Around here, (Iowa) I would not pay over 12k period for the 6 year old
vehicle, Edmonds shows it with red paint and auto trans in good cond at
$12,900, dealer retail. Also of note: whatever your spending on gas IS going
to almost TRIPLE. Also, what are they going to give you for trade-in value
on your civic?
What your doing IS to the dealer's advantage: Your buying something that's
hard for them to sell and your trading in something the dealer wants in this
current market of high gas prices. Your insurance will go up also.
wth

"Carl" > wrote in message
. ..
> Hello, my name is Amanda and I usually just watch as my boyfriend spends
> hours on these newsgroups, but I figured I'd see if I could get some
> advice myself. I'm looking at trading in my current car (95 Honda Civic 2
> dr) for a 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac.
>
> I've done some research and have found mixed reviews. I know usually the
> first year of production isn't always the most reliable way to go so I'm
> getting a little nervous and possibly glad I haven't signed any papers
> yet. The model I'm looking at has just under 75k miles, 4 doors, 4.0 V6,
> automatic tranny, 4x4, AC, power windows/locks, towing package and other
> equipment that shouldn't affect the deal as far as I can tell.
>
> During the test drive the front driver side tire seemed a bit off balance
> and the tranny fluid was a bit off colored (possibly never been changed?).
> Other than that the truck was in pretty good condition and great to drive.
> The dealer was willing to look into both issues and correct them. My
> biggest worries a the tranny (the fluid and the towing package - I've
> heard the Explorer/Ranger trannies can be unreliable at times), and the
> fact that this was the first production year. I talked them down to
> $12,966 and after taxes, fees, etc comes to $15,366.
>
> I'll admit I'm no car expert, so I'm asking for your help. Have you owned
> this vintage? If so how has it been as far as maintence/performance/etc?
> Does the price seem reasonable, KBB comes out at almost $14k, so that
> seems pretty good. I am really interested in the truck - even with today's
> gas prices - but I don't want to buy a lemon either. I would really
> appreciate any and all help you can give me. Thanks so much.
>
> If you could please reply on here or e-mail me @ that
> would be great!
>
> Amanda
>