Two models to think about before buying used
Buying a used Chevy over a new one can be a great way to save money due to the still over inflated prices we are seeing today. However, choosing the wrong model can mean the difference between saving… and ending up with a money problem.
Related Article: Old Chevy’s Worth Buying Over New
According to the Haynes manuals website, “The most problematic Chevrolet model over the years has been the Impala, which has generated 4,772 owner complaints on carcomplaints.com. However, the Malibu is not far behind in complaints from 4611”.
Summary of complaints
That being said, the staff at Haynes Manuals has put together a list of common problems that owners encounter not only in the models mentioned above, but also share other models that can help the used car buyer be wary of potential tire breaking issues. accords knowing what to look for before buying a used car.
However, with the right Haynes manual for your model, you can still make progress due to some of the common problems listed within the semi-skilled DIY mechanic looking to make a good deal even better.
Chevrolet’s top 10 problems
1. Blocking problems—The Chevrolet Passlock system has a history of not allowing the car to start and has even physically locked owners out of their vehicles. Unfortunately, this is a job best left to the dealer…but at an average cost of $520!
2. Transmission problems—Hyanes staff warns that “Many Chevrolet owners have experienced transmission problems, often around 90,000 miles, but sometimes earlier,” ranging from minor repairs to full replacements. Expect an average repair cost of over $3,000.
3. Electrical problems—The potential problems here are seemingly endless. “Only the Chevrolet Impala suffers from problems such as not starting, windows and outside mirrors, sudden stalling and inexplicably dead batteries. A couple of cars have even caught fire,” says Haynes. The good news is that armed with a Haynes manual and an electrical tester you could beat an average repair cost of $450.
5. Instrument problems—Instrument cluster failure around the 64,000 mile mark is not uncommon on Silverado’s and Trailblazers. The only solution is that of substitution; however, DIY homeowners can keep costs down by avoiding labor charges and possibly even saving one from a junkyard.
6. Fuel pump problems—According to Haynes, “If you own a Chevrolet Cavalier right after the turn of the millennium, there’s a good chance it will suffer from a failed fuel pump. This is the second most common problem affecting the car and costs a average $700 to fix. So why not save money by buying the part and installing it yourself. Easy with Haynes.”
7. Dashboard breaking issues— Be careful with Tahoes from warmer climates, which tend to have a noticeable crack problem with their dashboards. Repair costs around $200.
8. Oil consumption problems—Potential used Tahoe buyers will want to know that excessive oil consumption could be a problem on models approaching the 100,000 mile mark. A cylinder compression test is warranted before you buy along with some advice from an experienced Tahoe mechanic as repair costs can run up to $5500.
Related article: The most important used car test you should do before you decide to buy a used car
9. Air conditioning problems—Haynes staff warns that: “The A/C system on many Chevys is known to be quite fragile. The cause can be anything from a cracked condenser to an A/C compressor that has abandoned the ghost”. Expect an average repair cost of $1,110 from your neighborhood dealership.
Related Article: Do This to Your Car’s AC System Before Going to a Mechanic
10. Vortec V8 Ouchs—Chevy’s 5.3-liter Vortec V8 has a history of running engine complaints that you’ll want to do more research on before you buy. Expect a four-figure repair/rebuild cost that can be reduced with DIY help from Haynes.
And finally…
For additional news related to Chevys, here are some articles for your consideration:
• Chevy trucks to buy and not to buy, explained by a Chevrolet mechanic
• Classic Chevy engine swap consideration
Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter for Torque News based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications to improve performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for daily new and used vehicle news.
Image source: Unsplash
