Greetings. I am looking into buying our first brand new vehicle. Mind kind of set on a SUV. Versatile, yet not a minivan, want a change from a car. Narrowed my search to 3, Tribute, SantaFe and Vue. I have been obsessed with details, spending way too much time online, dreaming about SUV's, stressing about the decision. Have not had a car payment for 17 years,hate to spend money, but this 0% financing turned our heads. Hoping Dearest Husband can find the time to test drive and make final decision before end of month.(0% may be yanked next month) Any advise?
hey yall.. im a newbie, as i mentioned.. i dont own an SUV as of yet.. but im looking to make a used purchase soon.. i am currently in Illinois, but moving to AZ.. so, i figured an SUV would be good for some of those back roads in AZ since i love road trips so much.. i love cars in general and so, im trying to do my best to research my purchases before i make one..
if anyone has any tips or tricks, let me know.. i can surely use some..
regarding my SUV interests, doesnt matter much whether its full size or mid size.. but, i want a mid-size to have 4 doors.. my range in years right now are 1985-1995.. can anyone tell me what are the more reliable vehicles available..? based more on engine and transmission worthiness.. those are the more important aspects to me..
Welcome to Town Hall. We really don't have a good "current" discussion going right now. Check out the archived How To Buy A Used SUV one for some ideas and then start browsing the boards for models that catch your eye.
Hi, folks -- I have a general question about SUV transmissions: Isn't it possible to find a new SUV with a manual transmission? Everything seems to be automatic (ick!). I have been searching for a 6-cylinder, midsize, moderately priced, reliable vehicle with a 5-speed. Help!
Most of the ones out there are ATs cause they are better offroad and most of the people buying SUVs today are soccer moms. Hard to shift while handing out fruit rollups to the kids in the back seat
I didn't say hi yesterday because I couldn't think of a good direction to point you in. I still can't think of one.
Your best best may be to start a new discussion and hopefully get some more feedback from other SUV fans. Check the Town Hall Help link on the left for details about creating a discussion if you decide to go that route, or yell if you get bogged down. Good luck!
Thanks to Steve and Tidester, Love SUV!! My first SUV was 1998 Jeep Grand Charokee loredo, and second one was 2000 Land rover Discovery.. right now, driving (not SUV) Lincoln LS and loves it..
Grand Cherokee? was just okay.. too noisy on the highway. Discovery sucks.. in my opinion.. well.. now i'm thinking Luxuary suv such as aviator, x5, Rx 330.. well, or range rover.. Third try for SUVs!!
The wife and I are looking hard at this vehicle for the two of us and our 5 month old son. Vehicle does not seem to be designed with kids in seats in mind= -- (no center seat, 4 people max) but any input is appreciated. We like the retro van/Woody features of this thing however. Vehicle would replace a 4 door Jetta and join a stable with a '55 Chevy wagon, '67 Buick BOAT and the requisite beater pickup with electronic ignition for NE winters.
That's a lot of miles for any car, even if they are "easy" highway miles. Lots of the systems could need extra maintenance. Guess there is a reason high mileage vehicles don't bring top dollar.
btw, I think you emailed me but I'm traveling and didn't get it. Long story :-)
I am a first time user so forgive me if I make any mistakes. I am interested in purchasing a Yukon or Sequoia SUV. I selected these two because of the price, size, reliability, and styling. I have been eyeing the Denali for some time, but it is a bit out of my price range. Actually so are most of the SUVs I like, but that is another issue. I want to know if there are any particular problems with either of these SUVs or if there might be a better choice. GMC has complicated the situation by offering some attractive incentives which make the Yukon more affordable. But will the Yukon spend more time in the shop. I commute 35 miles to work each day using mostly Interstate. Off-road is not an issue. I do not want the 4 wheel drive for that reason. I would like traction control and limited slip differential to compensate for the rear wheel drive during bad weather. Any information would be appreciated, even if you do not agree with my selections or opinions. Thanks - rhudson19187@charter.net
Just purchased a new Honda Pilot this week (EX). Downsized from a 2000 Expedition. Never met anyone who has bad things to say about their Honda and the Pilot seemed a (relatively)economical way to go vs. the Acura MDX. Typically not excited about a first year vehicle, but rationalized that the Pilot is new in name-only. Anxious to see what fellow owners have to say about their Pilots and add my two cents.
I've been all over a few boards (Murano, Pacifica, and some others) looking for info, and posting some.
I am a writer, live in Canada, and have been driving for 35 years: motorcycles, scooters, trucks, sedans, wagons, standard shift, automatic, minivans, Volvos, Toyotas, Chrysler, Chevy, and finally Nissan.
Owning the Pathfinder happened 3 years ago. I was looking for 4x4 because of the Canadian winter and my hilltop location. It just beat everything else for ride, comfort, and price.
I went back to trade it in for a 2003 Chilkoot, saw the Murano, saw the price, and the only thing stopping me from just getting one is the fact that it's in its first year.
I'm not a mechanic, and I never look under the hood, except to put that blue stuff for the windows. I don't race, or customize, but I do enjoy a nice car. I wash my car a lot.
There ya go (oh, and I'm older than 30... by quite a bit).
Welcome aboard! I know you'll enjoy the boards and resources available at edmunds.com. Like the vehicles we drive, you'll find that Town Hall members come in all sizes, shapes and ages!
I just bought a 1993 Trooper S (4WD) from E-bay. That was an interesting experience but the vehicle runs really strong (it has 144K miles on it). The only thing that made me pause about purchasing it was the listing stated "A/C blows but not cold" - so guess what???? The first estimate I get is for shop to install a remanufactured compressor & clutch, new drier/accumulator and expansion valve (with labor & tax) is over $1500!!!!! I got the estimate paperwork and it looks like the guy double quoted for the compressor & clutch ($517).
Anyway, that's why I came to this site. I am looking for good, inexpensive alternatives to going to a shop to buy parts. I found a site that had a compressor for $320 but it did not specify that it had a clutch (is that something that is separate?).
Welcome to Town Hall. We have a real Trooper expert around here by the name of Paisan. Look for him in Isuzu Trooper and any other Isuzu or Subaru discussion.
Hiya ppls! I am 12 but an expert on cars. Ask my friends. I know mostly about Lexus, Nissan, Cadillac, Saab and Olds. I am from Va and thats all im saying n e more. Bye.
I am a new member and I am trying to get some more information that I read from an archived discussion entitled "Vibration 40-65 mph Trailblazer" posted by aldan93. I would really like to speak to him more, I am going to arbitration next week and would like to know where he received some of his information. Any help you can give me would be appreciated.
Aldan is active in that Trailblazer discussion so you can ask in there for him to contact you. Your email is marked private in your profile (as is his), so you'll need to change that or otherwise make your email available to him (and spammers <g>).
I am new to this message board, and would like to get some opinions on buying a new/used SUV. I currently drive a 2001 Dodge Durango STL Plus (with every option), which I bought in Canada before moving the US. I have been happy with my Durango, however would like to move up in the luxury scale. I don't use the 4x4 all that much (it's been handy a few times, since I now live in Northern CA), but REALLY like the towing capacity. I need an SUV for the cargo capacity, as well as for my 2 dogs. Replacement needs to be a V8, reliable, under $40 (used) or under $50 (new/lease). Any suggestions/recommendations?
Try reviewing the list under New Cars/SUVs/Luxury (link) to narrow it down some (there's 26 possibilities just on that list - yep, too many choices!), and then browse the discussions for makes that catch your eye.
I am interested in everyone thoughts regard Mountaineer's and Explorers. I used to own a 98 Explorer that was a piece of GARBAGE! but am looking at taking that leap of faith once again. My family was a Ford family so i guess that's why i like them plus I still like the product.
I've been driving a mini-van 4-ever. Changing to an SUV. Don't want to go off-road - just driving around town. Typical hard-working suburban Mom carting around kids soccer, basketball, etc stuff - not to mention extra kids. Also, like to make road trips (short and long). Can't afford Escalade or Navigator. Looking at $25,000 or less. Any experts with suggestions out there???????????? And yes I've done some comparisons.
There are some good SUV suggestions in the SUV vs. Minivans discussion (between the jabs, anyway <g>). There's also an archived topic that may give you some ideas:
Hi guys, Been gone a while. Last time I posted I was looking to buy either a 2000 Explorer Sport or a Ranger. Went with the Ranger 4-door loaded. Now I'm hoping to replace my 96 Explorer 4-door with another or a Toyota Highlander. Any thoughts? I'm a little pissed at Ford right now, the $1000 owner loyalty incentive only includes Explorers 97 and up. I'm heading out in the morning to wheel and deal. Wish me luck!
Hello to the forum -- looking for input on an SUV. Longtime Ford owner -- Explorer -- unhappy with comfort level on long trips, especially for backseat passengers. Looking for input on comfort level of other vehicles. Will begin my looking today with Escalade and Yukon Denalli. Would prefer to buy 01 or 02 model. Any comments or suggestions on which forum is best for me to chat with?
I just joined this discussion group today and am trying to feel my way around! I live in New Jersey and currently own a 1993 Chevy Blazer. It has some problems so I am looking to get another SUV. I kind of liked the Chevy Trailblazer (like the in line 6 idea) and the Ford explorer. What do you all think? I will need to do some towing with my next SUV. I tow a pop up camping trailer which has a weight of about 3500 pounds when loaded. Any input you all could give me would be much appreciated as it gets confusing reading reviews and weighing the pros and cons of each vehicle. Thanks for all the great help.
I've been reading some of the boards on this site for several months and just started to ask some questions lately.
Don't know if Subaru counts as an SUV but it seems as though it should...as, from what I can tell, the RAV4 is pretty much in the same vein.
I'm trying to research what car I might buy next. Currently have a 99 Subaru Outback Limited with about 90K miles who is showing its age a bit.
I drive in and out of NYC just about every day and often more than once a day...I know, I know, it's nuts.
I'd love a MINI for it's ability to fit into a parking space just about anywhere...but it's too small, I think, to deal with all the big bruiser SUVs around these parts on the highways...
Would love the Prius for it's environmentally friendly profile and gas mileage (though through reading these boards, I've learned a bit about how sometimes the specs are misleading)...but what I need is a comfortable, fun to drive and very safe car - I usually have several teenagers in the car with me.
I appreciate all the work that goes into a board like this because, although I'm new to the car world of message boards, I am familiar with others... so "thank you" to all of you who make this place work so well!
Welcome aboard! You can't go wrong listening to the voice of experience and we have many owners participating in these discussions who are eager to share their experiences and knowledge.
We're looking forward to counting you among them now that you've taken that really big step out of lurker status! See, it wasn't that bad now was it?:-)
Thought I'd try this message board out cause I know nothing about cars and needed some place to seek help. I finally get a chance to get a car for myself after driving a Nissan truck for 6 years. I'm a college girl and am not ready to settle into anything too permanent. Lifestyle changes are ineveitable.
I'm looking for something fun to drive, perhaps a little more sporty and not too big. I do lots of city driving, but am aiming for something that can handle minor off roading. A car that can get messy with dogs and water and be fun for me at the same time. So, what's the verdict?
Also, visit a few of the Town Hall message boards where you will hear from current owners who express their experiences (good and bad) and opinions. This will provide you with information about what owning a particular vehicle is like.
I am a new SUV (2001 Jeep Wrangler Sport) owner in beautiful western Maine. I also own a 97 Dodge Ram 1500 Club Cab 4x4. As you can see I am a Mopar nut. Plus, I do work at a Dodge, Chrysler Jeep Dealership (public relations department).
I love snowmobiles (especially Arctic Cats), Water skiing, motorcycles, NASCAR Winston Cup Racing (go #12!) and just about anything outdoors with a motor.
Hi, I am new to the SUV discussion, but as a small business owner I would like to take advantage of the tax deduction for this year. Can anyone tell me which vehicles are eligable. Thanks
You might be referring to the accelerated tax deduction. As I understand it, the deduction applies to vehicles in excess of 6,000 pounds gross vehicle weight. Congress is acting to modify it.
If you use the advanced search feature with the words "accelerated depreciation" you will find a lot of messages relating to the subject. (Click on the "advanced search" in the left column of this page)
Comments
tidester, host
Any advise?
Welcome to Town Hall. Here's one comparision discussion to check out:
Subaru Forester vs Hyundai Santa Fe vs Jeep Liberty vs Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute vs Saturn Vue
Steve, Host
if anyone has any tips or tricks, let me know.. i can surely use some..
regarding my SUV interests, doesnt matter much whether its full size or mid size.. but, i want a mid-size to have 4 doors.. my range in years right now are 1985-1995.. can anyone tell me what are the more reliable vehicles available..? based more on engine and transmission worthiness.. those are the more important aspects to me..
thanks.. and good day..
jet
Check out the Buying Tips articles here too.
Steve, Host
-mike
I didn't say hi yesterday because I couldn't think of a good direction to point you in. I still can't think of one.
Your best best may be to start a new discussion and hopefully get some more feedback from other SUV fans. Check the Town Hall Help link on the left for details about creating a discussion if you decide to go that route, or yell if you get bogged down. Good luck!
Steve, Host
My first SUV was 1998 Jeep Grand Charokee loredo, and second one was 2000 Land rover Discovery..
right now, driving (not SUV) Lincoln LS and loves it..
Grand Cherokee? was just okay.. too noisy on the highway. Discovery sucks.. in my opinion.. well.. now i'm thinking Luxuary suv such as aviator, x5, Rx 330.. well, or range rover..
Third try for SUVs!!
Steve, Host
Honda Element (look for the Helpful Links box on the left there for editorial reviews)
Honda Element vs. Toyota Scion xB (hey, if you like "boats" you may as well glance at the Scion!)
The Child Seats That Fit board may also interest you.
Steve, Host
All of them have been claimed to have been well maintained.
How many miles should I expect either to go?
What about timing chain, drive train, etc.?
Thanks
CA
btw, I think you emailed me but I'm traveling and didn't get it. Long story :-)
Steve, Host
Thanks - rhudson19187@charter.net
We have several active discussions on both vehicles. You might consider looking at these: Toyota Sequoia vs Cadillac Escalade vs Lincoln Navigator vs GMC Yukon Denali vs Chevy Tahoe or Toyota Sequoia vs Chevy Suburban/GMC Yukon XL
Here's one dedicated to the Toyota Sequoia and GMC Yukon Denali/Yukon XL Denali.
Our front page will direct you to reviews of all the vehicles.
Good luck!
tidester, host
tidester, host
You may want to leave details of your purchase in Pilot Owners: What did you pay? too. Thanks!
Steve, Host
What thread do I go to for help or inquiry about whether I should get a car broker? I have heard about non profits, are there any on the up and up?
I HATE buying cars. I rolled and totalled my Subaru Outback (seatbelt works!) and have to buy a car under "pressure" essentially.
thanks
Pam
I don't know much about brokers and zilch about any non-profit ones.
This archived discussion may be useful:
Any questions for an auto broker?
If you have time, posting an "accident report" over in Subaru Legacy/Outback would be of interest to those of us driving an Outback.
and welcome!
Steve, Host
(canoer/boarder, but not an ACA member)
I am a writer, live in Canada, and have been driving for 35 years: motorcycles, scooters, trucks, sedans, wagons, standard shift, automatic, minivans, Volvos, Toyotas, Chrysler, Chevy, and finally Nissan.
Owning the Pathfinder happened 3 years ago. I was looking for 4x4 because of the Canadian winter and my hilltop location. It just beat everything else for ride, comfort, and price.
I went back to trade it in for a 2003 Chilkoot, saw the Murano, saw the price, and the only thing stopping me from just getting one is the fact that it's in its first year.
I'm not a mechanic, and I never look under the hood, except to put that blue stuff for the windows. I don't race, or customize, but I do enjoy a nice car. I wash my car a lot.
There ya go (oh, and I'm older than 30... by quite a bit).
tidester, host
Anyway, that's why I came to this site. I am looking for good, inexpensive alternatives to going to a shop to buy parts. I found a site that had a compressor for $320 but it did not specify that it had a clutch (is that something that is separate?).
Steve, Host
Steve, Host
Steve, Host
I am new to this message board, and would like to get some opinions on buying a new/used SUV. I currently drive a 2001 Dodge Durango STL Plus (with every option), which I bought in Canada before moving the US. I have been happy with my Durango, however would like to move up in the luxury scale. I don't use the 4x4 all that much (it's been handy a few times, since I now live in Northern CA), but REALLY like the towing capacity. I need an SUV for the cargo capacity, as well as for my 2 dogs. Replacement needs to be a V8, reliable, under $40 (used) or under $50 (new/lease). Any suggestions/recommendations?
Have fun shopping!
Steve, Host
I am interested in everyone thoughts regard Mountaineer's and Explorers. I used to own a 98 Explorer that was a piece of GARBAGE! but am looking at taking that leap of faith once again. My family was a Ford family so i guess that's why i like them plus I still like the product.
Welcome!
Steve, Host
SUV in $25K range??...I'm looking to buy
And in our New Cars pages, you can select SUVs by price and narrow the current field down some.
Steve, Host
Been gone a while. Last time I posted I was looking to buy either a 2000 Explorer Sport or a Ranger. Went with the Ranger 4-door loaded. Now I'm hoping to replace my 96 Explorer 4-door with another or a Toyota Highlander. Any thoughts? I'm a little pissed at Ford right now, the $1000 owner loyalty incentive only includes Explorers 97 and up. I'm heading out in the morning to wheel and deal. Wish me luck!
Steve, Host
Thanks
Then there's the Toyota Sequoia vs Cadillac Escalade vs Lincoln Navigator vs GMC Yukon Denali vs Chevy Tahoe discussion for comparisions.
That should keep you occupied for a little while :-)
Steve, Host
I just joined this discussion group today and am trying to feel my way around! I live in New Jersey and currently own a 1993 Chevy Blazer. It has some problems so I am looking to get another SUV. I kind of liked the Chevy Trailblazer (like the in line 6 idea) and the Ford explorer. What do you all think? I will need to do some towing with my next SUV. I tow a pop up camping trailer which has a weight of about 3500 pounds when loaded. Any input you all could give me would be much appreciated as it gets confusing reading reviews and weighing the pros and cons of each vehicle. Thanks for all the great help.
Welcome to Town Hall and have fun wading through all the info!
Steve, Host
Don't know if Subaru counts as an SUV but it seems as though it should...as, from what I can tell, the RAV4 is pretty much in the same vein.
I'm trying to research what car I might buy next. Currently have a 99 Subaru Outback Limited with about 90K miles who is showing its age a bit.
I drive in and out of NYC just about every day and often more than once a day...I know, I know, it's nuts.
I'd love a MINI for it's ability to fit into a parking space just about anywhere...but it's too small, I think, to deal with all the big bruiser SUVs around these parts on the highways...
Would love the Prius for it's environmentally friendly profile and gas mileage (though through reading these boards, I've learned a bit about how sometimes the specs are misleading)...but what I need is a comfortable, fun to drive and very safe car - I usually have several teenagers in the car with me.
I appreciate all the work that goes into a board like this because, although I'm new to the car world of message boards, I am familiar with others... so "thank you" to all of you who make this place work so well!
We're looking forward to counting you among them now that you've taken that really big step out of lurker status! See, it wasn't that bad now was it?:-)
tidester, host
I'm looking for something fun to drive, perhaps a little more sporty and not too big. I do lots of city driving, but am aiming for something that can handle minor off roading. A car that can get messy with dogs and water and be fun for me at the same time. So, what's the verdict?
Thanks for the help!
May I suggest looking over the Buying Guide Index and Road Tests: First Drives. That will help you narrow down your requirements.
Also, visit a few of the Town Hall message boards where you will hear from current owners who express their experiences (good and bad) and opinions. This will provide you with information about what owning a particular vehicle is like.
Good luck!
tidester, host
I am a new SUV (2001 Jeep Wrangler Sport) owner in beautiful western Maine. I also own a 97 Dodge Ram 1500 Club Cab 4x4. As you can see I am a Mopar nut. Plus, I do work at a Dodge, Chrysler Jeep Dealership (public relations department).
I love snowmobiles (especially Arctic Cats), Water skiing, motorcycles, NASCAR Winston Cup Racing (go #12!) and just about anything outdoors with a motor.
I see you've already discovered the Wrangler board - you're going to enjoy it! Good people - good info!
tidester, host
You might be referring to the accelerated tax deduction. As I understand it, the deduction applies to vehicles in excess of 6,000 pounds gross vehicle weight. Congress is acting to modify it.
If you use the advanced search feature with the words "accelerated depreciation" you will find a lot of messages relating to the subject. (Click on the "advanced search" in the left column of this page)
Good luck!
tidester, host