Guys, need some expert advice/opinions. If anyone is familiar with them, I'd like you to tell me what you think of the '00 Limited with the 5.0, 4 spd auto trans, AWD(reliability, any known problems with AWD, etc.).
Thanks
Rick
rcogswell@titan.com

Hey Rick,

That Explorer is almost like mine except I have an XLT and you're looking at the Limited. I think the only thing the Limited has the the XLT dosen't is a sun roof, leather and some other interrior bells and wistles. I too purchased mine from a dealer, with 18K miles, but it was a 2001. I only paid $19K for mine. The reason, the seller of it (only one owner) traded it in for an Excursion. Of course, I'm not sure of the situation why the dealer has yours but it may be something similiar. As for reliability, don't worry - you still have plenty of factory waranty left!

One more thing, I checked out Edmunds (http://www.edmunds.com) for a price on your ride and it only came out to be about $23K will all the options I could check (I'm not sure if the one you are looking at has all the options though).

So, do some more homework on the price of it, make an offer, and you'll love it, trust me!

I don't no about the price and options on a limited, but I have a 97 mountaineer with the 5.0 and like the power it has. Mileage will be around 14.5-15 mpg. Since it will be for your wife the AWD is a good thing. I have not been able to get mine loose in the rain and small snows we had in Kansas City this past winter.
Iran mine through some mud last week and it handled pretty good but I do have 30X9.50X15 BFG All Terains on mine.

See if the 4th digit in the VIN is the letter "D" That indicates side air bags - rare option.

I was going to get a limited but could not find a 2wd one, and ended up with a loaded XLT instead. The big diffs are: seats/upholstery (W/ seat heaters), message center, fake wood, different wheels, paint colors & cosmetics and air suspension.

If it works for you - I say get it!

There was a poll regarding common problems with specific model years, you may be able to search for it. I had tons of problems with my '99 LTD until the warranty was up, and I've had great luck since! :chug: I have 58K miles so far. I have had no problems with the AWD and it loves the snow!