Need Advice On Buying New Expedition

[Guest]

1) Thinkin of using Carsdirect.com. Anyone have any experience with them?

2) I want a 5.4L 4x4 XLT with tow package. Seems most have limited slip diff instead of Advance Trac option. Wondered if someone might be able to explain if one is really better than the other? Advance trac worth looking / waiting for?

3) Any other useful advice for a guy about to lay down $35K on this vehicle would be appreciated!

BS

 

[Guest]

If you definately want a new vehicle then go ahead, but i would recommend getting a used one. I shopped around and looked at every expedition i could. After 2 months of careful shopping i found what i was looking for. I got a 2000 E.B. for 27k in 2001. Only 14k miles on it. THis truck was mint, no dog hair, stock tires but were in great shape , i searched the truck for an hour looking for signs of a wreck or abuse. If you plan on spending 35k might as well get top of the line. Resale value isnt that good on these rigs so saving 8-10k right off the bat is great, plus interest on 10k isnt cheap over 4-5 years. ID say get the E.B if you can . Moonroof, heated seats( great on your lower back on long trips), power everything, air suspension and of course 5.4L standard. If you arent in a hurry and have some patience you could get a great deal. With such big rebates they are offering makes used car market crap so walk into a dealership as i did and tell them what you want, if not walk away.

 

[rwinch]

Ditto that on getting a GOOD used truck. No sense paying for the immediate depreciation as you drive off the dealers lot.

I got my '98 in 2001 with only 14k on it. It has been an excellent truck, w/only a couple of very minor issues.

Also, in all cases, folks should get the factory tow package, even if you do not plan on towing stuff. The added benefits of the extra cooling that is installed (you usually get a trans cooler, oil cooler, larger radiator, remote oil filter mount) will keep the truck happy for much longer than those that don't have it.

If you buy used, I recommend the following:

1) If you are good mechanically, do a thourough inspection and drive test like icehouse did above. If not, get someone with you who is.

2) After purchasing, go immediately (do not pass GO) to your favorite shop and get all fluids changed, brakes looked at, maybe a wheel alignment. This is to give you a baseline for your future maintenance, because even if the truck is in good shape, you really don't know how it was kept up!!!

 

[hollister_jim]

I used cars direct and was pleased. Payed well under dealer cost for 2004 EB 4x4 with nav, dvd player, air suspension, everything...

reccomended..

-jim