2003 Astro 156k miles

General Discussion
( Please do not post help questions here )
Post Reply

Topic author
truC
I am merely driving my van
I am merely driving my van
Posts: 24
Joined: Fri Jul 03, 2015 5:31 pm
Location: Flamborough, Ontario,Canada

2003 Astro 156k miles

Post by truC »

Hello guys,

I am looking at a 2003 Astro AWD with 156k miles on it. It looks to be in great shape.

Is there anything specific good or bad about this year to be concerned with?

From the search I have done on here it looks to be on par with most other years.

Seller is asking for 3k hoping to get it for 2-2500k.

Thanks
Life is short, get out and get dirty.

Astrophysics
I sleep in my van
Posts: 974
Joined: Sat Jan 12, 2008 9:23 pm
Been thanked: 9 times

Re: 2003 Astro 156k miles

Post by Astrophysics »

2003 to 2005 Re great with 16 inch 6 lug wheels and rear disc brakes.

You better buy it.
Great van.

I have 2003 AWD passenger van with 125k miles and it is great.
Added: 2" body lift, rear helwig sway bar, sub frame extender, nerf side steps, LED dome lights, etc, etc,

AP

Topic author
truC
I am merely driving my van
I am merely driving my van
Posts: 24
Joined: Fri Jul 03, 2015 5:31 pm
Location: Flamborough, Ontario,Canada

Re: 2003 Astro 156k miles

Post by truC »

Thanks Astro for the input.

Just got in from checking it out.

Rocker panels rusted out in spots.
Rear fender wells rusting from inside out, no surface rust showing through. Only s matter of time before the rust rears it's ugly head.
Hood prop locating hole rusting out around hole.
Paint over all in good shape.
Front seal gone on motor.
No other signs of any other seal issues.
Oil and tranny fluid look to be in great shape.
Abs light on, has been disconnected by owner, so no ABS.
AC not cold.
Needs new tires.
New shocks.

Here's my dilemma.

Buy a van of this era 2003-2005 in this shape with mileage range of 150k+, for 2500 and do the work here and there, which I don't mind doing but rather be doing something else like riding.

Or Buy one in the same era fully loaded, leather interior, power everything with only 112k miles in awesome shape for $8500.
Life is short, get out and get dirty.

Astrophysics
I sleep in my van
Posts: 974
Joined: Sat Jan 12, 2008 9:23 pm
Been thanked: 9 times

Re: 2003 Astro 156k miles

Post by Astrophysics »

Yes,
Pay the higher price and get the better vehicle.
When you count your labor to fix old stuff (say $50 per hour) and all the weekends lost.
It is no bargain to get broken vehicle unless you are young and poor and have more time than money.

Too bad about the rust. Maybe some day rust will be controlled like on the new Ford F150 aluminum skin will help reduce rust on body panels.


have a great summer.

AP

Topic author
truC
I am merely driving my van
I am merely driving my van
Posts: 24
Joined: Fri Jul 03, 2015 5:31 pm
Location: Flamborough, Ontario,Canada

Re: 2003 Astro 156k miles

Post by truC »

Ya that is what I'm leaning towards, spending more.

Good summer to you too.
Life is short, get out and get dirty.
Post Reply