Picking up a 97 Z28 30th Anniversary later this week with just under 100k miles. Just wondering what the known weak points are on this car so there aren't any surprises. Not sure what has already failed on the car and what has yet to fail, so I'm hoping to cover all the bases. Thanks!

 

A well known part on our cars are the opti-spark systems. Its that or sometimes I've heard of te waterpumps. I've had to replace both of mine last year.

 

^^^ agree opti seems to be the agreed upon pita for the car. water pump going and leaking on the opti causing it to go is a common story. other than that any issues are pretty much the same as any other car.

 

I concur.

 

I thought the Opti-Spark problems were ironed out in 95? Are the 97s still as problematic as the early fourth gens?

Water pumps seem to be a weak point across all manufacturers.

 

only difference is the opti has a vent to do away with condinsation which does help. wasnt the answer though.

 

In addition to Opti spark, and water pump, the intake mainfold will have an oil leak - toward back of engine- not fatal but irritating (garage floor mess, Bad smell after it hits exhaust when you come to a quick stop,) electric window motor fatigue, plastic interior parts fall off or break (center counsole will break at the hinge), dash, itself (cracks from sun), radiator will clog at about 124,000 miles, AC compressor will go, and the rag joint will need replacement. Also, the rubber tranny mount on 6spd will go, the motor mounts too, the rear lower control arm bushings will need replacement, gas tank may rust internallyand clog fuel pump., and the ABS inop light will spasmoticaly come on due to dirty sensors or traction issues.

 

Hahaha, thanks maddog05, you've given me so much to look forward to! I've had the car six days now, and here's what I've already had to do to it:

1. New MAF
2. New motor mounts and tranny mount (shifter would bind up when shifting around corners)
3. Replaced both power window motors (passenger completely stopped working, driver's side slow)

I've also noticed:

1. The "Low Coolant" light comes on when I have plenty of coolant, so I may have a clog
2. The ABS Inop light indeed sporadically comes on
3. Faint smell of oil burning on the block/exhaust manifold

should be a journey.

 

This is why we love them right