C5 Corvette Buyers Guide

[@Toys4Life]

If you need a little more reason to buy a C5, here is some more info! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hobJY5ijrciriKM

[@racerx2348]

thanks for content most buyers , including myself are quick to pull the trigger simply because ts a CORVETTE : )

[@Hondaguru1122]

Why not show the potential buyers the hidden codes that are stored in C5’s, that DO NOT show with a code reader?

[@Toys4Life]

I agree with you and in hindsight I should have.

[@Toys4Life]

​@@iamalpha5134 My guess. complianceparts.com/lmc5unlocker.html

[@erickgrowe9500]

@@Toys4Life if I can get a 1997 sitting garaged and covered for 10 years for under 6 grand would you do it?

[@SolitarySwede]

Very good guide! BUT I'd like to add one thing: Check the faultcodes! Press and hold 4(options) and within 10 seconds press 1(Fuel) four times. Codes will start being displayed. After they are done you can browse through them using 1-4. Exit with 5.

[@Toys4Life]

Thank you - Agree- should have ran through the codes in the vid...

[@qzorn4440]

this is very good advice. thank you.

[@genepinkard5673]

ANY CORVETTE IS. A DREAM OF MINE I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED THIS CAR

[@Toys4Life]

I like most gens of the Corvette and the C5 style never gets old!!!

[@floridafishing2368]

C5 is my favorite

[@omargheyeh5814]

@Occam’s Razor may his soul rest in peace

[@smashadams85100]

​@@floridafishing2368same! I want a C5 so badly

[@andrewdomenitzdmd]

I did my homework too, but never knew about the issues with the driveshaft you mentioned. I decided to buy a 2004 because I figured they would have addressed issues on that year by that time. I took my time to find a 46k mile example which was obviously treated well and patience pays off.

[@startingtech3900]

Sorry please don’t be mad at me but you look like the stereotypical corvette owner with the new balances going to the golf course on Sunday with white shorts and a polo tucked in haha 😆

[@Toys4Life]

That's funny, thanks for the chuckle!!!!

[@startingtech3900]

@@Toys4Life haha was talking about Andrew up above. Cheers mate your videos helped me when I had my c5. I’m 6’6 sadly not many cars agree with my frame. Now I drive a 08 BMW 550i 16 foot massive luxurious 360hp v8 bmw. (Do all the work myself so it’s not that expensive) and I fit in the vehicle well

[@Toys4Life]

That would be tough, not every car accommodates 6'6 individuals! You've got to be comfortable. Cheers man!

[@thunderbolt5354]

@@startingtech3900 Whats the differance betweem a BMW and a Porkepine --------------------------------------------On a BMW the Pricks are on the inside !

[@johncipolletti6139]

I loved my C 5. After 7 years, things started to go bad. Costs were normally 2 to 3 times for a new car. Trying to get parts for a car over 15 years old is almost impossible. The best place to get parts was the junk yard and still is.

[@toddeveretts5595]

Perfect advice for any car buyer. Thanks for sharing your Corvette specific knowledge. I didn't know a few of these things.

[@speedfiend925]

I have owned multiple C5 Coupes and one C5 Z06. Although the C5 Z06 is more money, considerably more now that they are moving closer to collector status, the driving experience is so different that spending the extra money is well worth it. You can still find some gently treated Z06s but they can get pretty pricey if they are one owner garage queens. Given how different the two cars are I would strongly recommend you test drive the C5 Z06 but once you test drive it you won't want the Hatchback.

[@Toys4Life]

I agree that the Z06 is special, but still not convinced it is the best C5 choice for a new owner - unless that owner is a pretty serious car guy and intends to track the car. Lets face it, most C5 owners drive it to cruise or sit next to it in a lawn chair at a show enjoying a cold beverage. That having been said, I am 100% for test driving a Z06. At the same time, test drive a C6 and C7 as well. No reason not to - it is fun and the more you test drive different cars, the more you can contrast them and decide what is most important to YOU! Cheers!!

[@jayledermann7701]

Great info , and as a multiple corvette owner over the years , what he says is true. I love my 2003 Z06 , I looked till I found one that was not modified or messed with. I owned a 99 coupe as well at one time. I wished I would have known about this Channel before I had to learn the old fashion way.

[@ersanakyurekli]

This is the most useful C5 video in KZbin platform. Thank you so much for your kind efforts. Regards from Istanbul...

[@Toys4Life]

Thank you for the nice comment!

[@here2Bunknown]

Thanks for this info. A lot of this did not show up in my googling as I am searching for a C5.

[@gotmylk]

You're just looking in the wrong place. Go to Corvetteforum.com for any information you are looking for. Corvetteforum.com has had all of this information catalogued for the last 20 years. By far the best most informative car community available online. I have 5 other vehicles that have "enthusiast" followings. No other forums are as good for information with active contributors as Corvetteforum.com. Especially for the C5. T4LC5 is doing an amazing job of bringing this information to KZbin viewers in simple... but informative, easy to follow videos.

[@Toys4Life]

CF is a treasure 4 sure!!!

[@gotmylk]

@@Toys4Life I was much more active on the forum early 2ks to about 2015. I stop in once in a while but it's few and far between these days. If you keep it up with the great content soon folks will be saying " Toys4Life C5 is a treasure for sure"

[@Alps6408]

Always loved the C5 Corvette, It really does have such a timeless design! I'm still 50/50 if I should get an 04 model and supercharge it.

[@Toys4Life]

I would (and did) except mine is an 03 and is not SC'd.. Do it!

[@alexkram]

I just bought a 2000 with 123k miles and 6 speed. It is in great shape and was only $6800 so I don't care that it is not the ideal year. It is the color I wanted and enough miles that I don't feel bad driving it everywhere. I just took it on a 1000 Mile road trip to Las Vegas and it did great.

[@Toys4Life]

That's totally cool brother, welcome to the family! That's a nice price!

[@aleex31a]

I know its been 3yrs but im looking at a 2000 with 96k miles with borla exhaust and clean chrome rims. Black color for 10k. After watching this vid Im debating. How did it end up for you?

[@alexkram]

@@aleex31a I sold mine a few years ago. They have gone up in price like everything else. I sold mine for $10k but it would probably get $12k today. I still love C5s and might have another someday. Great looks, performance, cheap insurance, and pop up headlights. Buy it.

[@aleex31a]

@@alexkram any significant problems while you owned it?

[@alexkram]

@@aleex31a I fixed quite a few small issues but the only thing that popped up while I owned it was the traction control system light would com on sometimes with an error. For me it would go away when I turned off the car and restarted it. There will definitely be more issues with an old Corvette than something like a Toyota Corolla but it was worth it for me. I do have a corolla now though haha but it is one of 3 cars.

[@Rhodeislander]

Cant believe how much these have gone up in price in the last 2 years

[@lucysmith4242]

They've gone up? What were they 2 years ago?

[@Rhodeislander]

Lucy Smith I was seeing 7500-18k depending on year. The market in the northeast is high and very few around. I have a search on car guru and it’s got some dealer trades, but not much else. C4 to me is not the same, dash is comic book like. C5 is really a great car in that value range.

[@lucysmith4242]

@@Rhodeislander Just bought a 80,000 mile one for 7500. Nicest thing i've ever owned yet

[@MacLaw3084]

@@lucysmith4242 what year?

[@lucysmith4242]

@@MacLaw3084 98, it's old, but has been solid. Been beating on it and it's held up so far

[@pancake191]

The 97-00 issues are overblown imo. The fear doesn't reflect real numbers from what I've seen. But good to be aware of nonetheless

[@Toys4Life]

But if you did not have a C5 Corvette and you were starting your search now, I think you would avoid them...I would as their plenty of 2002 three and fours.

[@vettepwr23]

99 here. Has it since 01. No problems here but it has been garaged. I would agree if looking for a used one now then stick to those years mentioned here. Even the tire pressure sensors on the newer years are cheaper to replace.

[@Toys4Life]

@@vettepwr23 I hope you knocked on a piece of oak wood when you wrote that.

[@jackoff1826]

I've had both a 98 and a 99 for over 10 years now. I have replaced a torque tube on the 99 and a harmonic balancer and transmission on the 98. While doing both of those fixes, I've also went ahead and replaced both of the clutches and fly wheels and installed bleeder lines for the clutches as well. Other than a set of tires and a battery every 3 or 4 years, they're absolutely solid. If these repairs are what's considered problematic, sign me up. Well worth it to me. They both have just under 70K on them. Love them both.

[@SERGE_Tech]

@@jackoff1826 what mileage did the car have during each of those replacements I'm trying to get a feel for when I may need to replace certain components.

[@terrysigmon3119]

I'm going to get a C5. I'm so glad I saw this video. Thanks.

[@Toys4Life]

Awesome... Thanks!

[@Toys4Life]

@@iamalpha5134 I personally would stay away from a 2000 due to the EBCM issues.. unless it's really cheap compared to a 2001 or newer.

[@Toys4Life]

@@iamalpha5134 there's many reasons why air conditioning won't work. Someone more expensive than others, sorry I can't really help you more than that.

[@Jdikmen]

I have driven my 2001 C5 as a DD for 19 years (as of today!). All the issues you pointed out were valid, but I would say late 2001 or 2002 is the safest bet. Starting sometime in 2003 they moved the fuel sensors on the tanks which require dropping the tanks to fix (and quite a few had problems) - very expensive repair!

[@kennethsobocinski]

I agree I have an 01 and save for oil consumption which mine has. I think 01 02 were the best years.

[@markcrisp7315]

Great bang for the $ C5 you can modify these like mine is 799 heads port & polished 614 lift comp cam & so many more ops 💯😊✌️

[@jdell8519]

I hope to own a blue C5 one day. I love that it's a smooth design, no super outdated flares or jagged edges. It does have pop up lights but who cares. It's also a convertible, can't beat that option going to the lake. This car will age well like the Mclaren F1.

[@kcbroncohater]

I've had my c-5 for about 35k miles and I got it at 70k. The drivers seat is shot but that's about it. I like running the codes all the time from the drivers seat. I cleaned the radiator and installed a coolit switch to manually turn on the engine fan. Replaced the gears on one headlight. The car is rock solid.

[@Toys4Life]

Nice!

[@christopherdutro168]

So I guess I should just torch my 99 even though nothing inluding the ebcm has worked flawlessly & it's at 70,000 miles ( I have had it since 35,000 miles. Do you have an answer for the majority of C-5s that just happen to be 1/2 of C-5S made? Maybe scrap them for parts? Sorry I am just SO sick of hearing this! I guess I am lucky I won't be trying to sell my 99! ( You are not alone on making us who already own a 97-00 feel like *hit for owning junk) other than this video you have a great show!

[@Toys4Life]

Of course not, drive it and enjoy it. Let me ask you this, knowing what you know now, if your best friend was going to buy a C5 corvette soon, and asked you for advice as to what years he should consider, what would you tell him?

[@christopherdutro168]

@@Toys4Life first off after reading what I wrote I not particularly proud of how I came off! To answer your question: I would have to be honest & tell them they ould buy a 97-00 much cheaper if they had no other way to get a good Vette for the money however YES there are significant disadvantages to owning them . ( I also have to live with an automatic because I didn't do MY homework)

[@alanwiles8810]

Had my 2000 for 15 years. Street and track. None of the problems claimed in this video.

[@Toys4Life]

Glad to hear it and it does not surprise me. I was in no way saying the earlier models will fail. Simply saying that if you do not have a C5 now, and are trying to buy the best year(s) now, you would want to favor the years I pointed out. They are all good. Some are a little bit better than other years.

[@redmanrm1]

F. I just bought the 2000 model. But it does have 70K miles and it’s been taken care of while in EXCELLENT condition

[@Toys4Life]

Nice - Enjoy - hopefully you can drive it where you live, in MN my days are about done for the year.....

[@sspp3065]

I am glad I purchased a 04 really got lucky at the time just over 2 years ago it only had 27K miles on it.I am the second owner and it was in FL all its life.

[@Toys4Life]

Excellent choice!

[@lexxielex]

Nice to see another educated local Vette owner. Granted I'm in Crystal and your in Lake St Croix Beach area, but close enough. Great vid!

[@Toys4Life]

Thanks for the comment sir, now let's hurry up and get to spring!

[@Cstoreri]

Another thing to pay attention to is the rails under the front bumper make sure they haven’t been hit to hard.....the c5 is notoriously known for being difficult when pulling in and out of parking lots and speed bumps, you almost always have to drive in at angles to avoid scraping.

[@jeffmcmillan2813]

I think you are great......recently bought 50th 2003 convert.....cannot stand the engine noise on cold start...sounds like an old truck till hot

[@joelstatosky1817]

This is literally I guide on the exact car to buy, thanks. I'm one of those car guys who has a decent bit of money to spend on these so i was going to get a garage queen 1997 c5, but now I know to avoid it.

[@Toys4Life]

Glad you found it useful! Thanks for commenting!

[@joelstatosky1817]

@@Toys4Life I've actually found a much better car, at a much better price with 40k miles. Thanks

[@Toys4Life]

@@joelstatosky1817 NICE!

[@saladbar21]

Great video, thank you for making it. Hopefully I’ll have a c5 Corvette in the next few months!

[@donw9638]

Great video with the exception of the last tip. If anyone ever asked for a one hour test drive of a car I was selling I would tell them to kick rocks and I would look for another buyer. 15 minutes is plenty of time to get a feel for the car and for issues/CELs to pop up. If i was buying a car, I would feel like a fool for even suggesting I wanted to do that. Also the suggestion to avoid a Z06 model entirely because of modification concerns is pretty laughable.

[@Toys4Life]

Thanks for the input, if they wouldn't let you go for an hour I'd settle for 45 minutes, but I'd still drive that son of a b**** hard. Also I love the ZO6, I'm just not sure if first time buyer is qualified to pick a good one out as you really need to be careful. Your points are well taken though.

[@cp6027]

@@Toys4Life"I'd settle for 45 minutes, but I'd still drive that son of a b** hard". Not with my car you wont. I would tell you to take a hike.

[@fireoil]

i dreamed since kid of 2005 ford mustang GT and corvette C5, but since i ride in corvette C5 and the guy accelerate, i have a crystal souvenir of being soo happy and told me 1 day i will have that car.

[@Toys4Life]

Heck ya - C5 better than the mustang - especially in likely condition after 15 years or so!!

[@davidspringer6883]

I bought a new 2002 convertible, replaced the top this year...triple black still looks great runs great but the oil pressure sender went which they ingeniously put under the intake manifold, ill get around to it, also the traction control / abs control had to have it fixed, main cost was labor but overall one of the best cars I have ever owned , still is gorgeous and a fun car to drive (oh yeah 6 sd of course)

[@forkthepork]

I'm admittedly not a car guy. Vids like this are really helpful.

[@Toys4Life]

Glad you like them!

[@thedriverscorner]

Man, while I appreciate the heads up for people on the 97-2000 issues... they aren’t a write off. I go over a lot on my channel regarding my 97 Corvette it has 197,000 miles now... can’t really hate on a “trouble” year car that is still kicking ass at almost 200k...

[@Toys4Life]

They're not a write-off, but if I was buying one today it would have to be significantly cheaper than an '01 through 04 vet. Which one would you advise your average non-mechanically inclined 50-year-old guy down the street purchase?

[@thedriverscorner]

@@Toys4Life I would recommend the nicest one they can afford..

[@bcarss1970]

Thank you sir! I have been angling for years for a 2002-2004 ZO6. This was very informative.

[@Toys4Life]

Thank you, Time to pull the trigger!

[@jeannorman3057]

Brad Carss Still looking for a ZO6 I have a an 03. 38 k with a pro charger that has never seen the track.

[@OneSvT]

@@jeannorman3057 38k miles?

[@Gimmeabreak460]

Buy it you won’t regret it

[@anselbest2444]

I have 1998, terrific condition... the 1 issue our host mentioned that you can take to the bank: Z06 will have earned their miles 1/4 at a time. I don't know what happened all those years on the track.

[@skinnerhound2660]

I am looking for a C5 for a birthday gift for my wife. So glad I found your channel. A lot of good info. Thank you for helping me not have buyers remorse and steering me in the right direction. I am looking for a blue conv. automatic and not easy to find in the NW. Thank you again.

[@Toys4Life]

Thanks for the thanks and good luck with your search!

[@michaelknight5041]

Don't be afraid to travel for the right car. I flew to California from Michigan for one of mine and drove it home. The internet is a wonderful thing for car hunting. Try the Autotempest search engine.

[@anselbest2444]

You're probably done searching now.... but there are several blues. I like the navy - but can't keep the LeMans (more common as C3 color... LeMans C5 is darker than the C3 LeMans), Electron (nice dark normal blue, but not navy dark) or Nassau (mid light blue - think of that more as C2 color) blues straight.

[@skinnerhound2660]

@@anselbest2444 Thanks for the comment. I looked diligently for a couple of months and was resigned to traveling for the right one. One popped up on Auto trader late one night at a nearby Chevrolet dealer, no picture or much of a description. My son and I ran out on a Sunday and tried to sneak in and find it,(hate dealers). Nice salesman however, he said it had just came in and was parked behind that dumpster. We walked up to it, a magnetic red 2001 convertible. It was dirty but as we started to investigate found out it was one owner 32K miles, total documentation including the pre order sheet. It also had the magnesium wheels which were a $2000. option. Price was right and they did a full detail and replaced the front brakes. The dealer had it parked out front when I came to pick it up, it looked new! It runs great and it was an absolute surprise on my wife's birthday. She didn't know what kind of car it was until she spotted the flags, LOL. For those who are looking, be patience, they are out there. P.S. she loved the red.

[@02stampede]

Great information. The C5 has always been a favorite of mine.

[@rickhunter6513]

Grab a z06 while you can. I agree, don’t get one that has been modified or raced, but a low mileage, stock z06 is a keeper👍🏼

[@Toys4Life]

Agree, a great condition Z06 is an excellent choice - if you can week out the ones that have been abused.

[@DuBstep115]

If you find a original owner z06 that has never been abused remember to tell the owner that he is a pussy and wasted his money. Should have just bought a base C5

[@SKRooU2]

@@DuBstep115 LMAO -drive away waving yelling "THANKS SUCKER !! "

[@fredbaumann499]

I drove my 2001 Z06 off the Assembly Line, but didn't buy it until 2015, a one owner car, never raced with 38,000 miles on it. I've had only one issue that's with the column lock, been corrected.

[@adammcneelam]

I've got a cammed 99 frc. No problems. Drive it like you stole it.

[@07slowbalt]

1999 called. They want that gay saying back 😂

[@Twin_Turbo]

07slowbalt how is that saying gay?

[@24daytona26]

1980 called they want people calling things gay back.

[@RmeOfGuns]

@@24daytona26 gay.

[@maxfly7079]

After owning 5, c5's, here were my issues, with the 99 coupe & vert. service active handling Ebcm, 98 vert. gas gauge had false readings and the A4 shifter would get stuck in park, for afew minutes. The 99 coupe and 98 vert. had hvac vent door issues and a ac control module. Spark plug wires and a headlight switch and a radiator, in the 99 coupe. 04 Z06 needed a oil sending unit and a radiator. The triple blk 98 vert. needed a new shifter, that saved the 6 spd. trans., everything else in that car worked fine...a Dwi driver hit it , while it was PARKED at the house..total loss...all cars were bought used...yes, plus batteries and tires and serpintine belts, all fluids changed and air & gas filters too...I still have 2, the 04 Z06 with 96k miles, and the 99 vert. A4 with 87k miles...I did upgrade to a used 14 c7 vert. A6 with 11k miles.

[@user-qr7ee2cp4y]

Great advice, I'm considering a c5 or c6 z06 but I'm weighting the performance vs problems balance between these newer cars with all the performance and electronics to go bad vs the old cars... I plan to keep what I get for a while...

[@Toys4Life]

I think you should be fine with the later year C5's. I am not up on the best year C6's yet but I am sure there are some best years of those as well. I know the C6 Z06 is an incredible car but has a dropping valve issue that can take out the engine....

[@StrideX21]

@@Toys4Life I did hear that the technician at corvette world said he's only ever had 1 c6 z06 that was stock come in for that valve issue. The rest he said are ones that had headers, tune and all that other stuff.

[@Toys4Life]

Roger that!

[@CleanClaspCollector]

Great videos you’re making. Very helpful for us looking for a C5 one day. I have seen your posts on the forum as well. I’ve been signed up there since 2007, but only recently came back to it as my search has now re-started after a very long break. Keep them coming! - J

[@Toys4Life]

Thanks, will do!

[@wyattulmer2569]

my 6 speed 1998 has 167k miles on all original motor and transmission components and the only codes are for the hvac and power seats. i think it’s all about how the car was treated more than the year

[@nathanieleden8209]

You researched the car for three years before you purchased it? Well I would be a fool if I didnt watch your video and not hit the like button.GREAT VIDEO.

[@Toys4Life]

Yeah that's a little excessive, but at that point in time the C5 value was dropping so each year became a better value. Plus I had a '99 LS1 6-speed trans am so I did have a Toy to play with.

[@LittleJimmyNorton]

EBCM, before I wash or detail my 2000 c5 vert, I take it to the grass field near me and hit the brakes and activate my ABS for a few minutes. I'm a big believer they fail because most people don't take there vettes out in shitty enough weather to activate it, there for it seizes and other issues arise. In my experience more problems tend to arise with a car that sits rather than a car that's driven. A body in motion stays in motion. Although my EBCM has had no issues, till now probably, because I'm saying this. Lol... I can make a list a complete page long for all the other issues in 136,000 miles. The worst being a bolt back out in the transmission against the torque converter and locked up the car in a lowes parking lot. 20hrs of my friend and I dropping the bell housing, torque tube, trans and rear. Just to loctite a bolt back in the transmission and one bell housing later.... bell housing had to be drilled and cut to get to the bolt between the torque tube and engine. I'll never buy a vette again, actually it will be Lexus from now on. I'm done with American cars.

[@Toys4Life]

Strange things happen once in a while. Lexus (toyota) had throttle's sticking a few years back leading to some well documented high speed accidents and deaths. Every brand has a black eye or two. That bolt backing out in your C5 would have been a pain in the ars though!!

[@bajabret60]

Just starting to get interested in a Corvette. Your video was the best I've seen. Thanks!

[@Toys4Life]

Glad you found value in it - thanks for the comment!

[@7884mac]

Thanks for the post. I have a 1953 Chevrolet pickup I intend to rebuild with C5 running gear and suspension. Your post has been helpful in what to look for.

[@Toys4Life]

4 sure - thank you!

[@gws108]

I bought the elephant in the room... but its my 4th vette. Follow the same advise. Stay away from any mods. My vette has 4100 one owner miles and I got a great deal. Patience is the key.

[@Toys4Life]

Thanks for sharing

[@boz9657]

Great video!! I hope to buy one when I get out of school. The c5 has always been my dream car!

[@Toys4Life]

It will be worth the wait !

[@ChiefMason]

Yup I’m grinding for one gotta get that money I’m a senior in high school 😁

[@CaptEricS]

I'm an ASE CMAT and my '01 w/ 63k C5 had a boatload electrical problems. I have fixed everything... My re-occurring problem was the Ft lights. I have had them apart 3 times! Three nuts and three bolts and the whole "Bucket" comes out. Do not use 3157am bulbs for the DRLS, they melt the housing and break. Use LED's, No heat and they don't break from the vibration from the stiff ft. suspension. $3.50 a pair on EBAY!

[@Toys4Life]

Was there a general theme causing you electric gremlins (like dirty grounds or some other reason)- or just unlucky?

[@markjeffcoat7683]

Thanks for the information the car is really nice only 12500 for it

[@Tdot21]

Thank you for making this video. I’m getting ready to get me a c5. 😀

[@Toys4Life]

Glad I could help!

[@timmotel5804]

Just an FYI. I bought my C5 Z06 Commemorative new in 2004. It has been garage kept. It now has 131,000 miles on it. Still runs like new. Has been up to 171 MPH before I ran out of highway space. LS6 is the finest engine that I have owned. My first Vette was a new 1996. This Z06 has no leaks at all and the factory warranty put in a new oil pump. One minor electrical grounding issue that was repaired by the dealer. Two years ago I installed a new water pump, thermostat, radiator, belts and hoses. I think only one replacement set of brakes since I've owned it. It still gets good gas mileage, when driven conservatively. Once it hit 30 MPG a few years ago. Still get 22+ MPG on highway trips. I bought it to drive, and I have. Tires last me longer than most people get because I don't drive like I used to as a younger man owning 3 MOPARs with 440 Magnums. The HUD still works but the lighting on it has dimmed somewhat over the years. The HVAC display worked intermittently over the past several years and the HVAC control panel AC has completely failed 4 weeks ago. GM has none and they have been discontinued by them. The only choices are to try and repair it yourself or to buy a reconditioned HVAC control panel on line. There are people that repair them. You will pay a substantial CORE charge until you send in your old unit to the repair person, then they refund it to you. I have seen up to a $300 core charge. That's what you're gonna do if you want functional Air conditioning in your Vette. I'm looking into this presently. I'm open to suggestions on any of this though. Great car. I love it and it's a keeper. P.S. I've never had a speeding ticket, but have come close... Enjoy Your C5 Corvette.

[@Toys4Life]

Thanks for the comment! Great to see you using and enjoying your Z06! Not sure exactly what HVAC display you have but if you can solder here is a vid on how to repair it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZCukIyZZp6XfLM

[@timmotel5804]

@@Toys4Life thank you

[@Toys4Life]

You're welcome, hope it helps!

[@81casperflip]

02-04s hardly ever go up for sale close to me so I jumped on a 98. All good so far

[@Toys4Life]

I get it, here in MN if I want a corvette, I have to cast the net and be willing to drive several hours. Next time I would even fly to get the right one. Now if I am buying a Honda Accord, I can look at 257 used ones withing an hour of my house lol...

[@markwest9447]

Great source of Factual Information... Many Thanks... With the new c8 coming out, plenty of c5's thru c7's hitting the market... Prices are really dropping... Good Luck / Happy Hunting !!!

[@Toys4Life]

Thank you! I think C5s will hold up but the C7 will take a hit the more the C8 becomes available.

[@jairmartinez2246]

I cant wait to get a hold of my future c5z the are just so perfect. Better looking than the c6 imo

[@victorjohnson9672]

I just purchase my C5 99. Didn’t see your video I feel I got a good deal love the car. Being a mechanic I did go thru the car thanks for your video. I’ve own two C3 and the first drive I love the ride. The Technology is great I don’t feel the road as much. 😊. Great Video

[@Toys4Life]

Welcome to the C5 world, where the love affair lasts longer than most marriages!!!

[@victorjohnson9672]

Yeas I’m on my 4th 😊

[@BishopGG]

Great video I'm looking at a 2004 right now with only 31k miles

[@Toys4Life]

Nice & good year choice!

[@jerryhanson3903]

I wanted to buy one but the Corvettes I find, the interiors are falling apart and they have over a 100k miles priced at $20'000 or more. The cars that are in good shape people want almost twice that it crazy you'd think there'd be a little cheaper since there's so many of them.

[@GregZO6]

Just get a C5 ZO6 and smile. My 2001 ZO6 has 171k and runs as fierce as the day I drove it off the dealer's lot. Not a car, a force of nature!

[@Toys4Life]

They are indeed!

[@Gotem482]

Glad I came across this video, thanks. I actually have started looking for C5 and this helped a lot!!

[@Toys4Life]

Thanks man, good luck in your search and I hope you subscribed!

[@Gotem482]

@@Toys4Life yes sirrr!! Already subscribed 2 mins in into the video.

[@Toys4Life]

@@Gotem482 Appreciate that!

[@frankorasputin1929]

I have an 02 vert with 32k at this time, am second owner...bought at 25k miles. Put a few pennies in it and am very happy with it. Nitto G2 tires are the shit my brothers. Zoom zoom

[@Toys4Life]

I'm going to need some new tires, thanks for the tip 😀

[@mcm95403]

Oh, the other PRO to the early cars is that they don't have the $700 BCM (body control module computer) that the later cars have. My 2007 Z51 had the BCM take a dump which then kept draining the battery every 3 days. No way to repair it, all you can do is replace it - oh, and it has to be done at a dealership that has the right tool to pair it to the car.

[@mikepino4954]

WOW!! Thank you so much!! I had no idea about the C5s like THIS!!! Great video!!

[@Toys4Life]

Glad you liked it!

[@tokenrl2220]

Im looking at a good condition 1997 c5. With a 6speed. It is my first car and its just under 100k miles. Im still in training right now but im having my dad check it out. If its as clean as advertised then i will pick it up for $6k... current owner is 6’7 and still growing so he just cant drive it anymore

[@Toys4Life]

A decent C5 for under 6k is a steal. I am gonna call the cops!!!

[@keninokla]

This was very useful to me. I was sort of thinking that earlier was better because there would be less to go wrong. From the video I am now re-focused to the newer C5 Corvettes

[@Toys4Life]

Roger that!!

[@RARenfield]

Good general used car buying advice. I also like to tell the seller NOT to fire up the car before I arrive. I've read a lot of grief about the C5 Harmonic Balancer as well. Not sure which years. At least it doesn't have an Optispark. I think the best buying advice for the C5 is to get a C6. For about five minutes during it's 8 year run they made some reliable C5s.

[@Toys4Life]

I had a 95 camaro with opti-spark and never had an issue. I generally did not drive much in the rain though so that was probably why. I respectfully disagree that C5s are a lot less reliable than a C6 . C6's are going to set you back about 10k minimum for a similar condition specimen.

[@RARenfield]

@@Toys4Life I'm looking hard, but I cannot find an example anywhere of me writing or saying that a C6 is more reliable than a C5. Why would I think that? It's still GM. What I can say with certainty is that the LT1/C4 is NOT reliable at all. The Optispark is its Achilles Heel. If I gave the impression that I think ANY Chevy is in any way reliable, I am deeply sorry. That would be a lie, and a damn lie. Chevy engineers make beautiful lawn ornaments.

[@hardwired4873]

I have a 98. Love the car

[@Toys4Life]

Nice!

[@allenxd]

Dream car from NFS High Stakes. Will definitely buy one soon!

[@Toys4Life]

Right on!

[@mannyvillareal]

VERY, VERY, informative. Thanks!!!

[@craigthescott5074]

If your going to buy a C5 save up a few more bucks and get the Z06.

[@Toys4Life]

Depends on your intended use. If you intend to supercharge it, I'd go LS1, a little lower compression which is better for boost. For most people, the difference between the two is negligible. In my opinion go with one you think looks best because that's the biggest difference you're going to see day in and day out, unless you're a track rat.

[@markjeffcoat7683]

Found a 98 c5 vette One owner with 29000 miles Was thinking about purchasing it Have 2 neighbors that have 98 corvettes and they really take care of theirs said had no issues with the ECBM

[@Toys4Life]

Google "EBCM issue Corvette forum" and see what comes up. It can be a Huge pain. Decide carefully!

[@retrobear9367]

Thank you. I'm looking to purchase a c5 in the spring.

[@Toys4Life]

Good hunting to you!

[@mjphoto45]

I have a triple black 2000 6 spd conv. Love it

[@louiedicarlo3910]

I have a showroom condition 02' black C5 coupe that has never been exposed to rain and washed only half a dozen times with only 35K!...I get offers on it at least twice a year...usually as a note left on my windshield ....

[@Toys4Life]

Nice!

[@widndn]

Had a black 97 and the ebcm went out, and the shifter mechanism to take it out of park went out, nice car but too old to be truly reliable Bought a 2012 c6, love it, much more refined and a overall nicer car......in my opinion.

[@Toys4Life]

They are nice indeed! - but are about $10k more expensive +/-

[@widndn]

@@Toys4Life That truly is the real issue,...cost. my c5 had 54,000 miles and was in very good condition, but I could not give it away, finally let it go for 8000,... a steal. So if your budget is c5, then there are plenty of good deals out there, and for the cost you will not be disappointed. VaaaaaaaRooooooom.

[@Toys4Life]

@@widndn it's crazy but that is what makes Corvette s a smokin deal.

[@jamien9327]

I want one!

[@youngestson6537]

99 c5 Corvette owner. No real problems. I believe that the 2000 and up model c5 had problems with the lifters collapsing?

[@Toys4Life]

I have not heard that one...

[@youngestson6537]

@@Toys4Life. I believe it was the valve springs not the lifters. Issues with the valve springs?🤔

[@Toys4Life]

@@youngestson6537 I think the LS6 springs were breaking for a while. I am sure most have been replaced by now.

[@spclopsvet]

Interesting comment about the z06 in my opinion that's the one you want and avoids almost all of the mechanical defects mentioned you just have to find one

[@Toys4Life]

Thanks for the comment! What I probably should have saidis, if somebody's mechanically inclined and can really look the vehicle over well, then consider the ZO6. Instead what I essentially said was for the majority of C5 buyers they should avoid the ZO6 and just find a cream puff regular C5. I still believe there are many more cream puffs in the regular category. If you are aware of the Z06's attributes, have the ability to look it over well and that's what you want, then by all means go for it!

[@stevendolan7573]

Wow. A great video. Wish you had similar for C6 and C7

[@Toys4Life]

I should start researching the C6 more. I do like that car a lot and in a couple more years good samples will be in the 15k range...

[@oldglorydrift]

whoops bought a 2000 c5 with 90k miles , rust under the battery, and broken interior door panel

[@gangstarsnowman7773]

How had it been since then

[@oldglorydrift]

@@gangstarsnowman7773 extremely reliable

[@gangstarsnowman7773]

@@oldglorydrift Im looking at a 2000 c5 corvette on Thursday im a little scetched out because it's 8 grand and has a salvaged title. It's a little gehto with butterfly doors and stupid wheels so we will see

[@oldglorydrift]

@@gangstarsnowman7773 in my opinion thats way too much. id probably just stay away

[@oldglorydrift]

@@gangstarsnowman7773 i got mine for barely more than that with a clean title and it was pretty clean other than the rust under the battery and one door panel broken

[@StrideX21]

Thanks for this. Before I go look at a 2002 c5 z06 with about 44k miles.

[@Toys4Life]

good luck hunting!

[@mellamodonjuan]

I’ve had a 2000 targa and 2003 Z06. Agree fully on the year/electronics issue. That said, the Z06 really doesn’t feel significantly faster.

[@Toys4Life]

Good info! - Thanks!!

[@Ocala92RTTT]

If your driving a base stock c5 I would t bring up the elephant in the room z06 either 🙄 I have one it’s my first vette and it’s way out in front of a base c5 not to mention looks better with Frc but hey who wants to start off with 60 more hp stock over 345 hp .

[@Toys4Life]

Now if only the base body style came with the LS6 during the C5 run. not a big fan of the Z06 body style, but to each their own.

[@qzorn4440]

very nice info... although some of it calmed me down, sweet deal and some of it alerted me on what am i getting into? 🤔 i just want a c5 or c6 to drive most any day 😎thanks

[@kevinz0681]

Getting ready to buy my son a 04 c5 for his graduations, if you get up in newer years I would stay away from 05 C6 nothing to bad but will have to put ceramic pads on them and had reared issues of grinding.

[@Toys4Life]

That is a nice car for a grad present!

[@kevinz0681]

@@Toys4Life ya he’s spoiled a bit but graduated and been working at a welding shop, so he’s doing things right so far. I put my old Z06 wheels on it and we just put a coarse extreme exhaust and mgw short shifter. Sounds and runs good.

[@curt5253]

thankyou...I getting ready to start,,well I have been looking for about a year now,,seeking a c5..thanks for the advice..there is a lot of info out there..I will take your advice and go 02 and newer

[@Toys4Life]

Enjoy the hunt, spread a wide net to find the one you want - they are out there!!!

[@SERGE_Tech]

outstanding video quality THANK YOU your loyal sub. I am seriously considering c5 but most likely will hunt for a c6 since I really like there modern feel. Can you create a buying guide for c6? I assume this is asking too much since you researched and spent 3 years looking for a c5. What amazes me is how much smarter the average corvette owner is. They actually care about certain elements of there cars unlike other car owners who dont even understand how there car works.

[@Toys4Life]

Sorry I missed this earlier. I am working on a C6 guide but it will be a while. This may help a little...? kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHi2kq2MhrGFoNU

[@SERGE_Tech]

Toys4Life C5 hey! Actually I ended up getting a c7 from a carmax dealership actually got a fairly good deal! I will still probably get either a c5 or c7 for my gf or brother as a gift so a guide is always useful!

[@Toys4Life]

@@SERGE_Tech Nice!

[@SERGE_Tech]

@@Toys4Life I have had the c7 for 3 months now its been awesome! I would have never been approved for it since I never financed a car before. But I got lucky because of covid they where approving, when I applied it was more of a joke I was like haha I will never be approved this I can barely pay for it! my credit score was decent it was 745, Anyway I'm finding ways to pay for it and its an awesome car, thanks to it I decided to peruse my dream and not shut my youtube channel down now and recently have had some really good success in youtube and secured sponsors. I have found a way to communicate with sponsors and have been a full time youtuber for 6 months now. The car is sorta a milestone for me. I might try to make some car content. Anyway I don't know what it is but the car is magical. Prior I Test drove 3 different c6 corvettes I really wanted to try the c5 since it has super good value. I bought the c7 for 40k its a 2017 its got 16k miles its all blacked out. I might send you a link to some images if you wanna see. I also wanted to test drive the older 80s and 70s models but never got around to it, recently found out my neighbor has one from 1989. If I can say anything man id say never give up on your dream and keep having fun!

[@Toys4Life]

@@SERGE_Tech Love to see it - send a link for sure!

[@kennethsobocinski]

Over all I would agree with your list but no mention of the magnetic ride control? Crazy expensive to repair or delete.

[@Toys4Life]

Good point, it's funny how those super special upgrades sound good at the time but end up being an expensive pain in the ass.

[@bcarss1970]

@@Toys4Life I am not familiar this feature. Could you explain?

[@Toys4Life]

@@bcarss1970 magnetic ride control is a high tech suspension shock system that I believe works well but has very expensive components when something goes wrong.

[@DuBstep115]

@@Toys4Life 1200 for BC Racing coilover system that will transform 90s handling to 2020. I recommend this to every C5 corvette owner. Those leaf springs really got to go in this day and age.

[@Toys4Life]

@@DuBstep115 I know a lot of people use them and love them, but the engineer in me says that GM never designed the car to have the shock mounting structure carry the load of the vehicle. Long-term I wonder about issues if used in the real world too much.

[@mikedinno8413]

The 96 LT4 Corvette is the one I would want.

[@Toys4Life]

Good choice!

[@louisweinhold9259]

Im glad I saw this video. Im shopping for one now. Great tips on the 97-2000. I will steer clear. No pun intended but wth.

[@Toys4Life]

Good luck to you!

[@jamestracy1377]

You must have gotten taken pretty hard by a junker. My Vett is and has been problem free. Oh ! I forgot, I bought mine new in Bowling Green, Ky. Mine was a 1000 mile executive car. I love it.

[@Toys4Life]

Nope, but being prudent is the biggest preventative step you can take to be in taken hard.

[@jamestracy1377]

@@Toys4Life You never mentioned the reason for the vibration in the front at 150 mph..... You'll find it I.m sure.

[@markcrisp7315]

Mine is a 2001 & have 799 heads port & polished & 614 lift comp cam headers corsa exhaust & all to many more mods to list yea great advice & video though 💯🇺🇸

[@Toys4Life]

That sounds like a fun machine right there! Thanks for commenting sir!

[@markcrisp7315]

@@Toys4Life it is buddy rowdy & loud 💯

[@JimOlson-k7i]

Just came upon this video recently as I'm thinking about getting a C5. I scanned down the comments a ways but didn't see a reply to the EBCM issue so apologies if this is a repeat question. Is there enough of a difference in the units used in later model years so they cannot be used in '01 and earlier cars?

[@tylervorthmann8470]

Additionally, there are many sellers that will clear the current codes in the DIC, so it will take a longer test drive, to make them pop up again. Anybody purchasing a C5 Corvette should look at the history codes, as the diagnostic system is built in.

[@Toys4Life]

Indeed!

[@toddfoxx9945]

Thanks for this video! I'm looking at 2000 right for $5500 and may pass on it for some the reason you mentioned.

[@codymay5301]

What state are you in?

[@lucysmith4242]

Did you see the car? 5,000$ for a clean covette is pretty cheap

[@Toys4Life]

Indeed.

[@toddfoxx9945]

@@lucysmith4242 I passed on that Vette, high mileage and clearcoat issues, I think somebody got a good deal though!

[@lucysmith4242]

Todd Foxx how high of mileage we talking here? If it was ragged on and "worked" on I'd walk away too.

[@deepjunkgarage]

Looking at C5 Corvettes at the present, good video with lots to think about. 🍻

[@Toys4Life]

Glad you liked it! P.S. - I like your 1964 Lincoln! What is with the warning about not appropriate for some viewers...?

[@deepjunkgarage]

@@Toys4Life I put that in because of the push on KZbin of the COPPA act. KZbin got there tit in a wringer for aiming ads at children and instead of handling it themselves they passed the responsibility to the creators. Since I deal with diecast cars (childrens toys) I put up the warning so I can still be monetized.

[@mjphoto45]

2000 triple black 6 spd convertible 60k miles. Love mine

[@Toys4Life]

Sweet!

[@jeffn2166]

Another site listed the 1999 as one of the best.🤔 Yet another said the 2004 fuel leaks were a $$$ problem. I'm confused.

[@Carguylogan]

There are actually a ton of ultra low mile, immaculate unmodified Z06s and they are more likely to have been kept in a garage and taken care of than the base model C5s as the years have gone by. I love C5s and fourth gen Camaros but I was not interested in a base model C5 because the Z06 is a much cooler car. I don't see any reason to avoid the Z06.

[@Toys4Life]

A lot of people agree with you about the Z06. I should figure out how to do a poll....

[@518Boyz]

Thank you for the lesson 🙏

[@Toys4Life]

Glad you liked the Vid!

[@MRHEAT20]

Thanks- some great stuff that I didn’t know

[@Toys4Life]

Thank you!

[@kevindavis5966]

I would add that a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a garage or mechanic you trust is always well worth the money. If you state you would like to get one at your expense and the owner balks for any reason - walk away.

[@Toys4Life]

Good tip, but as an owner I would want to be present as well.

[@KZM9484]

very informative, thank you! But 2002-2004 models have a different rear-end style which I do not like as much as I do in early 97-2001 models. That is an unfortunate since you recommend 2002-2004…

[@Toys4Life]

In the United States 97 to '04 rear ends are the same. I would be curious as to what you're talking about though if you have a link to some pictures of the different rear ends that would be very interesting!

[@KZM9484]

@@Toys4Life forgive me, I just noticed that only z06 package has that different rear-end: It does not have the hatchback style that other c5s have.