I had previously posted this in the main forum, but I saw this and thought it the more appropriate place.
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Gentlemen (and Ladies),

I've been shopping for around for another car and have decided to pick up a Z.

I've found two recently in my price range, an 04 Touring w/ 35k miles, and a 05 Touring with 28k miles. Both in silver (sadly, i wanted blue). I will be putting in some performance upgrades, but mostly A/V. It may be a daily driver, it depends on how much I enjoy it 8)

My question is what should I look for at time of purchase? I'm not too mechanically inclined, beyond intakes and exhaust, so I'm hoping for some help here. What should I be on the look out for before I sign anything?

Also, what issues are known to be had with these styles and years, in particular? Any tranny issues, etc? I"d like to have an idea of upkeep over long term.

I've been through the 100 questions thread, but I'd like a bit more specific input.

Thank you in advance,

~D

 

From what I've read here, the '05s are more trouble free than most other years. There were numerous issues with '03s and early '04s which were addressed in mid year with an '04.5 model.
There have been many posts on the problems-tire feathering, manual transmissions, grease stains on windows, axle clicking, and maybe a few others.
These problems did not hit every '03 and after this long, any problems have probably been addressed by the previous owner.
I have an '05 and have no problems other than problems pumping gas which was fixed.
Why not hold out for the color you want?

 

Welcome to the forum.

 

Thanks for the info, and the welcome.

"Why not hold out for the color you want?"

Numerous reasons. Mostly because I've had an eye out for several months now, and black and silver is all I've found available (that are low miles and in the price range I want). I've also got some business traveling coming up, then a cruise, then holidays, and a lease ending soon...so I'd like to get it out of the way. I can always paint it.

EDIT: Is there any way for me to tell if an '04 model is a 4.5?

 

I have a 2003 which has been trouble free. I don't think you can go wrong with an 04.5 or 05.

 

What did you get?