01 issues

Looking at an 01 on CL for $2500, said she'd take $2300 as lowest cash in hand. A few concerns I have... The ignition thing where you put the key in,.the whole metal socket is loose and comes out of the steering wheel. Has lift blocks in the back, I've got shackles I can replace with. My bigger concern is what sounds like a tick from the engine around 2200rpm. Doesn't happen at lower or higher rpms that I noticed. My ear and mech skills don't allow me to identify stuff like this. I'm concerned due to 2000/2001 having the bad jead known for failure... Suggestions? Its an auto with 137k miles

Haven't heard about bad heads on the 00/01. I get a little lifter noise sometimes (might be the synth oil, never had it with reg dino stuff). Maybe you hear the fuel injectors?

Ignition thing is weird like someone tried to jack it.

Check the bottoms of the doors for rust, particularly the rear.

Mine has 130k miles and runs great.