Hi everybody. This is my first post here at Pennock's, but I have already been reading the forums for a few weeks and spent some time in the archives. I decided that i definitly want to buy a Fiero and that an '88 GT with the 5-speed would be perfect (t-tops would be even better, but you have to pick your battles). Now, my question to you good folks is: What are common things that could go wrong with this car? In other words, when I go to look at one what points should I be mindful of when checking for damage or wear? Thanks in advance.
Toaster_Man
IP: Logged
04:00 PM
PFF
System Bot
FastIndyFiero Member
Posts: 2546 From: Wichita, KS Registered: Aug 2002
if the body and interior look good, and the price is right, take it. repairs are part of owning a 17 year old car. look for rust on the frame, bent suspension parts. if it feels stable at 60 mph it should be alright, a little shake is either wheel balance or alignment. i paid 300 for mine, and have put in a water pump and wheel bearing, all part of life. good luck.
if i were you id go swipe a few ignition moduals from a junk yard and keep one in your car with a tool to change it at all times., ive figured this out 2 times the hard way in the 4 months ive owned my 88 formula
------------------ me and my baby, 1 of 261 built
IP: Logged
04:34 PM
Old Lar Member
Posts: 13798 From: Palm Bay, Florida Registered: Nov 1999
Check out www.twinlakesfiero.com Bob is in Paxton, IL and has several Fieros at his shop for sale. He may have one or two on his lot that would meet your needs.
Thanks alot guys. in that case I am kind of suprised at how well these hold up, usually when you ask that question about other cars you hear something like "The drive motor mounts weren't really built strong enough, so you gotta watch that" or "the door handle likes to break so you'll probably have to replace that right away."
Do what I SOULD have done, visit with a Fiero Club! They will show you what to inspect when buying, and maybe even give you a few leads on local cars for sale.
Another thing to consider - Fiero's are (generally) very cheap to maintain!! Replacment parts are very inexpensive, most are from the good ol' GM parts bin.
As mentioned before considering are in a northern state the single most important thing to look for is rust on the frame, especially in the rear. Also be sure to pull up the carpet in the trunk and check in/under there as well.