Rooker

I've been looking around for a few weeks comparing prices on used GT's. I drove over two hours today to test drive a 2000 gt with 76000 miles. The automatic transmission wouldn't shift into second unless the Rpms got at or above 3000. My question is should I buy a manual or auto? I have no preference really. Just wanna make sure I get something that will last long. Also are there some common problem points of any issue I need to look for while test driving these cars? I'm wanting 99-2004 type. Are these cars notorious for something malfunctioning or breaking often? Let me know what u think. Thanks!

03machab

Honestly the auto versus manual is operator preference. I'm a manual guy, I've owned nothing but manual my entire life.

Now as far as what to look for. I'd consider if your not familiar with the cars, spend like 120 bucks and bring it to a mechanic and have them look over it. Nothing really notorious I'd say.

SD 197

I highly recommend a full inspection by a good independent shop, along with a thorough test drive (not a ride around the block).

I bought a 2005 with 49,000 miles from the owner of my local Ford dealership. The car was well taken care of, and it had full service history and low mileage for the year.

It eventually needed a new slushbox, and had a couple of leaks. All totalled, my 3rd party warranty had to shell out close to $5,000 in repairs! Thank God I decided to buy the extended 3rd party warranty, it paid for itself 3 times over.

JC316

That over 3K to shift thing is a problem when the 4R70W has been rebuilt. I had a 99 do the same thing after a rebuild. As far as lasting, I will take a manual over an auto any day. Just some things to check from a car dealer that knows every dirty trick in the book.

1. Turn the key to the on position and make sure that the service engine soon light comes on. If it doesn't, someone likely busted it out to hide a code.

2. Always crack the oil cap open while the car is running and see if a lot of air, or oil blows out on your hand. There is a thing called smokeless oil that burns, but doesn't smoke, so when you change the oil, it starts smoking.

3. Check the coolant for anything that looks crusty, it can be stop leak for a head gasket or intake gasket.

4. Make sure to drive it around a good bit, make sure that it isn't going to overheat on you.

5. Listen for knocks or rattles, with the hood open, tap the throttle plate open and listen closely for knocks.

6. Look for mis matched coils. People like to change them one at a time.