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Pre Purchasing a C5 - info required!

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Old Jul 17, 2010 | 05:20 PM
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Default Pre Purchasing a C5 - info required!

HI Guys

I live in the UK and am just about to buy my first C5. Its a 2001 car, manual, convertible - standard apart from Z06 chrome wheels and performance exhaust system. Has done 33K miles.

I am viewing the car in 3 days - what do you suggest I look at when I see it?

If I can get the VIN# before I see the car - how can I check its factory specifications and see which US state the car was registered in before I buy it? The car was imported to the UK 3 years ago.

Normally, I always use Mobil 1 synthetic oil - is that OK for C5 Corvette engines?

Any help greatly appreciated

Thanks in advanced

Paul
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Old Jul 17, 2010 | 05:23 PM
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look around / under the battery for damaged wiring
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Old Jul 17, 2010 | 05:28 PM
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If you can get the VIN you can order a Carfax report. It isn't a guarantee but it would possibly give you some history before it left the US.
The VIN can also get you a service report on any work done at a GM dealership before it left the US.
Mobil 1 full synthetic is the lubricant of choice for all Corvettes (specified by GM)

Find out if it has a Column Lock Bypass and if it doesn't GET ONE FAST!!! Do a search on here if you aren't familiar with it and it will save you serious headaches.

GL
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Old Jul 17, 2010 | 05:37 PM
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Guys

Thank you so much. Truly appreciative of anything that helps me.

Keep those tips coming as I am learning all the time.

Best for now

Paul
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Old Jul 17, 2010 | 09:43 PM
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Hey Paul.

If you PM me your email, I will email you a bunch of files that some excellent members, Vetteman Jack and P. T. Bradford emailed me when I was considering purchasing my car. These files contain a great wealth of info for the prospective C5 buyer. Corvette Forum consists of a number of great members who are very helpful and who may be relied on for advice regarding "anything Corvette".

Last edited by John1990; Jul 17, 2010 at 09:45 PM.
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Old Jul 18, 2010 | 12:38 AM
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Originally Posted by John1990
Hey Paul.

If you PM me your email, I will email you a bunch of files that some excellent members, Vetteman Jack and P. T. Bradford emailed me when I was considering purchasing my car. These files contain a great wealth of info for the prospective C5 buyer. Corvette Forum consists of a number of great members who are very helpful and who may be relied on for advice regarding "anything Corvette".
Thanks John, I appreciate the compliment. :o

Glad the info was useful to you.
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Old Jul 18, 2010 | 02:51 AM
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Check the codes on the DIC. Check the windows go up/down, the headlights go up/down, all the lights work, the top isn't too worn out. If it has magnetic selective ride, make sure that works.

Good luck and have fun!
..rickko..
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Old Jul 18, 2010 | 04:06 AM
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Guys - thats awesome!!!

John1990 - I have emailed you my private mail and just wanted to say a huge thanks to you, for your time and effort in helping me out.

Also to the other members who are helping me too!

Its nice to see that there are still some 'good guys' around

I remain highly appreciative for you assistance!

Paul
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Old Jul 18, 2010 | 04:10 AM
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Rickko

You mention a 'DIC'. What is a DIC?

Being English, I am somewhat lacking in US car terminology and feel I need to know what a DIC is, as it could be important and I dont want to miss out on any info that you guys are kindly helping me with.

Great stuff and thanks again

Paul
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Old Jul 18, 2010 | 05:02 AM
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DIC=Driver's Information Center (console).
On the C-5 you can access the 'trouble codes/error codes for the vehicle. These codes will give you a history (and current) readup of any information the computer has detected in the vehicle. Someone here can link you up with the how to read the ccdes , and what they mean.
This is great information to have prior to purchase.

Welcome to our little world.
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