I'm in the market for a reliable economy car to get me back and forth to work everyday, as well as provide occasional family transport (wife and 1 year old son). Ive been looking mostly at Cavaliers and Sunfires (im a GM guy), and decided to check out a few Saturns as well.

What I've found so far is a blue 2001 SC2. Its a loaded 5speed car that also has a sunroof and traction control. The dealer claims its a one owner car and it only has 73k miles on it (I havent taken a look at it yet). The asking price was $3000, and i offered him $2500. He came down to $2700, saying if the car hasn't sold in a week or two, they may do $2500.

Is this a good price for this vehicle or should i keep looking? The only thing he claims is wrong with it is the sunroof no longer works (stuck in the closed position thankfully). If i should pass on this one, I've been looking at mainly 99' - 02' SCs, mainly cause of the third door. Any particular year to watch out for, or thats better than the others?

 

The price is right ... get a carfax on it.

 

Check the plactic end tanks on the radiator for swelling or cracking. The area that goes first is easy to see on the drivers nearly at the top facing the engine.

Check the water pump for leaking each oil change.

Put on a new coolant tank pressure cap

Most drivability and many starting problems are related to the ETCS and or connector. If you have to replace either get them from your local GM dealer.

If you find oil in the plug galley you need to replace the CAM cover set, another item best bought from your local GM dealer.

Do not let this engine run hot, do not let it run on old oil.