Buying Checklist

[janegirl]

I will be inspecting a 1998 Ford Explorer XLT (V6 auto) on the weekend. Can anyone give me a quick run down on what I should be looking for when inspecting a used vehicle such as this model? Any help would much be appreciated ...

cheers
janegirl
------------------------------------------
"expectant new explorer driver"

ps. i do know something about cars, being a girl and all that?

 

[Critical_Level2]

these are just some of the things
-Condition of fluids, ie oil, trans, antifreeze
-Available service records, has maintainence been done on time
-any unusual signs/noises

 

[EBInterceptor]

Tire tread. You don't want to have to replace them soon after buying.

 

[janegirl]

Is there anything particular about this model that I should pay particular attention to? I just want to make sure that I should be thorough, then get my mechanic to check it out the rest that isn't visible.

... my friends call the explorers here in Australia as 'exploders'! Not very nice ...

janegirl

 

[boominXplorer]

If it was me i would prefir the reliability of the ohv motor compared to the sohc motor. Not sure what was offered in the land down under though.....

 

['96explorereddiebauer]

Blend door. Turn the temp knob from cold to hot and stop at different places to check the temperature of the air. If the blend door is broken, you should get very hot air no matter what position the temp knob or the mode it is in other than Max A/C.

 

[Redrig]

Originally posted by Critical_Level2
these are just some of the things
-Condition of fluids, ie oil, trans, antifreeze
-Available service records, has maintainence been done on time
-any unusual signs/noises

Service records is important. They will last a long time if taken care of. Hopefully you can get the records, If not make a good judgment call.

 

[jgilbs]

my biggest concern would be the condition of the oil and of the tranny(transmission) fluid. transmission fluid should be reddish(hopefully pink if it is new) and it should def NOT smell burnt. oil should be pretty light in color, not too dark. i would check these fluids because they would be a good indication of the general maitnence the car has recieved in its lifetime (esp the tranny)