Looking to pick up a used 1500 (2006) with the 5.3 and rwd. Car is from SoCal the entire ownership and 1 owner that traded in for a new car (per Carfax/dealer).
The rear bed door doesn't open (saw this is common), but don't see any leaks or issues. It has 181k miles and they want 11k for it. It's at a used car lot (at least a chevy) and say its it good shape.

I'm driving this from SoCal to Daytona beach with my son for College and looking forward to the bonding trip. I plan to replace all fluids (diff, trans, oil, etc and sparkplugs/wire), but what else should I consider with a vehicle of this age?
Brakes look fine (pads plenty) and new tires (Michelin Defenders). Car has aftermarket exhaust, but passes Ca smog. Love to hear feedback on this....

Many thanks,
JALTS

 

check the frame for rust, and take it for a proper test drive (really give it the beans)
Best to have a mechanic look it over for you, run diagnostics , etc.

 

11k sounds like a lot for the years & mileage - but I'm old so biased on prices. My 05 Suburban was about worn out by that time

 

Hello; Pickup prices are in a strange flux right now. I have a 2004 Silverado 1500 WT I bought new with 66,000 miles and a 4x4. Guy has been trying to buy it from me. He offered $15K at one point. Do not know if he was serious as never did a test drive. I realized a new truck will be over $40 K and will have cylinder deactivation so have kept my old truck.

Here are some suggestions. If possible, try to be at the dealership to see the truck start up from cold. Watch the exhaust. Listen for a slap when cold that goes away when warm. Check the steering as a loose intermediate shaft was a common recall. Also check the dash gauges as the electronic dash board was also a common problem. Had mine replaced under warranty. Took maybe 15 minutes for the tech to plug in a new one but maybe an hour to program it.