This question is mostly for those who live in the rust belt. I'm considering looking at an Explorer ('96 or '97) that spent its first three winters in Ohio. After that, it migrated westward to the Great PNW. I've lived most of my car-driving years in California and northward. Rust on cars that are from these areas is next to nothing, unless you live on the eastern side of the Cascades. I try to find cars from this area, but it seems like there are a lot of imports from the other parts of the country. Anyway, how well is your Explorer holding up after driving on salted roads? I would expect three years wouldn't be an issue. I don't mind doing some simple bodywork, but I don't have the skill set or tools to deal with replacing rusty quarter panels, painting, etc.

 

My 95 spent time in SLC, and it showed underneath. Not too bad, and if they are prepped and taken care of properly then it's not a huge deal, but check out the underside thoroughly.

 

Also, check for traces of rust at the seam at the bottom of the rear door openings, below the sill plates. A little bit of rust there can point to BIG rust behind the running boards.





-Rod

 

Thanks. The ad dropped off and reappeared with more than a $1000 increase. If I'm going to pay that much more, I'll look for one that hasn't spent time in the rust belt and had five owners.