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Old May 7, 2011 | 09:24 PM
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Default Looking for purchase advice

Hello all,

I am starting my hunt for a 2000 - 2004 C5 (less than 35k miles).

1 - How widespread is the fuel gauge sending unit problem?
2 - same question for steering lock?

Generally speaking, how problematic are the C5s?

I understand things wear out, break, etc., but am curious to overall reliability, etc.

I will be get a CARFAX and have a Vette specialist check the car out.

Any comments, thoughts, etc. would be most appreciated.

Thanks..
Pen
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Old May 7, 2011 | 09:26 PM
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most c5s have both of those two problems.
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Old May 7, 2011 | 09:40 PM
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Is the fuel gauge issue cured with the use of the GM additive or must the fuel tank(s) be removed?

Any idea of the cost to repair?
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Old May 7, 2011 | 09:42 PM
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1.) Widespread, but unless it is severe it is treatable with occasional Techron fuel addative.
2.) Simple preventive solution. Install a CLB yourself $50.00 in less than an hour.
Generally speaking, the C5s are very reliable. I would drive mine anywhere, and not worry any more than with any other car.

IMO, I wouldn't rule out one with more miles on it.

Don't buy the first one you look at. Enjoy the hunt!

Welcome to the forum!
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Old May 7, 2011 | 09:53 PM
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CLB? please explain..thx
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Old May 7, 2011 | 11:39 PM
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read this:

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-t...must-read.html
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Old May 8, 2011 | 08:13 AM
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Originally Posted by Pen
CLB? please explain..thx
Column Lock Bypass

The car clearly has a few bugs that are easily fixed if your have even the slightest of mechanical aptitude. Good luck in your search, you will know when you find the right car for you.

Read through the sticky's on top of the general and tech sections they have a wealth of information about these cars, what to look for and related problems.

A carfax will only show what has been reported so take that with a grain of salt, when in doubt you can walk away and don't hesitate in having someone very familiar with corvettes evaluate the vehicle for you.

Good luck in your search, you will know when you find the right car for you.
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Old May 8, 2011 | 09:15 PM
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Pen - PM me your e-mail address and I'll send you some files on the C5 - including a Corvette Buyers Checklist. These files contain a lot of info that may help you in your search.
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Old May 9, 2011 | 02:20 AM
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I took years before I accidentally stumbled onto the Vette I bought. It was sitting on the local Hyundai lot just a mile down the street from my home. Like he said, enjoy the hunt, don't buy the first eye-catcher that you see. And look at the list the above offers. You can't go wrong.
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