I need a replacement vehicle

[JoeP]

My mechanic informed me that my car needs extensive repairs. It is a 2001 Buick with 80k miles, and has the following issues: bad front drivers side wheel bearing, CV joint needs replacing, muffler needs replacing, much of the exhaust needs replacement, code indicates catalytic converter needs replacement, possible O2 sensor issue, transmission code for pressure, body rot, brake lines are near failure.

So we're looking at probably $2k worth of parts and labor, with no guarantee that it will go further without need more money put into it. I've resigned to the fact that it is time to get rid of it. I may get $1k for it if I sell it to someone who is handy.

I'm looking for something comfortable on longer trips, and something than can tow a small boat or trailer. Someone at work suggested a Honda Pilot, and the price/features match what I am looking for. Of course, I will buy used, and try to find a "certified" one.

I'm looking to buy in the next few months, and will likely pay cash for about 2/3 of it (car loan, ugh, for the rest). Any other suggestions?

[Fishindude77]

You can sometimes find some great deals on Craigslist when a seller is in a pinch and needs to cash out fast.

[bjl584]

I'd also look at Toyota Rav4, Kia Sportage, or Hyundai Tuscon.

All get good gas mileage and should be able to handle moderate towing.

[ua_guy]

Remember, resale value hurts you when you buy vehicles like the Honda Pilot. You're basically paying a premium to own a used car. Given incentives on outgoing 2015's to make room for 2016's I'd say check out some new cars too, especially if you can snag 0% financing.

If you're planning to own the vehicle for a long time, that resale value won't matter much.

For comfort and value, I'd also suggest checking out rigs like the Dodge Durango, Chevy Traverse/ GMC Acadia, Ford Explorer, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee (A brand new Laredo can be had pretty cheaply with incentives...$30k!)

[JoeP]

Remember, resale value hurts you when you buy vehicles like the Honda Pilot. You're basically paying a premium to own a used car. Given incentives on outgoing 2015's to make room for 2016's I'd say check out some new cars too, especially if you can snag 0% financing.

If you're planning to own the vehicle for a long time, that resale value won't matter much.

For comfort and value, I'd also suggest checking out rigs like the Dodge Durango, Chevy Traverse/ GMC Acadia, Ford Explorer, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee (A brand new Laredo can be had pretty cheaply with incentives...$30k!)

Thanks, but resale value doesn't even enter into the equation for us, because we keep the cars on the road longer than most. I'd rather buy a used car for less up front, and not even allow resale into the equation. This is in contrast to those who pay more up front and hope to get something when they go to sell it.

Not sure if it is an income disparity thing, but $30k is not cheap in my book!

[ua_guy]

Thanks, but resale value doesn't even enter into the equation for us, because we keep the cars on the road longer than most. I'd rather buy a used car for less up front, and not even allow resale into the equation. This is in contrast to those who pay more up front and hope to get something when they go to sell it.

Not sure if it is an income disparity thing, but $30k is not cheap in my book!

No judgement on whether $30k is cheap or expensive. I said it can be had "cheaply" I guess, which is kind of erroneous since i have no idea about your income situation, but I guess I meant to say it's a value. You mentioned buying a certified used Honda Pilot, so a brand new $30k Grand Cherokee would be right around the same budget, right?

[JoeP]

No judgement on whether $30k is cheap or expensive. I said it can be had "cheaply" I guess, which is kind of erroneous since i have no idea about your income situation, but I guess I meant to say it's a value. You mentioned buying a certified used Honda Pilot, so a brand new $30k Grand Cherokee would be right around the same budget, right?

NP, used Pilots in my area are around 22-24k. That's not cheap (or cheaply) in my opinion either. IIRC, you are a bit of a car enthusiast, so if you place value on enjoyment, that might explain some of the disparity.

FWIW, after a finance discussion, even $22k is out of reach. I am now looking at Accords and Camrys. Or is it Camries? Maybe a Ford Fusion. Our sweet spot appears to be in the $15k area.

[sandrark]

Accords and Camrys are not tow vehicles. Does that mean that is no longer a requirement?

We had a Toyota FJ Cruiser - towed 5k lbs, fun car. Not great on gas mileage.

[greenskeeper]

Accords and Camrys are not tow vehicles. Does that mean that is no longer a requirement?

We had a Toyota FJ Cruiser - towed 5k lbs, fun car. Not great on gas mileage.

The OP could easily tow under 1000lbs max with practically any car including an Accord or Camry.

If the car is an automatic you'd probably want to look into a larger transmission cooler and possibly install a transmission temp gauge so you don't smoke your transmission.

[JoeP]

The OP could easily tow under 1000lbs max with practically any car including an Accord or Camry.

If the car is an automatic you'd probably want to look into a larger transmission cooler and possibly install a transmission temp gauge so you don't smoke your transmission.

The towing requirement is on hold. I have a Dodge Ram 1500 with a 5.9L that tows great. I'm not sure how much longer it will last, which was part of the reason for wanting a vehicle that can tow.