Any probs to look for in a 2004 LS1 Calais

[Red Beard]

I've done a search and can't find anything specific. I'm going to check out a 2004 VZ Calais 5.7 LS1 this week, if the finances look good I'm hoping to trade up. I was wondering if there are any common faults I should look for, any problem sounds the engine or gearbox might make? I'm aware of what problem diffs sound like and do. Are there any common electrical faults I should look for. My last V8 was an old 5 litre VR ex-chaser, in standard trim will I notice a massive difference over the old VR?

Thanks in advance.

Dave.

[Clubb'N]

you will notice the ls1 is a bit doughy down low compared to the humble 5 litre. but when the ls1 picks up its much better. Heaps better tuned.
how many kms. look for blue/black smoke listen to the motor for loud ticks, most ls1's will tic. Try to hear a cold start.
etc ... normal conditions i guess.
this has been covered alot though.

[Wonky]

Just make sure it's not a repaired write off as there seems to be an ever growing number of them around, even at dealers!! :eek:

[Red Beard]

It's got 122k with a full service history, from the same dealer I bought my SV6 at. Outside looks original, paint really needs some TLC, but nothing that can't be fixed. I'm hoping the repayments will be similar, but the insurance is actually cheaper than my SV6, go figure.

[Wonky]

Do you mean it's being sold at the dealer you bought your SV6 from or was originally sold by them and always serviced by them? If the latter you're probably safe from a repaired write off, but not 100% still. Either way I'd definitely do a REVs check before going much further!

[Red Beard]

I haven't even driven it yet, going over old Wheels and Motor at the moment, checking old comparisons. Not sure if this dealer did servicing, but he says books are up to date. I will check thoroughly after a test drive. I did that with the SV6, rang the place that did most of the servicing, the guy even remembered the actual car. Previous owner was a Doggies fan just like me, had a huge sticker on the back window. To this day the outline still appears when the rear window is covered in dew. I've been lucky so far, never had a dud car from a Holden Dealer, doesn't mean it can't happen though. Thanks for the advice, I wonder whether the sales rep will crap his pants when I plant it though.

[Lincoln87]

im also looking at the same car. well sorta.

cept im waiting for one with a lil less KMs.


Theres another calais, private listed around the cronulla area. That might interest you too.


I'll be having a look at these two cars later on in the week if i get the chance.

V8. Calais. Cream leather. =)

[Red Beard]

The option is to wait a year, and go for a late VZ with 6.0, or an early VE.

[Lincoln87]

ive been waiting forever for a 6.0L calais.. there is not even one for sale atm (on carsales/point) ...and thats australia wide.

and if they are forsale, im assuming 30k + area. as the V6ones are going for 26-32. which is just outright stupid.


on redbook, both calais and ss's with the 6.0L, they are rated at something like 24-28.