things to look for - Grand Am buyers info?

[hamiltonaudio]

is there an FAQ on specific things to look for? I'm looking at my second grand am (a 1998 SE) and know to look for the leaking LIM, fluid colors, etc. Any other very specific areas to keep an eye out for?

I put 2 years of daily use on my 1996 before it got written off - and other than the eastern body rust and a blown rear shock, the car cost me nothing to operate.

??

bmoney

[sunrunner_pei]

The '96-98 models didn't change much, so the '98 would be pretty much the same as your '96. They aren't particularly problem-prone, in contrast to the 1999 models. The LIM gasket being the biggest issue with the V6.

[hamiltonaudio]

the LIM isn't leaking a bit on this particular car - no signs of it at all. Other than the typical bent/tweaked driver's seat, i'm going to go over the car looking for

1. power window performance (we all love our power windows, don't we? ;) )
2. a/c performance and evac/recharge/pressure test
3. full inspection underneath

the car starts and runs impeccably - everything is very clean and tight. i'll be driving it from its location to my dealership and back about 10 km each way - so I'll get to flog it for driving issues....

whats this about problems with the 99's? i've got a 99 4 door that I'm looking at too....elaborate?

bmoney

[sunrunner_pei]

The '99 models, particularly the early '99 models had more than the typical amount of issues. Window regulators, LIM gaskets, warping rotors, paint chipping, defects in some of the wheels & tires, etc. Most of those issues would now be resolved on a used car, however.