What should it cost?

I wouldn't give much over $500 for a 17 year old truck with nearly 200K on the odometer, and I'd only give that if the body were in excellent condition and I needed it. Sounds like the engine needs work, and most certainly the drivetrain and brakes are worn if not worn out. My advice - look somewhere else for something newer that is worth $1500. hope this helps Steve

Thank you Steve for taking the time to confirm my suspicions of

Ooops, dropped screen! Anyway I was pretty sure he was way over the sanity limit, I've bought plenty of used cars from private owners But wasn"t sure if trucks had a different standard of value...{ the macho thing!!} Wish me luck, I hate the stress of vehicle decisons.

Julia, to get an idea of what you should pay for the kind of truck you want, watch Ebay - and then watch the local paper to see if you can see a like version of what you want. Generally, you'll get a pretty good idea that way of the going value, then it's up to you to decide on the condition, mileage, extras, etc that make it either worth more or less. Trucks are just like cars... some are taken well care of and are worth more, others are abused and arent' worth much at all. Seldom do trucks have inherent value just because they're old, like old GTO's or Mustangs or Camaros, Buicks, or Oldsmobiles. Good luck. Let us know if you have more questions. Steve

Anything that just runs and is drivable is worth at least $500 regardless of the body condition. I doubt at 200K the brakes are original so their condition would be unknown unless the owner had work records. If the trucks body and interior are clean, engine only needs minor work, tires are good, no rust etc then it could be worth $1500.

Since the OP isn't truck savy I'd find a mechanic friend that knows vehicles and prices to take a look at it. Either that or take it to a reputable shop and have it inspected. It's worth the small charge to avoid taking a gamble.