Fluids question on low mileage purchase
04-26-2016, 07:07 PM
#1
Fluids question on low mileage purchase
I have just purchased a one owner 09 vert with only 6k miles. I am wondering what fluids I should be concerned with. It is from a dealer so I'm unable to get owners history. The Carfax did not reveal much so I assume all fluids are original with the exception of the oil. Any other insights would be greatly appreciated also. This is vette #13 and it may be my last, so I'm hoping to preserve it as much as possible. Thanks for any input.
04-26-2016, 07:17 PM
#3
Drifting
Given the seven years, I would do the coolant, brake, tranny and diff fluids plus the oil. I think that's affordable peace of mind.
Congrats and Good Luck on #13! I'd really like to see a photo collection of all of them.
Congrats and Good Luck on #13! I'd really like to see a photo collection of all of them.
04-26-2016, 07:30 PM
#5
Thanks, I have pictures of at least half. But it breaks my heart to see my avatar photo. Its the one that got away.
04-26-2016, 07:55 PM
#6
Team Owner
If there is no information on the battery's age, I suggest just installing a good, high quality battery now. These cars are so sensitive to battery condition, installing a new one gives you peace of mind and a known quantity should you experience any of the electrical gremlins that can show up. It would help us help you diagnose things. 
04-26-2016, 08:59 PM
#7
Safety Car
Member Since: Nov 2000
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18 months ago, I purchased an 08 with 3400 miles on it. Here is what I changed.
1) coolant - Dexcool is supposed to be changed every 5 years regardless of mileage.
2) Battery - mine was dated 07, still tested good, but for peace of mind it got changed since it was 8 years old.
3) Batteries in fobs - history shows that they last 5-7 years depending on environment
4) Tires - mine were the stock Goodyear, starting to crack and hard as a rock with no traction.
5) Tire pressure sensors - batteries in these last about 7-8 years. Replaced when I did the tires - PITA to do later.
6) Transmission and differential fluids - leave them alone - GM does not specify a replacement time / mileage.
7) Check brake and clutch fluid for any signs of discoloration - they should be a light amber in color. they are hygroscopic and absorb water. Dark = replace
NOW take that thing out and drive it !!
1) coolant - Dexcool is supposed to be changed every 5 years regardless of mileage.
2) Battery - mine was dated 07, still tested good, but for peace of mind it got changed since it was 8 years old.
3) Batteries in fobs - history shows that they last 5-7 years depending on environment
4) Tires - mine were the stock Goodyear, starting to crack and hard as a rock with no traction.
5) Tire pressure sensors - batteries in these last about 7-8 years. Replaced when I did the tires - PITA to do later.
6) Transmission and differential fluids - leave them alone - GM does not specify a replacement time / mileage.
7) Check brake and clutch fluid for any signs of discoloration - they should be a light amber in color. they are hygroscopic and absorb water. Dark = replace
NOW take that thing out and drive it !!
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Yaupon (04-28-2016)
04-26-2016, 09:37 PM
#9
Race Director
Member Since: Mar 2010
Location: T-Town WA
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2016 C6 of Year Finalist
18 months ago, I purchased an 08 with 3400 miles on it. Here is what I changed.
1) coolant - Dexcool is supposed to be changed every 5 years regardless of mileage.
2) Battery - mine was dated 07, still tested good, but for peace of mind it got changed since it was 8 years old.
3) Batteries in fobs - history shows that they last 5-7 years depending on environment
4) Tires - mine were the stock Goodyear, starting to crack and hard as a rock with no traction.
5) Tire pressure sensors - batteries in these last about 7-8 years. Replaced when I did the tires - PITA to do later.
6) Transmission and differential fluids - leave them alone - GM does not specify a replacement time / mileage.
7) Check brake and clutch fluid for any signs of discoloration - they should be a light amber in color. they are hygroscopic and absorb water. Dark = replace
NOW take that thing out and drive it !!
1) coolant - Dexcool is supposed to be changed every 5 years regardless of mileage.
2) Battery - mine was dated 07, still tested good, but for peace of mind it got changed since it was 8 years old.
3) Batteries in fobs - history shows that they last 5-7 years depending on environment
4) Tires - mine were the stock Goodyear, starting to crack and hard as a rock with no traction.
5) Tire pressure sensors - batteries in these last about 7-8 years. Replaced when I did the tires - PITA to do later.
6) Transmission and differential fluids - leave them alone - GM does not specify a replacement time / mileage.
7) Check brake and clutch fluid for any signs of discoloration - they should be a light amber in color. they are hygroscopic and absorb water. Dark = replace
NOW take that thing out and drive it !!
Not sure when the diff fluid formula change occurred, but I would change the diff just because.
Get the GMVIS to see what work has been done.
04-26-2016, 11:03 PM
#11
Instructor
If there is no information on the battery's age, I suggest just installing a good, high quality battery now. These cars are so sensitive to battery condition, installing a new one gives you peace of mind and a known quantity should you experience any of the electrical gremlins that can show up. It would help us help you diagnose things.
negative.
04-26-2016, 11:11 PM
#12
Le Mans Master
For removal of battery, take off negative first. When installing new battery, install the positive first. You do not want a grounded positive cable floating around. This will make sure you do not spark.
Last edited by HBsurfer; 04-26-2016 at 11:11 PM.
04-27-2016, 09:48 PM
#14
Team Owner
Member Since: Sep 2000
Location: Far NW 'burbs of Chicago
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St. Jude Donor '13
Regarding history-
If any service or repairs were done at a GM dealer, any other dealer should be able to pull up the records with your VIN.
If any service or repairs were done at a GM dealer, any other dealer should be able to pull up the records with your VIN.