2002 Monte Carlo LS - Avg. Life Expectancy?

Anyone have any experience with the newer 3400 series engines, such as, should I consider buying a Monte w/ 116K for about $7K? The car is fully loaded, no evidence of a collision, and the seats don't seem to have been ridden by 300 lb. man for those miles... Car is overall in clean condition and everything works. Just wanted some suggestions on whether the 3.4 has a decent life expectancy. Any comments from guys with previous experience with this body style and engine would be GREATLY appreciated.

The 3.4L engines are infamous for their intake gasket leaks. Average repair at an garage runs around $600 to $800 on up. GM issued a revised gasket to fix the problem along with revised intake bolts and gasket adhesive in July 2002. I'd check to see if there are any problems with the intake gasket, or if the repair has already been done. Do a search in this forum to get a feel for any other potential problems with the body and/or engine. I'd also check the maintenance records if available to see whether or not service was done when it was required. These engines use DexCool antifreeze, and you have to monitor the level in the overflow tank to make sure it stays up. And the antifreeze should be changed more frequently than the previous 5yr/150K mile interval recommendation.

for that price you could probably get an ss with a 3.8 much better motor IMO 3.4 isnt a bad motor , just that hey ya might as well get the ss

Well, here's a deal for ya... I'll sell ya mine with only 97K miles for 6000.00 And then you're sure to save 1000! Anyone have any experience with the newer 3400 series engines, such as, should I consider buying a Monte w/ 116K for about $7K? The car is fully loaded, no evidence of a collision, and the seats don't seem to have been ridden by 300 lb. man for those miles... Car is overall in clean condition and everything works. Just wanted some suggestions on whether the 3.4 has a decent life expectancy. Any comments from guys with previous experience with this body style and engine would be GREATLY appreciated.