im the process of looking at a 05 ss sc with 51k miles
what should i look for, common issues or questions can i ask?

any help is appreciated.

 

I would take a lot of time looking in the engine compartment.

Make sure it isn't modded, or if it is, make sure it is modded correctly.

The LSJ is a very reliable engine, and at 51k it is barely broken in.

Ask for maintenance records or any service that was performed on it.

 

yeah i was told to ask about intercooler pump, tensioner, and oil changes.

 

Make sure the Heat ecxhanger pump is working and jack up the car and take a look. Check for leaks, bad suspensionn components. Also check the bell housing and intermediate drive shaft mount for fractures caused by wheel hop

 

sorry to thread jack but im contemplating buying my fiancee an 08 ss/tc with 78k miles. any problems or worries to be concerned about? all stock etc etc. only problems i see is the drivers seat has alot of wear in the middle where your knees would be and the leather on the knob is pretty beat and hanging (stitching all jacked up)

 

For the 05 look for bad/worn axles from wheel hop, clicking noises in axles, some 05s had wiring/PCM issues, look for any abnormalities in normal/spirited driving. Listen for any odd noises from the blower grinding usually. Interior paint usually starts chipping off at radio and door panels.

 

make sure while checking all that you don't forget the basics, oil, coolant, make sure there isn't each in the other, etc

 

i bought one recently as of last december. Make sure you look at the struts/ springs. Rust on inside of the driver/passenger doors. any leaks and underbody rusting. Dont worry about the paint chipping off on the radio and controls. Its going to happen one way or another.

 

Get a good look all the way around the transmission..... wheel hop is a bitch and can crack the trans case. Just make sure its dry from every angle you look.

Also check the hub on the blower ..... if it has bolts or not .....stock are pressed on so no bolts . I'd also take a look at the injectors..... lime green are stock .

 

Ask for a list of any aftermarket parts installed because u may not notice some of them if ur not familiar with what to look for.