Hi all I'm looking at buying a 2002 or 2003 Ranger 4x4 automatic with a V6. I was just wondering what kind of mileage the v6 gets and if there is any particular problems with the truck itself I should look out for. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

These are generally dependable trucks, as you know. The thing about buying used is you have no idea what the previous owner/owners have done with the truck. Just check things thoroughly. Check the condition of the oil, tranny fluid. Completely check the operation of the four wheel drive system. Run a carfax report, and ask for maintenance records. Also, check the body thoroughly for signs of wreck and repair.

I also look for signs that the truck has been used for towing. That's an often overlooked item that can rob a lot of life out of a truck if it wasn't done properly and if the extra maintenance wasn't done. I actually know used car dealers who remove receiver hitches from trucks and vans before putting them on their lot so people won't know that the vehicle has been used for towing.

 

The ranger has two size 6s and one 4 banger. I think its . . . 2.4 +/- (4 cylinder) 3.0 small 6 and 4.0 big 6. Dont expect good milage with a supercab, auto trans, 4.0 eng. I drive a 4 banger, stick short cab and get ummm 24-26, maybe 28. But a 4.0 auto is very nice and halls a## Also note, if you have the option . . . the alternitive fuel models have a bigger fuel tank . . . not sure how to tell if it a alternitive fuel? look in the gas cap door.

 

Sorry im not much of a beleaver in "check the maintenance records" I do all my own work, and keep both truck in perfect shape BUT I dont keep records and lose or trash recipts. records dont that tell much. Just one man opioion. Buy the way . . . is there a spell checker here someway?

 

I can understand why you wouldn't want someone asking for your maintenance records; you don't have any.

I agree that records aren't a guarantee of a solid running truck, but they are one of those things that should be considered. Imagine you're considering two identical vehicles. With one the owner says, "Trust me, I changed the oil every 3k." With the other, there's a record of every maintenance and repair item ever performed. Which would have the most value? Obviously, anyone in their right mind would want the one that has the most proof of proper maintenance, rather than taking the word of a guy who's trying to sell you his "good" truck.

As to a spell checker, I don't know of one. If you really need one, may I suggest typing your post into a word processor first? Then, after you've spell checked and corrected it, you can cut and paste it in here.

 

In my 63 years Ive bought a lot of used cars. I always have about 6-8 family cars around just for fun. Good stuff, 2-3yr old vets, ranger, f150, no junk. Most are repo, lease turn in, & so on. They never have records. I inspect 1. Check the body, color fad, over spray, bolt movment i.e. fender boltunder hood, door/window/hood/fender fit, weather striping look for signs of leak under carpet/under spare tire, SMELL, dings/dents, 2. under the hood, antireeze color, trans fluid smell and color, battery age, any teenager alteration (if so dont buy it) brake fluid color, eng oil color, any fluid leak signs, (under 75k 3-4 yrs old car belts/hose will be ok) 3. Push and pull all buttons/switchs, tire condition do they match size/type, rock pits in glass, with a light and mirror check front brake pads, Does it have signs of heavy towing, vin # number match year/title, title signed off by lender/owner, driving conditions, sound-in motor/wind whissel at windows, vibration in wheel, brakes, body, wheel pull (if so mostlikly a tire problem not always alinment), over all condition tells me if it been taken care of or abused. As for oil changes I realy dont care if is been change every 3000 or 8000 it not going to change anything, if the oil looks dark ill change it (with filter). air filter not changed . . no big deal $8, Atifreeze little dirty . . no big deal $10-15. Spark plug . . . they last forever, well maybe 150,000 miles & then only $8-$20