Started search for a V8 Explorer today.

[Mneofreek]

Well I finally started looking for an Explorer to call my own. My dad owns a 96 4.0 OHV XLT...I had always loved driving his. I test drove one today a 97 5.0 XLT with 177k miles. I really liked it except for the miles. It also had all the options I want plus more. It sure didnt look or drive like it had that many. Its only $3500 so I'd have some spare cash to fix it up...if needed. My only problem was that the V8 didnt seem to have much power...almost about the same as my dads...at least from what I can remember. I might go back to check it out again another day but what do you guys recommend checking out? The brakes seemed to be good, and the car stopped straight. Tires were worn evenly. Shifted good...made a slight wine though...not sure if thats normal. I wasnt able to get it on the highway because it was out of gas. All of the fluids were fine..but then again it was at a dealership.

BTW...the car is at a Saturn dealership. They have that stupid "Best Price" thing and they said they don't negotiate prices. I couldnt even get them to fix a broken mirror. Anyone have any ideas how to get around the price?...maybe even get something extra added in...or any one have any tips with dealing with Saturn dealers? They are some tough cookies.

Thanks,
Neil

 

[Premier]

Here is a story, from when I just bought mine.

I went and test drove an 02 sport, it was a nice truck and the salesman was cool. Anyway, we went back to the lot and I told him I was very interested, but was going to go have breakfast and make up my mind. Well, I actually went to another dealership, and drove an 03 sport. It was newer/nicer and far less miles.
I called the original place back, and told the salesman that I had found a similar explorer, newer, and near the same price but thanks anyway. Not 10 mins later, he called me back and dropped the price by 3k!! Too bad I had already signed the paperwork

If you want the truck, tell them what you will pay. Make sure they have your contact info.. and if they refuse, walk out. They might call, they might not. If not, find another one you like.

 

[Mneofreek]

My problem is that there were 3 V8 Explorers listed this morning and now this is the only one left. I guess I could try to low ball them and if they dont accept then still buy it at that price.

 

[IAmTodd]

Act as if you can walk out at any time. There are thousands of Explorer's out there. If you have the money, I would suggest getting one with lower miles on it. But make them an offer on the one you looked at if you like it. They'll call if they want your business.