2nd hand dealer smart ass. All mud would hv been washed away.
How to determine whether it has been offroad or not goes like this,
1. If possible, drive it up a ramp in petrol station, walk underneath it, see if there is any sign of scratches, especially on the sump guard. Any thing that is covered with new paint, haha....u've spotted that 2nd dealer trying to cover up something.

2. Front arm will also get scratches if go offroad.

3. Drive with windows down on uneven road, with pot holes, listen with your ears wide open. Any metal clanking sound means worn suspension bushes, which will cost a considerable amount to replace.

4. If possible, drive it offroad, say sandy road, engage 4wd check if it's working, try to turn with full lock, any abused 4wd will hv klak klak sound on it's front drive shafts.


Make sure the engine is running well. Otherwise, it cost a bomb to repair.
1. Before u start engine, check oil, n coolant level. Note the level in spare coolant tank. Start the engine, it should start up immediately upon cranking. Prolong cranking to starts means problems. Drive at least 15km or more, to ensure that the engine is fully warmed up. Ford Ranger is famous for cracked engine head if abused.

Recheck engine oil level, and coolant in radiator. There must not be any drop in coolant level in radiator n spare tank. Coolant goes missing means trouble.

Check bolts on engine, c if it has been opened before.

If u hv no experience with 2nd hand car, maybe u can drive it to your mech for better evaluation.

I would vote for ford ranger tdci here.

Disconnect the rubber hose at turbo intake, see if there's any oil stain there. If there's oil, it's leaking.

Turbo will leak after certain time or mileage.

Of course, since u can choose, choose the best possible.