About two weeks ago I bought a silver 2008 V6 convertible with a manual transmission and Pony Package. It had a hair under 76k on it. It's in pretty good shape, but a few things aren't working. I've already got a new trunk lock cylinder and antenna cables on the way. The key doesn't turn in the trunk lock cylinder and the radio (Shaker 500) sensitivity is very poor, but the CD player and satellite radio work . I'm going to be doing minor tune-up stuff shortly (new plugs, wires, transmission fluid and diff oil). I've about got the "old car smell" worked out (got rained in with the top down?), and I'll be doing other restorative operations as the autumn progresses: paint correction, suspension creak fixes... It'll eventually need a new top, but it's not leaking now.

It's a fun daily, that's for sure!

 

Welcome, and congratulations on the new purchase. My 2006 Pony convertible was the most fun car I've ever owned (never should have sold that one).

Check the plastic thermostat housing for leaks. It is very common on the 4.0 for it to fail and it isn't a matter of "IF" it will fail but only "WHEN" will it fail. There is a sticky I believe in the S197 V6 section on replacing it. Very easy to do.

 

One other thing to check, since you mentioned an odor. The cowl drains are prone to plugging and will cause a back up into the cabin. There is a sticky in the S197 section about checking, clearing, and where they are located.

 

I've cleaned out the passenger side drain; the area itself was dry but there were leaves and other debris in the hole. I also replaced the cabin air filter, which looked to be original :/

I've read about the thermostat housing. It's on my list, as is getting the brakes done. Thanks!