I'm looking for a commuter car for college. My neighbor has this 2004 Mercury Sable LS with 77k miles and a 4 speed automatic and is willing to sell it to me for only $800, which is well below its market value from what I know. I haven't gotten the chance to take a good look at it yet, the price seems sketchy though. Does the sable have any specific issues that I should watch for? What should I take into consideration when checking it out, and is it a good buy overall?
Clarification: How many years and miles do you need it to last you?
I'd say around 10k-12k per year ideally for 4 years or more, but even if I can get 2 years out of it I'd be satisfied.
If it runs, drives normally (shifts smoothly without any strange noises/jerks) & no smoke blowing out from the exhaust, sure go get it.
It’s hard to ask for a lot, from an $800 car..
See below for issues with the 2004 Mercury Sable: be sure to have a trusted mechanic thoroughly look it over with his fancy scan tool, road test, and give his OK. The transmission will be the big expense if it has issues later.
https://drivinglife.net/2004-mercury-sable-problems/
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Mercury/Sable/2004/
https://repairpal.com/2004-mercury-sable/problems
That 3.0 engine is decent. With those I always tell people to check that the head gasket isn't leaking because somebody allowed the car to overheat. If it drives good you should jump on it.
Here's why. The guys who scrap cars will pay $250 for it, come and tow it away.
So your real risk exposure is $550. That's about the cost to put 4 new tires on a car.
I'd "roll the dice"
My uncle had a ford taurus and it was a decent car. I would buy that car because it's $800. Just baby the car and you will be fine.
Check with the mechanic first before buying it. If it's in good shape, I would buy it and baby the car.
