1989 c4 questions
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Instructor
Joined: Feb 2010
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1989 c4 questions
some questions please:
1. in re head gasket issue--if car i am looking at doesn't have issue then should i not be concerned with issue surfacing in future?
2. was the AWD systme improved in later 964 models?
3. any other issues specific to the 89 c4 model?
1. in re head gasket issue--if car i am looking at doesn't have issue then should i not be concerned with issue surfacing in future?
2. was the AWD systme improved in later 964 models?
3. any other issues specific to the 89 c4 model?
Pro
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 510
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From: Raeford, North Carolina
With the 89 model (which is what I have) there is not a huge issue with the front or rear main seal on the engine. There is really no 'head gasket,' but one of the issues to look out for is that the seals between the cylinders and the case get old and crack and leak a little bit. There is no seal between the heads and the cylinders, so there could be some leakage there as well.
I have tracked my C4 many times and have had no issue with the AWD system. I don't know if they improved it with the later models, but I can tell you the 89 version is quite rugged.
if you have a good Pre purchase inspection done by a reputable shop, that should bring the issues with the car out onto the table. They are getting on to 21 years old, so there will most likely be some issues, but if it passes the PPI then it is a good chance only routine maintenance will need to be conducted. However, this can include issue like the clutch, tune ups, etc.....normal car stuff.
Good luck
Post some pics of the car in question, guys on here always like pics.
I have tracked my C4 many times and have had no issue with the AWD system. I don't know if they improved it with the later models, but I can tell you the 89 version is quite rugged.
if you have a good Pre purchase inspection done by a reputable shop, that should bring the issues with the car out onto the table. They are getting on to 21 years old, so there will most likely be some issues, but if it passes the PPI then it is a good chance only routine maintenance will need to be conducted. However, this can include issue like the clutch, tune ups, etc.....normal car stuff.
Good luck
Post some pics of the car in question, guys on here always like pics.
Three Wheelin'
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,307
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From: Helotes, TX
I also have the 89 C4:
No head gaskets is not a problem if it's not already leaking.
I don't know if the AWD system was improved later, but I think the 89 system is pretty good. I've been frequenting this forum for a couple of years and have never read of any problems other than the accelerometers in the lower console, which sense the lateral and longitudinal movement to send a signal to lock the system, fouling with metal particles. They can be cleaned, but are incredibly expensive to replace. I think a bigger concern cost-wise is the one-off (one year only) transmission bell housing and clutch assembly. Clutch kits list for about $1200 as compared to $300 for other models. No air bags and on board conputer are only other considerations in my opinion.
No head gaskets is not a problem if it's not already leaking.
I don't know if the AWD system was improved later, but I think the 89 system is pretty good. I've been frequenting this forum for a couple of years and have never read of any problems other than the accelerometers in the lower console, which sense the lateral and longitudinal movement to send a signal to lock the system, fouling with metal particles. They can be cleaned, but are incredibly expensive to replace. I think a bigger concern cost-wise is the one-off (one year only) transmission bell housing and clutch assembly. Clutch kits list for about $1200 as compared to $300 for other models. No air bags and on board conputer are only other considerations in my opinion.
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