Checklist: Original Lamborghini Diablo 1990–2001

Draft: this page has not had its final check yet, so check the sources behind anything you rely on.

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

The inspection sheet: mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Look for 6

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Cam chain tensioners 1990–2000Ask whether the original tensioners were replaced with the later manually adjusted ones, and listen for a rattle off the throttle. Goodwood Classic Solutions, owners' reports (unofficial)
Worn clutch All yearsIn a high gear, accelerate from low revs and feel for slip, and make sure it shifts cleanly when warm. Ask when the clutch was last done. Owners' reports (unofficial)
Bent clutch slave rod All yearsAsk whether the rod between the clutch slave cylinder and the pivot was replaced. Owners' reports (unofficial)
Weak brakes on earlier cars 1990–1998Brake hard from speed on the test drive, and ask whether the brakes were upgraded. A published reference, owners' reports (unofficial)
Rust in the steel spaceframe All yearsHave the frame looked over from underneath for corrosion. Goodwood Classic Solutions
Failing catalytic converters All yearsAsk whether the catalytic converters were replaced or checked, and smell for overheating after the drive. Owners' reports (unofficial)

Recalls filed for these model years, newest first. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 98V162000 1997–1998The rubber windscreen header protector, which the owner fits when driving with the top off, was left out. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 98V030000 1996–1997The automatic window retractor can stay closed, so the doors may not open. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 95V186000 1992Paint on the back of the wheel centres can let the centre and its flange slip against each other, and the stud sleeves may not be fitted properly. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

Pre-Audi build quality 1990–1998Goodwood warns that the cars from before Audi's takeover come with the build quality of that time, and two owners in two FerrariChat threads say the finish is not the Diablo's strong point. Goodwood Classic Solutions, owners' reports (unofficial)

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