Newbie here and I'm looking for a third car and came across a 1998 Sable with 24 valve DOHC all leather and power with 88K original for $2,500.

What are the known things to look for regarding this vehicle? From what I can see it looks to be a pretty good deal, but I'm sure, like every vehicle, there are problem areas. Any pointers before I stroke the check would be appreciated.

BC

I have a 97 with the SOHC. I had the following problems:


Overheating due to the radiator never being flushed - $64


AC switch and resistor for speed control replaced - $25


Bearing on idler pulley froze up throwing belt. Belt replaced - $15


I replaced the radiator cap, water pump, hoses, expansion tank- $100


I did all the work myself which saved me a lot of money except getting the radiator rotted out.


Right now I'm dealing with a check engine light that is in due to a O2 sensor,(it has two), at a cost of $64 apiece.


Other than that mine gets great mileage 27mpg. I don't know if the 24 valve will get as good mileage as mine. Hope this helps

DOHC is a good engine, sometimes they have a little high idle problems. Had a taurus with that engine...had to change out the EEC unit to correct that problem (higher mileage car so maybe that was needed anyway).


Plenty of pwr for a V6, I had to replace the rack-n-pinion on it which seems to be a problem with lots of FWD cars after they get 75k or so on them. Other than that basically a good car and strong engine.


the SOHC 3.0L is a good engine too just not as much pwr. Also, changing plugs can be a B if you gotta do those back 3 ;)