I have a 1990 Vert and my friend wants to buy a 2004 C5. NOTE WE ARE RETIRED. I need to know the quirps of a 2004 to check out his future purchase. This will be his first Vette.
Thanks
Bill

 

Leaky windows, pass side window motor going out, HUD not working right, cooling issues (all vettes run hot). Hope this helps a little

 

Since it was the last year for the C5, most of the bugs have been worked out. As with any targa/vert car, there is always a chance of leaky windows/tops. Cooling usually isn't an issue unless you live in the Sahara. Power windows always have a chance of going out. The biggest think to watch for is oil pump failure. It's common in LS1's, well not too common, but it does happen. And if it does happen, chances are you will lose your motor. Just check over the car, drive it at low speeds and highway speeds. Make sure it
s straight, no leaking fluids, clean oil, etc. Check the rear wheel wells for rubber, a sign that the car has been tracked. Most of all, wait until you find the perfect deal and it's the color you want. I got red. Was it my first choice? No. I wanted black, blue, yellow, then red. But I went with the red and black theme and it turned out nicely. Good luck. Remember, it's a buyers market.

 

Some had fuel crossover tubes leak, but once fixed it's okay.

It's a car though, like any other. Just drive it and use some educated sense, as I'm sure you've driven a car before.

 

I've got some Word files, including a Corvette Buyers Checklist that might help your friend out. PM me an e-mail address and I'll send the files to you.

 

I traded in a 94 C4 for a 2004 C5 from a Chevy dealer that claimed that they put the car through a 27 point inspection before putting the car on the lot for sale. After driving the car for a few days I noticed LED readout on A/C Heater Control was burned out. The rear speakers may need an amp or the speakers replacing. The power wires to the rear window defroster grid are pulled off so they don't work at all. The power steering is very heavy - may need the power steering pump replaced. A cap on the windshield wiper arm where it comes out of the hood cowl is missing. A couple of side marker lights were burned out. The car is a great car but if I was familar with the C5 as well as I was with the C4's I would have asked the dealer to fix all these items prior to purchase. I would check for the power windows to make sure they work properly, the power seats, and power door locks to work properly. Make sure the remote unlocks and locks the doors and hatch. Make sure Heads up display works. Check for message codes. Make sure the Memory Functions work properly. Check the radiator is not clogged with grass, weeds, paper, trash etc. Check the lights in the dash and instruments work. Power seats with air bladders should work as well as up down back and forth work. Check for leaks around windows and removeable top. Wiper and squirters should be checked. Usually you will have replace the wiper blades. Check tire pressures and tires for even alignment. I hope your friend likes the C5. Post picures!

 

PM sent !!
Thanks
Bill

 

Thanks for all the replies so far...."Keep them coming".
Bill

 

Did you try SEARCH above?-use the Advanced option.

 

I would agree with alot of the above, i have a frc(hardtop) and my passenger window is leaky.

Also i would make sure all the balljoints etc are good. Take it down some bumpy roads. But thats just like any other car you buy.

Check to see if the oil pressure gauge reads, c5s are a very slow responce gauge so dont be scared if when u start or rev it, it takes time to come up. You should see no lower than 30psi idle and 40psi cruising i would say.

Good luck!

Jay

 

My contributions (some of which have already been stated):

1) Get down on the ground and looking in from the exhaust side, see if the suspension cradle is dark on the driver side. This could be a sign of the driver's side shaft seal leak.

2) Make sure the gas gauges are working. Fill up the tank before paying to ensure they work.

3) Run the HVAC and make sure all sides blow cold and hot when the respective settings are made.

4) Check the door locks. Try them from the FOB and inside door controls.

 

I'll sell him mine! 02 with 72,990 miles car can be seen by clicking my name. 17,200$.

 

40,000 miles on my 04 coupe.I had the fuel tank issue,which GM took care of with much prodding.Zero other issues!

 

I would definitely check the crankshaft pulley for the "wobble"....I do not think the 04's were immune....