1989 Ford AT Telstar TX5 Ghia

ellie · 16-09-2008, 02:21 PM

Hi, I am thinking about buying a 1989 Ford AT Telstar TX5 Ghia hatchback 5dr Auto 4sp 2.2i from a friend but have very little idea of what I should be looking for.

I know that it has a lot of kms at 280000 and has recently had new brakes fitted.

My friend wants $1200 which according to 'Red Book' is a good price, but as it will be my first car I don't want to have to have the local mechanic's number on speed dial!

If anyone can advise me on whether or not this would be a good buy or what to look out for I would very much appreciate it.

Thanks

sturty_tx5 · 16-09-2008, 02:37 PM

heres what i suggest after having some problems with my own telstar of the same model. take it to a mechanic and for a small price they can check it for you. make sure they do a compression test on every cyclinder and cooling system, check the exhaust for leaks, make sure it idles smoothly, check the shock absorbers (soft is bad) and to a u turn with the steering at full lock make sure you do this on a right hand turn and left turn. if you hear clicking this indicates worn cv joints which is an expensive fix. check that all guages work and lastly make sure it was regualy service.
good luck

ellie · 16-09-2008, 02:54 PM

will do.... thanks so much for your help.

MITCHAY · 26-09-2008, 10:25 PM

Hey mate I had the same car except in manual form with 269,000kms on it when I sold it. Check the CVs, the Airflow Meter (AFM) and the shock absorbers. I can tell you I got quoted about $500 just to get the rear shocks replaced!

Depending on when it was last done, you might be up for a timing kit. I had that done and also had to get the water pump replaced aswell. That's pretty much the only problems I had at that age.

The AFM was most likely boned only because I had an K&N oiled panel filter in my car though.

I own a 2003 WRX now and I can honestly tell you there are still times I miss my TX5 because it was such a good car