k9t8m
Rollin' Twankies
I am thinking about buying an LS, and kind of want to know what specifics to look for. I heard the v6's had some sort of oil leak problem? What else should i look out for? Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks.
What to look for before purchasing LS?
- Thread starter k9t8m
- Start date
Eric0508
Well-Known LVC Member
Look very closely for damage. In my searchings, every lincoln LS that i looked at (except the one i bought) had been in a significant accident that required extensive body work (think bondo). All the dealers and individuals denied this, but to the trained eye, you can tell. The LS's must be some sort of accident magnet. Also, look carefully at the interior, people take :q:q:q:qty car of there car so look at things like the seatbelts to see the real extent of the nastiness. I'll try to think of more things.
For the later '03 and '04-'06 LSes, you really only need to watch out for the same things you'd watch out for in any used car. They don't really have any endemic issues like the 1st Gens exhibit.
In the 1st Gens and the early '03s, you have to look out for the COPs and misfires. The usual suspect in COP failure is oil leaking into the plug wells, which is a symptom of leaky valve cover gaskets. Of course, you really can't tell this without pulling one (or more) of the COPs; they don't leak enough outside the engine to be noticeable.
The COPs in the '03s have an "extended warranty" on them; If you'll look around, you'll find a thread about it from a few months ago, including the letters with the program details.
I'm sure the 1st Gen owners can tell you more about them...
In the 1st Gens and the early '03s, you have to look out for the COPs and misfires. The usual suspect in COP failure is oil leaking into the plug wells, which is a symptom of leaky valve cover gaskets. Of course, you really can't tell this without pulling one (or more) of the COPs; they don't leak enough outside the engine to be noticeable.
The COPs in the '03s have an "extended warranty" on them; If you'll look around, you'll find a thread about it from a few months ago, including the letters with the program details.
I'm sure the 1st Gen owners can tell you more about them...
Eric0508
Well-Known LVC Member
Look carefully at the paint to tell if its been repainted. You can look for "orange peel" paint or paint thats starting to chip (around the windows and mirrors). These are a good indication if its been repainted, usually to hide some damage.
Inspect the doors very carefully, look along the bottom inner edge for rust.
Inspect the doors very carefully, look along the bottom inner edge for rust.
k9t8m
Rollin' Twankies
I knot what to look for when looking at a used car. Being a collision repair tech by trade I will be able to tell if it has been painted or wrecked in the past. Ill make sure to check the COP's and try to determine if there is a misfire before purchasing.
HyeLifeLS
Dedicated LVC Member
V6s are great, no leaks or anything (power).
k9t8m
Rollin' Twankies
What?
eastcoastLS
Dedicated LVC Member
its not what to look for, more like what to feel for. when test driving it, i would say start the car while sitting in it and let it idle for a good 3 minutes or so. that way you are sure you don't feel a random misfire. misfires at idle can be so subtle that they will appear normal. the car should sit completely still and you should not be able to tell if the motor is running otehr than looking at the instrument cluster.