Good used trucks/suvs for 12k and under?

2

2StepsAhead

New member
Thinking about getting a daily driver for my evo, want something a little more versatile (not just another small car) so I'm thinking of going small suv/pick up...I want to get something nice and not just a beater, looking to spend around 12k or less. Any suggestions?
 
You can get a Liberty for under $12K now and I have been thrilled with mine. You can also find Chevy Tahoes for around that range. What are you looking for? How many miles? Fuel economy? Towing capacity? Luxuries?
 
I've been surprisingly happy with the '00 Blazer (4WD, LT model). I joke about it being the "beater-Blazer", but if it weren't a badly repaired (by my standards) wreck I'd keep it even though the dogs are outgrowing it- it's just a nice, versatile vehicle for the money. Wish it had seat heat though..



Considering what our "good vehicles" are, my satisfaction with the Blazer really *was* a big surprise.
 
Toyota Tacoma w/ TRD or PreRunner package with Doublecab (4 door) are pretty tough machines. You should easily be able to find one a few years old for around $12-14K. They typically run forever too and are very versatile and IMO, look great.



Something like this....

493_image.jpg
 
http://stratous.250free.com/My_Truck/1.jpg





Thats my '02 Dakota. That generation Dakota now goes for low teens with a V8 and 4X4.

Mine has the 4.7l V8, 5 speed auto, 4X4, and 3.92 limited slip. With high output cam shafts, intake, exhaust, o2 simms, and computer she plants about 330lb ft tq and averages 17mpg.

It also has a bunch of room inside for 3 people, and can handle 6000+ lbs pretty well.



I talk it up a lot...Shes my baby.
 
Oh...I am also a huge fan of the Tacomas. They are great running machines and are filled with great after thoughts.



The downside is that they are soo expensive, and also expensive to insure. You'de have to go back more than a couple years to get one for 12k, and up your insurance plans 50-100 bucks a month.



But, I would have one if I could afford it!
 
Honestly I'm trying to keep my options open, I'd like luxury but the luxury suvs are still up there in price. I really had my heart set on the forester xt but they either have too high mileage or they're up around 17k + which is too much for me. I really like the newer tacomas but I keep seeing them in the 18k range, I also thought about the older dakota. Its a nice looking truck just don't know how they hold up over time. Towing capacity isn't terribly important, the most I'd tow is my cutlass but that's a rarity.
 
I'll give you that the older Dakotas had problematic transmission to say the least. However if you get one thats 2000 or newer they have a new 5 speed auto instead of the problematic 4 speeds.



I've had mine for 3 and half years and the only things I have done are ALL the fluids, battery, and seat cussion. The ball joints were replaced under factory recall.

Very solid truck, and very powerful, with not bad milage.



If you are looking more for an SUV, my mom has had 3 Jeep Grand Cherokees since '99 on a continuous lease. She doesn't know what else she'de have. They also have the new 5 speed autos and QuadraTrac four wheel drive systems. The ride is nearly unbeatable.



A dealer can also ussualy work out good payments if they want your business. I got my truck nearly 4 years ago for $17,500. I was able to work up a $4,000 down payment and got a $250/mo payment at 6% intrest. It was a 6 year loan, but make higher payments when you can...mine is almost paid off.

Also dealer cars ussualy come with a 3 month 3,000 miles bumper to bumper warrantee on top of whatever is left the factory warrantee.
 
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