I'm considering buying a 2003 F150 that has just little over 100K on it, not much of rust but I'm wondering if anyone can suggest 1.) what I should inspect and look for when looking at it and test driving it, 2.) what I should replace first right away when I purchase it?

Thank you in advance.

 

1) Ball Joints
2) Find out if the transmission has been rebuilt yet. If not, start putting money away every month, because it will happen eventually.

As long as the truck was well cared for, I'd buy one of those without hesitation.

 

2) Spark plugs, if they have never been changed. Change the lube in the differentials and transfer case and get a transmission fluid exchange. Change the radiator coolant. Fuel filter.

 

check the inside door seems at the bottom of the door....its a good place to look for rust starting. don't be afraid of crawling under it and giving it a good look. check for leaks, things bent or out of shape...etc.

I would definitely run the vin # through Carfax or Autocheck.

<<< I'll agree to that too

 

be ready for front end rebuild in the next 20k Probably need shocks all the way around

if the trans has been routine maintained no reason it can't go 200k or more

fluids and filters is a must

PCV hoses probably cracking and ready to fail

 

sniff around the back seat/behind the seat. If it smells like an old fishing boat, the back window might be leaking... they do that, or they might have been fishing.... Fix is easy, but time consuming and in this forum.

I have an 03, over 100k... I would buy another 03 tomorrow.

CHANGE ALL THE FLUIDS! Especially the differential(s), just because oil doesn't come out, doesn't mean water can't get in...(if it were submerged)

fuel filter too now....

Be good to her, she has lots of life left

 

Listen for an exhaust manifold leak. Find out if plugs have been replaced and what kind if they have. Fluids. Air filter.

 

plugs and shocks for sure if they are originals.