1998 C5 info needed
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 6,937
Likes: 21
From: Waldorf MD
All C5 models were very good reliability wise due to GM's extensive pre-production testing program.
Early C5's had a fuel pump noise problem (noisey, not a performance problem), it is worse when cold (outside), many were replaced under warranty.
1998 did not have active handling as an option until mid-model year, traction control was standard.
Engines are good for 200,000 miles when cared for.
I have a 1998 with 130,000 miles, only problems have been: 1 headlight gear, 1 oil pressure sensor, and plastic radiator fill tank. It has been my most reliable car.
Early C5's had a fuel pump noise problem (noisey, not a performance problem), it is worse when cold (outside), many were replaced under warranty.
1998 did not have active handling as an option until mid-model year, traction control was standard.
Engines are good for 200,000 miles when cared for.
I have a 1998 with 130,000 miles, only problems have been: 1 headlight gear, 1 oil pressure sensor, and plastic radiator fill tank. It has been my most reliable car.
Last edited by Oldvetter; Jan 1, 2011 at 10:35 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 908
Likes: 0
From: CA
No problems with mine. I bought mine used seven years ago with 59XXX miles and now just turned 88XXX miles. I just make sure to maintain it well, fluids, cosmetics, etc. I only wish it had the HUD display.
Sounds like a good buy for the mileage. I would go for it.
Jorge
Sounds like a good buy for the mileage. I would go for it.
Jorge
Administrator
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From: In a parallel universe. Currently own 2014 Stingray Coupe.
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If you would like a Corvette Buyers Checklist, I've got one that might help you out. Also, have a bunch of other files on the C5s. If you'd like copies, just PM me your e-mail address.
Lepus-temperamentalus
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 5,827
Likes: 5
From: Roswell Ga
If it's a coupe, check the top for de-lamination, quite a few have had this problem, but that's not restricted to just 98's.
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Verdad Gallardo
Tech Contributor
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 10,962
Likes: 29
From: Van Buren Arkansas
Wounded Warrior Escort '11
The '98 didn't have a hud yet which was a very nice option to have. Other than what's already been mentioned by others here, one thing there will be issues with will be the transmission if its a manual MM6. Your post didn't say which tranny. If its a MM6, do not use Mobil1 trans fluid in there. Although great trans fluid, its not good for a BorgWarner transmission. I ended up with a BW tranny in my '99 that it wasn't supposed to get and had lots of issues with it over the years. I replaced it with a Tremec and no more problems since then.
Team Owner
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 21,473
Likes: 356
From: Palmdale, Ca----- 2009 Cyber Gray 4LT A6 F55 452 RWHP 422 RWTQ- RIP 1998 C5 734 RWHP & 585 RWTQ-----
It tunes just fine on the Dyno and right now I have 701 RWHP on my LS1 and A4 with 3.42 rear gears -
If you have "ANY" questions or problems ever about the 1998 you can PM me, email me madmatt9471@sbcglobal.net or even call 661-406-7516
There is pretty nothing I haven't done to my Vette
With the exception of the HUD or a Telescoping steering wheel it is no different than other C5's
Thanks,Matt
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 855
Likes: 40
From: Liverpool NY
I have my 98 for 5 years bought it with 56k and now have 68k. I've had no major problems with mine since owning it. The little stuff (rocking seat, multi-position switch and sticky fuel sensor) are well documented here and were easily fixed by me with the exception of the wobbly harmonic balancer which I let my mechanic replace with a power bond I purchased from Texas Speed.
Things you'll want to do or check:
Leaky butt, replace stock sway bars with C6-Z51 and plastic end links with metal, upgrade shocks to C6-Z06. Change all the fluids.
Drive it like you stole it...
Things you'll want to do or check:
Leaky butt, replace stock sway bars with C6-Z51 and plastic end links with metal, upgrade shocks to C6-Z06. Change all the fluids.
Drive it like you stole it...
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 1,062
Likes: 291
From: Allyn WA
I have had mine 1 year now. She had 120K miles and I was a bit afraid but the car looked as if it just came off the assembly line. I would say if your looking to buy a car that needs no TLC than forget a vette. If you love cars and like tinkering and getting to know the ins and outs of the car along with just plain having a great motoring experience, than the 98 is a fantastic car to own.
The last year I had 1 minor repair to the rear knock sensor which expanded into the mod craze! I decided to replace the LS1 valley pan with a LS6 pan, then decided I needed a LS6 intake, which followed with a ported and polished throttle body.
I replaced the spark plugs, just because.
The belt and tensioner were replaced (cherping noise)
I have so much fun working on this car! I used to have a 26 ft boat and it was a pain in the *** to work on. What is so cool about the 98 vette (if you get one in prestine condition) is you are driving what sold for $54,000 and paying under $15,000. This car fuels and makes a bad day a good day.
The last year I had 1 minor repair to the rear knock sensor which expanded into the mod craze! I decided to replace the LS1 valley pan with a LS6 pan, then decided I needed a LS6 intake, which followed with a ported and polished throttle body.
I replaced the spark plugs, just because.
The belt and tensioner were replaced (cherping noise)
I have so much fun working on this car! I used to have a 26 ft boat and it was a pain in the *** to work on. What is so cool about the 98 vette (if you get one in prestine condition) is you are driving what sold for $54,000 and paying under $15,000. This car fuels and makes a bad day a good day.
Team Owner
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 21,473
Likes: 356
From: Palmdale, Ca----- 2009 Cyber Gray 4LT A6 F55 452 RWHP 422 RWTQ- RIP 1998 C5 734 RWHP & 585 RWTQ-----
Here is a lot of info on all our C5's just click on Corvette and the year
http://gmheritagecenter.com/gm-herit...tion-kits.html
Thanks,Matt
http://gmheritagecenter.com/gm-herit...tion-kits.html
Thanks,Matt
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,615
Likes: 3
From: Tampa Fl
Here is a link to the C5 common problems you can read to give you an idea of what you may have to look forward to:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...ngths-etc.html
And here is a link to a list of DIY solutions that you can tackle your self if/when one of the common problems hits you:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-t...iy-thread.html
Only other issue with the pre 2001 cars is the lack of availability of some items that do fail like EBTCM and BCM.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...ngths-etc.html
And here is a link to a list of DIY solutions that you can tackle your self if/when one of the common problems hits you:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-t...iy-thread.html
Only other issue with the pre 2001 cars is the lack of availability of some items that do fail like EBTCM and BCM.
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,615
Likes: 3
From: Tampa Fl
I have had mine 1 year now. She had 120K miles and I was a bit afraid but the car looked as if it just came off the assembly line. I would say if your looking to buy a car that needs no TLC than forget a vette. If you love cars and like tinkering and getting to know the ins and outs of the car along with just plain having a great motoring experience, than the 98 is a fantastic car to own.
The last year I had 1 minor repair to the rear knock sensor which expanded into the mod craze! I decided to replace the LS1 valley pan with a LS6 pan, then decided I needed a LS6 intake, which followed with a ported and polished throttle body.
I replaced the spark plugs, just because.
The belt and tensioner were replaced (cherping noise)
I have so much fun working on this car! I used to have a 26 ft boat and it was a pain in the *** to work on. What is so cool about the 98 vette (if you get one in prestine condition) is you are driving what sold for $54,000 and paying under $15,000. This car fuels and makes a bad day a good day.
The last year I had 1 minor repair to the rear knock sensor which expanded into the mod craze! I decided to replace the LS1 valley pan with a LS6 pan, then decided I needed a LS6 intake, which followed with a ported and polished throttle body.
I replaced the spark plugs, just because.
The belt and tensioner were replaced (cherping noise)
I have so much fun working on this car! I used to have a 26 ft boat and it was a pain in the *** to work on. What is so cool about the 98 vette (if you get one in prestine condition) is you are driving what sold for $54,000 and paying under $15,000. This car fuels and makes a bad day a good day.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 5,789
Likes: 8
From: Myrtle Beach SC
St. Jude Donor '05-'06
Got mine last week 41k mi for $14.9k no regrets at all traded my 93 in on it had enough of the LT1s the LS1 makes the LT1 seem like a 6 banger. Totally different ride much smoother From what I have been reading it does have a lot of electrical gremlins that can occur but most of them have been well documented by the guys around here. I feel like I did when I got my first Vette I check it before I go to bed and when I get up. I never liked the big butt from a distance but it looks very good sitting in my garage. Go for it you will never look back.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,040
Likes: 1
From: Motorsports Capital of the World..Indianapolis Indiana
The original owner of my 98 spent $4,000 on an engine rebuild because the water puimp went out at 86K, so watch out. I think I was lucky to buy it though because it only has 108K now meaning I have 22K fresh miles on it.
Great cars, and 13 is an awesome price, I paid similar, so get it checked out, buy it, and don't look back
Great cars, and 13 is an awesome price, I paid similar, so get it checked out, buy it, and don't look back
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 16,221
Likes: 118
From: Matthews NC
I've been pleased with mine and typically there are more issues on cars that aren’t driven often. My ’98 has 64K and here’s a list of repairs that I’ve been through: 1) Replace sending units in both fuel tanks 2) Replaced HVAC controller 3) Replaced rear leaf spring (it was separating) and 4) the dreaded COLUMN LOCK! My main recommendation is to purchase the Column Lock Bypass kit (if you are buying a 6-speed) and avoid a problem waiting to happen.
Understand it is a 13 year old car too! Good luck!
Understand it is a 13 year old car too! Good luck!