Well, I've lurked long enough. Time for an account and a hello.
Bought a 2004 Base Sunburst Orange in early August. Wasn't sure about the color at first, bit the more it's been in my driveway, the more it's grown on me. Wasn't perfect, but for 17 years old and 121,500 on the clock, I'm okay with its condition. Previous owner insisted on getting the brakes repaired before she sold it to us (friend of mom's). I was fully prepared to do the work. But yay, one less bit if wrench turning.
I have since done shocks, sway bar links, bar to chassis bushings. And the EVAP. Oh sweet momma. When I went to fuel up the first time after replacing the canister...I almost cried because the pump didn't clock off until it was full.
Oh, also changed the valve bit, since that was actually throwing a code. And O2 sensors.
Previous owner has a low end head unit upgrade. I've since added a Sony with Android Auto. Replaced the cigarette lighter with a USB socket that looks practically OE. And clipped the BT mic into the cubby to the left of the cluster (where the 4x4 buttons would be) almost don't notice if if you aren't looking, and no wind noise reports with the AC on high.
Coming soon will be a backup camera as that's something I sorely miss from the other car.
Cooler weather projects (Florida humidity, ugh)...
Driver upper ball joint boot is leaking. Driver outer tie rod also leaking. I can keep squirting grease up into those until I can get them replaced.
But it's been fun. I haven't had any kind of project car or truck since I got rid of my 2002 Focus ZX3 back in 2016. Had a Kia Soul for a bit and also drive a Ford Edge frequently.
Friend of mine that's known me for 10+ years, "Yeah, way too much for me, but it's absolutely perfect for you."