Question for WM Statesman/Caprice Owners

[Luminous]

Hi Folks,

I have done a search and found a few things which have helped. But I am hoping to speak directly to those who own a WM Statesman/Caprice as I am currently looking at a 2008 model for the missus and want to know what to look for when inspecting and taking for a test drive.

* Have the general population of owners had issues with the electronics? Or is this a few unfortunate isolated problems?

* Has the interior held up over time? I realise this is dependent on the owner's care, but for those who 'do' look after it, how is it holding up after 7-10 years.

* Other than the usual wear 'n' tear parts, are there any other (expensive/Labour intensive) components that I might need to allow for?

Thank you for your time.


Jason

[CLUBRED]

Most fairly well documented VE issues effectively carry across to the WM, have you read this at all?

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showthread.php?89681-WM-Caprice-Problems&highlight=problems

I'd expect most issues to be resolved by now (providing its been cared for), but some on going experiences. A few guys here using them as Limos so I'm sure they'll chime in.

I have a VE calais V but the fit and finish is effectively the same. My interior is fine (only 73,000kms though), generally draws good remarks from people how well it looks even with 2 kids trashing it for the last 6-7 years (I do have covers over the back of the front seats though, saves shoe scuff marks etc - maybe not a real issue for the WM with the extra few inches), and I have a small blanket on the arse of the drivers seat (minimal wrinkling on the edges of the seat, and bugger all clear visible wear). Make sure the flip key isn't wobbly and the plastic doesn't separate when opening and closing the key. The front end suspension knock in mine returned after being "fixed" so I suspect the early fixes weren't a proper fix so listen out for slow speed clunks. The foams on the earphones for the rear seat entertainment weren't great, I had mine replaced twice. I don't think the WM had roof mounted DVD, but if it is, check the fold down screen operation - make sure its smooths and firm, and watch the plastic seem on the screen for any separation. I'm also getting some minor rattles here and there, and fitment of trims aren't quite spot on as they used to be. Leather on steering wheel is holding up great. I had electrical issues early on, but touch wood its been fine since (every now and then - perhaps 3-4 times a year - my front parking sensors dumb out though - actually, its just the chime as the on screen display still works fine when it happens). My bonnet struts won't hold the bonnet anymore either (not expensive though, even from dealer). Not sure how much more help I can be, other than I wish I bought the WM instead based on the child factor (I hate getting kicked in the back).