I'm looking at buying a ranger with 150+k miles, is this too high for this engine (it's the 2.3L 4 cyl). This is a 1997. Anything to check on it when I test drive it?

 

thats a bit high.

 

Not necessarily.... it all depends on how it was looked after over the years.

I'm driving a well maintained 2005 Colorado 4cyl that just turned over 375,000km (around 233K miles) and I have no problem hopping in and driving it anywhere.

 

My 1997 2.3 has over 200,000 on it and runs just fine. there are several 2.3's with over 200,000 on here.

 

i hope it isn't mine has 154k on it...
as others have said it depends on how it was maintained.

 

I have 185k on my 2.5 (same block as 2.3), no issues except for small oil leak around oil pump (gonna tackle that this weekend).

Look at the windshield from the inside on the upper drivers side. If you see a walmart oil change sticker I would run....lol.

Request all service records or part receipts.

Specifically at that millage I would ask when the following if /or had been replaced:
spark plugs
wires
clutch
fuel filter
ball joints
tie rod ends
shocks
timing belt


Also look underneath the vehicle for caked up dirty oil. Also look around the block from the engine bay for leaks around the head.

Have vehicle scanned for codes.

Turn on the heat and check for wetness on the passenger side floor. You don't want to have to replace a leaky heater core (make sure also that the hoses going to the firewall are connected, some people have leaks and just disconnect the hoses and couple them).

Have I left anything out?