C5 Shopping - What to look for ?
06-16-2005, 10:43 AM
#1
Drifting
Thread Starter
C5 Shopping - What to look for ?
Since I haven't owned a Vette before - are there any specific areas I should check out when inspecting a car before I buy it ?
Any particular problem area ?
Certain features ?
Help the new guy out
TIA
Any particular problem area ?
Certain features ?
Help the new guy out
TIA
06-16-2005, 10:52 AM
#2
Race Director
Welcome to the Forum. You're question, is a good one, but I doubt that there is a simple answer to it. Most importantly, I strongly recommend that you research what's available and problem areas. Here are a couple sites that will help you.
This is a sticky at the top of C5 Gen that covers a lot of information....
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...7&forum_id=103
Here is a site that will give you details and a list of available options for each model year....
http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/specs/index.html
Once you've narrowed your search to a specific model year and options - then start looking at places like C5 For Sale
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/zeroforum?id=52
http://www.autotrader.com
http://www.vettehound.com/geo/classifieds.php?
Finally once you've found your dream car - you can send a PM to CF Member Sponge Vette and ask him to run a service and origination history against the VIN. If I were to sum it up in one word - RESEARCH!
Good luck!
This is a sticky at the top of C5 Gen that covers a lot of information....
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...7&forum_id=103
Here is a site that will give you details and a list of available options for each model year....
http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/specs/index.html
Once you've narrowed your search to a specific model year and options - then start looking at places like C5 For Sale
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/zeroforum?id=52
http://www.autotrader.com
http://www.vettehound.com/geo/classifieds.php?
Finally once you've found your dream car - you can send a PM to CF Member Sponge Vette and ask him to run a service and origination history against the VIN. If I were to sum it up in one word - RESEARCH!
Good luck!
06-16-2005, 11:25 AM
#5
Le Mans Master
Member Since: Sep 2003
Location: Just a little outside San Antonio, Texas
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Probably easier to populate a list of things to look for that are BAD. Check these before you buy the car.
Here's a short list:
1. Bad Carfax. That's one that shows a major accident/incident. BTW, Carfax doesn't report everything but it's still a good thing to check.
2. Vehicle service history. Carfax might show some; check with your local Chevy dealer -- you'll need the VIN. Some vehicle have a LONG list of items that have been replaced on the car. That may indicate the vehicle has been in an accident that was not reported through the Carfax channels.
3. Visually inspect the car for dissimilarity in the paint / finish. This could indicate that the car was damaged and needed body repair.
4. Check for body panel alignment. Improper alignment may indicate a body panel has been removed / replaced.
5. Check the undercarriage / tires for wear, seeping, rocker panel damage, etc.
I'm sure other can chime in to lengthen this list.
HTH.
Jeff
Here's a short list:
1. Bad Carfax. That's one that shows a major accident/incident. BTW, Carfax doesn't report everything but it's still a good thing to check.
2. Vehicle service history. Carfax might show some; check with your local Chevy dealer -- you'll need the VIN. Some vehicle have a LONG list of items that have been replaced on the car. That may indicate the vehicle has been in an accident that was not reported through the Carfax channels.
3. Visually inspect the car for dissimilarity in the paint / finish. This could indicate that the car was damaged and needed body repair.
4. Check for body panel alignment. Improper alignment may indicate a body panel has been removed / replaced.
5. Check the undercarriage / tires for wear, seeping, rocker panel damage, etc.
I'm sure other can chime in to lengthen this list.
HTH.
Jeff
06-16-2005, 01:48 PM
#6
Safety Car
Member Since: Jun 2005
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I recently went through this process and totally agree with everybody above. the sticky about "Weights and ..." was particularly useful.
I learned that many upgrades were done in the 2001 model, but that there was a ring problem in some 2001 cars. Except for ZO6, there were minimal changes after that.
My advice is to get the nicest car you can afford rather than a fixer-upper (pay now or pay later), but then I'm not particularly mechanically inclined.
I also spent the time to read every thread available on the C5 forums. One experience is anecdotal, but repeated experiences are enlightening.
My personal choice: low mileage '02 at above avg price.
DBD
'02 triple black
I learned that many upgrades were done in the 2001 model, but that there was a ring problem in some 2001 cars. Except for ZO6, there were minimal changes after that.
My advice is to get the nicest car you can afford rather than a fixer-upper (pay now or pay later), but then I'm not particularly mechanically inclined.
I also spent the time to read every thread available on the C5 forums. One experience is anecdotal, but repeated experiences are enlightening.
My personal choice: low mileage '02 at above avg price.
DBD
'02 triple black
06-16-2005, 03:12 PM
#7
Melting Slicks
[QUOTE=blacksedan87]Welcome to the Forum. You're question, is a good one, but I doubt that there is a simple answer to it. Most importantly, I strongly recommend that you research what's available and problem areas. Here are a couple sites that will help you.
This is a sticky at the top of C5 Gen that covers a lot of information....
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...7&forum_id=103
Here is a site that will give you details and a list of available options for each model year....
http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/specs/index.html
Once you've narrowed your search to a specific model year and options - then start looking at places like C5 For Sale
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/zeroforum?id=52
http://www.autotrader.com
http://www.vettehound.com/geo/classifieds.php?
Finally once you've found your dream car - you can send a PM to CF Member Sponge Vette and ask him to run a service and origination history against the VIN. If I were to sum it up in one word - RESEARCH!
Good luck
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Find out if the car has the performance rear axel ratio and if it has the Z51 package. The dealer probably doesn't know unless it is new, but I'm sure they can find out from the vin.
You will be alot happier with these two options.
You will be alot happier with these two options.
06-16-2005, 04:01 PM
#9
Pro
Member Since: Oct 2004
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CI 7 & 9 Veteran
You've come to the right place
Welcome to the Corvette Forum, and the Vette lifestyle. 
You've come to the right place here.
When I started my search for my first Vette I was looking at 1999-2000 vert. models, I found this site with all the wealth of information in it; and after reading lots of data here I decide that the minimum Vette for me was at least a 2001. I knew it would cost me a little more and I wouldn't be able to afford the 2001 vert, but my '01 coupe was well worth it.
If you read at least half the info here, you'll definitely make a wiser decision in the end
.
Good hunting.
You've come to the right place here. When I started my search for my first Vette I was looking at 1999-2000 vert. models, I found this site with all the wealth of information in it; and after reading lots of data here I decide that the minimum Vette for me was at least a 2001. I knew it would cost me a little more and I wouldn't be able to afford the 2001 vert, but my '01 coupe was well worth it.
If you read at least half the info here, you'll definitely make a wiser decision in the end
.Good hunting.
06-16-2005, 11:48 PM
#11
Race Director
Member Since: Oct 2002
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2015 C5 of Year Finalist
St. Jude Donor '05-'06-'07-'08-'09-'10
Here's what I got from a previous post awhile back I hope it helps. They are great cars and this is the place to learn about them. 
Used C5 Buyer's Checklist
Check for the rocking seat, leaky rear end, headlight motors, and if it is a 6-speed get the column lock bypass kit if it is not installed already. After that, this should get you started
Documentation available? Window Sticker Build Sheet
Are maintenance records available?
Who maintained the car and where
Are maintenance or upgrade receipts available?
How many previous owners have there been?
Can the former owners be contacted?
Is it currently registered?
Does it have a current inspection sticker?
Will it pass state inspection?
Are there any modifications?
If equipped with standard transmission, has the clutch ever been replaced? If so, what mileage?
Has the car ever been in an accident or had bodywork done?
Has the car been kept garaged?
What have been the average driving conditions? (Sun only, rain, snow?)
Does the car need anything now?
Body Condition
1. Does the car sit level?
2. Check body panels for uniformity.
3. Check for body damage. Look at: Wheel wells, floor pan, rear hatch front and rear valance, fenders, quarter panels, uniform body molding. Check for paint over-spray in: headlights, gas door, door jams, fender skirts, engine compartment?. Is there evidence of body damage?
4. Is the paint oxidized
5. Has the car ever been repainted?
6. If so, why, by whom, and how long ago?
7. Does sides of the car appear aligned?
8. Are there any waves or stress cracks in the fiberglass?
9. Are there any dings or stone chips in the paint?
10. Are there any cracks or chips in the windshield or side and rear glass?
11. Do the doors open and close normally?
12. Do the doors and trunk lock and unlock correctly with the key?
13. Do the doors and trunk (if applicable) lock/unlock correctly with remote key FOB
14. Does the rear hatch glass open properly? From inside?
15. Do the struts hold the rear hatch?
16. Does the hood release work?
17. Does the color match the trim tag color code?
18. Are there missing badges, or moldings?
Chassis & Suspension
1. Are the tires in good condition?
2. Is tire wear uniform.
3. Are the wheels stock?
4. Are the wheels in good condition?
5. Are the brake rotors in good condition? (check for cracks or scarring)
6. Are there any wet spots under the car?
7. Are the rubber axle boots in good condition?
8. Inspect the tie rod ends and ball joints.
9. Inspect the shocks. Dry Wet If the shocks appear to be wet, they may be leaking and in need of repair.
10. Is the exhaust in good condition?
Interior Condition
1. Are all door, hatch, and top seals in good condition?
2. (If applicable) Is the ratchet wrench for the targa top there?
3. Are the seats clean? Torn or cracked? Worn?
4. xxxxx
5. Is the carpet clean? Worn?
6. Can you adjust the mirrors?
7. Does the interior light work? Does it work with the doors?
8. Is the dash in good condition?
9. Is the center console in good condition?
10. Does the glove compartment door work properly?
11. Do the windshield wipers function properly?
12. Does the overall interior condition match the mileage?
13. If equipped, does the tilt wheel work properly?
14. If equipped does the alarm work?
Engine Evaluation
1. Is the oil clean? Dark or black colored oil indicates a change is necessary and may be indicative of past maintenance trends.
2. When was the last oil change? ______________ Overdue?
3. Check for a leaking oil pan gasket.
4. Check for a leaking front/rear main seal.
5. Check the master cylinder and slave cylinder for leakage.
6. Check all coolant lines for leakage.
7. Check the coolant in the reservoir. A brown frothy mixture in the reservoir usually indicates oil and water mixing in the oil filter/cooler housing.
8. Inspect the fuel lines going to the fuel rail for brittleness or cracking.
9. Inspect the plug wires for brittleness or cracking.
10. Inspect the brake fluid for color. Black colored brake fluid indicates a change is necessary.
11. Is the air filter clean?
12. Is the engine bay clean and neat? All hoses / wiring in correct place?
Engine Operation
1. Does the car start properly?
2. The car should have a steady idle.
3. (If equipped) Check the ECM (computer)? Engine Codes recorded?
4. Is the oil pressure normal?
5. Engine coolant temperature: Normal? 6. Is there valve chatter or excessive engine noise? Yes No
7. Is there excessive engine vibration at idle or revving? (can indicate bad motor mount).
8. With the engine running, listen for leaks at the exhaust manifolds and exhaust.
9. Does the heat work?
10. Does the AC work? Is the compressor quiet?
11. Does the AC / heater blow at each speed?
12. Does the radio work properly (tape and CD if applicable)?
13. If equipped, does the power antenna work?
14. If equipped, do the power windows and door locks work?
15. Does the defroster work properly?
16. Do all ***** / controls function correctly?
17. Do all of the gauges / dashboard lights work properly?
Test Drive Evaluation
1. Does the parking brake work properly?
2. How does the brake pedal feel?
The following 3 questions assume manual transmission:
3. How does the clutch pedal feel? Firm Soft
4. Does the clutch operate in a smooth quiet manner?
5. Does the shifter seem tight?
6. Are there any squeaks / noises (specially over rough roads)?
7. Is the steering smooth and responsive?
8. When going straight is the wheel straight? Does the car drift to one side?
9. Brake with your hands off the wheel does the car stop straight?
10. At highway speeds does the car pull, or shake / shimmy?
11. Does the cruise control work properly?
12. Is there exceptional wind noise?
13. If equipped, does the ABS system function properly?
14. If equipped, does the Traction control system function properly?
15. If equipped, does the Selective Ride Control function properly?
Miscellaneous
1. Is the battery in good condition?
2. Do all lights / signals work correctly? Headlights (high and low beams)?, Brake lights? Parking/Side Marker Lights? Turn Signals?
Used C5 Buyer's Checklist
Check for the rocking seat, leaky rear end, headlight motors, and if it is a 6-speed get the column lock bypass kit if it is not installed already. After that, this should get you started
Documentation available? Window Sticker Build Sheet
Are maintenance records available?
Who maintained the car and where
Are maintenance or upgrade receipts available?
How many previous owners have there been?
Can the former owners be contacted?
Is it currently registered?
Does it have a current inspection sticker?
Will it pass state inspection?
Are there any modifications?
If equipped with standard transmission, has the clutch ever been replaced? If so, what mileage?
Has the car ever been in an accident or had bodywork done?
Has the car been kept garaged?
What have been the average driving conditions? (Sun only, rain, snow?)
Does the car need anything now?
Body Condition
1. Does the car sit level?
2. Check body panels for uniformity.
3. Check for body damage. Look at: Wheel wells, floor pan, rear hatch front and rear valance, fenders, quarter panels, uniform body molding. Check for paint over-spray in: headlights, gas door, door jams, fender skirts, engine compartment?. Is there evidence of body damage?
4. Is the paint oxidized
5. Has the car ever been repainted?
6. If so, why, by whom, and how long ago?
7. Does sides of the car appear aligned?
8. Are there any waves or stress cracks in the fiberglass?
9. Are there any dings or stone chips in the paint?
10. Are there any cracks or chips in the windshield or side and rear glass?
11. Do the doors open and close normally?
12. Do the doors and trunk lock and unlock correctly with the key?
13. Do the doors and trunk (if applicable) lock/unlock correctly with remote key FOB
14. Does the rear hatch glass open properly? From inside?
15. Do the struts hold the rear hatch?
16. Does the hood release work?
17. Does the color match the trim tag color code?
18. Are there missing badges, or moldings?
Chassis & Suspension
1. Are the tires in good condition?
2. Is tire wear uniform.
3. Are the wheels stock?
4. Are the wheels in good condition?
5. Are the brake rotors in good condition? (check for cracks or scarring)
6. Are there any wet spots under the car?
7. Are the rubber axle boots in good condition?
8. Inspect the tie rod ends and ball joints.
9. Inspect the shocks. Dry Wet If the shocks appear to be wet, they may be leaking and in need of repair.
10. Is the exhaust in good condition?
Interior Condition
1. Are all door, hatch, and top seals in good condition?
2. (If applicable) Is the ratchet wrench for the targa top there?
3. Are the seats clean? Torn or cracked? Worn?
4. xxxxx
5. Is the carpet clean? Worn?
6. Can you adjust the mirrors?
7. Does the interior light work? Does it work with the doors?
8. Is the dash in good condition?
9. Is the center console in good condition?
10. Does the glove compartment door work properly?
11. Do the windshield wipers function properly?
12. Does the overall interior condition match the mileage?
13. If equipped, does the tilt wheel work properly?
14. If equipped does the alarm work?
Engine Evaluation
1. Is the oil clean? Dark or black colored oil indicates a change is necessary and may be indicative of past maintenance trends.
2. When was the last oil change? ______________ Overdue?
3. Check for a leaking oil pan gasket.
4. Check for a leaking front/rear main seal.
5. Check the master cylinder and slave cylinder for leakage.
6. Check all coolant lines for leakage.
7. Check the coolant in the reservoir. A brown frothy mixture in the reservoir usually indicates oil and water mixing in the oil filter/cooler housing.
8. Inspect the fuel lines going to the fuel rail for brittleness or cracking.
9. Inspect the plug wires for brittleness or cracking.
10. Inspect the brake fluid for color. Black colored brake fluid indicates a change is necessary.
11. Is the air filter clean?
12. Is the engine bay clean and neat? All hoses / wiring in correct place?
Engine Operation
1. Does the car start properly?
2. The car should have a steady idle.
3. (If equipped) Check the ECM (computer)? Engine Codes recorded?
4. Is the oil pressure normal?
5. Engine coolant temperature: Normal? 6. Is there valve chatter or excessive engine noise? Yes No
7. Is there excessive engine vibration at idle or revving? (can indicate bad motor mount).
8. With the engine running, listen for leaks at the exhaust manifolds and exhaust.
9. Does the heat work?
10. Does the AC work? Is the compressor quiet?
11. Does the AC / heater blow at each speed?
12. Does the radio work properly (tape and CD if applicable)?
13. If equipped, does the power antenna work?
14. If equipped, do the power windows and door locks work?
15. Does the defroster work properly?
16. Do all ***** / controls function correctly?
17. Do all of the gauges / dashboard lights work properly?
Test Drive Evaluation
1. Does the parking brake work properly?
2. How does the brake pedal feel?
The following 3 questions assume manual transmission:
3. How does the clutch pedal feel? Firm Soft
4. Does the clutch operate in a smooth quiet manner?
5. Does the shifter seem tight?
6. Are there any squeaks / noises (specially over rough roads)?
7. Is the steering smooth and responsive?
8. When going straight is the wheel straight? Does the car drift to one side?
9. Brake with your hands off the wheel does the car stop straight?
10. At highway speeds does the car pull, or shake / shimmy?
11. Does the cruise control work properly?
12. Is there exceptional wind noise?
13. If equipped, does the ABS system function properly?
14. If equipped, does the Traction control system function properly?
15. If equipped, does the Selective Ride Control function properly?
Miscellaneous
1. Is the battery in good condition?
2. Do all lights / signals work correctly? Headlights (high and low beams)?, Brake lights? Parking/Side Marker Lights? Turn Signals?
06-17-2005, 08:29 AM
#13
Instructor
Member Since: Jun 2005
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Thats a great check list to print off and use.Just open the glove box door and it should tell you the options also.Try to find a one or 2 owner car so you can talk to the original owner also.Run a car fax to confirm the history.Its not fool proof but it helps back up everything you have been told.