Its that time for me to buy my first car and I have been looking at the 1997 STS and I am really interested in this car. I read some reviews and the common thing is problems with the head gaskets and having to replace for expensive cost. I was wondering if its a really big problem or just happens to some people. What should I look for in a used STS so I won't get screwed over? Replaced engine? Replaced Gasket? Etc. Any help wanted!!

 

are there service records for the '97? if so check see if coolant has been changed and at what mile intervels... also has maintenance in general been done? how many miles on the car, and from whom are you buying from? get back, we'll try and help
rickyd

 

Service records you mean like has anything been replaced? How would they show? reciets? Sorry it will be my first car so everything is new to me. What are some key aspects I can check to see if they have been keeping good care of the engine? I will be buying off of www.craigslist.com

 

i would certanly have a vehicle like that checked out by my mechanic, or at least get from the owner all receipts of the maintenance done on the car. can you get a vin#, and ask a gm dealer to run a VIS for you? or at least run a carfax.... sorry, but i really dont think i buy a 1997 sts w/n* engine from craigslist.... your call though
rickyd

 

If I shouldn't buy a cadillac off craigslist then where would you buy one from?

 

sorry.... i guess i like to touch, see, ride, drive, and all that stuff... try this, cars.com do a search 100 miles out. you can specify year,make, model, probobly even color. that way if you find one, you will be able to go see, ride, and drive the car. not to mention talk to the owner, in most cases. its pretty easy. by the way, what state do you live in? maybe i can assist you.
rickyd

 

On craigslist I get very local searches, cars that are about a 20 minute drive away from me. They are put up by the owner and I can go look at them and speak to the owner in person. BTW I live in canada.

 

coo.... well check out this '97 then. drive it, and look'r over, any lights on? how does the engine run, sound? does she shift right? do all electrics work ..... check all fluids, especially coolant, and oil ......feel for paint lines, ..... what condition is the interior? how are the tires? what are the miles and does the car show well for them? ask for service records, and to see receipts. check the title, get a carfax. do you like the car..... does it feel right...... then take it for another ride.
tell me:
how many miles on car? price? color? vin #?
good luck.......let us know what you think..... well give are two cents worth.... lol
ricky