Looking at an ‘03 V8 with 280k miles

It’s a Michigan vehicle so there is underside rust. Right thru the floorboard under driver’s seat/floorboard (repaired tho). Check engine light has been on for awhile but no mechanic has been able to figure out why. Trans seems fine. No body rust other than liftgate which was repaired. What would you pay and what will it cost to keep it running? Thanks

 

Run away. Nothing about this seems good.

 

Yeah, run. If it's bad enough rust to eat through the floorboards that frame has to be swiss cheese.

Plus, what the hell, noone can figure out a CEL? These trucks are pretty easy to diagnose red flags everywhere

 

If you buy it, I think it will be due for the second timing belt job soon. Assuming the first was already done. That is a big job.

 

Thanks for the replies. Good info. I think I’m going to look for an early 5th gen and save myself some headaches.