I'm going to look at it tomorrow. Now here's the kicker. It has 185k miles on it. I like higher mileage vehicles. For some reason they've treated me really good. Now at 185k I'm assuming that the fuel pump issue has been addressed and that the timing belt will have been changed some time recently. They're asking $6,700 which seems a fairly reasonable price to me. Would probably try to get it down to 5500-6000 though.

My question is when I go to look at it what are some key things I should check while I'm looking at it. Or is it not even worth it to look at it with that high a mileage. It looks in decent knick but wont know for sure till i go check it out tomorrow.

Also, I currently drive a Diesel Ford Excursion SUV so I know a thing or 2 about expensive repairs. ($3,500 for an oil pump and injector harness replaced...) So I don't see this car surprising me with maintenance costs. I'm also an Aircraft mechanic so I consider myself pretty handy.

Thanks in advance
- Eric

 

I'd say test drive it on the freeway if they let you. Of course listen for any weird noises. Check any fluids if you are able to. Turn the car completely both left and right to where the steering wheel stops, do this while moving, so you can listen for any pop sounds.

Thats all I can think of as of now.

I bought my 02 with 87k miles in December for 8k. It needed a full tune up right off the bat. I got the timing belt, water pump, thermostat, oil, tranny fluid. All of that done recently. Oil was the same week I bought it. I had to change out my valve cover gasket, so you'll need to check that too. Easiest way is to pull out a coil pack and see if there's oil on the tip. Also, if you hear a humming sound coming from the back seats you'll need to change the fuel filter.

Pretty much go into the sticky for common issues. Follow that list. That should help the best.

 

Thanks. Ya, I looked at the sticky. Was just looking for some more personal experiences to add to it.

 

No problem.

Other than the basics, the sticky covers most of the issues to look out for. I'm more concerned about the miles on that car. A lot of people still buy them at high miles and don't have a problem, but from what I usually read those cars are at 150k.

 

went and drove it today. Tight as a drum. No clunking over bumps. 4wd doesnt make any noise. Shifts are very smooth...or at least as smooth as my left foot . Looked underneath and the front suspension, at least what was visible, it looks brand new. No rust or anything. still has the paint and stickers on some of the components.

Only worry I see is a check engine light on the dash along with this symbol (O) in the center. I believe that if I remember correctly that is a worn brake pad light. And the brakes look pretty shabby. Other than that it drives and works surprisingly well for 180k+ miles. Overall it seems to be worth it.