Buying advice

[Thomas Lally]

I'm strongly thinking of purchasing a 2007 Sport Trac Limited. It's got close to 75k miles, fully loaded with all available options. (Bed cover, Nav system, bed extender, chrome 18" wheels, etc.)



I've got them down to $15k ($20k minus $5k for my 1999 Ranger), so while I'm not here to discuss pricing, I'd really welcome comments about the mileage and what kind of longevity to expect.



The truck itself looked absolutely mint, Carfax reports 1 owner and 0 issues, but I'm wondering long-term what I should expect regarding long term ownership...(is it going to start breaking down as I approach 80k Miles)



Thanks in advance.

 

[kcobra302 78]

if its a v-8 you can run into exhaust manifold issues (leaks and cracking) and the transmission can have a bumping effect in the 2 to 1 downshift. both of these issues have been extensively covered in other threads on the board. they both may have been addressed under the original warrenty.



we are on our second one of this generation and will be looking for another one come this fall. great vehicle all around.

 

[Robert Caffyn]

Hi Tom. My 2008 has 78K miles and has given me some issues. As noted above, the exhaust manifolds, The studs break and let the manifolds warp. This is a somewhat common issue. Ford has since updated the studs/bolts. I've been chasing exhaust leaks for a while now. Just recently got rid of them! Brake calipers(f&r) I am on my third and a half set. They seize up and are no good. Rear caliper rattles. This is an easy fix with some high temp RTV underneath the 'sliders'. I've also encountered warped rotors x2. Had the covers on both visor vanity mirrors break off. The dye on the leather drivers seat started to wear off. Right side rear axle bearing went bad.

Now I must tell you, I've made a few modifications to the truck, none of which were related to the above issues. I also enjoy a 'spirited' driving style. I'm not hard on the truck, I just use it in the upper reaches of its capability. I'm somewhat fanatical about maintenance, fluids and filters, belts, hoses as well as flushing the brakes and transmission about every 30K miles. Also, and here is a BIG also, If those spark plugs haven't been changed yet, you need to get them out. BE WARNED, there is a specific procedure to getting them out without breaking them(that is a whole other topic) It can be found in several of the threads on this site. Just search 'spark plug removal' and you'll most likely find it.

These trucks are for the most part, very, very dependable. Get OK gas mileage for a 5000lb brick! There is little difference between the 6cyl and the 8 when it comes to mileage. the 6 will average around 16-18mpg. The 8, between 14-17mpg. Both get more for sane driving and longer trips. I love my Trac and you will too. Its the kind of vehicle that nothing else will do. Good luck and post some pics when you get it. Bob

 

[Gavin Allan]

Price still sounds high. Have you looked at avg trade-in value for your Ranger and avg retail value for the Trac, adjusting both prices for all listed options and actual mileages?

 

[Gavin Allan]

Maybe try to get a ford service tech to run an OASIS report on the VIN to see what its history is?

 

[mike burns 3]

Sounds on the high side. I have a Gen1 and have started looking for a Gen2 to replace it. It does seem the '07 has more issues than latter models, it maybe just because they are older. I'm staying away from the V8. Although the EPA mpg rating is not much different depending on how you drive the real world will be different. I also have no reason for the bigger engine.



Not all '07s have the power rear window. I like that option. I would also look for one with the bed extender and cover. They are expensive to buy. I like the OEM cover. Heavy but you can stand on it. Helps putting the kayaks on the roof.



I also wish you could find the Gen2 with the light grey leather interior. Doesn't look that great but is very easy to keep. The light clothes look good new but I'm not sure I can keep them that way.

 

[Gavin Allan]

You need to drive the V8 before discounting it. I have had a 2003 Adrenaline with the V6, and also a 2007 and 2010 Limited with the V8. The V8 is WONDERFUL! Powerful, smooth, quiet, and real world gas mileage is not much different.



The V8 makes the Sport Trac AWESOME! :banana:

 

[Jim Upton]

Agree with Gavin, you have to go with the V8!!!

 

[EddieS'04]

V8, vroom vroom. Same mpg. sometimes better....