There is an error or bug in the installed Windows XP. u need to reinstall it.
logicwonder
the program is not working
You have to many applications to start every time you reboot the system or turn it on. You need clean the startup list. There is one standard trick Start->msconfig->Startup. Uncheck files you don't need to start when the system starts. Also you can use registry to do the same thing (you can google it). But the best way is to use special software which allows you do everything right and fast (jv16 is one of the best, but it's shareware).
no power . cable damaged or unplugged
are you sure is a valve noise?? or is a piston slap?
Usually a faulty startup capacitor.
Bch
The rotation of the earth is what causes the sun to appear to set
Dash lights are supposed to light at startup so you know they work. The 4x4 is not working so the light won't come on other than at startup.
Fluorescein stain causes the cornea to appear green with lit with a Woods lamp.
light refracting
Can you give more specifications about the "responding slower" issue, and give some detais about your Sony Vaio hardware and software? Because there are qutie too many causes.
Acid Rain causes holes in appear in marble steps and statues. Hard to believe, but true, yes.