Hello all, I discovered this forum while researching before buying a used FEH. I've greatly appreciated the knowledge and willingness to share experience here!

I'm currently looking at a 2005 AWD model with 77000 miles on it. The seller (private party) is asking $5800, and I'm curious whether that is a reasonable price. It seems fairly high to me, and KBB suggests a value of $4300 assuming very good condition.

What do you all think? What should I be looking at and asking about the mechanical and maintenance history?

 

RUN AWAY.

A 14 year old hybrid is likely nothing but a headache, and low mileage hybrids should be avoided like the plague. Worst thing you can do with them is let them sit. 5500/year is not good unless you know for certain it was driven nearly every day.

 

I was worried that might be the case! I was going back and forth in my mind about whether the low miles were a pro or con. Thanks for your input.

 

What history do you have? The previous reply is a generalize reply and without seeing and inspecting such vehicle, how can one tell?

 

You should get the vehicle and hybrid system checked out thoroughly by a Ford hybrid specialist before considering an offer. This could cost several hundred dollars and if none are available in your area, I would move on. If it checks out fine, an offer of $4300 less the cost of the checkover would be fair. That said, be prepared to scrap the vehicle and your money spent if any major repair comes up since it would not be worthwhile to sink any money into a 15 yr old vehicle. It would be prudent to have some sort of backup vehicle available so you are not vehicleless as you shop for it's successor in the future. This vehicle is only for calculated risk takers only with money to burn. On the plus side, you could get several years of trouble free driving out of it.