Originally Posted by Meestahbig

Hi -

I own a 2003 3.0i. I really enjoy working on my car and dealing with the minor, regular issues that have come about over the years. Engine runs strong and I have done most things around the engine, in retrospect all very minor stuff, coolant issues, clutch fan, secondary air pump, oil changes, suspension, valve cover, ignition coils, disa valve, intake boot, brake lights, AC compressor, etc. Currently replacing all intake vacuum stuff and the CCV.

My question is this - mechanically - is maintaining the 4.4i, fun and engaging like the 3.0i is? Are things similar and generally accessible? I like that when I pull the fan shroud on the 3.0i, so much can be done without having the car on a service lift. I will now be pulling the intake manifold on my 3.0i and with that off, again, so much access.

I ask this because locally there is a nice 4.4i. Car looks clean and has low miles. I have spoken to the owner and the car has been maintained at the dealership its whole life, which I confirmed. I do see it had it auto trans gear selector seal replaced a few years ago (that something I haven't had to do yet on my car). Car has gotten regular oil changes and service at the dealer. Which is something I certainly never did.