I'm in the market for a used truck. I'm currently a college kid that is on a low budget. A family friend is offering me his 2004 f150 (the newer body style). 4x4 super cab. This thing is stacked leather, automatic everything, but the only issue that I have is that it has 170,000 miles. I know for a fact that he got it serviced often and treated it well.

The question is how risky of a buy is this with that many miles? I believe that he will give it to me for what carfax offers him so I would be getting a very good deal.

If I could snag this truck for 7 grand do you think I could get 4-5 years out of it relatively problem free.

Thanks for your help.

 

Well, I've only worked on these forever. BUT, since my crystal ball isn't back from the wizard (it's out on repairs), I couldn't say.
If this wasn't used like a truck (towing, pulling, heavy loading), it would be a big plus. All cars have their specific problems, but if the systems (rear end, trans, t-case, cooling, fuel) have been serviced, then it may be a good bet.
However, the old adage that you inheirt someone else's problems may apply here; especially if it's got automatic everything. You can bet on a window regulator problem sooner or later. Possibly a blend door motor in the HVAC. Maybe a sliding rear glass problem or cam phasers (which always seemed to make noise with more milage).
At the very least, have a trusted mechanic look this over very throughouly. Take off the wheels and check everything. That may be the best insurance, and well worth the money.
Good luck!

 

I agree with greasemark !
One additional thing, if you could get a copy of the maintenance records for the truck that would help since you could crosscheck greasemark's list with the maintenance records and that should make your decision somewhat easier. Possibly some of the listed items have already been handled. Merry Christmas , Happy Holidays and all that good stuff to all our friends who read and offer advice with all these posts.

 

I would not pay 7 grand for a truck that has that many miles on it thats not worth it, if the tranny or sumtin like that goes ur screwed go for sumtin cheaper and not so many miles. cheak out criagslist