Well, I bought a 2001 Navigator from the Ford Store in San Leandro 9-9-06. The next day, I cleaned and waxed it. Late in the afternoon (Sunday) we went to go to dinner, and the transmission started acting funny, like it wanted to downshift to first everytime I let off the gas. I got on the freeway, and it seemed OK for 2 miles, and started stinking like a burnt clutch or brake shoes. I got off the freeway, and came home. I left a message for the dealer. Early the next morning, I started it, and no reverse! I rolled down the driveway, put it in drive, and ground to the curb. Trans is shot it appears! Only 84K.
After much doubletalk from the sales manager, I signed the Option to Cancel,(Calif, 2 days) and faxed it to them. They are sending a tow trunk (51 miles) in the AM.The cancellation option calls for the unit to be returned , the form signed, and a $500 restocking fee to be paid. I called my credit union and told them to cancel the funding, which they did. The Sales Manager assured me (Ha!) they will fix it to my satisfaction, but won't fax a proposal in writing. My position is, the deal is cancelled. I wrote a check for $500, but he says it is not needed, they will pay for the repair. I copied everything.
Question, should I consider completing the deal or walk away? We really like the SUV, and plan to tow a 7000 lb boat/trailer combo. What else will tow it for $15K?
Other problems also uncovered:
!. the LLS compressor is very noisy
2. The LSS union is the old type.
3. The windsheild is pock marked, only visible is direct sunlight.
4. The moonroof won't seal unless I push up on the rear.
The SUV is otherwise in great shape, no dents or wear, new tires, ect.
Any comments will be appreciated.

 

If the transmission goes out on it the first day you got it, there is no telling how the previous owner drove it. I would look for something else.

 

Thanks, I feel the same way. I wonder if it was driven in 4X4 on dry pavement instead of AWD, and this screwed up the tranny, transfer case and diff clutch pack to name a few items.

 

find another one - the writing is all over the wall on that one.

 

"Thanks, I feel the same way. I wonder if it was driven in 4X4 on dry pavement instead of AWD, and this screwed up the tranny, transfer case and diff clutch pack to name a few items."

Since I have owned & driven 4x4 vehicles in 4 wheel drive on hard surfaces for the last 29 years...... I don't think that should worry you. I have NEVER lost a transmition or transfer case in a 4x4. ALL my vehicles see in excess of 100,000 miles from me & most see over 200,000. Currant truck has 369,000 Wifes 99 Expedition has 184,000+

 

RUN away Fast....

 

These have a different set up than the Expys, my daughter has one so I've seen both. Mine has three options: AWD, 4X4 Hi, 4X4 Lo. There is no option for 2 Hi. The owners manual says driving on dry pavement in 4X4 instead of AWD can cause damage. I believe it.
If I get a new tranny, LLS compressor, windsheild, ect and a one year powertrain warranty, is this still a bad deal? These Intech 32 valvers are great engines, the body and interior are spotless. I'm not sure I can do much better for a $15K tow vehicle capable of 8200 pounds. They are willing to keep fixing it until I am satisfied. What else should I be concerned about?
BTW, my wife has a bad back, and these Navigator seats are the only ones she can stand for a long trip. I sold my Tahoe for this reason. I guess this is why I am still considering this one. And it looks very sharp also.

 

Find an 03-05 Expy 15-20 grand...its the new style from 02 and past...03 expy with tow package was rated around 8K towing. I love my 03...It tows great..

 

Help me out, edheiser. What is an LLS compressor and an LSS union?
Thanks!

Where else are you going to find a deal like that???

 

Do a search on LLS on this forum, a wealth of info. LLS is the load leveling system which includes a compressor for the air ride shocks. The union refers to the weak link connector for the air hose by the master cylinder.

The tow guy just called and asked if it was an all wheel drive......the dealer should have specified flat bed carrier when he ordered the tow...not a good sign. I used to tow for a living, AWD needs a flat bed or a dolly system to raise all four wheels.

Yeah, I agree, fixing it to my satisfaction sounds good, but what are they going to say to a new tranny $2100, transfer case $1500, and diff clutch pack $100, LLS compressor $250, windsheild $200, moonroof motor and module $350 = $4500 plus labor? I'm not going to road test a partial fix by towing by boat (7000 lbs) up to the mountains on a hot day. They may just auction it off as is and cut their losses. Since it still goes forward, they may get a fair price for it and screw the hapless buyer. As you can see, I don't trust them to be honest. I'll want a full parts list and warranty if I proceed. A low ball rebuild from AAMCO won't cut it.

 

I've been looking for a local one, they all have the 4.6 motor which is not powerful enough for my needs.
I need a 5.4 motor 4 by 4, leather power passenger seat, low mileage pampered extended cab truck or SUV for less than $20 grand. And it must be local(SF bay area). I prefer the 32 valve Intech engine also. Anybody find or have one, please let me know.

 

Go to traderonline.com.. Get out of the bay area it will be cheaper...