Looking for feedback on a 2001 Convertible purchase

[solconguy]

Thanks for reading. I'm shopping for a used convertible. Found a 2001 Solara SLE with 101K miles (silver with blk leather). Got a short test drive in it. Ride was very smooth and quiet (drove down a couple rough roads to check out flex etc). Impressive ride, great braking. Good shape, has the usual dings, missing a piece of plastic trim (that piece that covers the passenger side side mirror). Top is ok but rear passenger side under window has exposed staples. Driver auto down window does not work but all windows go up and down. Top is loud and squeaks a lot going up and down (anyone know how much they cost to replace?). From grill is missing some of the chrome (looks like it just wore off). When I put the car in reverse a warning light came up on the dash. Checked the manual, says burnt bulb. Rims look like they have started to flake a little.
I'd be interested in hearing from anyone about maintenance schedules and what kind of money it takes to keep this car going strong.

Thanks in advance for any response.

[TheGreenDutch]

How much and what warning light came on exactly? Blinking engine light?

[yaddadaimsayin]

it's a very reliable car. from what you've listed, the issues all seem very superficial and can easily be fixed by yourself. good luck with your decision.

[GzNutz]

Sounds like a decent lara. You might get more responses if you can give us the asking price.

How much and what warning light came on exactly? Blinking engine light?

Since it came on when the car was put in to reverse and the op was able to look it up in the manual to be a burnt bulb, it was mostly likely the bulb indicator.

[solconguy]

Thanks for the replies everyone. GzNutz, I did some searching..it is a white light "reverse" light that burnt out. Not a blinking check engine light GreenDutch. Should be a simple fix. They are asking $7500. I checked car fax. Lists one accident (it hit a parked car).Got another test drive scheduled this Friday. I hope you are right yaddadaimsayin and it's a reliable car. I've checked a few other convertibles; Mustang, Camero, etc and I keep thinking how much more I liked the Solara.

[solconguy]

How much and what warning light came on exactly? Blinking engine light?

Not a blinking engine light, it was one of the exterior bulbs - reverse lights. Came on when I put the car in reverse. Not a big deal to fix.

[solconguy]

it's a very reliable car. from what you've listed, the issues all seem very superficial and can easily be fixed by yourself. good luck with your decision.

thanks! I'm going to another test drive this Friday (if it's still there).