Mattstermh

I understand the 97 and 98 have a different engine (VVTi) than the 99-01. Is it better? Worth the extra price? What about transmission? And they all suffer from engine sludge, right?
I found a good deal on a 97 but if I'm better off getting the 99-01 than I'll wait it out.

crwys

Get a 97 or 98.
99 is when they started the change to vvti. Some 99's won't have it but the ones that do have the newer transmission as well and it's been known to have problems.
These cars only have sludge if you don't change the oil in a timely manner.

WILLYumD

Ditto.

Checking under the oil cap is not a good way to look for oil sludge, btw. Best way is to take off the valve cover (which you probably won't be doing during a test drive haha).
Also check the transmission fluid and, of course, ask for maintenance logs.

The 00/01 models may look better, and have a bit more torque, but what I see trending throughout this forum is that they are less reliable.

Mattstermh

I gotcha. If I'm spending $5k on a car in the middle of nowhere, I don't really have a trustee mechanic to bring it to, that's the problem.

tomf

The 99 has vvti. As far as I know the only other problem with the vvti is failing oil control valves (OCV). Replacing the OCV is simple, so as far as I'm concerned it's of limited concern when considering what year to buy. On the 99, the U140e transmission is more expensive so if you have to replace the transmission that would be a consideration. Overall, the differences are so slight I'd just buy the one where you can get the best deal.

mpmp

I'm also looking for an old ES and, from my limited research, it seems like the 3rd gen 97-98 is the best bet.
1999 is the first year with the VVT-i engine.

speedkar9

I agree, go with 97-98 if you want a reliable car. The tranny's were much stronger than those in 99-01.

Of course there are small features that you'd miss not getting the 00-01, such as the auto dimming mirrors, memory mirrors, HID headlight option, 16" alloys, nicer tail lights, etc.

Hayk

iTrader: (1)

All valid points. Having met 99-01 owners and been around the club for years, I have to say that the reliability of these cars is closely related to the previous ownership experience.

I have a 98 that I restored in every aspect of the way. Is it reliable, sure, but it doesn't change the fact that parts will eventually wear out and need replacement: suspension, tires, oil seals, filters, fluids, lights, etc.

Every ES is capable of being a great car if it was well cared for. Look at the owner, not the car!