1999 vettes?
Thread Starter
Navigator
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
1999 vettes?
Do they give any mechanical/computer problems compared with the 2000? I'm looking to buy a vette and can't seem to find a 2000 vette so I might settle for a 99 not sure, but if I do I want to know if it gives any extra problems compared with the 2000.
Thank you
Allan
Thank you
Allan
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 128
Likes: 21
From: Meridian ID
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 228
Likes: 2
From: California
I bought my 99 three years ago and everything works perfect. I had a few electrical problems but a new battery fixed that. Has 60k miles. My GF has 04 and it has all kinds of problems. Active handling and ABS messages. Power seats stop working. Overheats. Its always something. I don't know if one year is really better than another. Some parts are cheaper on the newer ones. I think it depends more on how previous owners maintained it. Good luck!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 6,528
Likes: 752
From: South Dakota
I agree with 8Vette7 too. The later ones have some improvements and some things may be repaired easier and/or have parts availability.
However, I have 2 '99s and have not had problems that are unique to the early ones.
I put a column lock bypass on both cars and had a harmonic balancer wobbling on one. Both of these issues are not confined to the early years.
I am doing the upgrade to the later TPMS and key fobs (the later TPMS sensors are less expensive), but I found a couple good deals and it is less expensive to convert the system than just buying the early replacement sensors.
Yes I think the later ones are the ones I would look for also, but if you find a nice early one I wouldn't be scared off. That's why I bought them when I found ones I liked.
However, I have 2 '99s and have not had problems that are unique to the early ones.
I put a column lock bypass on both cars and had a harmonic balancer wobbling on one. Both of these issues are not confined to the early years.
I am doing the upgrade to the later TPMS and key fobs (the later TPMS sensors are less expensive), but I found a couple good deals and it is less expensive to convert the system than just buying the early replacement sensors.
Yes I think the later ones are the ones I would look for also, but if you find a nice early one I wouldn't be scared off. That's why I bought them when I found ones I liked.
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 204
Likes: 35
From: buffalo new york
I found a 98 a few years ago that has been nothing but a fantastic car. As with anything you purchase used it must be carefully examined . The only problem is i find my-self putting many mods on car, headers ,suspension ,ccw rims , a&a supercharger , now i would not sell car as it fits me perfectly , 500hp of goodlooking fun. Just be careful when looking , do not get caught up in the moment of buying a sports car, you have gone this long without one a little longer wont kill you
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Pro
Joined: Apr 2006
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From: Norwalk CT and Boynton Beach FL
In my opinion, the newer C5 the better --- but whatever year you settle on, buy one with NO MECHANICAL MODS otherwise you could be spending most of your time chasing gremlins and trying to get your car to run right instead of enjoying your ride ---- spend some time reading the many threads on the Tech/Performance section of this Forum.
Good Luck
Good Luck
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 155
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From: Oregon City OR
I bought my 2001 and the only problem I'm having with it is that darn P0410 code. I'm chasing that one now. I really think it depends more on how the previous owner(s) took care of the car. As with any used car, educate yourself, and find out as much as you can about the car you want to buy.
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I had a '99 for about a year - no problems back then. I had my '00 for 7.5 years and had a few problems (three rear diff output seals replaced, seal between tranny and diff replaced, oil consumption that needed new rings installed - all done under warranty). But I loved the car. My '03 has not had any problems in the 3 years I have owned it. I would agree with the above that if your budget allows and you can find a well maintained car, look for an '01 and above. The parts availability issue is beginning to hit all the C5s but at least some critical components are still available or can be repaired.
That said, if the '97-00 cars are what your budget allows, then just thoroughly check the car over - while it is no guarantee that things won't go wrong, you would have done your best to try and spot things before you buy.
That said, if the '97-00 cars are what your budget allows, then just thoroughly check the car over - while it is no guarantee that things won't go wrong, you would have done your best to try and spot things before you buy.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 3,163
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From: Oceanside California
I really think you will find that a cars a car. You can get lucky or get a money pit from any make, model, or year. There are so many things that can go out or need replaced on every car. Just in this short thread you can see different problems from all different years. Most are not year specific and can happen to any car.
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From: Anthony TX
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The 2001+ cars have the most C5 upgrades. The EBTCM for 2001+ is easier to find if it goes bad.
The EBTCM for 97-2000 are NO LONGER available thru GM and no one aftermarket can repair them.. You can only hunt down a good used module. $$$$$$$$$$$$$
Like others stated... purchase whats available and fits the budget.
Where do you live??
Bill
The EBTCM for 97-2000 are NO LONGER available thru GM and no one aftermarket can repair them.. You can only hunt down a good used module. $$$$$$$$$$$$$
Like others stated... purchase whats available and fits the budget.
Where do you live??
Bill
