Figure it out
First answer: No, the 01's are not particularly troublesome - the 99-04's were essentially identical in most respects (changes to a few emission systems and the computer programs being the chief differences).
As for the problems...
We need data. How many miles on car? Has it been modified - lowered, how much - non-stock exhaust, etc.
Assuming its stock and has the 45,000 miles you alluded to regarding the heater core (bad luck there - happened to me with a Nissan)...
Popping/tapping noise could be an exhaust component that has come loose or has been bent (bottoming on lowered cars is common) enough to ocassionally come in contact with the body. Also could be caused by worn components in the front end, particularly if the car is lowered, and ESPECIALLY if you also have bumpsteer caused by excessive lowering. New tie rod ends, particularly a bumpsteer kit, will help this.
The problem with the tire/front suspension may tie in with the popping sounds as well. If you have a worn out set of tire rod ends, this could result in this problem. Also, extremely low profile tires (I run 35's on my car) need to "warm up" a bit before the sidewalls flex. My car rides a bit rough for the first quarter mile or so, then settles down as the tires warm. This is particularly noticeable on cold mornings.
You may also have worn out struts or bushings or both.
Best way to find out the truth is get it up in the air and start eyeballing everything.
tripleblack
mustangman01 said:
Ok,everyone w/a '01 GT,are you having problem after problem with yours? I am! someone told me that the '01 model was a bad one,how true?I don't know! let me brake it down.
#1). popping/tapping noise under car(no clue).
#2). My heater core gave out at 45k miles(odd!)
#3). In the mornings,when I don't let my car warm up and I back out of the driveway,As I'm turning left,my right front tire feels like it's jumping(bad!!). could that be allignment?.....I love my car,but...... "MY GOD"! too much trbl!!