Need Help: Wanted C5 Daily Driver
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Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 62
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From: Denham Springs LA
Need Help: Wanted C5 Daily Driver
I am in the market for a C5 to be used as a daily driver, my 68 does'nt quite fit the bill. I am looking at 1997-2002 models. Are there any differences in these models that make one preferable over the others? Before I make a purchase, I'd like to be sure I'm getting the best car possible and avoid any known pitfalls. Thanks, Jeff
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From: MD
St. Jude Donor '11
You can buy a very good low mileage early model C5 for 15-20K. 97-00 had 345hp/350tq, 01/04 had 350/360-375tq. There's really not much difference in these cars that inexpensive atfermarket parts can't change. If you are looking at a DD in heavy traffic, I would highly consider an automatic. There are always some good vehicles for sale in the C5 sale section and you can always find good deals on the internet auction site. Good luck.
BTW, if you are looking for a true DD then I would suggest an automatic with 2.72 gears. There are autos with 3.15 gears but they give you a little less gas mileage. Manuals will give you a better gas mileage but it will kill you in heavy traffic.
BTW, if you are looking for a true DD then I would suggest an automatic with 2.72 gears. There are autos with 3.15 gears but they give you a little less gas mileage. Manuals will give you a better gas mileage but it will kill you in heavy traffic.
Last edited by army2000; Nov 4, 2007 at 02:03 PM.
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Joined: Oct 2005
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From: Denham Springs LA
Thanks for the info FINN, very useful. Are there any mechanical issues that I should be aware of between the various years? I did read something about the early LS1's using oil, and others that had steering column issues with locking.
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Need Help: Wanted C5 Daily Driver
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Joined: Aug 2007
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From: Riverview FL
I was very happy when I found out my 02 Auto didn't have the column locking issue. I believe before that they did.
Also, there are some earlier years I have seen people talking about oil burning issues. Might want to check on that.
My car was an 02 vert in sterling condition with only 6800k miles for about 30k around 4-5 mnths ago. So if you keep your eyes open and don't mind a few more miles on the car you should be able to fetch a nice one for maybe 20-25k.
Also, there are some earlier years I have seen people talking about oil burning issues. Might want to check on that.
My car was an 02 vert in sterling condition with only 6800k miles for about 30k around 4-5 mnths ago. So if you keep your eyes open and don't mind a few more miles on the car you should be able to fetch a nice one for maybe 20-25k.
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From: Lake Havasu City, AZ
There are a number of relatively minor issues with the C5 most have DIY fixes available on the Forum.
dim display
leaking rear diff
weak parking brakes
door lock/unlock relays
worn headlight gears
column lock
bad oil pressure sensor
bad hazard switch (casues intermittent turn signals)
dim display
leaking rear diff
weak parking brakes
door lock/unlock relays
worn headlight gears
column lock
bad oil pressure sensor
bad hazard switch (casues intermittent turn signals)