Minivans

Honda Odyssey
The Odyssey is a spacious and comfortable minivan that has always had a good ride and handling. A 2005 redesign improved interior flexibility. Look for models built after 2003. The Sienna is more plush but less enjoyable to drive.
Another good choice:
• Toyota Sienna

Pickup trucks

Honda Ridgeline
Honda Ridgeline
The Ridgeline combines the handling of a car with the utility of a pickup truck. The cabin is easy to access, and the engine is smooth and responsive. Choose the Tacoma if you need a traditional pickup truck.
Other good choices:

• Toyota Tacoma V6 ('05-09)
• Subaru Baja



WORST OF THE WORST

These vehicles have multiple years of much-worse-than-average reliability among 2000 to 2009 models. They're listed alphabetically.

Audi A6 Allroad
Cadillac SRX
Cadillac STS (V8)
Chevrolet Aveo
Chevrolet Blazer
Chevrolet Colorado (4WD)
Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Chevrolet S-10 Pickup (4WD)
Chevrolet TrailBlazer (V8)
Chevrolet Uplander
Chevrolet Venture
Chrysler Sebring Convertible
Chrysler Town & Country
Dodge Caravan (V6)
Dodge Grand Caravan
GMC Canyon (4WD)
GMC Envoy (V8)
GMC Jimmy
GMC S-15 Sonoma (4WD)
Jeep Commander
Jeep Wrangler (four-door)
Kia Sedona
Lincoln Aviator
Mercedes-Benz R-Class
Mini Cooper Convertible
Oldsmobile Silhouette
Pontiac Montana, Montana SV6
Saturn Relay
Volkswagen Cabrio
Volkswagen New Beetle (turbo)
Volkswagen Passat (V6, FWD)
Volkswagen Touareg
Volvo XC90 (6-cyl.) [/color]

fellow countrymen, fly wey no hear word, You have been informed. Good luck in your search for used cars.
SOURCE: http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/used-cars/cr-recommended/best-and-worst-used-cars/overview/best-and-worst-used-cars.htm#worst

i know someone who owned a diesel mercedes regular but had to sell it because he said the 'wahala' was too much Huh

Of course the person could have been unfortunate with the car. That diesel engines are good does not imply they are perfect. There could have been a combination of one or more of the ff:
- Human error . As in bad usage
- lack of proper maintenance
- lack of technical know-how on the part of the mechanic
--
---
---
just to mention a few.

Many people have sold their petrol cars also, cos the wahala in those particular cars was too much.

we are talking generally. sure there are always isolated cases

@sultaan:

could you be a bit more generous in your answer sir?

Is autozone a physical location in Naija or an online shop. There is autozone just everywhere on the internet. An elaborate description will be very much appreciated.

@sultaan!

Where did you buy the Haynes repair manuals precisely? can you do this honourable house a favour by posting the source?
Thanks in anticipation

No qualms man

Those guys have a lot. Just been to the site. Its good they can deliver to Nigeria. Wouldn't the extra NAHCO charges and the actual shipment cost make it very expensive? , knowledge is wealth anyway

@Onwan!
Yes they do have for most car brands. Get one next time you travel. it is a real DIY .

@ George-D

I can bet you will certainly get a diesel machine soon. more blessings on the way

still waiting for lucky new owner to come

@Otunba-1.

You have a point there Otunba-1. But then with the noise (blaring horns, shouting and screaming, generator noise from neighbors just to mention a few) all around Nigeria, you may over look that from your car .
That is the price you pay for the powerful isentropic compression and expansion going on in your engine.

4A-FE: 1992- 97
4A= fourth generation A series engine
F= economy narrow-angled valve
E = electronic fuel injection.
Toyota designed this engine with fuel economy in mind. The 4A-FE is basically the same as the 4A-F (introduced in the previous generation of Corollas), the most apparent difference being the fuel delivery system.

POWER: 115horse power @ 6000rpm ( 1992-97)
1,6Litre cylinder volume


7A: seventh generation  A series engine 1993-1998
1,8Litre cyl vol.

115Hp @5600 rpm

It was build from the 4A-FE engine. The difference is cylinder  volume(1.8L)

I hope you mean 3S:
3S-GTE: this is a 4cylinder 2.0L turbocharged engine. turbo gives you more power


Comments:
These are all 4 cylinder engines.
-The engine your car came with gives you the best petrol economy you can get from the choices you have bearing in mind the cost of petrol in Naija.
-Speed speed speed!!! where are you speeding to? where are the roads in Nigeria? 3S gives you more power/speed, and consumes most petrol


My advice:
Sell the Carina E and buy another Carina E or any other car with a diesel engine. Diesel engines are stronger and much much more economical. This is damn true
Good luck

Read the thread:
***hello house!which is better? A petrol or diesel car/SUV***

welcome dear!

come with your ideas. lets brainstorm

@Onwan!

waooh thats great! Your car covers 14km/litre of diesel . Am happy for you. Enjoy your machine.

wonder whether Haynes repair manuals are easily available in naija. I just recommended it that 2002 nissan altima guy.

@sbm4real:"

After the repair work,
I will strongly recommend that you buy a "Nissan Altima Haynes Repair Manual for 1993 thru 2006 covering all Altima models." see www.haynes.com

You will learn a lot about your car. If you are a little bit handy inclined, then you will save a lot. You can do a lot yourself and will be amazed. From changing engine oil, spark plugs, to changing shock absorbers, brake discs and lots more.

Invest in that manual and you will be glad you did.

Boy o boy! you don't call this guy a car! what an understatement , it is a cruise machine

Diesel engines can run on waste cooking oil.

Converting a diesel engine to run from waste cooking oil can reduce or almost eliminate your need to purchase petroleum based diesel fuel for your car or truck. Your engine will not need any modification; the changes are in the fuel system, and involve adding a second fuel tank and electric heaters to make the viscosity of the waste cooking oil the same as petrol-diesel. The average backyard mechanic can convert a diesel vehicle to run on waste vegetable oil (WVO) in about a day or over a weekend.
#
Step 1

Install an electrically heated fuel tank, and run large-bore fuel lines to the front of the vehicle. Install an inline fuel filter between the tank and the engine. Some trucks and SUVs have dual fuel tanks from the factory; the second factory tank can be used for vegetable oil by installing an electric heater around it. Install a switchable valve to control which fuel will flow to the engine. For smaller vehicles with only one stock fuel tank, a WVO tank can be installed in the trunk; tanks, heaters and parts are available from the links listed in Resources below.
#
Step 2

Install a fuel line heater directly before the fuel intake manifold on the engine, where the stock fuel line meets the intake. The electric heater can be wired to the vehicle's electrical system through the fuel-selection valve switch; that will activate the heater only when WVO is in use.
#
Step 3

Install a temperature gauge to monitor the heaters. An optimal temperature for the oil when it is in the tank is between 54 and 72 degrees Celcius, while the inline heater can heat the oil to as high as 88 degrees Celcius . Higher or lower temperatures could cause the fuel to not burn efficiently.
#
Step 4

You must filter waste cooking oil before putting it into a fuel tank. Heat the waste oil, preferably pure vegetable oil, in a large steel cooking pot; a pot with a valve inserted into the bottom will work best. Bring the temperature of the oil to between 54 and 72 degrees Celcius. The hot oil can then be passed through a large filter such as those used for restaurant and construction applications. These filters resemble larger versions of reusable coffee filters, with a screen material that can handle higher temperatures. Once the larger particles are removed, pour the oil into the WVO tank on the vehicle.
#
Step 5

Start and stop the vehicle using regular diesel fuel, and only use the WVO as you drive. Until the engine reaches operating temperature on petro-diesel, the WVO could cool down and collect in the fuel injectors; that "coking" can clog and foul the injector nozzles. Heating the oil and only using it when the engine has warmed up will ensure the WVO will enter the fuel intake at the proper viscosity to burn and not clog the parts en route.

Start the vehicle and run it for the first several minutes on regular diesel. To make sure the WVO in the injection lines is replaced with petroleum diesel for your next start, switch over to diesel fuel about 2 minutes before you arrive at your destination.

WARNING AND TIPS:

Wire the heaters to a fused, ignition-operated lead, to ensure they do not operate when the vehicle is not running.

Use proper protection clothing and equipment when working with hot waste vegetable oil. Do not mix waste vegetable oil with regular diesel in the same tank.
www.ehow.com

@onwan
Thanks for that compliment. You know, I have some friends in Lagos who find it difficult to understand the beauty and economy in diesel cars. If you mention diesel to them , they exclaim "ah "dizu" .
Lets create the awareness on this forum. Kindly calculate the fuel consumption of your BMW in KM/Litre and post here, so that others will appreciate the economy we are talking about.