1st Gen Durango 1998 - 2003 Durango's

My First Durango

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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 06:21 PM
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Default My First Durango

Alright, where to start. Well Im currently 15 1/2 and I'm really looking at cars to buy when I turn 16. The durango caught my eye immediately. I am workin my butt off to afford my own car and I really want around a 2000 durango. Well my question to you guys are when buying a durango, are there any common problems i should look for with this vehicle. What should i expect to see and what should be checked up on. I want to thank you guys in advance for looking and helpin out.

Brett
 
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Old Jun 7, 2010 | 06:37 PM
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check the ball joints, and if you get a 5.9 make sure the transmission is shifting good and has the maintenance records for it. for the most part these are the only big problems that seem to pop up for alot of people
 
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Old Jun 9, 2010 | 03:50 PM
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Well in my opinion it would be worth the extra money to look for a 2003 Durango, it has updated computer also has rear disk brakes, 2003 model is the best of this body style
 
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Old Jun 9, 2010 | 04:21 PM
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^^^+1
 
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Old Jun 9, 2010 | 05:34 PM
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it had the option for rear disk brakes in 2003, i dont think it was standard, but they are better than drums for sure
 
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Old Jun 11, 2010 | 10:27 AM
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+1 on the ball joints. If they need ball joints it doesn't mean that it's a deal breaker, but you will need to get those repaired immediately. Transmission, transmission, transmission. If it's not shifting right or smooth... abandon ship quickly. Being young and working hard for your first truck is an awesome experience and you don't want it to be a bad one because of a very expensive transmission replacement.

Make sure that it was taken care of by the previous owner and it doesn't hurt to take it to a mechanic if your not sure. If there is any resistance by the owner, then move on... they might be hiding something they don't want you to find out.

Just take it on a good test drive and make sure that it doesn't overheat and the temp stays in the same position during the test drive. Check the oil pressure on the dash and make sure that it's good and doesn't drop to 0 when you pull up to a red light. Other than all of that, these are pretty solid trucks and I believe you will be very happy with it.... especially since there is so much room in the back for a killer sub set up...lol
 
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Old Jun 11, 2010 | 06:06 PM
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Originally Posted by shrpshtr325
it had the option for rear disk brakes in 2003, i dont think it was standard, but they are better than drums for sure
4-Wheel disk is Standard Equipment on all 2003 Dodge Durangos
 
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Old Jun 11, 2010 | 10:25 PM
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hmm thats nice (apparently i wasnt sure lol)
 
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