The Raptor (Gen 2 specifically) has always been my dream truck, but right now I can only afford a used Gen 1 with around 100k miles. I’d be using it mostly as a low-to-medium mileage “pavement princess” and keeping it in covered parking when not in use.
Is it worth dealing with potential repairs on something this old, or should I keep saving and go for the Gen 2 I actually want? Would love your advice!
I love my Gen 1 with 150k miles, but I wouldn’t take out a loan for one. Save up and buy the truck you really want without getting stuck with monthly payments.
A Raptor is a want, not a need. If you’re stretching your finances for a Gen 1 when you really want a Gen 2, it’s better to wait. Keep saving, and you’ll enjoy it so much more when it’s not a financial burden.
Here’s my experience: I bought a 2014 special edition Gen 1 with 70k miles. I thought it would be my fun “weekend truck,” but I ended up driving it 26k miles in 7 months. Here’s what I had to fix:
Rebuilt suspension
Replaced AC (major dash pull issue)
Fuse 27 (preventative)
New tires
Rotors and brakes
I paid $42k for the truck, spent $9k on repairs, and sold it for $30k. That’s a $17k loss in just 6 months. I should’ve put that money toward the Gen 3 I really wanted.
If you can afford it, save up and buy the truck you actually want. You’ll thank yourself later.
@Parker
Shocks need rebuilding eventually—normal maintenance. Fuse 27 is like $15 and easy to fix. Honestly, a lot of what you mentioned doesn’t sound like huge problems. Gen 2s aren’t perfect either!
Whitney said: @Parker
Shocks need rebuilding eventually—normal maintenance. Fuse 27 is like $15 and easy to fix. Honestly, a lot of what you mentioned doesn’t sound like huge problems. Gen 2s aren’t perfect either!
Fair points. The shocks and Fuse 27 were expected, but the AC was a real pain—especially in triple-digit heat. In hindsight, I wish I’d just put that money into the Gen 3 from the start.
@Parker
AC issues on such low mileage are surprising. Too bad you didn’t keep it after putting so much into it—plenty of Gen 1s out there with higher mileage and fewer issues.