Considering a late model C5 base coupe purchase
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: May 2010
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Considering a late model C5 base coupe purchase
I been toying with the idea of buying a late model C5 base coupe, probably an '03 or an '04. How much faith should I put into the so-called "120-point inspection" sheet that most GM dealerships use? They're suppose to fix or replace parts that do not meet minimum specs. Would a second inspection be really necessary or just a waste of money? If so, any ideas on how to convince the dealership to let another shop or mechanic look at it for a second opinion before making an offer? Also, would 60K to 70k of mileage be too high or considered average for those model years?
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 1,936
Likes: 13
From: Redding California
I'm not too sure how much credence I would put on the 120 point inspection, I think the emphasis is on who is doing the inspection. And second opinions are always good.
As for 60K-70K miles on an '03 '04, there are so many low mileage examples out there I wouldn't look at a higher mileage unless money is of prime importance and you are pickling the high mileage car up for a song.
The '03-'04 model years have everything that was going to be sorted....sorted, plus they obviously are the newest of the C5s. There are plenty of less-than-20K mile examples out there at very affordable prices.
Dealers have to make money, but not necessarily off you, Check out the for sale ads on autotrader, this forum, even Craigslist. Take your time and do some looking, test drive some cars, and then buy the one you want.
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As for 60K-70K miles on an '03 '04, there are so many low mileage examples out there I wouldn't look at a higher mileage unless money is of prime importance and you are pickling the high mileage car up for a song.
The '03-'04 model years have everything that was going to be sorted....sorted, plus they obviously are the newest of the C5s. There are plenty of less-than-20K mile examples out there at very affordable prices.
Dealers have to make money, but not necessarily off you, Check out the for sale ads on autotrader, this forum, even Craigslist. Take your time and do some looking, test drive some cars, and then buy the one you want.
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Pro
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 565
Likes: 143
From: Bedford VA
I agree with allred that there are plenty of lower mileage cars out there, but to me they come at a price premium. I would not be afraid of the higher (60-70k) mileage cars as one of the enemies of used cars is simply age. The newest C5 is still nine years old. Sometimes a little more mileage and usage is a good thing, it works out all the defects and keeps things lubricated. Remember, the warranty on these cars has long since expired and I'm not sure what to think of someone who bought a car and didn't drive enough to take full advantage of the warranty.
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: May 2010
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At least, with a mileage of 60k-70k, you know the car wasn't just a garage queen. Hopefully, what bugs the car had would have been worked out or fixed. The prices I've seen in the midwest seem to hover around $25k-$28k for a lower mileage car under the 40k range. If my price range is around $21k or less, I guess 60k or higher mileage is what I can expect to find. Would you consider a 1 previous owner an added plus if the mileage were in that higher range? I seem to notice that a corvette can go through an average 3-5 owners in its lifetime. I would assume the less number of previous owners, the better.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2009
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From: ALL governments are legalized mobsters, so doesn't matter where I live :(
That 20 point inspection actually does hold some credence at whole sale auctions. Many GM certified vehichles carry a premium.
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 16,028
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From: oregon
all depends on what you're paying
the average for a nice well maintained 60k mile 2004 coupe is 17k
the cars will usually have more age related issues than mech ones. just depends on if you want to spend the extra money on a garage queen for the better paint and possibly nicer interior
the average for a nice well maintained 60k mile 2004 coupe is 17k
the cars will usually have more age related issues than mech ones. just depends on if you want to spend the extra money on a garage queen for the better paint and possibly nicer interior
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Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: May 2010
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