Newb from London, Ontario

**Reaper** · 05-22-2008

I'm researching my next car, and I want to know any known issues with 2001-2003 GTPs. I don't want a repeat of my current pile of crap SVT Focus.... A car that I regretted buying just 24 hours after picking it up.

Don't buy a car from a sales woman you want to boink.

**BADAZGTP** · 05-22-2008

First off, welcome to the forums. Second, that was your problem to begin with, it was a focus. I myself have a 1997 GTP. I've owned it since 1999 and I have no complaints. And I'm sure the 01-03 will be just as awsome. I don't think you'll go wrong or have any regrets buying one.

**archemedes** · 05-22-2008

welcome

**SyntheticShield** · 05-22-2008

Welcome to the community.

Is this an invasion from Canada, seems we've been getting quite a few members from our neighbors to the north.

With regards to your previous vehicle. I owned a Focus, Kona edition. While I wont say I loved it, it was a Ford after all and my first vehicle from them (my last as well), it never gave me any trouble outside the fuel pump which was a known issue.

I service a couple Focus vehicles as well, both SVT versions. Ford dropped the ball big time not pursuing that line particularly in light of the RS version that was available in Europe.

Anyway, with regards to your question a few of the things that come to mind are:

1. Supercharger coupler. Perhaps not a really common issue, but easy to fix
2. Lower Intake Manifold Gaskets (will leak coolant into the engine). If it has the older design plastic gaskets, then its likely to develop a leak at some point. A tad bit more involved than the coupler, but by no means overly difficult if you have any experience turning a wrench.
3. Valve cover gaskets. They will leak over time, but again not a terribly hard thing to take care of.

Thats about all I can think of at the moment. Every car line, without exception, is going to have its historical issues. The trick is comparing that with your mechanical ability and determining if its something you can deal with should the situation arise, or at the very least will it be something you can get help with from a local club.

**Reaper** · 05-22-2008

Thanks guys. I didn't think the Supercharged versions had the problem with the plastic intake. lol. Either way, I know there's a club here, but I'm not entirely sure which one. I just know that there's a few very dead sexy W-bodys here.

**SyntheticShield** · 05-22-2008

I dont know what year they switched to the aluminum intake gasket, may have been 2003, but Im not sure. But a few hours work and with the help of some How To's here, it can be done with anyone comfortable working on a car.

**LowlyfeGTP** · 05-22-2008

Welcome to GPF!!

Not problems, but just personal preference. My top choice is 99 and 00 GPs. Mostly just due to options offered, production changes, etc.

**2Fast4U** · 05-22-2008

**03GPScottyd** · 05-22-2008

Welcome!

Might have some minor problems with window regulators but there are plenty of parts and people to help with any problems.

**Blown97** · 05-22-2008

Welcome!!!

**UR LOSN** · 05-23-2008

Welcome to the forums!

**nemesis** · 05-24-2008

waaas sappening

. for me i like the 02 cause it's the last year for 2 doors (coupe) and i wouldn't buy the 03 cause most of the after market parts that fit 97-02 won't fit the 03.

**Reaper** · 05-24-2008

Originally Posted by silverbullet

waaas sappening

. for me i like the 02 cause it's the last year for 2 doors (coupe) and i wouldn't buy the 03 cause most of the after market parts that fit 97-02 won't fit the 03.

That's odd... I thought '03s were the same as '97-'02.