I am already looking for my next discovery. Won't be anytime unless I find a deal too good to pass up but planning ahead. I would like a 2004 but cost is pretty high. I noticed that 2003 is much more affordable, probably because of the engine problems. I have found that I could get a 2003 and add the CDL and still come out ahead financially. All that being said, is it possible to know for certain that a 2003 is not one of the bad engines? I've read that there is a range of VINs they suspect but is there anyway to know for sure? Anything else specific to the 2003 model year to watch out for? Is there anything unique to 2003 that doesn't effect the other D2s?

 

If you are in no hurry just wait it out, the '04's will be cheap pretty soon, at the longest after the first of the year.
Once the new model year comes out the other years drop in value.
But no, other than the oil pump issues a '03 is not different than a '02.
Now, for all of you who are going to jump me for saying that, there are differences, but not like he is wondering about.
A DII is a DII.

 

If you were to find an 03, take the vin and check with a dealer, there is a list of vin ranges that have the bad engines.
Buy an 04, I have been seeing them down in the $14,000 range and it is a far better truck based on many last minute upgrades.

 

What kind of upgrades were done between the 2003 and 2004 model years that make them so superior? Are those upgrades really worth the extra initial costs?