----------------------
I wouldn't even consider ANY pre 2000 Northstar powered car -
MANY improvements were made to the 2000 motor -
including longer head bolts - which helped -
but didn't quite cure the head gasket problem -
and that is NOT to say that ALL Northstar motors are DOOMED to head gasket failure -
in actuality - the number of Northstar head gasket failures is overstated -
UNLESS - of course - YOU are one of those suffering the problem -
-----------
the other VERY expensive item is suspension related -
the cost of ELECTRONIC - or ACTIVE suspension parts
on the Seville STS and ETC Eldo - are staggering
when compared to the PASSIVE suspension
on the SLS and ESC/base Eldo -
shocks and struts run into the THOUSANDS for the ACTIVE systems -
compared to HUNDREDS - in the PASSIVE systems -
------------------
oil leaks - unfortunately - are NOT uncommon on a Northstar motor -
model - year - doesn't factor in -
--------
the other expensive - and NOT uncommon problem is the P0741 code -
this is a transmission related fault code -
where the torque converter doesn't go into lock-up -
due to worn seals deep inside the trans -
this problem is also not model or year related -
