Common problems with 2001-2004 GT's

[RacerX]

Hi All, I have recently come across a 2002 mustang gt i was looking at purchasing, and the dealer gave me a list of the warranty work it has had done. In there was a problem with the cooling system, that appears to have been fixed, but is it possible that the engine/ head gasket is damaged due to overheating? is there anything i should look for when i go to take it for a test drive?

[bjack]

I can only speak from my personal experience with my 02 GT, but I know of no design flaws with the cooling system. I've had mine for almost a year and just came out of an above average summer here in S. Maryland and I never had an overheating problem. I drive mine daily in some of the most congested traffic in the nation (3rd worst in country), ran the AC every day commuting 80 miles per day....notta problem! As for the possible head gasket damage....depends on how hot the engine got (if it overheated at all). If a head gasket is blown you can tell by simply checking the oil, you'll see water spots or condensation on the dip stick. Also, it will blow white smoke out the tail pipes while running. Hope this helps! Bill