are 2000-2002 firebirds over or close to 100k worth getting?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Tom L
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Tom L

I really want to get a firebird but it seems the only ones that are in my price range i can afford are ones close to 100k miles and all the ones with not to many are way to expensive for me. I've heard that with cars now 100k miles is not really that bad but every time i ask about a 2000-2002 firebird no one really seems to know.So i just want to know if anyone really knows how long a firebird can go after 100k miles and any other useful facts when looking to by a firebird.
 
Well growing up with american cars, I can tell you they pretty much die out around a 100k miles. This meaning, your probably gonna need an engine rebuild at some point soon, the bushings are probably all shot. I mean the list goes on, but be prepared to spend some money on odds and ends. Brakes, tires, oil, etc...

I may be being a bit harsh, but I would say american cars 1990 and newer have increased in reliability a lot, over the older ones. Now working on them cheap, that may not be the case. An older v8 car, parts are cheap. More electronics, means more expensive harnesses to go wrong, fuel injection, smog, etc.

I think firebirds are nice, but inspect it properly to be sure. Look underneath for damage, look at rotors for grooves/warped, check pad material left, check tire tread. look for oil leaks. have seller drive it around for a little bit.

this is all stuff that can stop you later on the road, and end up costing more money than you ever thought.
 
Pontiac has had a great reputation for many decades. Been referred to as the "poor man's Buick." Firebirds are well built. Be aware Camaro & Firebird have the same chassy.
As Firebirds were bought mostly by young people, most have been driven pretty hard. Many have had re-built engines and tranny's, which is not a bad thing.
If you find one in your price range-obviously make sure it doesn't burn oil. Have the front suspension (tie rod ends, etc.) and all brakes checked by a mechanic. Have him check to see if it's been in an accident. They know what to look for. You can also find the history of a vehicle going to carfax.com and entering the VIN number. Good luck.
 
It depends on the motor and how it was driven/maintained. Buy it from a young person, you'll probably be in for lots of repairs. Buy it from an older person, you'll probably have a better experience. The 3.8L V6 ones are ok and still have good power, but the V8s are good for at least 150k. However, the auto transmissions have always been weak, so stick with a 5/6 speed if you're looking for longevity.
 
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