buying a 2003

[chadrules]

I have been lurking for about 3 ... hours and have found some things to look for but I'd like to know what you guys think.


It's got 80k miles, 4x4, automatic for $7,500. It seems like a good deal which makes me worry something is hiding from me.

I figure change all fluids and spak plugs once it's mine. 45RFE ****** is like my 545RFE in my Ram so already familiar with it's maintenance.

 

[wheeee32]

Is it a private sale or dealer?

 

[chadrules]

Dealer:disgust:

 

[first&lastKJ]

I would take it to a shop you trust to have them check it out.

 

[04Liberty]

Nice, one with an RFE. Wish I had one in the 04.

 

[gtommec]

45RFE ****** is like my 545RFE in my Ram so already familiar with it's maintenance.

do you know for fact that it has the 45RFE? i.e. have you checked because only early 2003's have them, neither of my 03s have the 45RFE.

 

[wheeee32]

Have it taken to a mechanic you trust and pay the fee for them to look it over top to bottom. If it checks out well then go for it.

 

[hyde]

I got an 04 Limited with less miles going for $8k. Want it?
I am not sure if the dealer will let you take it to a mechanic.. They might ask the mechanic come to them for inspection. Good luck.

 

[chadrules]

do you know for fact that it has the 45RFE? i.e. have you checked because only early 2003's have them, neither of my 03s have the 45RFE.

Sorry, you are right I was making a partially educated statement.

Turns out it had a few too many issues for me, rough shifting and hunting, looked like someone was messing with the ****** and it had surely been removed at some point, leaking, and a p0734 code. Smoked when started.

we looked at 4 others and my wife selected one with a 4 cylinder manual! It's a super clean single owner 2002 4x4 with 89,000 miles clocked and very well maintained. She actually preferred it over a 2004 v6 manual :shrug: $6800... tomorrow I will be putting on new tires, these are very old and dry but had plenty of tread left on them, I just don't trust them.