Is $10k enough for a reliable used Ranger?

I’ve got a 2016 Challenger (V6) that I don’t use much, and it’s worth around $12k according to KBB. I’m thinking of swapping it out for a 4x4 truck since it’d be more practical. But with how high truck prices are these days, is $10k enough for a decent Ranger? Or am I setting myself up for trouble?

There’s about to be a ton of them hitting the market… salvage title, flood damage. I’d grab one before those start showing up.

It depends if you’re buying from a dealer or a private seller. Location matters too. I picked up an ’01 with 130,000 miles for 4k. Added another 70,000 miles to it and only had to do basic maintenance like fluid changes and seals. Probably spent around $1,200 in maintenance over 4 years.

@Mica
That’s definitely the best-case scenario. I’ve put about $6k into my ‘03, including a new radiator, AC compressor, rear diff bearings, leaf springs, and brake lines. It’s over 200k miles now, and I’m pretty sure rust will take it out before the engine dies.

@Storm
I have an ’07 with 125k miles, bought it at 85k. Had to replace the radiator, alternator, and a few sensors. But now it needs ball joints, control arms, front shocks, and brake pads/rotors. Good thing I can ride my motorcycle while I work on it—gotta love Texas!

I have a 2005 3.0L Ranger. Paid about $6k, just hit 300k miles. It has the power of a 2.5 with the fuel economy of a 4.0, but it’s super reliable and great for those random late-night dump runs.

Should get a pretty solid one for that price.

If you’re not in a rush, you can find a deal. I looked for a few months and found an ’05 4.0 XLT for $6k with only 36k miles back in 2019. It’s still in great shape with 90k miles now. Try hitting up neighborhoods with older folks who might have an extra car sitting around. You’d be surprised what you can find.

I spent $10k on my ’04 3.0 XLT with 71k miles about a year ago. Spent less than $800 fixing minor stuff. If I ever need another car, I’m definitely going for a sub-$10k deal again.

Devon said:
I spent $10k on my ’04 3.0 XLT with 71k miles about a year ago. Spent less than $800 fixing minor stuff. If I ever need another car, I’m definitely going for a sub-$10k deal again.

I got a similar deal—’04 3.0 Edge for about $12k with 80,000 miles.

@Kai
Glad to hear it! Hope yours has been as good as mine.

You could get a pretty reliable one. These trucks are easy to work on, and there are tons of parts out there, so repairs aren’t too expensive.

10k can get you an ’07 to ’11 XLT 4WD with the 4.0 V6 and 70-90k miles. My 2011 Sport RWD with 76k miles is valued at around $12,800 right now.

I got my 4x4 2011 with 63k miles for $9.5k. It even came with nearly new tires, but I had to be patient to find that deal. A lot of sellers think their 2003 with 170k is worth the same just because they added a light bar and new speakers. You know the type…

I’d aim for a $5k truck and keep some cash in case it needs repairs.

Parker said:
I’d aim for a $5k truck and keep some cash in case it needs repairs.

Yeah, or just keep some cash on hand to fix up whatever comes up.

For around 10k, you should be able to find a good 4x4 Ranger, especially if you buy from a private seller.

I bought a 2011 Ranger for about $10k a few years back. It’s still running strong with 135k miles on it, just took it on a cross-country trip!

If you’re willing to travel, you can find some great deals. I went all the way to Connecticut to pick up a 2008 Tacoma with 95k miles for $13k. Act quickly, but make sure you’re getting a good deal.

If I could do it over, I’d find a 90s Ranger with minimal rust, even if it had a blown engine, and put in a new motor. Maybe something from a Mustang or a 302 swap… just a dream of mine.