97' w/80,000, for $4000, is this a good deal?

I found a 97' Rodeo with 80,000 on it for 4k. In reading this forum, maintenance sounds very important for these if they are going to last. Of course, the seller says everything has been kept up, oil change every 3500 miles, etc.. But he doesn't have any documentation. Is there anything particular I should look at on this thing? I would not be happy if I have to change the water pump, tensioner, and belts right away. But I can't tell by looking or listening that anything is wrong. Any advice on what to look for would be appreciated, and also any general thoughts on this year of Rodeo too.

Ed

That is pretty low mileage for the age. You could probably go a while yet on the timing belt and associated hardware provided it's the 3.2L V6 (non-interference engine). If this is a 4cyl, you dont want to chance it (interference). Normal fluids and filters will probably all need to be changed- like any used truck. $4K sounds fair for a 3.2L, 4x4, auto. Less for 4x2, 4cyl, etc..

G/luck
Joel

I found a 97' Rodeo with 80,000 on it for 4k. In reading this forum, maintenance sounds very important for these if they are going to last. Of course, the seller says everything has been kept up, oil change every 3500 miles, etc.. But he doesn't have any documentation. Is there anything particular I should look at on this thing? I would not be happy if I have to change the water pump, tensioner, and belts right away. But I can't tell by looking or listening that anything is wrong. Any advice on what to look for would be appreciated, and also any general thoughts on this year of Rodeo too.

Ed

It is a 4x4, v6, automatic

Yep that sounds like a good deal! I like the dash layout on the 1997's. It's a lot like the vehicross isuzu produced for a few years (1999-2001?) You wont find a dipstick for the 4L30E trans, as isuzu desided not to include one somewhere around 1996 & up :banghead: . It's messy dealing with the fill and drain plugs, but not impossible. Engine oil/filter and sparkplug changeouts are a snap. The SOHC valvetrain on the 1993-1997 3.2L can be noisy, but those engines last a LONG time with reasonable care.
G/luck
Joel

Of course, the seller says everything has been kept up, oil change every 3500 miles, etc.. But he doesn't have any documentation. Any advice on what to look for would be appreciated, and also any general thoughts on this year of Rodeo too.

Ed
I've learned that the people who actually DO change the oil regularly will keep the records. Makes sense, doesn't it? Would you still buy the vehicle if you knew that the owner is fibbing a little? OK, having said that, the '97 is decent and affordable if you can do light to moderate repairs yourself. Otherwise the expected repair costs of a 9 year old 4x4 might be a shock. Read all the good information on this forum about the characteristic electrical and valvetrain gremlins. The Honda Passport shares parts with the Rodeo, so you have more options for finding used components if needed. These are good towing vehicles for trailers/loads under 1500 lbs. Gas milage for the auto 4x4 will be 17 or 18 mpg on a good day. Expect some 15mpg days too. A 9-point buck, tree stand and hunting gear will fit nicely in the back with the seats folded down. All in all, I'd buy another one if someone stole mine.