Hello,

New to the forums and Dodge in general. I was wondering if I could get some insight on a Durango that I am looking to buy? It is a 2004 SLT, 4.7L V8, white, cloth interior, DVD, 74100 miles. Dealer has it listed at $11000, hopeful to get it at $10,000. It is a 1 owner vehicle from PA, hasnt been used to tow and looks to be in good shape. A few blemishes here and there, but overall pretty good.

Are there any major concerns with Durangos that could turn it into a money pit?

Thanks in advance!

Mark

 

The 4.7L has problems with the manifold studs breaking (there are a few threads about it), but a certified mechanic should be able to spot any problems if there are any present,
FF

 

i wouldn't get it simply because its not a 1st gen. anything other than that I'd consider thinking about it if it had a HEMI.

 

They are not bad, But 2004 was the first year of the HB body style.But remember all cars and trucks have problems. I would make sure all the recall were done and find out what type of powertrain warranty you are going to get.

 

I know they aren't bad, my neighbors wife has one of those with a 4.7 and she absolutely loves it. I just dont like the body style of the newer ones. The 2011 model is pretty sexy though.....

 

I know what you mean. I like the 1st gen avenger and not the 2nd gen. Thats because i own a 1st gen with 50k on it and love it. I have a buddy who owns a 1st gen durango and loves it too.

 

Yeah my 1st gen Durango is a tank, Ive been through the worst snow/ice and mud here so far and havent even had to use the 4wd yet.

 

Seems a little bit high to me. The wife and I got her a 2006 for $10800 with 83k on her, roughly comparable to what you are looking at features wise. I'd try and get them below $10k.

Do a NADA.com estimate and a Edmunds.com estimate, see what the car is valued at. Use them as references. Dealerships frown upon using Edmunds.com, and they usually try to throw Kelly Blue Book at you, which is inflated for their use. NADA is usually a happy, fair medium.

 

I appreciate the feedback from all! I do like the looks of the first gen a little more, but the 04' drove real nice. Im having my mechanic look at it tommorrow. NADA puts clean retail at $12600 and clean trade-in at $9650. Ill prly walk away if the dealer wont get it down to $10000.

 

Seems high.

Here is a 2004 LIMITED HEMI with 61k miles for $11,000 OBO (private owner)

http://denver.craigslist.org/cto/2226846986.html

That's a freakn' steal.

Must be RWD. You didn't mention if yours is AWD/4X4.