Hi,
I currently drive a 2020 Honda Si but have been considering getting an SS for a while. I found a 2017 model with 130k miles and a manual transmission. I do a lot of driving—at least 80 miles a day (sometimes in traffic) and about 400 miles twice a month for work-related tasks. I’m not very mechanically inclined, but I’m open to trying to work on a car. The price is under $28k, but it’s in another state (I live in TX).
I’d like to use it for a long time, but do you think it makes sense to go for it? What should I watch out for, including any maintenance needs? In the worst-case scenario, if I end up needing a new engine due to the mileage I know I’ll accumulate, do you have an estimate for the cost?
Thanks for your time!
I appreciate the suggestions, but it looks like it won’t be happening right now. Maybe someday…
A GM representative once stated that the LS3 is the best V8 GM has ever produced and will ever produce, which speaks volumes about its reliability. Go for it! There won’t be another manual, naturally aspirated V8 sedan made again.
The car will definitely handle your estimated 3,000 miles per month. With an average of 21 mpg, you’ll need to factor in an oil change each month and transmission and differential service every 18 to 24 months. You should address the rocker arms right away if you intend to drive that much. Additionally, plan on replacing all four Mag Ride shocks by 150k miles. If you can manage the fuel costs and the resulting increase in maintenance, go for it!
Can you hold onto the Honda and use the SS as a weekend fun car?
Honestly, with the amount you drive, the SS might not be practical. It gets around 17 mpg in mixed highway and city driving. For 2,400 miles a month at $3.64 per gallon for premium, that’s over $500 a month just on gas. Plus, you’ll be going through tires and oil changes quickly.
The Honda is more suitable for your needs, but in the end, you have to follow your heart.
I think it would be perfectly fine to buy and drive it hard. I recently lived in Texas and used my SS as a daily driver without any issues; I’m just about to hit the 100k mark. The main thing to watch out for is the lifters going bad, which seems to be a common issue with the LS3. It’s a bit of work but can be easily fixed if you’re proactive; I think I’m about to tackle mine soon.
The big question is whether you’re prepared for the fuel costs. My SS averaged 16 mpg while driving around Texas, whereas your Si probably gets twice that.