2003 Oldsmobile Aurora problems
The Oldsmobile Aurora is a luxury sedan, manufactured and marketed by General Motors from 1994 until 2003 over two generations — sharing platforms with Buick Riviera and using the Cadillac-derived G platform. At the time of production, the Aurora was the flagship vehicle in the Oldsmobile lineup. It originated as the 1989 Oldsmobile tube car concept.
The Aurora replaced the Toronado coupe and eventually the Oldsmobile 98, LSS and Regency in the Oldsmobile range — using V8 and V6 engines. It was equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission.
Origins
Early design work on what would become the Aurora began as early as the late 1980s with the 1989 Oldsmobile Tube Car engineering concept, designed by Bud Chandler. In addition to the overall similar shape, the Tube Car featured many detailed elements that were later found on the production automobile, including a full-width taillamp, wraparound rear windshield, and frameless windows. Unlike the eventual production car, the Tube Car used a pillarless hardtop design with suicide doors. The final production design was signed off on in July 1989, originally set for a 1992 start of production.
By the Aurora's introduction, Oldsmobile sales had fallen from a record high of 1,066,122 in 1985 to 402,936 in 1993; rumors of the division's demise were rampant, which GM at the time firmly denied. Competition from Acura, Infiniti and Lexus offered similar products that benefited from superior durability and reliability reputations. GM developed the Aurora to rejuvenate Oldsmobile as a result. The Aurora bore no Oldsmobile badging save for the radio-CD-cassette deck and engine cover (during focus group testing, potential customers had been repelled when they learned the Aurora was in truth an Oldsmobile). At one point, then-division head John Rock (who had recently arrived from the GMC division) proposed using the Aurora name to replace the Oldsmobile brand entirely and offer cars in a similar fashion to GM's nascent Saturn division (a plan ultimately nixed by the GM higher-ups, though for a period Saturn's no-haggle pricing was implemented). Instead, the Aurora used a stylized A emblem, foreshadowing a similar restyling of Oldsmobile's corporate "rocket" emblem for 1997.
One bizarre footnote of development was a 1993 incident where a prototype Aurora, driven by freelance car reviewer Tim Dunne, was nearly totaled after a four-foot log fell from a Michigan Department of Natural Resources truck (Dunne was able to maneuver the Aurora so much that only the right front wheel was struck); this subsequently led then-governor John Engler to purchase an Aurora (Engler having been a life-long Oldsmobile customer).
Oldsmobile subsequently borrowed Aurora styling cues for its Intrigue and compact Alero models.
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Common 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora problems
Engine Control Module (ECM) Failure
One of the most common problems with the Oldsmobile Aurora 2003 is the failure of the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM is the primary computer that controls the engine's functions, and if it fails, the car may not run correctly or may not run at all. Symptoms of a failing ECM include the engine running poorly, stalling, or not starting. The ECM may also cause the check engine light to illuminate.
Contamination of Extended Life Coolant
Another common problem with the Oldsmobile Aurora 2003 is the contamination of the extended life coolant. The coolant in the Aurora is designed to last for an extended period, but if it becomes contaminated, it can cause problems with the engine. Symptoms of contaminated coolant include overheating, leaks, and engine damage. It is essential to have the coolant checked regularly and replaced if necessary to prevent damage to the engine.
Torque Converter Failure Due to Internal Transmission Problems
The Oldsmobile Aurora 2003 is also prone to torque converter failure due to internal transmission problems. The torque converter is a component of the transmission that helps to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. If it fails, the car may not move or may have difficulty shifting. Symptoms of a failing torque converter include slipping, shuddering, and difficulty shifting. It is essential to have the transmission checked regularly and repaired if necessary to prevent damage to the torque converter.
Engine Dies While Driving
The second generation Aurora (2001-2003) has a significant problem with the engine dying while driving. This issue is mostly related to the interior problems, and it is a severe safety concern. If the engine dies while driving, the car will lose power steering and brakes, making it challenging to control. It is essential to have the engine checked regularly and repaired if necessary to prevent this problem.
Car Won't Start
Another common problem with the Oldsmobile Aurora 2003 is the car not starting. This issue is also related to the interior problems, and it can be caused by various factors, including a dead battery, faulty ignition switch, or a problem with the fuel system. It is essential to have the car checked regularly and repaired if necessary to prevent this problem.
Hard Shifting
The Oldsmobile Aurora 2003 is also prone to hard shifting. This issue is related to the transmission problems, and it can cause the car to jerk or shake when shifting gears. It is essential to have the transmission checked regularly and repaired if necessary to prevent damage to the transmission and the rest of the car.
Runs Rough When Started
The Oldsmobile Aurora 2003 may also run rough when started. This issue is related to the engine problems, and it can be caused by various factors, including a dirty air filter, faulty spark plugs, or a problem with the fuel system. It is essential to have the engine checked regularly and repaired if necessary to prevent this problem.
Service Stability Warning
The Oldsmobile Aurora 2003 may also display a service stability warning. This issue is related to the electrical problems, and it can be caused by various factors, including a faulty sensor or a problem with the wiring. It is essential to have the car checked regularly and repaired if necessary to prevent this problem.
Head Gasket and Coolant Crossover Gasket Issues
The Oldsmobile Aurora 2003 with the Northstar engine is also prone to head gasket and coolant crossover gasket issues. These issues can cause the engine to overheat, leak, or fail. It is essential to have the engine checked regularly and repaired if necessary to prevent these problems.
In conclusion, the Oldsmobile Aurora 2003 has several common problems, including ECM failure, contamination of the extended life coolant, torque converter failure due to internal transmission problems, engine dying while driving, car not starting, hard shifting, running rough when started, service stability warning, and head gasket and coolant crossover gasket issues. It is essential to have the car checked regularly and repaired if necessary to prevent these problems and ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
How much is a 2003 Aurora worth?
The value of a used 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora ranges from $236 to $810, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
Who makes the Aurora engine?
The Oldsmobile Aurora Indy V8 engine is a 3.5-liter to 4.0-liter, naturally-aspirated, V-8 Indy car racing engine, designed, developed and produced by Oldsmobile, for use in the IRL IndyCar Series; from 1996 to 2001.
What happened to the Oldsmobile Aurora?
The second generation Aurora went into production on November 1, 1999, and went on sale in February 2000 as a 2001 model. The last V6-powered Auroras was assembled on June 21, 2002. The final 500 Auroras ended production on March 28, 2003.
How fast can an Oldsmobile Aurora go?
Performance
| 0 - 30 mph | 3.2 s |
|---|---|
| 0 - 90 mph | 17.9 s |
| 0 - 100 mph | 22.5 s |
| 1/4 mile | 16.5 s @ 86.0 mph |
| Top speed | 217 kph (135 mph) |
How much is a 2003 Aurora worth?
The value of a used 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora ranges from $236 to $810, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
Who makes the Aurora engine?
The Oldsmobile Aurora Indy V8 engine is a 3.5-liter to 4.0-liter, naturally-aspirated, V-8 Indy car racing engine, designed, developed and produced by Oldsmobile, for use in the IRL IndyCar Series; from 1996 to 2001.
What happened to the Oldsmobile Aurora?
The second generation Aurora went into production on November 1, 1999, and went on sale in February 2000 as a 2001 model. The last V6-powered Auroras was assembled on June 21, 2002. The final 500 Auroras ended production on March 28, 2003.
How fast can an Oldsmobile Aurora go?
Performance
| 0 - 30 mph | 3.2 s |
|---|---|
| 0 - 90 mph | 17.9 s |
| 0 - 100 mph | 22.5 s |
| 1/4 mile | 16.5 s @ 86.0 mph |
| Top speed | 217 kph (135 mph) |
2003 Oldsmobile Aurora car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Aurora problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2003 Oldsmobile Aurora complaints
The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-03
- VIN: 1G3GS64C634
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DASH BOARD LITE SAYS "AI R BAG PROBLEM" EVERY TIME YOU START THE ENGINE
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-20
- VIN: 1G3GS64C934
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A FUEL LINE ON MY CAR THAT IS CRACKED AND I HAVE MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. I HAVE SEARCHED FOR THE FUEL LINE ONLINE AND AT O'REILLY BUT THAT PART DOESN'T EXIST ANYWHERE. I HAVE CALLED OLDSMOBILE AND THE PHONE RECORDING SAYS THAT MY CAR HAD 3 OPEN RECALLS. WHEN I TALK TO A PERSON THEY TOLD ME NO THOSE RECALLS WERE CLOSED ON MY CAR. BUT FOR ONE SPECIFIC RECALL IT DESCRIBES MY EXACT PROBLEM WITH THE NON EXISTENT PART THAT IS CRACKED ON MY CAR. THAT PART ALSO HAS A DATE FOR BEFORE THE RECALL WAS ANNOUNCED. I'VE TALKED TO THE GM DEALER NEAR WHERE I LIVE AND THEY ARE TELLING ME THE SAME THING THAT THOSE RECALLS ARE CLOSED. NOW CLOSED AND REPAIRED HAVE 2 DIFFERENT DEFINITIONS I THOUGHT. THE FUEL LINE IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. ESPECIALLY WHEN I'M A SINGLE MOM THAT DRIVES MY KIDS AROUND. WHAT IF SOMETHING WERE TO HAPPEN AND THAT CRACK IN MY FUEL LINE STARTING LEAKING FUEL ON MY ENGINE. BUT BECAUSE OLDSMOBILE AND GM SAY ITS BEEN CLOSED AND THEY CAN'T HELP ME THAT I'M SUPPOSE TO WAIT UNTIL MY CAR BLOWS UP ONE OF THESE DAYS WITH ME AND MY KIDS IN THE CAR AND WE ALL DIE? I AM SO UNBELIEVABLY DISAPPOINTED WITH THIS ISSUE THAT I WILL STOP AT NOTHING TO NOT SEE THIS RECALL REPAIR ON MY CAR. ITS OBVIOUS A SAFETY CONCERN. AS WELL AS THE OTHER RECALLS THAT HAVE BEEN CLOSED AND NOT REPAIRS. ONE FOR AN AIRBAG AND ANOTHER FOR THE PCM REPROGRAMMED AT IGNITION COIL.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-15
- VIN: 1G3GS64C734
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD INTERMITTENTLY SURGE FORWARD WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS UNTIL THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. THE FAILURE ALSO OCCURRED WHEN THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE THROTTLE BODY CONTROL WAS REPLACED. THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-11
- VIN: 1G3GS64C534
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE WAS MISFIRING AND HE SMELLED A BURNING ODOR COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. WHEN HE STARTS THE VEHICLE, THE ENGINE MAKES A LOUD NOISE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE IGNITION COIL FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE DEALER WOULD CALL GM TO CHECK IF THE VEHICLE CAN BE REPAIRED FOR FREE UNDER WARRANTY. GM STATED THAT THERE WAS NO WARRANTY ON THE VEHICLE, BUT THE CONTACT COULD PAY FOR THE REPAIRS WITH A 10% DISCOUNT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 69,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-15
- VIN: 1G3GS64C124
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: 1. WHEN I TURN ON THE AIR CONDITION THE CAR WILL CUT OFF, THIS PROBLEM WAS SUPPOSE TO HAVE BEEN FIX. 2. CAR IS CUTTING OFF IN TRAFFIC FOR NO REASON. 3. WINDOW WHIPERS COMES ON WHEN IT WANTS TO AND THEY WILL NOT CUT OFF WITH THE SWITCH I HAVE TO CUT THE CAR OFF AND START IT AGAIN IN ORDER FOR THE WHIPERS TO STOP.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-23
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CAR SOUNDED LIKE THE WHEEL WAS LOOSE BUT ACTUALLY I FOUND OUT THE HEAT SHIELD WAS BROKEN AND IT WAS FIXED 8/23/05
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-11
- VIN: 1G3NL52E73C
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE POWER WINDOW STOPPED WORKING. *JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1GHDX13E93D
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: ON OCTOBER 1, 2004 I RETRIEVED MY 1 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER FROM HER CAR SEAT. I WAS HOLDING HER AND PUSHED THE INSIDE DOOR BUTTON TO CLOSE THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR. STANDING OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE I THEN LEANED IN THE FRONT SEAT TO RETRIEVE A BAG. SHE MUST HAVE REACHED BACK WHILE STILL IN MY ARMS AND THE AUTOMATIC SLIDING DOOR CLOSED, LATCHED AND LOCKED BREAKING HER ARM. I HAD TO USE THE KEY REMOTE TO OPEN THE DOOR. I HAVE FILED THIS COMPLAINT BEFORE AND LEFT NUMEROUS MESSAGES WITH A [XXX] THE PERSON TO WHOM TO DIRECT QUESTIONS TO AS STATED IN THE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT LETTER. I HAVE NOT YET RECEIVED A PHONE CALL BACK NOR HAVE I RECEIVED ANY OTHER LETTERS. SINCE THEN GENERAL MOTORS HAS ISSUED A RECALL REGARDING THE SLIDING DOORS. I HAVE MADE MANY PHONE CALLS ASKING ONLY TO RECEIVE A NEW VEHICLE. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE KNOWING MY 3 YOUNG CHILDREN COULD POTENTIALLY GET HURT AGAIN. I CAN NOT IN GOOD FAITH SELL THIS VEHICLE KNOWING ANOTHER YOUNG PERSON COULD GET HURT. PLEASE, ACKNOWLEDGE THIS E-MAIL. THANK YOU, [XXX]. *NM INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-03
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3NL52E83C
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH CONSUMER APPLIED THE BRAKES AND BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. CONSUMER WAS UNABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND IT CRASHED INTO A TOWED HITCHED TRAILER. UPON IMPACT, BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. NO INJURIES REPORTED. CONSUMER DROVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC NOTIFIED CONSUMER THAT A DETERMINATION HAD NOT BEEN MADE AT THIS TIME. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-01
- VIN: 1G3NL12F83C
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: VINYL COVERING ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CRACKED AROUND THE AIR BAG COMPARTMENT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE. CONSUMER WAS CONCERNED THAT THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE A RISK OF INADVERTENT AIR BAY DEPLOYMENT, WHICH COULD LEAD TO UNEXPECTED INJURIES. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. *AK
2003 Oldsmobile Aurora recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN CADILLAC DEVILLE AND SEVILLE PASSENGER VEHICLES, FUNERAL COACHES, AND LIMOUSINES EQUIPPED WITH A V8 (4.6L) ENGINE, OLDSMOBILE AURORA PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A V8 (4.0L ) ENGINE, AND PONTIAC BONNEVILLE SSEI PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A SUPERCHARGED V6 (3.8L) ENGINE, THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSORS ARE UNUSUALLY SUSCEPTIBLE TO MALFUNCTIONS. IF THE SENSOR MALFUNCTIONS, EXCESSIVE VACUUM CAN BE APPLIED DURING SELF-DIAGNOSTIC TESTING.
- Consequence: FUEL SYSTEM COMPONENTS CAN BE DAMAGED AND FUEL CAN LEAK FROM THE VEHICLE WHEN IT IS REFUELED. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 17, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER, MINI VANS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES HAVE AN AIR BAG INFLATOR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE THAT COULD FRACTURE AT A WELD DURING A DEPLOYMENT.
- Consequence: PIECES OF THE INFLATOR COULD STRIKE AND INJURE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS AND THE AIR BAG CUSHION WOULD NOT INFLATE FULLY, REDUCING THE CAPABILITY OF THE BAG TO PROTECT THE DRIVER.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT, AND REPLACE, IF NECESSARY, THE AIR BAG MODULE ASSEMBLY ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 15, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300, CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537, OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737.
Negative 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora car reviews
Positive 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora car reviews
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The Aurora was built with the intention of saving Olds, and while they had the right idea with this car, the reliability just isn't there. I purchased it in 2006 with only 27k miles and it looks spectacular, drives smoothly, and handles great. However, I would caution against buying this car without a warranty. Although I love Olds, I still can't get over the leaking radiator fluid, bad window motor, and faulty EBCM, which lights up your instrument panel like a Christmas tree with all the warnings, preventing you from passing a safety inspection. Additionally, it's worth noting that navigation CD updates are no longer available.
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It's a shame that this line has been discontinued. With a few minor tweaks, this car could easily compete with any vehicle priced between $35K and $45K. The trunk could use some TLC and an upgraded finish, and the paint job could be improved, but overall, this car is quick, quiet, and prestigious. It offers an excellent ride and is very comfortable to drive.
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The Transaxal Locking Assembly is an excellent feature that allows for safe and efficient emergency stops. At Vehiclenow, we offer this amazing product at an unbeatable price. You can grab one in South Texas for less than $26,500. Don't miss out on this great deal!
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This car gets lots of looks and is great on gas for a V8.
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Nimble handling for a large sedan, attractive inside and out, comfortable seating, and reasonably good gas mileage. It's also fun to drive, although the 3.5 engine has decent power but not terrific power and pickup.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora problems:
Q&A: Common Problems with 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora - JustAnswer
Jan 3, 2016 ... The water pump can not leak internally but can seep from the weep hole. That being said, performing a cooling system pressure test should verify ...
2003 Oldsmobile Aurora Problems and Complaints - 19 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora? Our list of 19 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora.
4.0 longterm reliability | Aurora Club of North America (ACNA) Forum
Jan 2, 2005 ... The oil leak on the early Aurora 4.0 is not as bad as the amount of alternators that the 3800 eats, as well as the upper intake failure as well ...
Oil problems with 03 Auroras? - ClassicOldsmobile.com
Aug 9, 2015 ... "Except for the Buick Reatta, the Oldsmobile Aurora is the biggest peice of junk General Motors ever made." But to address your problem.
2003 Oldsmobile Aurora Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
Comfort 5.0; Interior 4.9; Performance 4.8; Value 5.0; Exterior 5.0; Reliability 4.6.
Other years of Oldsmobile Aurora
Are you having problems with your 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora?
Trystan Crona 2024-05-01
This car may not be the best fit for a 6'3
Kolby Schneider 2024-04-23
I'm so glad we have the state's lemon law to protect us. I've been driving this car for over a year now, after trading in my Intrigue. Unfortunately, I've had to bring it in for warranty work 8 times already. While some issues have been resolved, there's still a persistent episodic glitch in the steering/suspension that just won't go away. The rack and pinion, steering column, and wheel bearings have all been replaced during three separate multi-day stays in the shop. I'm still experiencing a ratchety feel in the steering, which is really disappointing since this was my dream car.
Marcelino Berge 2024-02-04
Overall, I'm glad to hear that you're happy with the car! I understand that you're looking for more power and better build quality, and a 5-speed would be a nice addition as well.