About To Buy A '97 Silverado V6 - What Are Some Common Problems?

[keith204]

Hey all, I'm new here. I own a Ford F150 but wish I had a Chevy! Anyway, I'm looking for a good truck for my dad in the $5,000 range.

 

We found for $5,500 a 1997 Silverado 1500 V6 w/ 76k miles. It's single cab, short bed, and 4x4. It's not in perfect condition, but drives like a solid truck, and still looks decent.

 

Anyway.... what are some common problems with the Silverado trucks? What should I ask the previous owner about?

[leboyd]

I have the 97 5.7L Tahoe, so the engine is obviously different.

 

however, my focus would be on the alternator, transmission, a/c compressor, radiator and water pump.

 

when buying a used truck/car, the old saying "pay me now or pay me later" is applicable.

 

take it to you mechanic and pay him a couple of hours to check the transmssion (drop the pan), oil, a/c and seals/gaskets.

 

75k isn't a lot of miles on the truck (especially for the year), so there shouldn't be a lot of problems. but if it wasn't cared for properly, you could be spending another $5,000 in repairs over the next couple of years (transmission is the expensive part).

 

hth,

Larry

[Zembonez]

75K is about the point that most of the 4.3 V6 engines needed an intake gasket. (leaked water) If that is done, the 4.3 has just about as good of a track record as the old 350. Great engines but don't expect monster power of MPG. They get mostly V8 gas mileage.

 

For the price, I'd say it sounds good. Any 10 year old vehicle will need some maintenance repairs.

[Zembonez]

OH YEAH.... Welcome to the site Keith!