Need an opinion before buying.

Jun 22, 2004 3 Replies

I've been looking for a new(er) truck for some time. My wife recently had her car in the shop for a front end alignment, and I was talking to one of the salesman. He showed me a 2000 GMC Sonoma (crew cab) that had arrived earlier this week. This truck only has 10,000 miles on it, and looks like it is brand new. They're asking $18,000. This truck has my interest, but I'm skeptical about something that looks too good to be true.



I've had some co-workers that have had problems with there GMC trucks. Both of them had mid-90 models with the Vortec engines, and both had to have engine bearings replaced after about 30,000-40,000 miles. Other things I've read online about the Sonoma is that the truck is good, but the body is cheap and will rust out in about 3-4 years.



I'd like some input regarding this. What have been some of the common problems with this particular year and model? What other questions should I ask about vehicle before making a decision? Should I pursue it, or steer clear?


I went to Kelly Blue book and loaded a 2000 Sonoma as you've described with

10k miles. I added V6 4 wheel drive alloy wheels, CD stereo, AC, PW etc. and the retail value is around $14500.00. So unless it's loaded to the max I don't see the deal.

I gave less than that for my 1999 K1500 Z71 with 53,000 miles in February of this year. It's got a fair amount of options on it. 5.7 liter, automatic, premium alloy wheels with the optional tire size, limited slip, AC, PW, premium sound extended cab with third door.

It's a buyers market for used vehicles right now. I'd look around hard before I bought anything. I also bought this truck from a Chevy dealer and had them touch up a few dings and scratches in the body shop before I would buy it.

My two cents.

Brian

On Tue, 22 Jun 2004 09:10:01 -0400, T.L.B wrote something wonderfully witty:

Unless they were full-O-s*it the local dealer was advertising them here on the Radio last week as a Fathers Day special for $18,999 brand new out the door plus tax, title, freight & document preparation.

Agree with the other replies... 18k is way too much. I just purhased an 02

2500HD LT trim for 24 that retails for 28. I would think the rig youre looking at could be had for 12-13, tops ... I had a GMC Sierra previously... loved the truck. All brands have lemons... GMC makes a good rig.

Good luck ...

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