Hi.
I just purchased a 99 Trans Am 5.7 with auto trans.
It had 92k miles. Besides a good tune up,what else should I check. It looks very clean. Want to make sure it is safe and reliable to drive regularly.

I had headers, cat bypass and aftermarket air box.


Thanks
Tom

 

I'd be sure to flush the coolant, change oil and change the fuel filter. I'd also inspect the air filter and do a trans service (probably not a complete flush if it's never had one, but just a pan drop/filter change/fluid refill.) Check the main and A/C belts, replace them if they don't look new-ish and/or show any signs of cracking around the edges. Differential and power steering fluid could also be changed, but that would be second tier priority to me (though I would at least make sure they are properly filled, especially if either shows signs of a leak.) Inspect tires and battery as well, and pull the wheels for a brake inspection - for safety/reliability. If it needs brakes, that would also be a great time to flush the fluid, especially if it's original.

The plugs and/or wires might have already been changed when the headers were installed, but it wouldn't hurt to pull one or two and check them out. If the engine is stock and properly tuned, they might not show much wear even if they are still original.

If it has an aftermarket air lid, it might also have a K&N (or other oiled) air filter. If so, I'd do a good cleaning of the MAF (spray cleaner or, if it's really dirty, you can use rubbing alcohol and Q-tips.)

Of course, if there is documentation showing that any/all of this was recently done (and said fluid/filter/etc. appears clean), then you could probably omit that service.