So now I've got this slipping slushbox problem to deal with...

...and that annoying chain rattle on startup...

..and now, when I left work an hour ago, the Max took a long time turning over before it finally stumbled to life. Again. Much longer that usual this time. I gotta get a meter on that temp sensor. Or a pressure gauge on that fuel rail. Hell, I don't know..."imports are trouble free" my sphincter! I just bought the thing two months ago with 61k on it. Maybe I should've bought the Camry sitting on the lot next to it...maybe I should leave it at the dealer with a copy of that fancy aftermarket warranty I bought and tell 'em to fix it...maybe I should've kept the BuickAAAAAARRRGH!

Somebody talk me down from here...let's talk about what my first mod should be or something...

 

seems like the problems you mentioned are very common to maxs. i've had the same problems myself. i think that somebody told me (daniel b martin?) that the starting thing may be due to fuel pressure bleeding off. try turning the key to the point right before starting the car and leave it for a few seconds. then try starting the car. my car does that when it's cold or it's been of for a few days.

also expect some type of starter or alternator problems in the future too. those seem to give alot of max owners problems also.

just remember that all cars have problems. imports just seem to have less than most. my old 5.0 would run 13's but it would be a coin toss if it would start in the morning

 

Yeah, but...having to pressurize the fuel rail constantly on these bitter Wisconsin mornings (afternoon, evenings)...that bites. There's gotta be a reasonably easy fix...

I know what you mean. Cursed wretched heavy-as-hell amp-sucking American starters...

Ah, the perils of buying used.