Notices
1999 - 2006 (GMT800) Section for all discussion related to the 1999-2006 Chevrolet and GMC trucks.

Should I buy a 2004 Silverado for $500

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old August 25th, 2017, 9:15 AM
  #1  
CF Beginner
Thread Starter
 
ARJ2017's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2017
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default Should I buy a 2004 Silverado for $500

My friend is offering his 2004 Silverado for $500. It's got some issues obviously, but it runs well. Issues: 220K+ miles, tiny transmission leak, but not enough to cause puddles, radiator fluid leaks, a/c issues, gauges on dash don't work, small crack in windshield, back driver's window doesn't open, tailgate doesn't lock properly, some minor dents. I live in a somewhat urban area, so I don't really need the truck, but I hope to own a home again in about a year, so it would be useful then. I've seen these trucks in similar condition selling for $4k-$6K. Is it worth getting for $500 with its issues? I don't mind the issues it has except the gauges and the leaks, but other than that I wouldn't put much more money into it. I would just drive it until it gives out. So is it worth keeping around and driving it now and then until I can really use it? Or is it just going to be a nuisance?
Old August 25th, 2017, 10:03 AM
  #2  
CF Monarch
 
oldchevy's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Miami, FL.
Posts: 5,772
Received 336 Likes on 317 Posts
Default

What is the body like? Is it all dented up and rusted out? Anyway it is worth 500 in parts, so if you have somewhere to keep it, then get it.
Old August 25th, 2017, 5:15 PM
  #3  
Super Moderator
 
therewolf's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2008
Posts: 2,476
Received 20 Likes on 19 Posts
Default

Just a heads up, the waterpump is easier to change, than it was on the old 350s.
So if the coolant leak is on the front passenger side of the engine, down low, it may be
an easy fix.

As to whether to buy it or not, that's your judgement call, although I would advise that
it will nickle and dime you, if you do. Under the major assumption it was reasonably
maintained, and not driven too hard.
Old August 25th, 2017, 5:18 PM
  #4  
CF Monarch
 
kevinkpk's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: kevinkpk
Posts: 5,917
Received 138 Likes on 130 Posts
Default

Some detailed pix would help
Old August 26th, 2017, 4:50 PM
  #5  
Super Moderator
 
tech2's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Posts: 9,168
Received 507 Likes on 467 Posts
Default

for the most part $500 is a steal. You cant find running trucks for that price.
Old November 28th, 2017, 7:39 PM
  #6  
CF Beginner
 
Murbella's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2017
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

It all comes down to how many things need fixing, how many miles it has done and much your are prepared to spend on it. Remember that these beasts were designed to, and do, run almost forever. I bought mine with 280,000Km on it, have travelled around 50,000Km since then over 2 years, mostly towing a 5 tonne 5th wheel, with no major problems (but heaps of minor ones). The little ones keep the service guys in drinks and me out of pocket, but I still love the dammed thing..




All times are GMT -5. The time now is 1:05 AM.