Problems! Problems!

Maintenance/Repairs
,
1

Bought my 1998 Toyota Avalon XLS (Soft Top/Special Edition) with 45,000 miles 11 years ago; did well and still hanging on. Recently, started

  1. leaking when it rains heavily where the windshield meets the soft top;
    2.the engine light stays on and goes off when battery cables are adjusted and comes back on.
  2. Now a clanking sound when drive at slow rate of speed-35 mph

Trying to stay away from car payments, but also from expensive repairs. Car otherwise well maintained. What could be the possible issues and what do you recommend. Thanks.

2
  1. Take the car to a body shop and have them fix the seal or top. Probably not a huge deal.
  2. Take it to a mechanic and have them connect a code reader and diagnose the issue. It may be a grounding issue.
  3. Take it to a mechanic. This could be a loose heat shield rattling or something wrong with the suspension/steering. If you don’t know what this is, consider it a potential major safety issue until you find out. Take it in soon.
3

For suggestion 2 - call your local auto parts store, many will hook up a code reader for free. Make sure your gas cap is on securely (turn till it clicks several times).