[Skeets]

A used 99' escort with 27,000 miles, what maintenance would you do?

I plan on doing:
Brake fluid
Oil change
Flushing radiator

and checking everything else...
How about you?

 

[98EscortDude]

Wow thats really low mileage!
Even though the car has low miles you might want to check the timing belt to see if it is in need of replacement. Rubber can break down and become weak after 10 years.

 

[john112deere]

Might check the date code on the tires, make sure they're not the factory originals. 10 years is getting pretty old for tires to still be safe.

 

[Skeets]

Might check the date code on the tires, make sure they're not the factory originals. 10 years is getting pretty old for tires to still be safe.

They are the original tires except one. They seem in really good shape though!!! If they don't pass inspection I will have to change them..

 

[cklaubur]

I'd change the tires anyway. I personally wouldn't feel safe on old rubber.

Casey

 

[pextor]

i'd just drive it, but thats me.

 

[Skeets]

i'd just drive it, but thats me.

The brake fluid is black so that needs to be replaced asap! The brake calipers might need looked at also.

 

[98EscortDude]

Where are you located? If you are somewhere it snows and rust is an issue you may want to check the rear drum brakes and make sure they arent stuck on.

 

[Skeets]

I'm in Maryland and it does snow here. I will check that. thanks for the tip

 

[Dave94LX]

I would ask for a carfax.

Pextor and I found a local 98 Escort with 6,000 miles for sale. We both have a feeling that it was wrecked and sat at a body shop for some time, waiting for a title to come in. That was the only way we could explain all of the issues we found with a car with only 6k miles on it.

27k is really low milage for a 99... I would check to make sure it is legit prior to purchase.

 

[Skeets]

I would ask for a carfax.

Pextor and I found a local 98 Escort with 6,000 miles for sale. We both have a feeling that it was wrecked and sat at a body shop for some time, waiting for a title to come in. That was the only way we could explain all of the issues we found with a car with only 6k miles on it.

27k is really low milage for a 99... I would check to make sure it is legit prior to purchase.

It was owned by an old lady, and she died and her son just got it from inheritance. He only lives in the USA for 6 months out of the year and doesn't need/want it.

I saw in the Ford book it has all it's maintenance done (haha the old lady got scammed so many times) and what not. The old lady did hit a curb and popped the tire, which is the only accident on the car. A couple minor parking lot dings. I will try to get the carfax.

I already test drove the car and it's great! Just needs minor work and it will be great.

 

[madmatt2024]

It is possible to have a car with that kind of mileage and have it be legit. My 97 had 32K miles on it when I bought it. The dealer provided a carfax as well which showed it was a clean, one owner, car. On a more interesting note, I once saw a 3rd gen in the junkyard with only 600 miles on it! It was wreaked pretty bad and I have no idea how long it had been there. That yard closed last year.

I would worry about the tires especially if the car was not garaged. Light has alot to do with rubber deteriorating and if you notice deep cracks in the rubber then they should be replaced. A general rule is not to run the same tires for more than 7 years.

 

[FordMan59]

Take a look at the tires. If they're any signs of dry rot or cracking then you might want to replace them, but I am still driving on the original tires on my '97 wagon and it only has about 26K miles, but it is garage kept and the tires are not exposed to the weather and sunlight. I'd take a look at the belts and hoses and if there was any question about the condition I'd change them, otherwise I'd leave them alone. If I didn't know when it was last serviced 'd go ahead and do an oil change. I'd also give all the brakes a good going over and replace any worn or damaged parts. The old lady probably just drove short trips so she probably used the brakes alot maybe wearing out the pads and/or shoes.

 

[Skeets]

Take a look at the tires. If they're any signs of dry rot or cracking then you might want to replace them, but I am still driving on the original tires on my '97 wagon and it only has about 26K miles, but it is garage kept and the tires are not exposed to the weather and sunlight. I'd take a look at the belts and hoses and if there was any question about the condition I'd change them, otherwise I'd leave them alone. If I didn't know when it was last serviced 'd go ahead and do an oil change. I'd also give all the brakes a good going over and replace any worn or damaged parts. The old lady probably just drove short trips so she probably used the brakes alot maybe wearing out the pads and/or shoes.

The oil change is fresh pretty much, 1200 miles and it needs done..but I'm going to do my own oil change because I don't trust dealerships and there shenanigans.

I have to get the car inspected so when they do that I will see if anything needs replacing. I will also ask my brother who is an auto mechanic to check everything...He's bust right now though working on his VW Golf, he's putting in a new clutch and and tranny.

Thanks for everyones advice...So far I have:
Belts - Check/replace as needed
Brake system- Fully check/replace as needed
Tires- Check for rotting and other wear, replace if needed

Anyone else got anything?? I might get it today ;O!