Hello Folks,,I have the opportunity to buy a 2002 Edge (in Canada) for $6500. It has 88,000 miles (133,000 kilometers). It's a 3.0 liter, automatic, air conditioning and shortbed. I was looking at an older 4 cyl which is what I wanted because of the gas mileage and understood that the 2.3's, although less powerful, are quite bulletproof.

I think $6500 (dollar is at par with US dollar presently) is a good price. The truck is currently owned by a guy who has a towing business and is quite messy inside. The seats will definately need a GOOD shampooing. The exterior looks really good with one small paint chip about the size of a quarter on the front fender ahead of the wheel.

A few people I've spoken to have said the 3.0 fuel mileage sucks. I am not a speed demon and am quite happy cruising at or below posted speed limits on the highways. Nice to have the power to pass though. I know most of you folks are Ford people and I'd like to know your impression on the truck I described. Reading through some topics I see tranny problems, poor gas mileage, premature tire wear, handling issues.

My budget is tight. No problem with the purchase, like most, I don'y want to get any "surprises" afterwards. Any information or advice would be appreciated. I want a Ford Ranger. Not a Dakota, not an S-10.

 

It's a single cab with no power windows, etc? I think you could find a better deal from a company that didn't abuse it. It's wierd cause I have a 2002 extd cab edge that has towed since day one. The same filth that you describe. I couldn't imagine selling if for more than $3,000. I got my use out if it.

The single cab edge I own is a 2003 with no power windows. I got that for $11,500 brand spanking new. Paying more than 50% 6 years later seems kind of steep.

I'll describe the problems that I have had with the extended cab. It currently has 154,000 miles on it . The only issues have been cracked exhaust manifold (replaced with headers) and one clogged fuel injector. On the injector I thought it was the tranny cause it made itself known while loaded (going up hills). Luckily that wasn't the case.

I have yet to burn up an automatic tranny, but have burned up 1 manual along with 2 clutches in one of the 3.0's.

Past that I have one Y-pipe cat clog up in one of my rangers.

All in all I have no regrets for buying 3.0's. I have 3 of them from 2002+ and the mileage ranges from 80,000 - 154,0000. What I listed above are the only "major" repairs that have been made. Not bad at all IMO.

 

Thanx. After my original post I realize I failed to mention it is a Regular Cab 2WD. No power windows, cruise etc... As I mentioned, it does have air conditioning. I doesn't tow anything but is used as a support truck (running fuel to stranded motorists, boosting, keys locked inside, etc...) but a grease monkey (no disrespect intended) was the driver and you can tell.

I've searched www.autotrader.com and can't find anything comparable in price.

 

I would say avoid the 3.0 if at all possible. Fuel mileage of a v6, power of a 4 banger. If you want the power get the 4.0, they are rated for the same exact MPG as the 3.0 by the EPA.

With that said though, I think you should wait it out and get the 2.3 for the following reasons:
1) You said you would rather have the 2.3
2) The 2.3 truck should be cheaper (4 bangers are ultimately a cheaper buy)
3) The 2.3 gets better gas mileage, and will save you money in the long run.

 

i like my 3.0 ranger... however it does have the fuel mileage of a v8 with the power of a 4 banger i have had 85k trouble free miles until last week but all it needs is new plugs/wires and its going to get a new coil if i ever get around to ordering it and it should be good as new... i would not pay any more than 6500 for the truck you are describing and maybe not more than 5000

 

Thanx to everyone so far.

I've spoken to the ex-owner and he said if he cruises at 55 mph he would get 21 mpg. He saw a significant decrease at 60 or 65 mph.

I'll take a good look at the truck tomorrow and make a decision. I like the Edge because it does sit up nice as compared to the 2WD XL or XLT. I do not want a 4X4. I travel the back roads a bit and the added clearance and heavier suspension would save me some heartache.

$6500 sounds like a lot but I cannot find a comparable one under $8000. I've searched Craigslist, Autotrader, Cars.com, Unclehenrys etc... nothing.

Thanx again one and all.