For the first 250k, nothing much more than basic maintenance issues.
After the odometer reached about 250k miles, the head gaskets started leaking, the engine would frequently run hot in the summertime and the gas gauge broke.
But I really can't complain because the car was not given the maintenance and TLC it deserved.
This car was actually a Toyota Corolla (it was a joint venture between Chevy & Toyota). After owning this car I became a big fan of Toyota.
When I bought this car new in '86 I paid $8,900. for it.
For a period of nine years when I drove this car, I lived 75 miles from work. Hence each week I put between 750-1000 miles on the car.
The car was extremely dependable, especially when maintained properly.
For a small car, it was very comfortable. I am a relatively large man 6'2" 200+ lbs, and I never had a comfort issue.
The body stayed in good shape until its untimely demise.
One night my wife and I were watching TV, when we heard the sound of bottle rockets outside. I looked out and there was the engine of my Nova up in flames. I hosed it down, the fire dept came, but it was too late. My 11 year old Nova with 350,000 miles was nothing, but a burnt memory.
My family (wife and 4 kids) loved that car. It served us very well.
Your car made it to 350,000 miles only to be destroyed by bottle rockets.
A sad end indeed.
I'm curious, how did your car catch on fire when it (presumably) wasn't running? I suppose things like that do happen on occasion, but still, it's odd.
I also have an 86 Nova. Mine has been consumed with rust and now I'm afraid to re-plate it again, as I'm afraid I'll have to get it inspected before I can put it back onto the road. Everyone I've spoken to, has had problems with the head gasket, btu I guess that's to be expected, especially at such high mileage.
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