RandomActs13x

So I just found out my wife is pregnant with our first child. We're primarily a Jeep and Chevy family and she drives an 08 Grand Cherokee, I drive a 2001 Wrangler.

I think after this summer I will be selling my beast and getting a pickup and I really like the late model F150s, but I know nothing about them.

I think I'll get anywhere from 7-9k for the Wrangler and I started looking at trucks. I found a 2004 crew cab, SB, Lariat edition with 160k miles for 8k.

Now the price isn't an issue, but the reliability is. I trust my jeeps because I have 200k on my Wrangler and 435k on my old 98 Cherokee, and had 265k on the Cherokee before that. Plus I worked at as a Chevy tech for 8 years so I have friends in the business for discounted service. But in this case, I like the Fords.

So is that too many miles for thease to consider getting years out of it?

Thanks for the help!

screamineagle

It's a roll of the dice man. A 12 yr old truck with 160k might go another 100k or more, or it might grenade on the way home from buying it. How it's been maintained is everything but honestly, I wouldn't pay anywhere near that regardless of condition. Just my opinion and good luck!

RandomActs13x

That's exactly what I wanted to hear! I think I've been spoiled by Wranglers that are 16 years old, no creature comforts, 150k+ but still go for 10-12 grand.

It's tough trying to switch to dark side and not knowing anything about the vehicles lol

Tazzfx

If possible, I would look for a one-owner 2006-2008 Ford F-150. It will be rare to find one with low miles, but you may find a one-owner that took care of one well. Price is up in the air depending on where you live.

I bought my 2004 Ford F-150 Lariat Supercrew (red, two-tone with cap on back) for $9500. The miles were at 122k. It was priced below blue book value.

Find that diamond in the rough....

RandomActs13x

Well that's the other question, since 04 is the first of the new design, I've always been trained to stay away from those... but for these I always hear good things about the 2004s. I know it's always hit or miss, but are the chances greater for a lemon in this year?

FerdinandF150

If it has that many miles it's probably not a lemon, though that doesn't mean it was well taken care of either. Buying used is a PITA, but it's nice not being the one to eat the depreciation. d:

Some dealerships will let you barrow the car/truck for a few days, if you can go that route I would. Within 24 hours of owning my new to me truck I had to spend about $800 on it.

weadjust

If you don't need to tow much look for a 4.6. You won't win any races but the engine is about as good as it gets for reliability/longevity in an F150.

joe mcmillan

I have an '04 XLT with most all options and 4.6 liter engine. Bought it at 50,000 miles several years back. Just turned 80,000 miles. Great truck with no outstanding issues. Quiet, smooth and good gas mileage.
I also tow a 22' boat several times a year. No problem with that.

HeathMc

I would just try to find one that has been well maintained. Buying used is a gamble but if you were a mechanic you should know what to look for. There are a lot of these trucks around with well over 200k. Good luck!

snowborderus

I'm sure I'll get flogged for this, but no matter what, buy the extended warranty. I bought mine about 18 months ago and have about $7000 worth of repairs under my belt for this damn truck. However, because of the warranty my total out of pocket is around $300. Within 30 days the tranny went out ($2500) and just recently took it in for cam phasers, alternator, and a/c ($4500). Again, luckily it was all covered.