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FORD FALCON Used Car Review

The Ford Falcon was Australia's longest continuously running nameplate up to the cessation of local production in October 2016 - 56 years after it debuted as a US-based model. Ford's large car started to become more Australianised from the 1970s and it would eventually compete against the Holden Commodore in a famously fierce local rivalry. There were luxury models such as the Fairlane and LTD, ute spin-offs, and sportier models such as the XR6 Turbo and V8-powered XR8 of more recent times.

Pros

Cons

  • Roomy and comfortable interiors
  • Wide range of models
  • Excellent, torquey six-cylinder engines
  • Engineered specifically for Australian roads
  • Thirsty LPG engines
  • Taxi stigma
  • No longer in production
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
FordFalconAir conditioning?: YesClear all

Top2003 Ford Falcon BA XT Gold 4 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Sedan

  • 123600 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Thank you for viewing this vehicle. We are LOCATED at 47 Turton Rd Waratah 100 meters from Kmart Waratah and opposite WARATAH HIGH SCHOOL. Our Contact number is ******0277. 1 OWNER 2003 Ford Falcon With GENUINE 123600 klms ONLY with Airconditioning, Power Siteering, Power Windows, ABS Brakes, Cruise Control, Window Tint, Alloy Wheels, CD player, Alloy Wheels, Rear Spoiler and LOOKS and Drives AWESOME. Full Credit to its Previous Owner. Nice Car! A Very well Maintained and Economical Ve

$6,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
New Lambton, NSW

Dealer used
8 hours ago

Top2010 Ford Falcon FG XR6 White 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 66154 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

****SALE PRICE 2010 Ford Falcon XR6 Sedan Sports Automatic -One owner -Log books -2 keys -Great condition -17 Inch alloy wheels -Multi function steering wheel -Sports suspension -Electric Seats -MUCH MORE Our commitment to you; Trust your journey with the biggest and most trusted luxury dealership servicing the Sutherland Shire. With a new state of the art facility and a new team with a refreshing bespoke style experience. We are committed to providing excellent service, knowledg

$19,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Kirrawee, NSW

Dealer used
25/04/2024

Top2004 FORD FALCON FUTURA 4 SP AUTO SEQ SPORTSHIFT 4D WAGON

$3,499
North Sydney, NSW

Yesterday

Top2004 Ford Falcon BA Mk II XR8 Yellow 6 Speed Manual Sedan

  • 307531 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 8 cyl 5.4L

Manual..!! Manual..!! Manual..!! Ford Falcon XR8 Manual Sedan in the Stunning Canary Yellow.....!!!!!! Don't miss your chance to own a Piece of Aussie Motoring History.....!!!! Be Quick as it wont LAST....!!!!!! We are Located in Western Sydney. We are a family run business and have been serving the Sydney area for over 45 years. We pride ourselves in only re-selling the best quality second hand cars. Every one of our cars come with a valid Pink slip / PPSR and Clear Title. All of our stock c

$18,980 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
8 hours ago

Top2010 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Ute Super Cab Turbo Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Utility

  • 138167 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

****2010 Ford Falcon Ute XR6 Turbo FG Rear Wheel Drive**** Features of this 2010 Ford Falcon Ute include: - 2 Keys - Service History - Dark Blue Paint - Black Rims - Sports Bar - Tow Bar - Cruise Control - Automatic Transmission - Power Steering - Air Conditioning - ABS Brakes - Dual Front Airbags - CD Player with AUX Input - Alloy Wheels - Power Windows and Mirrors - Central Locking We put our "Best Price First" and our customers love it! We sell over 150 cars a month.

$30,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maddington, WA

Dealer used
25/04/2024

Top2002 Ford Falcon BA XT Green 4 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Wagon

  • 322982 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

USED CAR CLEARACE CENTER. We are located in Melbourne’s West, only 25 Minutes from Melbourne CBD. Open 6 days a week, MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM to 5PM and SATURDAY 9AM to 4PM TO SPEED UP YOUR FINACE APPLICATION, PLEASE BRING WITH YOU *Your 3 most recent payslips *Most recent bank statement *Rental statement or rates notice *Centerlink income salary statement Come and see us today – Affordable, Reliable, Cheap cars. Cheap cars arriving daily.

$4,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Hoppers Crossing, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2003 Ford Falcon BA XR6 Silver, Chrome 4 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 237321 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Rev up your driving experience with this sleek 2003 Ford Falcon BA XR6 Sedan in striking Silver or Chrome. With a powerful 4.0i engine, this sedan is not only stylish but packs a punch on the road. Equipped with aftermarket Alloy Wheels, Cruise Control, and an Adjustable Steering Column, this XR6 is ready to hit the open road. Enjoy your favorite tunes with the 4 Speaker Stereo system and CD Player, while staying comfortable with Air Conditioning and Sports Seats in the front row. Safety is a

$11,999 Drive Away^
Werribee, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2014 Ford Falcon FG X Ecoboost Black 6 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 178258 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

?? Facebook Special ?? Was $21,990 now $19,990^ Payments From $82 per week*, Applying is Easy https://moneymartdirect.com.au/apply-now/ 2014 Ford Falcon Ecoboost FG, 178,258kms, Automatic, Dual Front Airbags, ABS, 16" Alloy Wheels, Reversing Camera, Cloth Trim, Dusk Sensing Headlights, Air Conditioning, Radio. ? WE FINANCE YOUR FUTURE NOT YOUR PAST ! ? FREE NO OBLIGATION PRE-APPROVAL! FAST APPROVALS FOR..... ? GOOD CREDIT ? BAD CREDIT ? UNPAID DEFAULTS ? CASUAL EMPLOYMENT ? SHORT TERM EM

$19,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Warners Bay, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2010 FORD FALCON FG (LPG) 4 SP AUTO SEQ SPORTSHIFT C/CHAS

  • 270000 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

beautifully straight economical LPG ute

$7,250
Lismore, NSW

Yesterday

2011 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 200100 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Ford Falcon FG XR6 Sedan, Automatic Transmission, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Front and Side Air Bags, ABS Brakes, Factory Body Kit, Sports Suspension, Cruise Control, Alloy Wheels, Fabulous Value with Current Roadworthy Certificate, and All Government and Statutory Fees Included in our Drive Away Price. Conveniently Located 35km's South-East of Melbourne 800 Metres from Kananook Station. If you enquire on this vehicle an email will be sent immediately with our contact details, the email

$11,990 Drive Away^
Seaford, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2016 Ford Falcon FG X XR6 Sprint White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 8704 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

***WELCOME*** COME IN TO OUR WAREHOUSE IN MADDINGTON AND SEE HOW WE DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY! WE DONT SELL CARS, WE HELP PEOPLE BUY CARS! WE OFFER A FUN AND RELAXED NON-PUSHY BUYING EXPERIENCE! WE ARE NOT YOUR CONVENTIONAL, STERILE, ALL BUSINESS AND NO PERSONALITY CAR YARD OUR FRIENDLY TEAM ARE CUSTOMER FOCUSSED AND WE BOAST A FINE RANGE OF PRE-OWNED VEHICLES! WE DONT CLAIM TO BE THE BEST, BUT WE HAVENT FOUND ANYONE BETTER! PEACE OF MIND? WEVE GOT YOU COVERED! All of our vehicles undergo an ex

$81,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maddington, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2008 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Red 5 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 99661 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Buying a car just got so much Easier as we offer: Great Finance Packages Over the phone approvals Top trade-in value 1-5 Years Extended Warranty Roadside Assistance Guaranteed Clear Title Australia-wide transport Bad Credit? Pensioner? Ex Bankrupt? The Bank said NO? We Can Help with Easy Finance available so give us a chance... Whether you are looking for Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 We can make it happen with a

$26,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2015 Ford Falcon FG X XR6T Silver 6 Speed Manual Utility

  • 130225 km
  • Ute
  • Manual
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

FORD FALCON FGX XR6 TURBO MANUAL ++INTERNET SPECIAL PRICE ONLY++ * SOUGHT AFTER MANUAL * COLOUR CODED HARD LID * STAGGERED WHEELS We test and inspect all our used vehicles all our used vehicles are sold including NSW registration and Road Worthy Certificate for NSW customers and NSW blue slip for interstate customers. We are located 1.5 hours north of Sydney and 40 mins From Newcastle. Finance options available to approved customers, we deliver Australia wide and offer door to door service. We

$39,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Rutherford, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2010 Ford Falcon FG Upgrade XR6 Black 6 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Utility

  • 119113 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

WELCOME TO CAR DEALER WE ARE LOCATED 107 TUDOR STREET HAMILTON NSW IN NEWCASTLE,1 HOUR AND 30 minutes NORTH OF SYDNEY. 2010 FORD FALCON FG XR6, 4L PETROL, 6 SPEED AUTOMAITC, 2 KEYS, SERVICE HISTORY PROVIDED, COLD AIR CON, BLACK IN COLOUR WITH TIDY EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR, VEHICLE ALSO COMES WITH A SAFETY INSPECTION REPORT. Vehicle price includes 5 YEARS WARRANTY MECHANICAL PROTECTION PLAN with endurance only condition is to be service by a licence mechanic every 10,000 klms or 6 months which

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Hamilton, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2014 Ford Falcon FG X XR6T Blue 6 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Sedan

  • 132138 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

FORD FALCON XR6 TURBO SEDAN ++PLEASE NOTE: FIXED PRICED VEHICLE++ HAGGLE AND HASSLE FREE BUYING * SOLD INCLUDING NSW PLATES AND REGO PERMIT CAN BE ARRANGED FOR INTERSTATE BUYERS We test and inspect all our used vehicles all our used vehicles are sold including NSW registration and Road Worthy Certificate for NSW customers and NSW blue slip for interstate customers. We are located 1.5 hours north of Sydney and 40 mins From Newcastle. Finance options available to approved customers, we deliver

$39,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Rutherford, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2009 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Silver 5 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Sedan

  • 132240 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

AUTOMATIC PETROL ENGINE NEAT & TIDY POWER WINDOWS TOW BAR ALLOY WHEELS ROADWORTHY INCLUDED FINANCE AVAILABLE* WARRANTY OPTIONS AVAILABLE* 5 MINS FROM GEELONG STATION LOCATED NEXT DOOR TO KARDINIA CAFE HOME TO GEELONGS CHEAPEST CARS

$14,990 Drive Away^
Newtown, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2012 FORD XR6 FALCON AUTOMATIC SEDAN

  • 128398 km
  • Other
  • Auto

2012 FORD XR6 FALCON AUTOMATIC * LOW KILOMETRES * FULL SERVICE HISTORY * HONEYCOMB ALLOYS * LOVELY CLEAN CAR * Feel free to come on down to inspect, test drive or apply for finance on one of our cars at Carmart Perth, located conveniently at 1078 Beaufort St Bedford just 10 minutes from the Perth CBD. Look for the flags at the corner of Beaufort St and the Strand, Bedford or call Maurice on . Extended warranties our available on all of our vehicles for added peace of mind in the ye

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morley, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2012 Ford Falcon FG MK2 XR6T Blue 6 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Utility

  • 161222 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

"We are located 1.5 hours north of Sydney at the M1 Freeway at Newcastle. Finance options available to approved customers, Warranty options available We Can also assit with freight options Australia wide. We are a Local Family owned and operated Dealership Established for over 12 years . Contact our team for hassle free friendly service today. If the Vehicle is advertised - YES it is available - Call today to book your appointment! ."

$24,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Beresfield, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2016 Ford Falcon FG X XR6 Ute Super Cab White 6 Speed Manual Utility

  • 103243 km
  • Ute
  • Manual
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

2016 Ford Falcon Ute FG X XR6 Ute Super Cab 2 door, 6 speed manual. Fitted with alloy rims, sports bar, soft tonneau cover, tow bar. Interior features include bluetooth hands free, cruise control, cd player and more. For an easy and hassle-free purchase experience, contact 016us today. We'll help you find a quality pre-owned vehicle to suit your lifestyle and budget. We also welcome trade-ins and offer competitive finance and warranty options plus fast and convenient vehicle delivery Australia-

$29,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Ocean Vista, TAS

Dealer used
Yesterday

2006 Ford Falcon BF XR6 Super Cab Special Edition Blue 4 Speed Sports Automatic Cab Chassis

  • 284935 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Located in close proximity to Brisbane city, we are Brisbane's premier used vehicle specialists. Stocking only high quality pre-loved vehicles which have all been comprehensively checked by our trained technicians to offer you hassle free buying and worry free motoring. We offer no deposit finance and leasing options to suit your needs. You also have the option to protect your investment by selecting a Vehicle Safeguard plan with options ranging from 12 months to 36 months. All safeguard plans

$15,490 Drive Away^
Nundah, QLD

Dealer used
Yesterday

2014 FORD FALCON XR6T 6 SP MANUAL UTILITY

  • 108000 km
  • Ute
  • Manual
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

108,000ks 6 speed 4" Dump pipe Process west intercooler and pipe work 1000cc injectors Walbro upgraded fuel pump Street fighter cold air intake New power steering pump New alternator Hurst shifter 6 pot Brembos on front 4 pot Brembos on rear Central locking hardcover Fpv dash cluster New from ford's and calibrated to original ks Fpv push button start Carbon fibre steering wheel Three stage heated seats Factory FGX mags x5 without a mark on them Michelin 245/35/19 pilot sports Exedy Devil HD clu

$40,000Negotiable
Whyalla Stuart, SA

Yesterday

2014 Ford Falcon FG X XR6 (LPi) 6 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 0 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

XR6 FGX, BEST AND LAST OF THE AUSSIE MADE FALCONS We are conveniently located at the Cnr of Lupus St and ferry rd southport. with over 80 late model cars in stock we are sure to have the car you are looking for at a great price. Buy with the added confidence that our Warranty and guaranteed clear title gives you. You won't get that from a private sale!!! Add this to the fact that it has also been through a comprehensive quality check and this is one that is sure to impress FREE

$23,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Southport, QLD

Dealer used
Yesterday

2005 Ford Falcon BA MkII XR6T 4 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Utility

  • 198220 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

XR6 TURBO UTE XR6 AUTOMATIC LOW KMS FOR AGE UNMODIFIED ORIGINAL EXCELLANT CONDITION THROUGHOUT COMES WITH ROADWORTHY CERTIFICATE AND CLEAR TITLE. PRICE IS PLUS ON ROAD COSTS. ( GOVERENENT FEES) WE CAN ARRANGE TRANSPORT AUSTRALIA WIDE. TRADE INS ARE WELCOME, WE HAVE ONSITE FINANCE AT COMPETITIVE RATES ANY QUESTIONS OR TO ENQUIRE PLEASE CALL OUR MARKETING MANAGER ON OR OUR SALES TEAM

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Southport, QLD

Dealer used
Yesterday

2007 Ford Falcon XR6 Turbo BF II

  • 167852 km
  • Other
  • Auto

Great Looking beautifully Ford Falcon XR6 Turbo, very well presented with lots and lots of upgrades. This vehicle has a powerful 4.0L Turbo charged engine and a 6 speed smooth Automatic Transmission. ***One Year Free Unlimited Kilometer Warranty provided, Extendable up to 5 years. Features include: * High flow turbo * Turbo smart waste gate actuator * 1000cc Injectors * High Flow fuel pump * Plazmaman front mount intercooler * Venom Dump back twin 2.5 inch exhaust * Cold air intake * 18inch R

$21,999 Drive Away^
Beckenham, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2008 FORD FALCON XL (LPG) 4 SP AUTO SEQ SPORTSHIFT C/CHAS

  • 357 km
  • Ute
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

Setup & Ready to go for any tradie plumber electrician builder etc put yours tools & ladders in get to work ! 2008 Ford falcon factory Lpg fully optioned adventura model power windows ,mirrors &electric seats , Bluetooth , reverse camera with in motion driving front & rear dash cam ,ice cold air con ,power seats mirrors & windows ,mechanically a1 ! Always maintained & serviced on time , major service just completed With new front & rear brakes& disc pads replaced all fluids & filters changed ,

$8,999Negotiable
Kingsgrove, NSW

Yesterday

2011 Ford Falcon FG MkII XR6 Turbo Sedan 4dr Spts Auto 6sp, 4.0T [Dec] Grey Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 72399 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

We often get asked where are you located? You can now easily find Perths ONLY dealership under a HUGE digital billboard, East side of the Canning Bridge in Como…. We want your vehicle, ask us for a price today! **Perth Based** Please genuine Enquiries only, as we are charged per lead*** Comos ONLY dedicated Car Dealership, scroll down to see our location in the fine print** Call 13 OO 251 283 to arrange a viewing now! We want your old car and even if we cannot help you with your new vehicl

$36,921 Excl. Gov. Charges
Como, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2011 FORD FALCON XR6 LIMITED EDITION

  • 137354 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

-4.0L 6 CYLINDER PETROL -6 SPEED AUTOMATIC -REGO UNTIL 28/06/2024 -18"INCH WHEELS -GOOD TYRES -TOW BAR -LEATHER SEATS -REVERSE PARKING SENSORS -CRUISE CONTROL -POWER WINDOWS -NEAT AND TIDY INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR TRADE-INS WELCOME FOR A FAST AND EASY ONLINE PRE-APPROVAL, FOLLOW THE LINK BELOW OR CONTACT OUR FINANCE TEAM AT LENDA FINANCE ON O419018349 https://www.lendafinance.com.au/ 1 AND 3 YEAR EXTENDED WARRANTY OPTIONS AVAILABLE AUTOPLEX WA PTY LTD MD30039 22 CLAPHAM STREET BECK

$11,000 Excl. Gov. Charges
Beckenham, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2016 Ford Falcon FG X XR6 Ute Super Cab Turbo Silver, Chrome 6 Speed Manual Utility

  • 107318 km
  • Ute
  • Manual
  • 6 cyl 4.0L

* * * * * INTERNET SPECIAL * * * * * JUST ARRIVED... VEHICLE IS BEING PREPARED FOR SALE... Well presented XR6 ute. Manual. 2 seats. Cloth trim. Sports bar. RWD. 4.0L turbo petrol engine. Tonneau cover. Tray liner. Mobile phone connectivity. Satellite navigation. BUY WITH CONFIDENCE! If you are reading this, YES the car is available! Please call us Today or send an email for a quick response from our Friendly Online Sales Team. We have over 100 vehicles in stock available for immediate deliv

$39,999 Drive Away^
Ferntree Gully, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2014 Ford Falcon FG X XR8 Black 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 69318 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 8 cyl 5.0L

Discover the epitome of automotive excellence with the 2014 Ford FG-X XR8, a rare gem that combines low mileage with an impeccable condition that's hard to find. This stunning vehicle is not just a means of transportation; it's a statement of style and reliability. With only a limited number of models available in such an extraordinary state, this car is a collector's dream and a driving enthusiast's delight. The sleek design, coupled with the power under the hood, promises an unrivaled driving

$49,990 Drive Away^
West Wodonga, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2005 Ford Falcon BA MkII XR8 Blue 4 Speed Auto Seq Sportshift Sedan

  • 220868 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 8 cyl 5.4L

2005 FORD FALCON XR8 BA MKII 5.4L BOSS260 V8 FPV SEDAN CLEAN AND TIDY WELL LOOKED AFTER HIGHLY OPTIONED RARE VELOCITY BLUE WITH FACTORY 18 INCH WHEELS AND LUXURY PACK FULL LEATHER TRIM AND PREMIUM 7 SPEAKER SOUND SYSTEM! ! ! 5.4L V8 260KW All Stock even the exhaust drives like new. . . Own a piece of Australian History with all original logbooks with History get in contact today! All our cars have been Mechanically inspected and had a General Service. Clear PPSR can be provided upon custo

$14,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

Overview of the Ford Falcon

Overview of the Ford Falcon

The Ford Falcon was Australia's longest continuously running nameplate up to the cessation of local production in October 2016 - 56 years after it debuted as a US-based model.

Ford's large car started to become more Australianised from the 1970s and it would eventually compete against the Holden Commodore in a famously fierce local rivalry.

There were luxury models such as the Fairlane and LTD, ute spin-offs, and sportier models such as the XR6 Turbo and V8-powered XR8 of more recent times.

FORD FALCON GENERATIONS (SINCE 2002)

2002-2008

2008-2016

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption (not including ute models)

EcoBoost turbo 4-cylinder: 8.0-8.7 litres per 100km

LPG 6-cylinder: 11.7-13.5 litres per 100km

6-cylinder: 9.0 litres per 100km

6-cylinder turbo: 9.5-11.1 litres per 100km

V8: 13.6-13.7 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO FORD FALCON

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: FORD FALCON (FG, 2008-2016)

Watch out for a used Falcon that has been abused by a previous fleet-operator owner.

Clunks over bumps can mean worn suspension bushes.

A pulsing through the car when you apply the brakes probably means worn and warped front brake rotors. Sometimes these can be repaired, but usually new rotors are the best strategy.

The automatic transmission has an external fluid cooler, but these can fail, allowing coolant into the gearbox where it quickly wrecks both the mechanical and electronic functions of the automatic. Check the transmission fluid for milkiness that suggests the coolant and oil have mixed. If they have mixed, give that car a miss.

Make sure the central locking works perfectly, as this is an early sign of a failing body computer.

Check for low coolant level in the radiator. An O-ring at the back of the water pump is a common cause of coolant loss.