1995 Seville SLS first car ever having problems

[QueensLacMan]

First off, I want to thank the creators of this site and its contributors for really putting together a great book of knowledge, experience, etc. It is extremely helpful.

I just recently bought my first car, a 1995 SLS with 109,000 miles, for $3,200 cash. Shortly after buying the car, and my first visit to the mechanic, I realized I had problems on my hands.

I have since spent $1150 changing shift solenoids, getting new thermostat + gasket, new air filter, new front brake rotors and pads, coolant flush, etc. And yet, I still have a few codes coming up, the engine overheating, and burning hot coolant leaking onto the street. I'm told I also need a new rear suspension.

Fabulous.

My main concern right now is figuring out what's causing my engine to overheat. I drive around 35 mph in New York City, so it's not like I push the car hard. I drive six miles to work and six miles back home, so why the heck is my engine cooking...

My mechanic hasn't been able to pin-point exactly what's going on, and I'm dirt broke (just ordered a $1 side order of rice for dinner at work - I kid you not).

Any advice? Any recommendations? Is there anything I SHOULD do to the car just because of its age? I want it to last a good 4-5 years without sucking $5000 a year out of my pocket in repairs.

Any help/advice/etc... would be greatly appreciated. Good luck to you and your Caddy...

[Ranger]

Check the water pump belt tensioner to be sure it is providing enough tension and not slipping. Check the purge line to be sure it is not plugged causing air in the system not to be purged. This will cause an overheat situation. If all is well, you'll need to do a cylinder leak down test to check the head gaskets. If they are bad, you'll be eating rice for a long time.

[JC316]

It could be your radiator. It may need to be flushed.