We are starting to look around for a 2nd or third gen Camaro I am familiar with the 2nd gen problem areas but am not familiar where to look on the 3rd gen. I am primarily concerned with rust but would appreciate any advice.

 

I don't know if this is a problem area, but on my 89 the only problem I found after buying was there is a crack on the frame where the steering box mounts on. No biggie since I have the engine out I am gonna weld the problem area.

 

That is a common late 3rd gen issue. Other then that many of the same places as the second gen for rust. If the 3rd gen has a T-top you want to check the floors real close and the areas around the seal of the T-top. If the T-tops leak there is a good chance its metal lip under the seal is gone and if they have leaked for awhile the floor might not be to far behind.

 

Along with those areas, look where the jack is stored, that inner wheel well area can go quick along with trunk pan. Sheet metal aside, look at rocker panels and all areas around the subframe. Anything is repairable, but like I stated in other posts my 87 has been at the body shop since 5/29 and I don't expect it back until late october/november. It will cost more than the new motor, trans, tires, interior, registration, insurance and emissions combined!

 

Thanks for the pointers I looked at one today that had rust issues I am going to stay away from the T tops if I can. I screwed up the other day on a 2nd gen the car was a v6 with a three speed stick but the body and frame rails were good the only rust I could find was in the trunk, the engine wouldnt start though. The guy wanted $2000 I offered $1800 he wouldnt move on it but he told me that if the next guy wanted it he would give me first crack for $2000 so I left it at that, I just thought what is my down side? Well he sold it to the next guy for $2000...