I am purchasing an Excursion, and want to know what to look for. I'm looking at a 2000 Ltd 4x4 V10, with high milage.
If you can help me, I'd appreciate it.
I've looked around here an like it. You guys have a nice forum set up.
Thanks in advance.
Tim

 

Many, Many things to look at here. I would first start with checking your intended use of the vehical. Do you plan on mostly urban driving, interstate highway driving, towing, family trips, etc. Also are you ready for the fuel mileage, many people are "shocked" when they average 13-14 MPG in COMBINED city/highway driving, which happens to be very good when you consider the size, weight and capabilities of these trucks.

The "Limited" is a fine ride that includes all the goodies from the "Eddie Baur" package and adds some extras of it's own.

You should check the "door post sticker" to determain the build date, axle ratios, etc. as these can become very important. An "open axle" with highway gears will not suit you well if you intend on Slick boat ramps, muddy camp sites, heavy towing or "loaded" mountain driving.

What do you consider "high milage" for many it's anything over 15,000 miles per year (1250/month). Take note that the example you are considering may be a early 2000 model year truck that could have been built, sold and on the road as early as September 1999. With that in mind 40,000 miles would not be considered "high".

I would also like to give an example of why I think many buyers place undue "value" to "low mileage vehicals". Consider my own case.

I drive 50 miles one way to the office every day. I then drive another 100-200 miles per day "checking" on or various jobsites. I tend to average 1250 miles per week or about 60,000 to 65,000 miles per year, most of the "highway" miles with the motor loafing along at about 2000 rpm, very few trans shifts and not a whole lot of braking inputs. In other words not a hard life for the truck.

Then there is my wife who, like many drivers travels less then 10 miles to and from work. When you add in her many short side trips she MAY put 100-150 miles per week or less then 10,000 miles per year. However her engine never gets fully warmed up on her many short trips. Also the stop and go along with many turns, stops and driveway entrances puts way more wear and tear per mile on her vehical. YET when it's time to get her a new ride (I get her a new one every two years) we always are able to sell her's at a premium because buyers desire the low mileage rides.

With all of that out of the way, good luck and don't worry if this one doesn't pan out. Ford made a bunch of these and many are coming "off lease". Add to that the "fear" many have about gas mileage and you can pick up a very nice truck for a very good price.

Petrol