Looking at Explorers

[speedyejl]

Hey just begun another used car hunt, this time looking for a SUV.

I think i've settled on Explorers, that being said what are somethings to look for when purchasing a used 02-05 Explorer? From reading over the forums I've gathered the 4wd system and tranny are weak points.

I plan on being able to keep her around as a crappy weather beater with the ability to do a little work. While its down the line my Mustang is probably going to need to start getting towed 5,000lbs with a trailer. While this is probably a completely different conversation will a V8 w. Tow Pkg be suitable for about 200mi towing of the 'Stang a month?

Here's one I'm test driving tommorow;
$12,900 obo (from dealer prolly can work down to $11,000)
2002 Limited 4.6l V8 4wd
60day warranty
Tow Package
Clean (no accidents)

Let me know thoughts on the deal. Thanks guys

 

[sledneck9]

Miles? Condition

 

[speedyejl]

Woops, 57,000 on the clock clean inside and out

 

[sledneck9]

sounds decent at 11k. remeber to tell the dealer that the suv market is soft. expecially with V8's. just check it over good. drive it hard and make sure it takes it. slowly accelerate down a hill and feel for a tranny slip or hard shift.

 

[Thelt]

I would definately go with the V8 for towing that much weight. My V6 tows a small camper just fine but it weighs about half that.

Do some slow hard turns to see if the rear end has any chatter. Do it on a grade if you can.

 

[speedyejl]

Getting in the car tomorrow afternoon when going down a steep hill what should I be looking for to make sure the tranny is in good shape?

 

[sledneck9]

accelerate and make sure it feels right. if the tranny needs a flush or is going bad it will stall inbetween gears. also get in a parking lot and crank the wheel all the way and slowly make a circle, do this in both directions.