07navi
Full Access Members
Where did it live?
Opinion on 2012 w/20k miles
- Thread starter Tonspike
- Start date
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Tonspike
Member
Los Alamos National Labs. Fingers crossed there’s an alien in the backseat waiting for me.
Thunderbirdsport
Full Access Members
It's kinda odd that it's that rusty on the chassis. Do vehicles with different DSOs not get underbody treatment according to climate? As in, would a vehicle ordered from the SW not get it, whereas one from say NE might?
If so, that would explain it. And maybe the Fed at Los Alamos salt their pavement to keep the snow melting...hmm
I would think you'd could fine one with less rust, but, the mint interior is rather nice, too.
If the engine/fluid situation is not an issue, I'd be tempted, if I were you. Can you show interior pics too?
If so, that would explain it. And maybe the Fed at Los Alamos salt their pavement to keep the snow melting...hmm
I would think you'd could fine one with less rust, but, the mint interior is rather nice, too.
If the engine/fluid situation is not an issue, I'd be tempted, if I were you. Can you show interior pics too?
ManUpOrShutUp
Full Access Members
+1. The mileage doesn't always tell the full story. My mom always trades her cars in with less than 80K on the clock, but she literally idles them for hours every day. Police/security have a tendency to idle them for the entire shift.
I'm beginning to think this too. Tires have been changed a couple times, but only 20k miles. Runs rough. Came from a dry climate but has a bunch of rust. Also, $17.5 for a 2012 with only 20k miles seems awfully cheap. Remember the saying, "If it seems too good..."
Not saying I would walk away, but I would definitely pay a couple hundred bucks to have an independent shop do a thorough pre-purchase inspection. If you don't have the time, I would walk on this one. Too many red flags that can't be explained.
Tonspike
Member
Not sure where it’s implied that it “runs rough”. Not trying to get defensive because I appreciate all the suggestions received so far, but I had it inspected by a local Ford dealership (it’s being sold by an independent dealership) and they said it runs perfectly. Regardless, I’ll be checking it out for the first time in person this morning and will be thoroughly evaluating its state. Will keep you guys posted!
Aspen03
Full Access Members
Fwiw im from Indiana and the 2003 navigator in our driveway has basically no rust and has been in the Midwest its entire life, its snows a good bit and they salt heavily every year. Conversely my 2003 expy has rusted out rockers, fram rust, core support needs some tlc. One was clearly babied while the other driven and but well maintained.
Not bashing it or anything just don't treat it like its a cream puff because of the 20k, be extra skeptical because it has freakishly low miles, people tend to get starry eyed because its "the one I've been waiting for". Made the mistake once myself in the past and missed a couple obvious issues because I was caught up in everything else.
If you haven't seen it yet how did you get it inspected...or is this the seller's inspection?
The tire situation is easily explained by punctures, cruising around a research lot where im sure many vehicles come and go it wouldn't be out of the ordinary to encounter the odd nail, random metal, etc. Im sure being a patrol vehicle they wouldn't settle for a patch on a tire.
Hopefully it is what as described and you're happy with it. It would probably provide many years of service and save you a bundle over what new models run.
Not bashing it or anything just don't treat it like its a cream puff because of the 20k, be extra skeptical because it has freakishly low miles, people tend to get starry eyed because its "the one I've been waiting for". Made the mistake once myself in the past and missed a couple obvious issues because I was caught up in everything else.
If you haven't seen it yet how did you get it inspected...or is this the seller's inspection?
The tire situation is easily explained by punctures, cruising around a research lot where im sure many vehicles come and go it wouldn't be out of the ordinary to encounter the odd nail, random metal, etc. Im sure being a patrol vehicle they wouldn't settle for a patch on a tire.
Hopefully it is what as described and you're happy with it. It would probably provide many years of service and save you a bundle over what new models run.
Guess I misread about the "runs rough." I also live in CA and purchased a 2014 EL that was a former rental. Had higher miles at 95,000, but documented maintenance for the past six years. It started out in Tulsa, OK and was used as a rental for one year where it racked up 25,000 miles. Then sold to the new owner in CA. The private party had it meticulously maintained. Even at 95,000 and starting out life in OK, the truck has almost zero surface rust underneath. For being a NM truck with only 20,000 miles, that's a lot of rust.
All I'm saying is that the story and evidence don't match up. If you can get a warranty thrown in, I would probably go for it.
justinp16ex
Full Access Members
It's a deal, SEND IT!
LexpeditionKy
Member
Hello, in general I'd say go for it, but the price is a bit high for the age. That rust is nothing to worry about (spray grease or wax on it; Fluid Film or the lanolin coating). Perhaps you can talk them down. Just like many vehicles the hours on the vehicle far exceeds normal for the mileage and that should reduce the price. I think the black box has the Hours On recorded. Edmunds, NAD etc all reduce value of vehicles in this category.
I have a 2012 XLT 4WD that was bought at 52K miles 5 years ago for $19K at the dealer. A custom ordered one owner vehicle but simple. So similar to the one you are interested in. It had warranty remaining. In the first 6 weeks the dealership did $7200 in warranty repairs! Removed the motor (head gasket leak) and tranny (parts) , replaced front axles, rack and pinion, rear bearings etc etc. Ended up doing all the fluid services included while out no charge. I paid about $400 more for plugs and a timing kit since the motor was on the floor and simple to do. I paid for battery, Michelin tires, all the heater hoses, and belts out of pocket. Done. Have used the Ford extended warranty a few times for electrical things since.
It is a fantastic vehicle and the way the sway control, trailer anti-sway and advance trac work is a miracle. Saved my life many times. Ive used the anti lock brakes in an emergency and they are a great too.
Consider this. You need warranty coverage for the expensive maintenece ahead and parts are getting scarcer. The dealership will gladly sell you some warranty (Ford or 3rd party) and since they make a profit on that they can reduce the amount of the purchase a bit. Also the dealership also likely sells BG fluid products. Look online at the BG Warranty guarantee packages. Since you need the fluids all done anyway, get one of the comprehensive BG Fluid Warranty deals. If anything goes out that those fluids were in, repair covered completely.
Then just get Ford (or 3rd party) extended waranty on other stuff like electrical, AC and what ever else you want covered.
I know this may sound weird, but my dad had a lifetime of running Ford Service departments etc and I've seen it all.
I personally had the BG fluids Waranty for the wife's Suzuki wagon since Suzuki was leaving the US market. The tranny had a failure and BG paid to have a new one shipped from Japan! It works.
good luck
I have a 2012 XLT 4WD that was bought at 52K miles 5 years ago for $19K at the dealer. A custom ordered one owner vehicle but simple. So similar to the one you are interested in. It had warranty remaining. In the first 6 weeks the dealership did $7200 in warranty repairs! Removed the motor (head gasket leak) and tranny (parts) , replaced front axles, rack and pinion, rear bearings etc etc. Ended up doing all the fluid services included while out no charge. I paid about $400 more for plugs and a timing kit since the motor was on the floor and simple to do. I paid for battery, Michelin tires, all the heater hoses, and belts out of pocket. Done. Have used the Ford extended warranty a few times for electrical things since.
It is a fantastic vehicle and the way the sway control, trailer anti-sway and advance trac work is a miracle. Saved my life many times. Ive used the anti lock brakes in an emergency and they are a great too.
Consider this. You need warranty coverage for the expensive maintenece ahead and parts are getting scarcer. The dealership will gladly sell you some warranty (Ford or 3rd party) and since they make a profit on that they can reduce the amount of the purchase a bit. Also the dealership also likely sells BG fluid products. Look online at the BG Warranty guarantee packages. Since you need the fluids all done anyway, get one of the comprehensive BG Fluid Warranty deals. If anything goes out that those fluids were in, repair covered completely.
Then just get Ford (or 3rd party) extended waranty on other stuff like electrical, AC and what ever else you want covered.
I know this may sound weird, but my dad had a lifetime of running Ford Service departments etc and I've seen it all.
I personally had the BG fluids Waranty for the wife's Suzuki wagon since Suzuki was leaving the US market. The tranny had a failure and BG paid to have a new one shipped from Japan! It works.
good luck
RogerD1959
2.5 Months Ltr, and Final Bill 22K+
Valvoline Quick lube can do the oil, and transmission fluid for about 210.00 full synthetic. Differentials and transfer case can wait. I would have the oil and transmission done, radiator??? That will add 149.00. If you do the transmission only have them remove 50% of the transmission fluid, and replace what they remove with new. When you get where you are going have them to a full transmission service. If it has a computer stability program best leave the transfer case service to a dealership. Sorry everybody but I looked into it for my 2016 There is a reason you can get the transfer case oil at Advance or AutoZone. If it has a stability program, traction control, limited slip there is this stuff you can only get, around here, put in at the dealership.
RogerD1959
2.5 Months Ltr, and Final Bill 22K+
Valvoline Quick lube can do the oil, and transmission fluid for about 210.00 full synthetic. Differentials and transfer case can wait. I would have the oil and transmission done, radiator??? That will add 149.00. If you do the transmission only have them remove 50% of the transmission fluid, and replace what they remove with new. When you get where you are going have them to a full transmission service. If it has a computer stability program best leave the transfer case service to a dealership. Sorry everybody but I looked into it for my 2016 There is a reason you can get the transfer case oil at Advance or AutoZone. If it has a stability program, traction control, limited slip there is this stuff you can only get, around here, put in at the dealership.
no MORE_MPG
Active Member
Tonspike,
Best of luck on the purchase and your trip! I assume by now it's a moot point, but I'll add my recent (August 2020) purchase of a 2011 as a reference point.
XLT, EL, 4wd, NJ, NY, PA, 2 previous owners, 135K, rusted out passenger rocker panel, about the same surface rust on the frame for $9K.
I did shell out about $1,500 to the local dealership for state safety/emissions inspections, rear control arm, trans filter, coolant flush, axles, transfer case fluids and floor mats. Regardless of the money, I feel glad to have a baseline of fresh fluids to start.
Best of luck on the purchase and your trip! I assume by now it's a moot point, but I'll add my recent (August 2020) purchase of a 2011 as a reference point.
XLT, EL, 4wd, NJ, NY, PA, 2 previous owners, 135K, rusted out passenger rocker panel, about the same surface rust on the frame for $9K.
I did shell out about $1,500 to the local dealership for state safety/emissions inspections, rear control arm, trans filter, coolant flush, axles, transfer case fluids and floor mats. Regardless of the money, I feel glad to have a baseline of fresh fluids to start.
Tonspike
Member
Thank you for all of the great information and insights, everyone. I arrived at the dealership the morning of Christmas Eve and went straight to the service bay where they had topped off the fluids and changed the oil, so I could hear the engine turn over cold. It started no problem and I proceeded to take it on an hour-long test drive, cycling through all modes, checking all buttons and functionality, etc.
Mechanically, the car performed beautifully. No odd noises, warmed up to the right temps and was drama-free. Cosmetically, there were some things that were not visible in the photos they had sent me, such as a couple minor door dings and small spots on the seats. The rear wiper was also broken and needed to be replaced. Aside from these minor imperfections, the truck was mint.
After discussing these issues with the dealer, they replaced the rear wiper from a donor truck on the spot and lopped off another $1250 from the price due to the cosmetic issues. Knowing I had come from CA, they really didn't want the deal to fall through at the last minute. I ended up paying $16250 before taxes, title, fees, etc.
Prior to purchase, I had also tracked down the shop that maintained the vehicle in Los Alamos (third party, non government), and they were adamant that the Los Alamos National Labs vehicles were extremely well--and regularly--maintained. I've since driven the truck over 2k miles from AZ to my current location in TN without a single issue, noise, rattle, vibration, or oddity.
Regarding fluids: I've received a mix bag of information from the half-dozen or so shops I've spoken to. Some say to replace all fluids, others say replace some, others yet say it's not necessary until you hit 100k miles. I'm going to invest early and have them done--I got a deal on the truck and I'd rather run with the peace of mind of fresh fluids than save the $500 or so bucks it'll ultimately cost me. I also went ahead and replaced all four tires, it was running two different sets (one relatively new Hankook and one no-name Walmart brand) and being a performance car guy (I've only ever owned sports cars prior to this) the importance of tires is near or at the top of my list. So $650 bucks for a fresh set of Cooper Evolution H/Ts, a detail, and soon to be fluids change and I feel like I'm driving a new truck. There is an enjoyment and fun of driving a tall, commanding, smooth, and quiet vehicle that I had never experienced before. Let's say that for a daily driver and utility vehicle, I am totally converted.
Last but not least, I've been considering taking the truck to Ziebert when I have the time to have them perform a de-rust process they offer, alongside an undercoat to prevent any further rusting. Looking at the truck in person, it really is only surface level and I'm not too worried to be honest.
Here are some pictures I've taken so far:
Mechanically, the car performed beautifully. No odd noises, warmed up to the right temps and was drama-free. Cosmetically, there were some things that were not visible in the photos they had sent me, such as a couple minor door dings and small spots on the seats. The rear wiper was also broken and needed to be replaced. Aside from these minor imperfections, the truck was mint.
After discussing these issues with the dealer, they replaced the rear wiper from a donor truck on the spot and lopped off another $1250 from the price due to the cosmetic issues. Knowing I had come from CA, they really didn't want the deal to fall through at the last minute. I ended up paying $16250 before taxes, title, fees, etc.
Prior to purchase, I had also tracked down the shop that maintained the vehicle in Los Alamos (third party, non government), and they were adamant that the Los Alamos National Labs vehicles were extremely well--and regularly--maintained. I've since driven the truck over 2k miles from AZ to my current location in TN without a single issue, noise, rattle, vibration, or oddity.
Regarding fluids: I've received a mix bag of information from the half-dozen or so shops I've spoken to. Some say to replace all fluids, others say replace some, others yet say it's not necessary until you hit 100k miles. I'm going to invest early and have them done--I got a deal on the truck and I'd rather run with the peace of mind of fresh fluids than save the $500 or so bucks it'll ultimately cost me. I also went ahead and replaced all four tires, it was running two different sets (one relatively new Hankook and one no-name Walmart brand) and being a performance car guy (I've only ever owned sports cars prior to this) the importance of tires is near or at the top of my list. So $650 bucks for a fresh set of Cooper Evolution H/Ts, a detail, and soon to be fluids change and I feel like I'm driving a new truck. There is an enjoyment and fun of driving a tall, commanding, smooth, and quiet vehicle that I had never experienced before. Let's say that for a daily driver and utility vehicle, I am totally converted.
Last but not least, I've been considering taking the truck to Ziebert when I have the time to have them perform a de-rust process they offer, alongside an undercoat to prevent any further rusting. Looking at the truck in person, it really is only surface level and I'm not too worried to be honest.
Here are some pictures I've taken so far:
Thunderbirdsport
Full Access Members
Oh wow, that IS a nice interior. Sounds like a decent truck and rather looks it too.
Honestly, I'd visually check the coolant...if it looks good, and tests good, then I'd run with it. Diffs and trans case are up to you ultimately, if it does indeed have a stringent maintenance history as that place vouches for, then I'd probably just sit on it awhile and drive 'er.
Pretty clean from what I've seen.
Honestly, I'd visually check the coolant...if it looks good, and tests good, then I'd run with it. Diffs and trans case are up to you ultimately, if it does indeed have a stringent maintenance history as that place vouches for, then I'd probably just sit on it awhile and drive 'er.
Pretty clean from what I've seen.
Trainmaster
Old School Member
Looks good! Hope it's the start of a great year for you.
mnachreiner86
Full Access Members
Looks great! Congrats on your purchase snd glad you found what you were looking for!
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