Buying a Vette for the 1st Time

veteluvr74 · 11-21-02, 01:59 PM

I am new to this forum and I have been reading a lot of the posts on the message board here. Everyone seems to have a lot of knowledge about the C5. I know a bit as well but since I dont own one I will go to the source to get my info.

I am looking at buying a vette for the first time this spring. I am looking at buying either a 1999 or 200 C5. My questions for the current owners and even those who bought used vettes in past are as follows:
1) Are there any recurring problems that have been seen in the 99's and '02 C5's?
2) Do you think it is better to look for one at a dealership or from a private owner?
3) Are there any reliable dealerships here in the northeast that I could look into?

Thanks for any input that can be provided

Rob · 11-21-02, 02:20 PM

Welcome to the Corvette Action Center.

As for you your first two questions, I'll leave those up to the guys that own the C5s.

As for your last one, you may want to speak with Rick Daniel of Maxie Price Chevrolet here on the forums. He is located in Atlanta, but well known throughout the country. Give him a shout and see if he can help you out.

MsSchroder · 11-21-02, 03:19 PM

Welcome to the CAC,
I don't have any experience with buying used C5's, but I'm sure you'll get some answers... just digging through the old posts will probably turn up some good info too.
Remember, if and when you get your vette, you need to wave at the other vettes on the roads

because they'll be waving to you...
Tammy

11-21-02, 03:22 PM

Im considering selling my '00 coupe. Email me if you want details.

99WhiteC5Coupe · 11-21-02, 03:42 PM

veteluvr74,

There are many, many recurring problems in the 1999 and other years C5's. Just check the knowledge base tab on this forum to see the many TSB's issued by Chevrolet for all the C5 defects.

I ordered and purchased a new C5 (my third Corvette). It had 18 separate defects in the first 20,094 miles, including three separate breakdowns while driving out-of-state. The car was recalled for a safety defect and subject of a "satisfaction" campaign. I have found the quality and reliability of the C5 to be very poor.

Good luck.

FLIR_man · 11-21-02, 03:58 PM

I purchased a 2000 Vett through Carmax.com my first Vett. Best experience at buying a car I've ever had. It is also the most fun car I've ever had. I did have a problem with the steering column lock up but that was taken care of quickly. I drive it daily and also drove it to Bowling Green for the Labor Day celebration. I can't wait for the work day to end to drive it.

veteluvr74 · 11-21-02, 04:02 PM

Flir_man....How was the experience with Carmax? What made it such a good experience? One of my biggest fears is dealing with these car salesman. They dont sit well with me. Buying from a place like that would be nice.

FLIR_man · 11-22-02, 06:40 AM

veteluvr74,
What made the experience so go was I found the Vette on the web with a picture, a full description first, and the exact price. I then went to my local car max and told them I wanted to see the car and asked what the condition of the interior and exterior was and if it was a smoker’s car. After getting all the right answers I paid $75 to have the car shipped to their location. While the car was being shipped I arranged my own financing. When the car arrived I test drove it and was delighted!!!! I handed over the check, signed the papers, and drove home the long way.
:s

FLIR_Man (Gary)

FLIR_man · 11-22-02, 06:43 AM

I forgot to mention. I got my $75.00 back because I bought the car.

veteluvr74 · 11-22-02, 07:52 AM

What would have happened if you didnt like the car? Would they return the car with no additional cost?

FLIR_man · 11-22-02, 10:01 AM

They would have kept the $75.00. I considered that a small risk.

11-22-02, 12:05 PM

I think you can get the best price from a private party. Also, many of the 01's came with the LS6 short block, a plus IMO. I shopped around and six months ago I found a MY 01 coupe with everything, 1500 miles, for 39k. Enjoy your new vette.