[Graugh]

I am thinking of buying a 98 convertable with the 3.8 motor (automatic) for $5500. The car is clean inside and out and has 86,000 miles. What are some of the problems I should be aware of if I buy this car? Thanks for your input!

[CobraBoy]

5500 sounds like a bit much for that car... did you kbb it?

[Graugh]

Yea, I KKB it, 6 grand for good condition. Edmonds gives it a lower figure, around 5100. I have read that the 95-97 head gaskets are a problem, does the 98 have the same issue? Thanks.

[CobraBoy]

i am not entirely sure. i know what you mean with the head gaskets though. my little bro has a 95 bored and stroked all aluminum motor now in his but before that he had the stock motor and the head gaskets were replaced several times. the reason for this was something about the heads and the block being different materials or some shiit like that so when the engine would heat up they would expand differently and pop the gasket.

im not sure about the 98's though. im sure ford probably fixed it but you know how they are... you can call a dealership im sure and find out. or do a websearch or something.

oh and low ball the person you are buying the stang from and offer them 5k and say you are low on money or something. im sure they will do it works every time

[Graugh]

Thanks for the input. I did "low ball" them, they listed the car for 6000, I offered 5000, they said no, so I came up to 5500. My concern is the head gasket going bad. My wife will be driving this car, and she would kill me if she breaks down out here in Phoenix with 3 months of 110 degree temps comming soon.

[CobraBoy]

yeah i would say the best thing to do is contact a local dealer to find out

[thomasusmc]

I just did a KBB seach for it as a "private, party" sale and it was listed at $5,700 in good condition. I still think 5500 is too high, but it's not my money.

In 1996 or 1997, they fixed the head gasket problems. They used a new metallic head gasket. KS Coyote can give you the exact details if you want to PM him.

My 97 V6 hasn't given me any engine problems.

[CobraBoy]

yeah i figured they probably fixed it but its ford haha... you can never be too sure