Buying an I30 - Things to watch out for?

[xmateo]

I am considering the purchase of a 98 I30. The car has fairly low miles. Anything I should watch out for? Are there better years I should consider?

I test drove a 01 I30 the other day and the transmission was very rough shifting up through the gears (automatic). Is this to be expected on all I30's?

[maxhopper]

The drivetrain is pretty stout on these cars, not really much cause for concern as long as regular maintenence has been kept up. Just to be on the safe side, I would still take the car to a trusted mechanic for an inspection. I would also run a car fax to be sure there isn't anything the previous owner(s) have not told you about.

[audtatious]

The '01 transmission should not be shifting hard. That may be an issue. I would also suggest getting the VIN number and having a dealer see if all recalls (if any) have been performed and if there is any maintenance listed on the car within the database (might be useful if a dealer would give you that info).