PrISM

I'm looking to purchase a used compact pickup and I've spotted two 2003's that are nearby. They are both 4x4 V6 KCs. One has 47,600 miles and the dealer wants $12,995. The other is an XE with 84,500 miles and the individual is asking $12,499 for it. Personally, I like the XE better but I was wondering if there are any issues I should be aware of with these trucks, especially with a higher mileage. I've never owned one so I'm not too familiar with them. Anything you guys can tell me would be appreciated.

 

joefrontier

Take out of the glovebox the Maintence Manual and check to see if the maintence was done for the items listed.

For both vehicles maintence is required for the following at 30000 & 60000 miles.

repack bearings
coolant flush/change
transmission oil change
in-cabin air filter change
fuel filter change
oil change
new wheel stops changed/replaced
brakes checked
differential fluid change
belts check

Some of these are needed to be changed stating from the maintence manual I have. They are stated to be changed if you do the premium service.

One thing on the v6 is that you will have a timming belt and that belt will need to be changed. I think the belt needs to be changed at around 100,000 miles

Other than that so far these vehicles seem to be good on quality.

smj999smj

I've never heard of replacing "wheel stops" as part of regular maintenance...Timing belt is due at 105,000 mi.

The first thing I notice is that the two trucks are pretty close in price and yet one has almost twice the mileage of the other! Previous maintenance, as stated, is very important. A thing I would look at is the actual value of the trucks. Try the following sites to get an idea of what the trucks are worth based on mileage, options, condition, etc.:

N.A.D.A. Official Used Car Guide Company

New Car Prices | Used Car Values - Official Kelley Blue Book Site

joefrontier

Sorry I will clarify the wheel stops maint. I meant the nylon caps. They cost 2.50 and usually wear out by 30,000 miles. These are not in the maint manual but these will eliminate the squeeks when making full turns.

Also smj999... makes a good point. I would go to autotrader.com and ebay to look at going sale prices too.

PrISM

I checked the KBB on the one with 84K on it and it's around $11,500. The one with fewer miles is obviously more, but I don't like that one as much. The one I like is a black XE.

 

smj999smj

If it looks good, offer 'em $10000 and see what they say.

PrISM

The seller said she wouldn't mind me bringing the truck to a Nissan deal nearby and having them look it over for me. Nissan said it would cost around $20, which isn't bad.

PrISM

I don't know how bright she is but that's below KBB.

PrISM

Well I went with something a little different. I bought a 2003 V6 Frontier King Cab SC with 89,000 miles on it. The Nissan dealer where I live just got it and was in excellent shape.