Hello all, new owner of a 2000 SSEI. Always wanted one, now I have one but it will belong to my son soon. It was well maintained, so even though it has almost 300k, it still runs and drives like a fresh one.

It does have some issues that I need to resolve, though. I am joining the forum so that I can learn about the car and its common problems and how to keep it maintained for at least another 200k. Knowing a bit about the history of the 3.8, I believe we can get half a mil if we continue to take care of it.

I try to listen more than I talk, so I don't post a whole lot. But I do know a thing or two, and will help anyone if I can.

-Ryan

Welcome. It sounds like the car is in great shape.

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95 SLE... a keeper. 241k miles. Low and Slow.
97 BMW 528i
98 Infiniti vq35'd i30: 13.3@104mph, 30MPG Hwy (RIP)
02 Jag X-type
03 BMW M5
05 Chevy Cobalt LS
07 Infiniti G35s 6MT (Sold)
07 Ducati Monster S2R 800 with DS1000 swap
83 Yamaha IT175K
72 Yamaha DS7: '74 RD250 swap, JL chambers

Info on dropping a 92-99: Here.

Welcome. Those are some very optimistic numbers. Are you taking rust into consideration? Where are you located?

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Andrew - owner/operator of Bonnevilles Unlimited

2004 Bonneville GXP | 60k | White Gold Tricoat | custom built supercharged 3800 hot rod | garage queen
1997 Corvette | 55k | Silver Metallic | Z06 wheels | Date-night Hauler/Parts runner
2014 Town & Country Limited | Cashmere Pearl | 95k | Family Hauler
2002 Ram 1500 Quad Cab Sport | Black| 260k | Official Bonneville Hauler

Yes those numbers are optimistic. And I do live in Michigan unfortunately. This car was bought new in the same area.

However, the only presence of rust is a few surface patches around the wheel wells. I will sand and prime them to keep it from spreading. The chassis is rust free, even the problematic areas of the front subframe mounting points are clean. I plan on keeping it that way. The trim pieces at the top of the doors are rusted and will be replaced. I haven't looked into restoration parts for the car yet.

The steering and suspension components (hub bearings, ball joints, tie rod ends, axles, shocks, etc) are mostly new, at least within the last two years.

Besides, we were fortunate; the car was gifted to us. So even if it dies after a year, how can I complain? Funny thing is, I tried to buy it off my uncle 10 years ago, and he wouldn't sell. Now he gives it to us. It's ironic, but I am grateful. Having driven it only for a few days now, I can tell I want one for myself. Problem is I've already got three project cars and I don't really need another (because I just can't leave anything stock).

Anyways, thanks for the replies.

-Ryan

Welcome Ryan!

Check out the common problems thread in the 2000-2005 section.

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-Car Guy Carl
"Penelope" - 2003 SLE - 247k Miles
"Sydney" - 2000 Honda S2000 - 98k miles