X Driver

Do you know how much would it cost to replace a thermostat or to repair the AC expansion valve? And how harmful is to the car if I drive with the problem for a while?

I have a problem with my car air conditioner temperature controlling mechanism. The AC works fine. But it does not seem to do the on/off cycle to keep the temperature. Basically the dashboard control for temperature does not work. The car gets cooled more and more and I have to manually switch on/off the ac to maintain the temp. now. What could be wrong?

Its a toyota corolla (yom 1995). Is it possible to get the parts for this car? If so, how much would it cost for the repair?

Thanks for the replies. I didn't have enough knowledge to ask the mechanic about form where the leak was. But he said that if we open the engine for repair then we may not have parts to replace. That means he was talking about an engine overhaul right?

One mechanic told after checking the plugs of my car that one of the spark plugs fouled due to oil leak. he said I will have to change that particular plug every 5000km. But the car doesn't produce a blue smoke. I read some topics on the internet about the oil leak into the combustion chamber. They suggest using high grade oils may some times reduce the oil leak (high viscocity of the oil might seal the leaks). Anybody have such experience? Please comment.

Thanks a lot guys. I think its better to consult agent.

Thank you all for the replies. I thought of knowing the potential problem before going to the garage. My earlier mechanic who did the bush replacement and motor mount replcement didn't gaive me good solution. Please suggest me a good toyota mechanic.

I didn't change the rims and the tyres are also not the low profile ones. When I reduce the tyre pressure (to around 24), the shake reduces. But actually the recommended tyre pressure for my model is 28. About the steering rack... I causes a metallic sound when worn right? I didn't hear that. But I could feel every bumps and pits on the road. If I drive over a drainage lid thats half outside, the shock I feel is nasty.

Its a tercel. I recently changed the suspension bushes and 3 engine mounts. But still the car makes noise when it goes over bumpy road.

Car shakes a lot on the bumpy roads. And also, it makes lot of noise (one guy suggested it could be due to worn door hinges, but there is no vertical movement with the doors when I checked). Shock tests gave me more than 75% for front and around 60% for rear. Can anybody suggest me any good place where I can find out / fix the problem?

Thanks a lot.

The noise is like 'rrrrrrrrrr'. Have you done this on your own?

This is really helpful. Thanks. Can you tell me a place where this could be done. Because I'm new to the self repair stuff.

No, the noise is not from the objects in the glove box. The noise is like a plastic vibrating against a another surface.

Thanks for the immediate reply. Its a toyota. The noise is more when the car is parked under the hot sun. What could be the cause actually? Loosen clips or..? Please advice.