2002 Ram 1500 Quad Cab Short bed.

I am new to this forum and am looking at buying a used one owner 2002 1500. The truck has 100,000 miles on it and he is asking 11,5k. Truck looks to be in great shape and I asked if I could take it to a dodge dealer to have it checked out. He had no problem with that, in fact he is actually taking it in this week for me and is going to call me when the truck is there so I can ask the dealer some questions. I guess my question is how reliable are the new 1500’s? Is this a good buy or should I stay away from a high mile 2002? For what its worth the owner told me he worked insurance claims and was in the truck all day long. He told me he avg. about 30k + a year. Over all the truck looks in great shape and there doesn’t seem to be any leaks or noises. It does pull a little to the left. He hit a curb and messed up the front wheel and took it in to the dealer to have it fixed about 2k in parts and labor. He said when he got the truck back it still pulled but the dealer told him it was the tires that were the problem. I’m not sure if I trust that but I guess when I get it at the dealer they will let me know if there are any bigger issues. So I guess if you guys know of anything I should look out for or things I should ask please let me know any information would be great. The truck is going into the shop sometime this week and if all checks out ill be picking it up this weekend.

Thanks.

 

You'd be a silly fool to purchase that truck. You could probably walk down to a dealership and pick up a used 2003-04 Ram with roughly 50,000 miles for maybe $1-3K more then what he wants for that truck.

100,000 miles for an 02 is an insane amount of mileage to pay 12K for an average truck. Now, if it were a Cummins Diesel or a 3500 Series truck, then maybe, MAYBE, it would be worth that.

Personally, I'd take a stroll at your local dealership rather then buy that truck. Rams are good solid trucks with their own problems just like every other truck.

On a sidenote, you might even consider looking at Dodge Dakotas as they are pretty roomy, just as capable as a Ram for the most part, get about the same gas mileage if not a lil better, and you arent riding in a super huge truck. I've owned 2 Dakotas and I'd sooner buy a Dodge Truck then anything else on the market.

 

Agree with above,,,,,I sold my 2002 QC 1500 4.7 back to the dealer this year for $17,000, and they sold it for $18,000. It had 22,000 miles on it..

 

just curious, but where (city,state) are you looking at this truck and what color is it? just curious

 

Way too much for that truck! I'd pay no more than a 6-7K for that truck, of course you didn't mention what configuration and equipment, so that has A LOT to do with the price. Still, like everyone else said, look for a newer truck with less miles. Most banks won't finance a truck over 100K miles by the way. If you are financing, use the money you have for a down payement on a newer truck with less miles.

 

I think the mileage answers your first question. And, if you are REALLY thinking of spending that much for a truck with 100K on it, you must agree.

 

Thanks for the imput.

Details on the truck

2002 Dodge Ram Quad Cab, Silver/Grey, 4x4, Automatic, 20 inch Wheels. Power seats, windows, locks, mirrors. cd player,tow package, removable ladder rack, ever option but leather. back bumper has a dent, 99,000 miles, original owner.

NADA Book Retail Value $17,690 NADA Book Trade In Value $14,320

 

What kind of motor, because I'm sorry aint no truck with 99k on it with a 4.7L V8 worth 14-17k......aint no way...

 

Its the 5.9. And thanks for all the feedback.

 

Check the plenum gasket, specifically. It is the only *known* common problem on that motor. It still seems kinda high to me. Do as you wish though.