Thanks guys. I do most of the other basic work (brakes, filters, oil change, radiaor flush) on my car and thought I might give it a try if it wasn't too bad.
Are you saying that your car allowed you to use the defroster and the recirculate function at the same time? Of course, the fogging will occur when the recirc is enabled and you are in standard non-a/c mode, and the temperature outside of the car places your windows' temperature below the dew point.
I stumbled on this discussion as I've been looking at purchasing a Lincoln LS and figured I could get some good opinions on the issue I'm wrestling with regarding a V8 or V6. I am not a true car enthusiast and I'm trying to keep within my original target spending and I am leaning toward the V6 but everything I seem to read here is about the V8 and what a great car it is ... do you have the same opinion of the 2003 V6 ?
Most on this board have V8s and of course most are car enthusiats. My LS was a V6 and I thought it had plenty of power for me. I am a car entusiast and did some things like a K&N air filter and less restrictive exhaust that made my car more to my liking. I have driven V8s when they were given to me a loaners when my car was being serviced and would not pay the extra money for the V8. Let me assure you that this opinion will be way in the minority on this board.
From what I've read on this board and elsewhere, the performance, quietness, and smoothness of the V6 have been very satisfying. And, it's nearly bullet-proof.
Given for 03 the V6 comes close to producing the HP & torque values of the former V8 232 vs 252hp & 220 vs 267 ft lbs of torque, I don't think you'll be disappointed in the V6. Also ALL 8'S for 03 become sport models with slightly choppier suspension. I've owned both the standard and sport model LS (both V8), You won't be disappointed with the standard setup. In fact to date my older 00 standard was slightly faster on top end than my current sport. The 00 maxed out at 142 and my 02 has only been up to 138 mph. But it only has 3000 miles on it to date. At $29,495 for an 03 V6 whats to think about?
They are both VERY good cars The V8 costs more. The V6 is a bit more responsive in the handling department (less front end weight) The 03 V6 with variable valve timing performance approaches 00 to 02 V8 performance. Both are great cars.
If price is not an option you can go all the way up to 47K full-tilt LS. If price is the issue, go with the 6. This is not a stripped-down car. ** But please know that you will not find this high quality of a car anywhere near this price period.
If you are not familiar with the technical aspects of the car I think a lot of us here can help you. Just ask. The V6 (even though I own an 8) is still tops in the fun-to-drive category IMHO. ; - )
They are both VERY good cars The V8 costs more. The V6 is a bit more responsive in the handling department (less front end weight) The 03 V6 with variable valve timing performance approaches 00 to 02 V8 performance. Both are great cars.
If price is not an option you can go all the way up to 47K full-tilt LS. If price is the issue, go with the 6. This is not a stripped-down car. ** But please know that you will not find this high quality of a car anywhere near this price period.
If you are not familiar with the technical aspects of the car I think a lot of us here can help you. Just ask. The V6 (even though I own an 8) is still tops in the fun-to-drive category IMHO. ; - )
I got a flyer in my mail today from a local Toyota dealer; after calling them to verify their add they claimed that they are offering 0% financing/36 months on all new Toyotas. Not that I'm in the market for another Toyota. But I'm getting the impression here that somehow 0% hurts American car values.
How does that happen to hurt the LS values but tapparently doesn't hurt Toyota? On paper the depreciation on a $40,000 car might look bad if it depreciated to say $24,000... but how many pay a $40K sticker price on the LS anyway? Maybe I'm misunderstanding these resale values' complaints, but shouldn't you compare it to what you actually paid for the LS instead, like maybe in the neighborhood of $32K for example?
And on the other cars with superior resale, shouldn't the cost of the inflated finance charges on the new car be considered on top of the price agreed on for the car? At least the LS doesn't have that extra cost w/0%. Just my 2 cents.
Maybe manufacturers should charge lower prices to begin with and raise them as demand for the product goes up, instead of the other way around lowering too-high prices w/rebates and the like.
Hi all, has anyone had their driver side front door pocket fill (ok maybe only 1/3 fill) up with water? Dealer has seen this a few times, but they are not 100% sure of the cause yet, so they replace the door trim....
This used to be a problem with after-market rustproofing because they plugged the weep holes. I'm pretty sure those holes are still there, and can't imagine how you'd ever create a truly waterproof seal at the window.
I'd check to make sure the weep holes on the bottom of the door didn't get plugged some way. FWIW, my 2000 has a hole (slot) about 6" behind the leading edge that assume is there to drain water.
Thanks to all who offered their thoughts. I am going to make the jump this weekend on a V6 with the Premium package. Working the dealers right now ... quotes coming in at $32,900 which appears to be about $700 over invoice. A little more work and I think I will have a fair deal. I am looking forward to the new ride.
First, It is a shame that the New T-Bird had such a short life span. Hopefully though with its demise they can concentrate more on the LS and variations directly related to it. Such as a shorter version 2 door, convertible or in the extreme cases, for some of us who don't won't to go the way of the minivan or SUV, a wagon version.Something similar to the Dodge Magnum Wagon concept. Second, It is great to see commercials for the LS that IMHO are more suited to this BMW killer. The commercial where the coffee vapor trail flows to the back seat and moves with agile turns of the car... love it. And of course the expresso commercial was a good one as well. Well that was my $.02 Must say it is one helluva car!
First thing I do when I get a new car is to hammer the floor pan to insure the gas pedal opens the throttle fully :>) Then again it may be the cow horns on the hood here in Texas that makes her fly faster. In the past the car was drag limited, there was no shut down from the computer. Perhaps later models depending on the tire rating are electronically limited. Lincoln wouldn't be happy having you blow a tire at 140 when it was rated for 110 if you get my drift.
Well, I've tried everything recomended on this board and followed the manual but i'm still having problems with window fogging. Believe it or not, the best situation seems to be when I have nothing turned on. Guess I need to have the dealer look at it.
It gets a little hairy driving on unlit rural roads when the headlights of an oncoming car hit the windshield.
I'm sorry to hear that you still have the window fogging issue. I searched all my saved information and could not come up with any other answers to your problem. If you tried what we have suggested here, and you still have a fogging issue, then you may have a problem that only your dealer can help you with. Good luck and please let us know the outcome.
(2000 V8 Sport) and it looks like my tranny is gone.
I put it in reverse and about 50 % of the time it does not engage. Otherwise it engages with a heavy clunk.
In forward gears it is hunting and changing very roughly. It seems to be slipping as well. I checked the manual and found that there is no tranny dipstick on the automatic. It is making all kind of weird squealing noises as well. I guess there is nothing I can do but take it in.
Unfortunately I am flying to South Fla tomorrow AM. I guess I will leave the LS in the garage and leave the Jeep at the airport all week.
I had thought about the heater core leaking as well, but lse4me didn't report any residue build up on the inside of the windows. If a persistent oil build up is appearing on the windows, that may be the case.
I'm wondering if the HVAC system has a stuck or broken flapper valve for the recirculation function. I would suggest the following test to rule out any of the flappers sticking.
Turn the key to the on position (without starting the engine) and try all modes of the HVAC system. Listen for the valves as they change position to redirect the airflow. Then, choose the vent function and turn the fan up to half speed. Listen carefully to the sound of the fan and check the airflow out of the vents. Now, place the system into recirculation mode and you should notice a change in the sound of the fan and an increase of air volume. If you notice no change in fan noise, I think that your system is stuck in recirculate mode.
Sooooo. . . First verify that the interior of the windows are not getting an oily build up, then attempt the simple diverter check. I'll check my shop manual for the LS to see if there are any more tests that are easily done by the owner. Keep us informed and we'll do the same. I hope that any of this helps you.
BTW, I think this will fall under Ford's infamous "Can Not Duplicate" on the service order if you can't be very specific about the problem.
Just wondering if anyone knows anything about this vehicle. Was traveling on the 401 between Windsor and Toronto (Ontario) and saw this vehicle.
Black in colour with a different set of tail lamps and dual exhaust sticking out the back (quite noticeable) and different front lighting unsure what because he was passing by.
The plates were from Michigan and manufacter ones at that. Had big badging on the back trunk lid with LS - R, with the R being bigger.
Maybe something new in the works or possibly at tuner car from Mclaren since they are located there are were supposed to be doing some work on something.
Now, I would be amazed if LM was actually testing an ‘R’ version of the LS on the street – with ‘R’ emblem(s) on the car. Unless or until the car had been officially announced to the public. Does not make much sense to me.
Now, could there be such a car undergoing tests on public roads without any identifying exterior features (or emblems) – probably, since the Jaguar S Type R really has only a larger wheel tire package (and some paint / trim differences) to distinguish it from mere mortal Jaguar S types. There simply is no reason or need to tip their hand. Since the R motor (complete with intercoolers and near 400 hp) fits neatly under the hoods of the Jaguar S Type and the XK, I presume that it COULD fit under the LS’s hood as well. So – I see no reason why Lincoln would ‘advertise’ the fact that it is coming, until they are ready to really advertise it (so to speak) officially to the public.
Now, there certainly would be issues with the installation of the R motor and the 6 speed trans., but I’d guess they are not insurmountable – given the right motivation and therefore the right budget. (Though an SST version of the software for the new 6 speed might require Mark’s temporary return to the LS team!!!)
Then again, the motivation for going forward with such a project aimed at production of an LS-R might come from announcements like GM’s coming 400 hp Caddy CTS-Vs - and others. If there is not an LS running around with close to 400 hp somewhere (suitably disguised), well then I would be disappointed.
(But then, I have been disappointed before. . .)
/ / speculation mode off / /
Cheers, - Ray Truly hoping for such an LS in production soon .. .
I think this is all speculation. The car is probably a one-off custom for a customer. I don't see LM playing in a performance contest and I don't think Mclaren is doing much with LM anymore. The economy is not doing well outside the crazy real estate market here in San Diego and places like Boston. Even this market is cooling. The local dealer here in San Diego shows 52 03 LSes in stock. The V-8's list at two points - 43 and 47k, depending on options. They really want me to trade-in my 2000 MTX early on the lease. But I know they don't want my old LS. They didn't want it when new, so I guess they would just auction it off. Someone just wants to make money on the financing? Hey - if you see alot more H2 Hummers around, it probably isn't just that it's a Hummer. The IRS has a little known program meant for industrial and farm vehicles and equipment over 6000 Lbs, and the Hummer fits right in. My CPA says you get a huge write-off/tax credit the first year. Your pennance is that you have to drive one of the slowest, gas guzzling, .70 G cornering vehicles ever made and look out slit windows for at least a couple years. I think the novelty would wear off fast, especially when everybody buys one for tax reasons, which is not a good reason to insure driving enjoyment. Get this: Nissan and other manufacturers are bringing out new 6000 lb monsters to take advantage of this tax provision. Nissan's monster SUV is due out in December or so. Maybe the Expedition and Navi qualify? Help me on their Gross Weight please.
According to Edmunds the BMW X-5 with the largest engine($67,000+) only weighs 4,824 so I doubt it would qualify. Too bad, it would be the only one I would have an interest in.
The measurement is gross vehicle weight. This means the vehicle carrying the maximum load. While the weight of the vehicle is part of the GVW, it is not the entire thing.
Our Dallas club had the opportunity to drive an 03 rental while one of our members cars was in for hail damage repair. With 4 people in the car it accelerated very well. The transmission is much smoother than previous models. I like the starting in D1 as opposed to D2 in the older models. Steering seemed more precise. The exhaust while quiet at idle has a nice burble under acceleration. In a word, what's not to like besides the price. PS: they wouldn't let me open her up on the highway. We're all headed to Texas Motor Speedway on Sat.night to run some laps for charity. They still won't let me open her up!
I know this has been discussed before but I need to know how to answer an objection at my service department. My wife called our dealer this morning to make an appointment for the 30 some thousand mile service on our 2002 V8 Sport. She asked at my request if they can do a COMPLETE transmnission fluid change at their service dept. The service dept. guy said they don't do transmission fluid changes on the LS because it's a sealed unit and it is not indicated as a service to perform. I know people on here have had the job done and others have recomended having it done but it was always mentioned that the shop must have a certain piece of equipment. I wonder if my dealer just doesn't have the necessary equipment. Any suggestions on what comeback I might make with these people. Thanks.
They should have a Tranny Flushing system that taps into the cooler lines that go to the radiator. I had mine done at a F/L/M dealer for about $130. I will redo every 30K.
The tranny flushing systems are very expensive - so your dealer may not have one. There is a TSB that lists the F/L/M vehicles that should have the tranny fluid changed this way and the LS is among them.
The part# is (2W4Z 9600-AA) and it is the same for both the V8 and V6, in Mexico there is a different Part # for the Sport version. It comes as a complete assembly including the mass airflow sensor. You can purchase it from your dealer or on line. It used to list for around $180. Try this link - http://www.fordpartsnetwork.com/catalog/Lincoln/LS/ You might want to purchase a K&N filter if you don't already have one. Their are those on this board who feel there is not enough independent testing of the K&N's Safety and feel that the small increase HP is not worth the risk of damaging their engines. I have done some investigation and personally I feel comfortable using the K&N. Even if the HP increase is negligible, I like the growl of the intake that it produces. To each their own!
A few members of the Dallas Lincoln LS Owners are getting together along with some SHO Members and going to participate in the Laps for Charity Event at Texas Motor Speedway. E-mail me or post a message here if you are interested in coming. The event is from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and I will get more specifics and post them here. The cost is $25 dollars and you get to drive your car for Three Laps around the oval. Word has it you don't realize how banked the Oval NASCAR and CART run on until you have been on one. Well This is your chance and its for a good cause. Proceeds Benefit Texas Speedway Charities...
Have any of you bought your LS at the end of the lease? I would like to keep my MTX, but it is probably worth less than the $ 17,536.35 residual. It's a 2000, 41k, no Audiophile, no sunroof, has CD6 in glovebox, Pearl Tri-Color, always garaged. Original price was $33635, June 30th, 2000. Do you think Ford Motor Credit would negotiate the buy-out price?
mine now that the transmission is out. I took it in on Saturday and they did not look at it. Sunday closed. Monday Trans tech off work.
No call yesterday.
Called me this am to tell me that it it indeed internal to the transmission. Valve body or some such will know more by lunch. Was hoping it was merely a speed sensor.
I do not want this car anymore and told my mom she does not wither (she was thinking of buying it). Thank god the lease is over in less than 2 months.
Wow, tranny failures are really rare. Mine's a Getrag, so it's a lot less complicated. Your residual sounds about right for a V-8. I'm sure the resale value is close, especially with hardly any miles in almost 3 years. I think it would be hard to find a great car like your present one for 20K. But the lure of a lease is getting a new car for less than payments every 3 years. I'm self-employed, so I can write off 80% of the lease and that's even more of an attraction. I was going to buy my LS, and then later lease a real toy. Then the wife would have her beloved Volvo wagon (960, last and best of the RWD Volvos), I would have the LS for client duties, and my new write-off would be some impractical un-family toy. My son will be driving soon and he could have the LS. Better and safer than some Civic. And he can't find many parts to mess it up with.
packv12- After further review, the "fogging" I've been seeing does appear to be a residue. I tried what you had suggested with the different fan & vent settings and it appeared to work properly.
So, my LSE is now at the dealer. The Service Rep is pretty sure it'll be the heater core as he's already estimated 2 or 3 days to repair.
At least my local dealer gave me a Town Car to use in the interim (Ford dealer gives me a Focus when I take the Explorer in for repair), although I have to say, I surely enjoy driving the LS more. The Town Car is too much like a boat. I do like the 4.6L V8 but the car was running away on me coming down the hill this morning. The SportShift on the LS is a great feature which I really enjoy.
However since my lease is up anyway I am going to turn it in and drive my wrangler for the summer. I will probably wait on a new or used car until the Fall.
I called them today and they just got the tranny out of the car. Have not even diagnosed it yet and estimate mid next week before it is done. Any time a car has major surgery like this I feel it is prone to more issues.
Either way it is a moot point in my case. I have also found that I can buy a slightly used Corvette Z06 for what a new LS costs. I really like the new LS V8 but it is awefully pricey....
But the buyout on your current lease is less than any of them. I am sure you can work an extended powertrain warranty into the deal. If not, there are discounted extended warranties available from other dealers.
regnmstr - my dealer said the exacat same thiing - it's a sealed unity and does not need to be changed. I actually asked my local mechanic to do it - when I picked it up, he complained how hard it was to do. Turns out he damaged the plug and overfilled it - had to bring it to LM to repair the damage.
Well, I got my LSE back yesterday and they seem to have 'cleared up' the window fogging issue. They said it was a cracked hose going to the heater core. They also speculate that something put on the dashboard by the selling dealer made it worse. I had that clouding of the dashboard issue mentioned in the TSBs. They cleaned it up with the proper cleaner and now I'm a very happy camper.
Squeaks and creaks are just about all eliminated also. Don't think they'll ever be eliminated but it's alot better than when I got the car.
Thanks for the update and I'm sure glad that the input helped you out. The dashboard should not require any additional coating and yes, it could affect the "off-gassing" rate of the dash. I believe that there is a warning in the Owners Manual about that subject.
I agree with you about the convience of the SST in hilly driving. I've gotten used to driving four speed automatics (non-SST type) in third in town driving just to have the engine braking available.
It's also nice to hear that the repair solved many of the squeak and rattle issues you had. Sounds as though your dealer paid close attention to all of the details when the repair was made.
Comments
Quote from manual: " Do not have recirculation on when defrost is on. Could lead to excessive window fogging." LOL!! Doh!!
Although I own an 00 LS8 Sport, I have driven an 03 LS6 and it is one hell of a car for 32K!
Maybe Lincoln should also be hawking this lower-priced model. What do you folks think?
From Lincoln's own website:
http://www.lincoln.com/vehicles/interior.asp?sVehi=LS
At $29,495 for an 03 V6 whats to think about?
The V8 costs more.
The V6 is a bit more responsive in the handling department (less front end weight)
The 03 V6 with variable valve timing performance approaches 00 to 02 V8 performance.
Both are great cars.
If price is not an option you can go all the way up to 47K full-tilt LS.
If price is the issue, go with the 6.
This is not a stripped-down car.
** But please know that you will not find this high quality of a car anywhere near this price period.
If you are not familiar with the technical aspects of the car I think a lot of us here can help you. Just ask.
The V6 (even though I own an 8) is still tops in the fun-to-drive category IMHO. ; - )
The V8 costs more.
The V6 is a bit more responsive in the handling department (less front end weight)
The 03 V6 with variable valve timing performance approaches 00 to 02 V8 performance.
Both are great cars.
If price is not an option you can go all the way up to 47K full-tilt LS.
If price is the issue, go with the 6.
This is not a stripped-down car.
** But please know that you will not find this high quality of a car anywhere near this price period.
If you are not familiar with the technical aspects of the car I think a lot of us here can help you. Just ask.
The V6 (even though I own an 8) is still tops in the fun-to-drive category IMHO. ; - )
How does that happen to hurt the LS values but tapparently doesn't hurt Toyota? On paper the depreciation on a $40,000 car might look bad if it depreciated to say $24,000... but how many pay a $40K sticker price on the LS anyway? Maybe I'm misunderstanding these resale values' complaints, but shouldn't you compare it to what you actually paid for the LS instead, like maybe in the neighborhood of $32K for example?
And on the other cars with superior resale, shouldn't the cost of the inflated finance charges on the new car be considered on top of the price agreed on for the car? At least the LS doesn't have that extra cost w/0%. Just my 2 cents.
Maybe manufacturers should charge lower prices to begin with and raise them as demand for the product goes up, instead of the other way around lowering too-high prices w/rebates and the like.
I'd check to make sure the weep holes on the bottom of the door didn't get plugged some way. FWIW, my 2000 has a hole (slot) about 6" behind the leading edge that assume is there to drain water.
Second, It is great to see commercials for the LS that IMHO are more suited to this BMW killer. The commercial where the coffee vapor trail flows to the back seat and moves with agile turns of the car... love it. And of course the expresso commercial was a good one as well. Well that was my $.02 Must say it is one helluva car!
Then again it may be the cow horns on the hood here in Texas that makes her fly faster.
In the past the car was drag limited, there was no shut down from the computer. Perhaps later models depending on the tire rating are electronically limited. Lincoln wouldn't be happy having you blow a tire at 140 when it was rated for 110 if you get my drift.
It gets a little hairy driving on unlit rural roads when the headlights of an oncoming car hit the windshield.
Tom
I put it in reverse and about 50 % of the time it does not engage. Otherwise it engages with a heavy clunk.
In forward gears it is hunting and changing very roughly. It seems to be slipping as well. I checked the manual and found that there is no tranny dipstick on the automatic. It is making all kind of weird squealing noises as well. I guess there is nothing I can do but take it in.
Unfortunately I am flying to South Fla tomorrow AM. I guess I will leave the LS in the garage and leave the Jeep at the airport all week.
I will take it in on Sat morning.
Sigh. Maybe it is good my lease is almost over...
I'm wondering if the HVAC system has a stuck or broken flapper valve for the recirculation function. I would suggest the following test to rule out any of the flappers sticking.
Turn the key to the on position (without starting the engine) and try all modes of the HVAC system. Listen for the valves as they change position to redirect the airflow. Then, choose the vent function and turn the fan up to half speed. Listen carefully to the sound of the fan and check the airflow out of the vents. Now, place the system into recirculation mode and you should notice a change in the sound of the fan and an increase of air volume. If you notice no change in fan noise, I think that your system is stuck in recirculate mode.
Sooooo. . . First verify that the interior of the windows are not getting an oily build up, then attempt the simple diverter check. I'll check my shop manual for the LS to see if there are any more tests that are easily done by the owner. Keep us informed and we'll do the same. I hope that any of this helps you.
BTW, I think this will fall under Ford's infamous "Can Not Duplicate" on the service order if you can't be very specific about the problem.
Black in colour with a different set of tail lamps and dual exhaust sticking out the back (quite noticeable) and different front lighting unsure what because he was passing by.
The plates were from Michigan and manufacter ones at that. Had big badging on the back trunk lid with LS - R, with the R being bigger.
Maybe something new in the works or possibly at tuner car from Mclaren since they are located there are were supposed to be doing some work on something.
Let me know what you guys think,
A picture like that could bring some money at Autoweek.
/ / speculation mode on / /
Now, I would be amazed if LM was actually testing an ‘R’ version of the LS on the street – with ‘R’ emblem(s) on the car. Unless or until the car had been officially announced to the public. Does not make much sense to me.
Now, could there be such a car undergoing tests on public roads without any identifying exterior features (or emblems) – probably, since the Jaguar S Type R really has only a larger wheel tire package (and some paint / trim differences) to distinguish it from mere mortal Jaguar S types. There simply is no reason or need to tip their hand. Since the R motor (complete with intercoolers and near 400 hp) fits neatly under the hoods of the Jaguar S Type and the XK, I presume that it COULD fit under the LS’s hood as well. So – I see no reason why Lincoln would ‘advertise’ the fact that it is coming, until they are ready to really advertise it (so to speak) officially to the public.
Now, there certainly would be issues with the installation of the R motor and the 6 speed trans., but I’d guess they are not insurmountable – given the right motivation and therefore the right budget. (Though an SST version of the software for the new 6 speed might require Mark’s temporary return to the LS team!!!)
Then again, the motivation for going forward with such a project aimed at production of an LS-R might come from announcements like GM’s coming 400 hp Caddy CTS-Vs - and others. If there is not an LS running around with close to 400 hp somewhere (suitably disguised), well then I would be disappointed.
(But then, I have been disappointed before. . .)
/ / speculation mode off / /
Cheers,
- Ray
Truly hoping for such an LS in production soon .. .
I don't see LM playing in a performance contest and I don't think Mclaren is doing much with LM anymore.
The economy is not doing well outside the crazy real estate market here in San Diego and places like Boston. Even this market is cooling.
The local dealer here in San Diego shows 52 03 LSes in stock.
The V-8's list at two points - 43 and 47k, depending on options.
They really want me to trade-in my 2000 MTX early on the lease. But I know they don't want my old LS. They didn't want it when new, so I guess they would just auction it off. Someone just wants to make money on the financing?
Hey - if you see alot more H2 Hummers around, it probably isn't just that it's a Hummer. The IRS has a little known program meant for industrial and farm vehicles and equipment over 6000 Lbs, and the Hummer fits right in. My CPA says you get a huge write-off/tax credit the first year.
Your pennance is that you have to drive one of the slowest, gas guzzling, .70 G cornering vehicles ever made and look out slit windows for at least a couple years.
I think the novelty would wear off fast, especially when everybody buys one for tax reasons, which is not a good reason to insure driving enjoyment.
Get this: Nissan and other manufacturers are bringing out new 6000 lb monsters to take advantage of this tax provision.
Nissan's monster SUV is due out in December or so. Maybe the Expedition and Navi qualify?
Help me on their Gross Weight please.
PS: they wouldn't let me open her up on the highway.
We're all headed to Texas Motor Speedway on Sat.night to run some laps for charity. They still won't let me open her up!
If so, does anyone know the part number and if there is much work to install it.
What will be the benefits.
Thanks
My wife called our dealer this morning to make an appointment for the 30 some thousand mile service on our 2002 V8 Sport. She asked at my request if they can do a COMPLETE transmnission fluid change at their service dept. The service dept. guy said they don't do transmission fluid changes on the LS because it's a sealed unit and it is not indicated as a service to perform. I know people on here have had the job done and others have recomended having it done but it was always mentioned that the shop must have a certain piece of equipment. I wonder if my dealer just doesn't have the necessary equipment. Any suggestions on what comeback I might make with these people. Thanks.
The tranny flushing systems are very expensive - so your dealer may not have one. There is a TSB that lists the F/L/M vehicles that should have the tranny fluid changed this way and the LS is among them.
You might want to purchase a K&N filter if you don't already have one. Their are those on this board who feel there is not enough independent testing of the K&N's Safety and feel that the small increase HP is not worth the risk of damaging their engines. I have done some investigation and personally I feel comfortable using the K&N. Even if the HP increase is negligible, I like the growl of the intake that it produces. To each their own!
Tom
Let me know if you are interested.
Regards,
Victor
I would like to keep my MTX, but it is probably worth less than the $ 17,536.35 residual.
It's a 2000, 41k, no Audiophile, no sunroof, has CD6 in glovebox, Pearl Tri-Color, always garaged.
Original price was $33635, June 30th, 2000.
Do you think Ford Motor Credit would negotiate the buy-out price?
FOMOCO would not discuss with me. Only the leasing dealer can do it. I tried several times. They kept telling me to call the dealer.
No call yesterday.
Called me this am to tell me that it it indeed internal to the transmission. Valve body or some such will know more by lunch. Was hoping it was merely a speed sensor.
I do not want this car anymore and told my mom she does not wither (she was thinking of buying it). Thank god the lease is over in less than 2 months.
Mine's a Getrag, so it's a lot less complicated.
Your residual sounds about right for a V-8.
I'm sure the resale value is close, especially with hardly any miles in almost 3 years.
I think it would be hard to find a great car like your present one for 20K.
But the lure of a lease is getting a new car for less than payments every 3 years.
I'm self-employed, so I can write off 80% of the lease and that's even more of an attraction.
I was going to buy my LS, and then later lease a real toy.
Then the wife would have her beloved Volvo wagon (960, last and best of the RWD Volvos), I would have the LS for client duties, and my new write-off would be some impractical un-family toy.
My son will be driving soon and he could have the LS. Better and safer than some Civic. And he can't find many parts to mess it up with.
So, my LSE is now at the dealer. The Service Rep is pretty sure it'll be the heater core as he's already estimated 2 or 3 days to repair.
At least my local dealer gave me a Town Car to use in the interim (Ford dealer gives me a Focus when I take the Explorer in for repair), although I have to say, I surely enjoy driving the LS more. The Town Car is too much like a boat. I do like the 4.6L V8 but the car was running away on me coming down the hill this morning. The SportShift on the LS is a great feature which I really enjoy.
I called them today and they just got the tranny out of the car. Have not even diagnosed it yet and estimate mid next week before it is done. Any time a car has major surgery like this I feel it is prone to more issues.
Either way it is a moot point in my case. I have also found that I can buy a slightly used Corvette Z06 for what a new LS costs. I really like the new LS V8 but it is awefully pricey....
Live and learn...
Squeaks and creaks are just about all eliminated also. Don't think they'll ever be eliminated but it's alot better than when I got the car.
Thanks to all for their prior feedback!!
Thanks for the update and I'm sure glad that the input helped you out. The dashboard should not require any additional coating and yes, it could affect the "off-gassing" rate of the dash. I believe that there is a warning in the Owners Manual about that subject.
I agree with you about the convience of the SST in hilly driving. I've gotten used to driving four speed automatics (non-SST type) in third in town driving just to have the engine braking available.
It's also nice to hear that the repair solved many of the squeak and rattle issues you had. Sounds as though your dealer paid close attention to all of the details when the repair was made.
Now get out there and put on some fog free miles!