Had the s4 one day, check engine light and funny smell...

[pingdashf]

Still doing my research here. 01366 035 scares me, but there is no frame damage that I can find and it looks great. Would something like flood damage cause that too?

I am having the trans fluid leak fixed, topped off, and codes reset again tomorrow. If it was because the fluid was low then it wont come back. If it's something serious it'll come right back. I'll let y'all know *crosses fingers*

[pingdashf]

Welp, the tranny didn't need any trans fluid, so it can't be a low trans fluid issue. It could be wiring, or something, but at this point I think I should just return it. I wish I didn't have to do that.

[CliveH]

I think its the best option in the circumstances

[pingdashf]

It appears that the guy who sold me the car is sticking to his guns. He sold it to me as-is, I bought it as-is, I get to keep it, as-is .

So, I had $2500 (usd) worth of work done on it. Got the oil leaks fixed and basic engine maintenance stuff, and presto, the check engine light is off and hasn't re-appeared. I've put a good 500 miles and a week since the repairs were done. I also bought an extended warranty for it just in case any of these problems come back in a year. All in all I'm happy. The car cost me $5000 more than it should of, but I guess I just have to tally this in the lessons learned

[CliveH]

Glad you got sorted, but an expensive solution, and I still feel you have a valid claim against the vendor - "not fit for purpose"

[mikeyquattro]

I hope all stays well. It looks a nice car,
and now you should get your extra $5k out of it by driving it !!

Enjoy!