Hello!
This vehicle has much lower repair costs than a 13 year old Diamante, and parts/ service information/ scan tool software are more readily available than they would be for an older vehicle. I think you will find insurance costs are lower as well.
Being a 1999 model, it still has a lot of life left in it, and repair costs and repair frequency will be about average. Also, any repair shop can handle most things that normally crop up on this model, making repair costs down.
One thing these engines are known for is leaking intake manifold gaskets; this would beone thing to have checked before purchase. If the gasket leaks coolant externally, it generally does no damage in the short term unless the engine has been overheated. IF it leaks coolant internally, it can contaminate and dilute the engine oil and cause extensive internal damage due to insufficient lubrication. Pull the dipstick to look for any signs of coolant in the engine oil (white milky sludge or slime). After the engine is hot, shut it off and remove the oil filler cap on the engine; watch for any steam rising from the hole; this would be an indication of water/ antifreeze evaporating from inside the engine.
It would be a good idea to have any vehicle you are considering purchasing inspected by whatever repair shop you normally use. Any vehicle with 100,000 miles on it is going to need some work; if you ahve the steering and suspension components, brake components, exhaust, and engine checked before purchase, at least you will know what short term expenses you will be facing in the first few months after you buy it. Have them especially check the intake manifold gasket, and connect a scan tool to see if any service codes are stored in any of the vehicle''s electronic control modules.
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