I'll keep my 2003 Tahoe 5.3L. In 2014 I got it for $2k with 140k miles on it; with minimal maintenance costs over the years. It now has over 220k and going strong!!! I'll keep it until it blows up.
I agree with this list, great vehicles, in high school and up until last year I had a 96 Maxima with 300K miles it rode like a champ. I now have a 02 Pathfinder with the 3.5 and it is surprisingly great. Haven’t had any major issues, VVT solenoid and changed out some gaskets that were leaking and maybe a sensor or two but those things are really easy to repair. I also have a 2000 Xterra with the 3.3 4x4 standard and that thing is a beast.
You are doing great work!!! Being the 'mechanic' in my circles; I just refer friends and family to your videos. Also that way they can't blame me for crappy purchase decisions.
The XJ is pretty sweet. My folks have three, two over 300k miles on an all original drivetrain and engine. The 4.0/4.2 six is the best thing AMC ever came up with.
The R50 pathfinder is from 1996-2004, so you can buy the Pathfinders from '96-'04, and in 2000 they added the option to get the VQ35DE engine, which is the same engine as a 350z. My pathfinder has the VQ with a 5-spd manual and 4x4. Don't limit yourself to 2000 model year. Up to 2004 is a great buy.
You had me at thumbnail! My 2001 Jeep Cherokee Sport has been nearly bullet proof for the last 7 years and 70K miles. I am up to 196K and other than fluid changes, brake pad changes and heater core she has started every day for me!
Asad Siraj you run into minor repairs like light switches and door wires that snap. Also the heater core usually should be replaced. Now, I'm only referring to the XJs. My Grand Cherokees had more electrical issues.
I've got a 96 that I bought in 97 with 28,000 miles on it. It's now got something like 600,000 and is the best car I've ever had. It's not my daily driver anymore, but I still use it fairly regularly and went for a nice ride it this afternoon. No heater core problems but two regular problems these vehicles have are with the heater blower switches and on the two doors (like mine), the weld holding the door hinge can crack and eventually break. I've had to deal with both of those problems. And it's NOT really a Chrysler, AMC designed these and that wonderful 4.0 is an AMC engine who's design goes back decades.
I will always stand by my 99 Cherokee. Got it for $2900 in Michigan and did a 2 inch front and rear lift and almost an entire suspension and steering rebuild (because I wanted to) and it runs like a BEAST. My friends who all drive newer and often considered nicer cars envy this little beast of mine.
Thefireman 285 Cause people find out they have a repair that costs more than 50 bucks, Panic, then call the junkers & go out to get a 400+ a month car note at 10%++ Interest lol
Inner G Yep, I have a good friend that worked with body shops all over the country. Cash for Clunkers put a ton of them out of business, and he had to lay off his employees and move his office to his house.
go for the 3.5L Pathfinders, I've owned an '02 since '06 (165k), and this is the best car I've ever owned, rides great, loaded, bulletproof (with maint.).
My 02 pathfinder seems to be a good rig.. she has 400,000 k’s (248 thousandish miles roughly) and still drives beautiful.. no mechanical issues at all.. always maintained.. still drives me around every day and goes off road.. any car will last if it’s taken care of
The 3.3 Nissan V6 is bullet proof, I have the supercharged version in my xterra. That thing is a beast off-road, and the supercharger whine sounds sweet.
I agree, the 3.3 Pathfinder is SOLID. I used to own a 1999 Pathfinder SE 3.3, put 160k on it and the engine and transmission never gave me any issues. Most common problems include the exhaust and A/C condenser which I went through several in that time. Otherwise these trucks are bulletproof.
The 4runner is also available with the less common, but fantastically reliable. 2.7l 4cyl. I have one with 262k and it's never had anything but regular maintenance.
You must be somewhere warm. Everything on that list in Michigan is rotted out and in the scrap yard, minus the CRV which would be $6K+ around here. Dodge Durango 2004-2009 with the 4.7l. They get pretty rusty around the edges but you can buy them cheap. If the engine has been maintained and not overheated they will go along time. I have purchased them in the $800-1500 price range w 4wd. Drivetrain is pretty much bullet proof minus the occasional dropping a valve seat/warped heads if ran hot.
I second you on the Michigan rust issue. The second generation 4runner is hard to find not rotted-out here. I had what looked like good leads in Ohio, but those also turned out to have holes in the frame. I also second you on the extra high premium on foreign brands here. It's always interesting to go to other states and see how few domestic cars there are on the roads compared to out here, and the numerous solid old vehicles that appear to be totally rust free.
3:43 You missed one common issue with the Blazer's 4.3L V6. The spider injectors have a high failure rate. As a result, GM redesigned them and offered them as replacement parts. The spider injectors failed so often that it's very likely any Blazer/Jimmy you buy will already have had them replaced.
First car was a 90 cheeokee, never had a problem, got at auction for 3K 2 years later totalled got 6K for it from insurance. Recently had a 93 4 runner got for 2K lasted a year ran perfect, used it for work and it fit a full size couch with the tailgate down. Got hit by a new driver totalled got 2100 for it. Great list all true.
Emissions and insurance requirements make the automakers significantly de-tune engines to the point they're extremely underpowered and terrible on fuel economy.
I've got 2003 Nissan Pathfinder with 3.5 engine and 4 speed automatic. The car is 4wd. Bought 10 years ago with 44k miles. So far the car has been extremely reliable. The only thing that bothers me is the oil consumption, about 1 quart every 1500 miles. This rate is constant and from what I've read it's the common symptom of early VQ35DEs. It's got 103,000 miles now, with original spark plugs and runs great. 2 light bulbs, lower ball joints, stabilizer bar bushings and CV boot have been changed so far. Intend to keep it forever.
Mitsubishi montero never makes it on these lists. The gen 2 has a 3.5l v6 with 215hp and 230lb/ft of torque. The SR model has a factory rear air locker 3 way adjustable shocks leather interior cam fit 33s with no lift. And you can get them for like 1500
I daily a 98’ pathfinder se and it’s one of the most reliable vehicles I’ve ever had. I always keep up with the maintenance and everything is still working from the sunroof to the heated front seats to the motor itself. Great SUV and perfect for the snow
This guy gets his facts wrong on the model Pathfinder he is referencing. 1996 - 2004 and the they came with 3.5 v6 NOT the 3.3, which was in the Xterra!
The 3rd gen 4Runners are truly bulletproof. Dollar for dollar I strongly feel it’s the best bang for the buck. It’s not uncommon to get 350k + miles from these. I love my 2001 4Runner and expect to still be driving it 10 years from now!
My 98 cherokee with the 4.0 was by far the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned. Replaced the transfer case, ac compressor and start at around 140k miles which cost less that $1,500 and that is it. Oil was clean and didn't burn a drop at 225k when I gave it to my father for cash for clunkers. Far less repairs than my current 06 4.0L tacoma.
Jeep 4.0 has been my favorite engine I have ever owned in a vehicle. My 5.4 V8 in my 97 expedition has been pretty faithful as well, bought it for $2k 4 years ago and the only thing I've done is the serpentine belt and Lucas iol treatment with every oil change due to a rode knock it;s had since I bought it which hasn't got better or worse. Drive it till it dies!
Great video but the The Cherokee XJ is more AMC than it is typical Chrysler. The 4.0L engine as well as the automatic transmission in these XJs are pretty bulletproof with the exception of the 00-01 head cracking issue, And even those are few between. Cracked exhaust manifold is easily remedied by aftermarket manifold if/when it happens and the biggest issue with the XJ is rust. Many XJ engines and transmissions outlast the frames that end up rotting out. Out here in AZ our XJs last for ever!
Exactly! If you find an XJ that is stock, not rusted out, and under 200k miles, you are going to pay $9,000 easy. I have seen a 2001 with 91k sell for $14,500!
I have a feeling youtube videos like this is what makes the price of those cars higher. People wisened up and started to push demand for these great products even though they are older.
Right on point! Let me add a full size SUV - 2001-2007Toyota Sequoia 4.7 V8 can be bought for $4-5k ... super reliable 300k + miles motor, seats 8 passengers, transmission is also good. Can tow about 6-7k lbs. One issue/recall VSC system to watch out for.
I was thinking/hoping I'd see a Ford Escape on the list (because I'm a Ford man). Picked up an 06 2.3L Std. for $2650 last month 158K. Had real good luck with the 2.5 and 2.3L in my other ford pickups, was thinking an old escape would be a lock.
It looks like your shirt has a giant square mark from the heat press when the logo was put on it. It’s faded very light in the whole chest area. Try tossing it in the dryer, steaming it or ironing the whole shirt to get it to go away.
OK man - I took your advice and got a 2005 Honda CRV AWD. Got it for 2800.00 with a salvage title. No major damage and engine and transmission are bullet proof. It just took a fender, grill and radiator hit and was old enough that the insurance company gave up on it. I'm going to do a series of TH-cam videos on fixing it up.
2003-2005 Toyota 4Runner has been one of the highest rated SUV's to date, especially with the 4.7L engine. It's one of Toyota's strongest running V8 engine they have ever built.
I have a 96 Ford explorer it has over 200,000 miles original engine and trans and I have very little to no issues at all absolutely love it it was the last year for the push rod motor and very reliable thank God it runs great
I have a 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor 3.8l AWD. Besides it burning a quart of oil every thousand miles it runs incredible w 250k on the clock. Better than my 02 pathfinder, 03 Xterra. Killer gas mileage. I've seen them go for $1000-$1500
man I agree with most of your list I just can't believe you left out the Toyota 22R and 22RE engine in my opinion that's the most reliable one they ever built
Thank u for your videos Can u make one with more reliable minivans And what are your thoughts with push start bottom thank you again your channel is awesome
The thing about cheap, under $3k SUVs is that by the time they're at that age and/or mileage, few are very reliable and it depends more on how well the owner took care of it, and what work was already done. Certainly there are specific engines and transmissions to avoid, but generally that is reflected in their resale value so if you get a more reliable make and model, you have to get an older model year, old enough that it has depreciated down to the same value. In other words, I wouldn't recommend that anyone buy a $3K SUV thinking if they pick one that's supposedly more reliable, that it's a good value unless they are doing most of the repair work themselves. Otherwise they may be better off buying one a few years newer or just accepting that if they need reliability and only have $3K, then an SUV is not for them. Besides if your budget is that tight, can you afford the dismal fuel economy?
I own a 1999 Nissan pathfinder with 3.3 man I love this car with all my heart. She has 185k miles = 300k km and still runs and drives as if It just got out of showroom. Yes the only downside of this car is rust gotta keep up with the body maintenance I’m planning on lifting it soon.
I can agree my 2002 4runner with over 200k miles runs like a champ,never had any issues ,just kept up with basic maintenance like oil and coolant changes , water pump housing had a crack but did not leak but did replace it when I changed out the belt at 180k miles
My personal top five (commonly) under 3000 1. Gen one Expedition 2. Gen 2 explorer 3. Grand Cherokee (wj/zj) 4. Cherokee xj 5. Tahoe/suburban (1990s to 2000s)
As many S10s and Blazers I've had to work on I can't agree with it being on the list. Although yes they do go forever when maintained properly but if it's constantly in the shop it's not very reliable.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge it's so important to be aware of the pro vs con especially for us women. I grew up watching my dad, he was a top of the line auto mechanic...
Had a 96 Blazer with the 4.3 Vortec. Don't worry about the 180 hp. The 240 lb/ft of torque more than makes up for it. Also had that 3.3 V6 in my 00 Nissan Xterra. Bulletproof motor. Had 220k when my kid totaled it.
For sure agree with this list, but am curious as to why the 1st Gen Nissan XTERRA isn’t on here. I bought one with 191k on the engine and have been driving it for about 2 1/2 months now with no issues other than a minor transmission slip from 2nd to 3rd gear that doesn’t happen if I keep the engine above 1,500 RPM in between those gears. [Edit] It does have the 3.3L V6 (VG33E, non-R since it doesn’t have the supercharged) that starts up and runs like it’s brand new!
For the Chevy- I'm surprised that the EGR and Intake Gaskets were mentioned for the 4.3L Vortecs but not the fuel issues. On my 95 s10 I ran into both the EGR and intake gasket issues on mine, but hands down the BIGGEST pain in the ass with them is failing fuel pumps- which can be a costly (labor intensive) repair. I replaced 3 different pumps (over 3 different shops/mechanics) in 50k miles. Also did the spider assembly at least twice. They're so notorious for this that people cut holes in the bed to access the pumps easier- this includes the full sized trucks. Besides that- never had issues with axles, bearings, cooling system,overheating, transmission, etc. she only left me stranded twice when the fuel pump gave out.
Not bad but to get below 3 grand, these things are going to be in the 250-300k miles and they will have lots of tiny defects and could well crater in only 10k miles. Do yourself a favor and save up 6k and get one with under 180k miles.
Have had 3 Blazers Love them. Had at least 8 4.3s in various Chevy trucks. Great engines! One was still going strong at 310,000 miles when the 4L60E gave up.
Great channel! Thanks for all the great content! I see that you mention 96-02 4Runners as being very reliable but what do you think about newer 4Runners, even just a few years newer? Looking for something in the $5k - $10k range sometime in the next 12 months. Thanks in advance!
Same for the Chevy 4.3's...all day for the jeep $500 to 3500 100k to 299k...and I wouldnt by a pathfinder for 1500.. most suspect vehicle on the list especially over the i6
I'm in North Texas and there seems to be a good handful on car gurus and Craigslist for around $4-6k with many around 130-170k miles in decent shape. I don't think he would mean all of these cars to be under $3k to have under 200k miles on them, I would assume if your budget is that tight and don't have many options.
I know this video is a year old, I am currently shopping for a third generation forerunner here in Georgia, and you cannot get one under $4000, unless it has around 300,000 miles or more, or is a rust bucket from up north somewhere. A decent one is $4500 minimum if it’s been well maintained. Great video, thanks for this series.
I bought a 2001 4runner with 4wd for the x wife. Just had the timing done on it and heads. From Florida, we are in Michigan. She bent the front right strut in a little accident... Instead of getting it repaired, she junked it and got a vw golf.....
That Cherokee is a damn tank, my buddy's mom in highschool ran U.S. Mail in one and it had almost 600,000 miles on it and was still going when I saw them last
Bought a 96’ 4Runner that now has a 286k on the clock. It’s the best vehicle I’ve ever owned.
That probably means you've never had any Toyota before.
wholeNwon First Toyota, and won’t be the last one either. 👍
I still have my 98' Limited at 210K.
wholeNwon not true sime Toyota's are better than others. I assume he has a 3rd gen 4runner with 5vz, well they are bulletproof
Just make sure if you live up north that you baby that frame, if you don't it rusts
I'll keep my 2003 Tahoe 5.3L.
In 2014 I got it for $2k with 140k miles on it; with minimal maintenance costs over the years. It now has over 220k and going strong!!! I'll keep it until it blows up.
Oh yeah I love the older Tahoe's
Way better than the Jeeps
What are the best Tahoe model years to buy?
James George 2006 is a good model year for a tahoe
How come you got it for so cheap? A 11 year old with Tahoe with 140k miles are so damn expensive where I live.
My son is 11. He already inherited his grandmother's 98 4Runner. Got him working on it already. Awesome rig!
Weither its a 200dollar junkyard car or a 3million dollar car
I have a 98’ 4Runner too. My father and I work on her whenever she needs it. 2nd but best car I’ve ever owned
Wish those cars were available in my country. Unfortunately not.
Thanks, I appreciate your analysis. Ever little bit helps!
0:44 #5 1996-2001 Jeep Ckerokee
2:40 #4 1995-99 Chevy Blazer
4:22 #3 2002-06 Honda CRV
6:28 #2 1996-00 Nissan Pathfinder
8:19 #1 1996-02 Toyota 4Runner
I have a 1996 Toyota Tacoma 270,000 miles still going strong 💪🏽
He’s right the 1996 Toyota 4 runner is a beast. The thing just keeps running and running. Ours has 462000kms and runs like new
I agree with this list, great vehicles, in high school and up until last year I had a 96 Maxima with 300K miles it rode like a champ. I now have a 02 Pathfinder with the 3.5 and it is surprisingly great. Haven’t had any major issues, VVT solenoid and changed out some gaskets that were leaking and maybe a sensor or two but those things are really easy to repair. I also have a 2000 Xterra with the 3.3 4x4 standard and that thing is a beast.
You and scotty are top notch.... I listen to you guys in my car and nod my head like its dr dre
Scotty sucks
@@jonathanalveriodegarcia1219 yeah hes very iffy and the clickbait titles
i love 90's design so much
mogu kia...Like I said...SEXY! 🚙💨
You are doing great work!!! Being the 'mechanic' in my circles; I just refer friends and family to your videos. Also that way they can't blame me for crappy purchase decisions.
The XJ is pretty sweet. My folks have three, two over 300k miles on an all original drivetrain and engine. The 4.0/4.2 six is the best thing AMC ever came up with.
The R50 pathfinder is from 1996-2004, so you can buy the Pathfinders from '96-'04, and in 2000 they added the option to get the VQ35DE engine, which is the same engine as a 350z. My pathfinder has the VQ with a 5-spd manual and 4x4. Don't limit yourself to 2000 model year. Up to 2004 is a great buy.
You had me at thumbnail! My 2001 Jeep Cherokee Sport has been nearly bullet proof for the last 7 years and 70K miles. I am up to 196K and other than fluid changes, brake pad changes and heater core she has started every day for me!
ken x we may just do that!
I stay away from the Jeep brand due to reliability but didn't know there were some that are reliable
Asad Siraj you run into minor repairs like light switches and door wires that snap. Also the heater core usually should be replaced. Now, I'm only referring to the XJs. My Grand Cherokees had more electrical issues.
I've got a 96 that I bought in 97 with 28,000 miles on it. It's now got something like 600,000 and is the best car I've ever had. It's not my daily driver anymore, but I still use it fairly regularly and went for a nice ride it this afternoon. No heater core problems but two regular problems these vehicles have are with the heater blower switches and on the two doors (like mine), the weld holding the door hinge can crack and eventually break. I've had to deal with both of those problems. And it's NOT really a Chrysler, AMC designed these and that wonderful 4.0 is an AMC engine who's design goes back decades.
Well it is a Jeep, so who cares if there are no doors.
Number 1 is TRUE. We currently own a 98, & the thing won't DIE. 😂
4runners on the east coast are quite expensive but so worth it
East coast is like a blackhole where all the good cars go to rust out & die.
I will always stand by my 99 Cherokee. Got it for $2900 in Michigan and did a 2 inch front and rear lift and almost an entire suspension and steering rebuild (because I wanted to) and it runs like a BEAST. My friends who all drive newer and often considered nicer cars envy this little beast of mine.
Unfortunately, many of these vehicles in good condition were turned in under cash for clunkers.
Thefireman 285 Cause people find out they have a repair that costs more than 50 bucks, Panic, then call the junkers & go out to get a 400+ a month car note at 10%++ Interest lol
Thanks Obama!
Inner G Yep, I have a good friend that worked with body shops all over the country. Cash for Clunkers put a ton of them out of business, and he had to lay off his employees and move his office to his house.
Thefireman 285 I'm very familiar, it decimated used car and used car part market, forcing the poor into loans for new cars not great in my opinion.
Jay Man you mean bush
if a Toyota isnt on this list... It wont affect my day at all, but for a split second, I will feel pure rage.
oppenheimer well generally toyota SUVs are over 3k even if they have 250k on them
you have pleased me, Mr.Wrenches
oppenheimer The force is strong in you
lol
Yeah I was like no Lexus rx300
go for the 3.5L Pathfinders, I've owned an '02 since '06 (165k), and this is the best car I've ever owned, rides great, loaded, bulletproof (with maint.).
I've seen so much rubbish on TH-cam, thank you so much for this video, love the chill, love the straight to the point nature.
The branch manager of my office has one of these 4runners with 450k miles on it.
Lil Sleepy Michael Scott drives a PT Cruiser ....?
My 02 pathfinder seems to be a good rig.. she has 400,000 k’s (248 thousandish miles roughly) and still drives beautiful.. no mechanical issues at all.. always maintained.. still drives me around every day and goes off road.. any car will last if it’s taken care of
2000 chevy tracker, got mine for 1k, go anywhere with it, best 1k I've ever spent
The 3.3 Nissan V6 is bullet proof, I have the supercharged version in my xterra. That thing is a beast off-road, and the supercharger whine sounds sweet.
Literally one of the worst engines ever put in a vehicle. 3.3s are all over every craigslist blown up. Wouldn't touch one for any price lol.
@@enthused7591 my 00 pathfinder just blew up the radiator and took out the head gasket. Never again.
Toyota in its rightful place
the junkyard
I agree, the 3.3 Pathfinder is SOLID. I used to own a 1999 Pathfinder SE 3.3, put 160k on it and the engine and transmission never gave me any issues. Most common problems include the exhaust and A/C condenser which I went through several in that time. Otherwise these trucks are bulletproof.
Your guess about the 4runner is right, the only 4runners from that generation that are under 3k in new england have 300k miles and rotted frames
Juan Cruz, at least they have great an air conditioner at 60mph,with all those body holes that is!
They hear of undercoating there?
The 4runner is also available with the less common, but fantastically reliable. 2.7l 4cyl. I have one with 262k and it's never had anything but regular maintenance.
2nd gen honda crv for under 3 grand.... YEA RIGHT!!!
Lol, same with RAV4
I'll sell you my '02 for 3 grand...it's got 310K miles
Search Miami Craigslist and you'll see tons of them.
Check California or Nevada
people do seem to think there made of gold. i was lucky to find my 1st gen with 190k for $2k
You must be somewhere warm. Everything on that list in Michigan is rotted out and in the scrap yard, minus the CRV which would be $6K+ around here.
Dodge Durango 2004-2009 with the 4.7l. They get pretty rusty around the edges but you can buy them cheap. If the engine has been maintained and not overheated they will go along time. I have purchased them in the $800-1500 price range w 4wd. Drivetrain is pretty much bullet proof minus the occasional dropping a valve seat/warped heads if ran hot.
I second you on the Michigan rust issue. The second generation 4runner is hard to find not rotted-out here. I had what looked like good leads in Ohio, but those also turned out to have holes in the frame. I also second you on the extra high premium on foreign brands here. It's always interesting to go to other states and see how few domestic cars there are on the roads compared to out here, and the numerous solid old vehicles that appear to be totally rust free.
He is in San Diego, California
Wrong!!! My 3rd gen 4runners frame is in good condition and it’s been in Michigan the whole time .
Cool, you wanna sell it for under $3k then?
He is in socal
I love my QX4! 195k and still running strong! 💪🏻👊🏻
man i swear im not buying a car until i check with this dude...love it
Had a 96 Blazer with the 4.3 V6. Awesome engine. Don't knock the 180hp. U can feel that torque at 240 lb/ft.
He’s #1 pick is 100% correct. Bullet proof engine and transmission. I want one just to take off-roading.
Love the old jeeps
My 90 XJ 4x4 had 290K on it when I sold it. Still ran great. Aisin/Warner AW4 is bulletproof. Same as Yota uses in their trucks.
Good stuff thanks! Will you do one of these on pickup trucks?
Blakehx This!
chevys
I have a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee, straight 6, 4.0 liters! Fabulous SUV ! Bulletproof engine, Select Track transfer case! Love it!
3:43 You missed one common issue with the Blazer's 4.3L V6. The spider injectors have a high failure rate. As a result, GM redesigned them and offered them as replacement parts. The spider injectors failed so often that it's very likely any Blazer/Jimmy you buy will already have had them replaced.
First car was a 90 cheeokee, never had a problem, got at auction for 3K 2 years later totalled got 6K for it from insurance. Recently had a 93 4 runner got for 2K lasted a year ran perfect, used it for work and it fit a full size couch with the tailgate down. Got hit by a new driver totalled got 2100 for it. Great list all true.
it amazes me how american manufacturers get so little HP from such big engines
Biff Dingus Ford and Chrysler make good 4cly motors not Gm
Emissions and insurance requirements make the automakers significantly de-tune engines to the point they're extremely underpowered and terrible on fuel economy.
Lower compression does add in reliability
mark lewin drove a camero the other day.. a rental. 2.0 liter motor that got 275hp! Not bad!
This is before traction control was normal. Drive a 400 horsepower v8 with out traction control and you just spin everywhere
This was REALLY helpful. Just spent all day researching best 4x4s. Thanks!!!
Dude, you are great. Thank for all the insight. Keep up the good work.
I've got 2003 Nissan Pathfinder with 3.5 engine and 4 speed automatic. The car is 4wd. Bought 10 years ago with 44k miles. So far the car has been extremely reliable. The only thing that bothers me is the oil consumption, about 1 quart every 1500 miles. This rate is constant and from what I've read it's the common symptom of early VQ35DEs. It's got 103,000 miles now, with original spark plugs and runs great. 2 light bulbs, lower ball joints, stabilizer bar bushings and CV boot have been changed so far. Intend to keep it forever.
Mitsubishi montero never makes it on these lists.
The gen 2 has a 3.5l v6 with 215hp and 230lb/ft of torque.
The SR model has a factory rear air locker 3 way adjustable shocks leather interior cam fit 33s with no lift. And you can get them for like 1500
It's ok but usually not as reliable as CRV's or Toyota SUV's.
@@bobsmith597 The crv & rav's are softroaders, you cannot compare them with a Montero
Good luck with parts
I love the styling of the Montero's. I'd love to have one with the locker, and some beefy 31 or 32'ish tires..
I daily a 98’ pathfinder se and it’s one of the most reliable vehicles I’ve ever had. I always keep up with the maintenance and everything is still working from the sunroof to the heated front seats to the motor itself. Great SUV and perfect for the snow
Good compilation. Couldn't agree more with the Toyota 4Runners! Amazing vehicles.
This guy gets his facts wrong on the model Pathfinder he is referencing. 1996 - 2004 and the they came with 3.5 v6 NOT the 3.3, which was in the Xterra!
The 3rd gen 4Runners are truly bulletproof. Dollar for dollar I strongly feel it’s the best bang for the buck. It’s not uncommon to get 350k + miles from these. I love my 2001 4Runner and expect to still be driving it 10 years from now!
My 98 cherokee with the 4.0 was by far the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned. Replaced the transfer case, ac compressor and start at around 140k miles which cost less that $1,500 and that is it. Oil was clean and didn't burn a drop at 225k when I gave it to my father for cash for clunkers. Far less repairs than my current 06 4.0L tacoma.
Jeep 4.0 has been my favorite engine I have ever owned in a vehicle. My 5.4 V8 in my 97 expedition has been pretty faithful as well, bought it for $2k 4 years ago and the only thing I've done is the serpentine belt and Lucas iol treatment with every oil change due to a rode knock it;s had since I bought it which hasn't got better or worse. Drive it till it dies!
My favorite SUV is the jeep grand Cherokee
Great video but the The Cherokee XJ is more AMC than it is typical Chrysler. The 4.0L engine as well as the automatic transmission in these XJs are pretty bulletproof with the exception of the 00-01 head cracking issue, And even those are few between. Cracked exhaust manifold is easily remedied by aftermarket manifold if/when it happens and the biggest issue with the XJ is rust. Many XJ engines and transmissions outlast the frames that end up rotting out. Out here in AZ our XJs last for ever!
97 or 98 is when they started having issues due to Chrysler phasing out amc.
@@coltoncarpenter3790 noted thanks.
You can expect to have an R50 pathfinder and 4runner always reliable suv reviews 👍
Ehhh, I’d love to know where you can buy an XJ or a 4Runner for under 3k. I’m not sure you can get either for under 5k in decent shape.
Exactly! If you find an XJ that is stock, not rusted out, and under 200k miles, you are going to pay $9,000 easy. I have seen a 2001 with 91k sell for $14,500!
common in Texas
Here in Romania a grand cherokee 2001 with 180k kilometers is 2500 euros
He did say in southern California and that in most parts of the states you may not be able to find them for that price
I have a feeling youtube videos like this is what makes the price of those cars higher. People wisened up and started to push demand for these great products even though they are older.
Right on point! Let me add a full size SUV - 2001-2007Toyota Sequoia 4.7 V8 can be bought for $4-5k ... super reliable 300k + miles motor, seats 8 passengers, transmission is also good. Can tow about 6-7k lbs. One issue/recall VSC system to watch out for.
I was thinking/hoping I'd see a Ford Escape on the list (because I'm a Ford man). Picked up an 06 2.3L Std. for $2650 last month 158K. Had real good luck with the 2.5 and 2.3L in my other ford pickups, was thinking an old escape would be a lock.
I love the 2.3...how is your Escape running?
3.0l is life
4runner for the win! I drive a 97 4runner over 100 miles a day for work. Currently sitting at 230k miles no issues. This thing is a beast !
It looks like your shirt has a giant square mark from the heat press when the logo was put on it. It’s faded very light in the whole chest area. Try tossing it in the dryer, steaming it or ironing the whole shirt to get it to go away.
🤣 just noticed
Justin Shaw happens to the best of us...lol. My wife makes custom shirts and clothes for a living so I’m used to her catching the little details...lol
I had a Uses Montero it lasted 7 years
OK man - I took your advice and got a 2005 Honda CRV AWD. Got it for 2800.00 with a salvage title. No major damage and engine and transmission are bullet proof. It just took a fender, grill and radiator hit and was old enough that the insurance company gave up on it. I'm going to do a series of TH-cam videos on fixing it up.
Please make a video for most reliable SUVs at a higher price point and also a video about most reliable trucks. Thanks
Toyota
Yup, it's really as simple as that.
2003-2005 Toyota 4Runner has been one of the highest rated SUV's to date, especially with the 4.7L engine. It's one of Toyota's strongest running V8 engine they have ever built.
John Doe...Hey John! I'm willing to part with $3k or so. Can you part with the rest? 💲💰🏦😁
Great videos man! Besides the useful information, the humor at the beginnings is always good for a laugh. Keep up the good work!
Jeep XJ has the AW4 (Toyota) automatic transmission. ZJ Grand Cherokees have the weaker Chrysler transmission.
I have a 96 Ford explorer it has over 200,000 miles original engine and trans and I have very little to no issues at all absolutely love it it was the last year for the push rod motor and very reliable thank God it runs great
the 4runner also come with a 2.7 L in-line 4 which has a timing chain and is even more reliable, it only has 30 less horsepower
Yeah very rare to find there good.
But very slow 😂
I have a 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor 3.8l AWD. Besides it burning a quart of oil every thousand miles it runs incredible w 250k on the clock. Better than my 02 pathfinder, 03 Xterra. Killer gas mileage. I've seen them go for $1000-$1500
Yep! I have the same jeep!!! And she’s. Keeper ❤️❤️❤️
man I agree with most of your list I just can't believe you left out the Toyota 22R and 22RE engine in my opinion that's the most reliable one they ever built
Joey Ganey this is an SUV video not a small pickup video 22RE as far as I know was only in the pickup
I have a ‘96 4Runner. It’s a work horse! It’ll ever die.
Thank u for your videos
Can u make one with more reliable minivans
And what are your thoughts with push start bottom thank you again your channel is awesome
The thing about cheap, under $3k SUVs is that by the time they're at that age and/or mileage, few are very reliable and it depends more on how well the owner took care of it, and what work was already done. Certainly there are specific engines and transmissions to avoid, but generally that is reflected in their resale value so if you get a more reliable make and model, you have to get an older model year, old enough that it has depreciated down to the same value.
In other words, I wouldn't recommend that anyone buy a $3K SUV thinking if they pick one that's supposedly more reliable, that it's a good value unless they are doing most of the repair work themselves. Otherwise they may be better off buying one a few years newer or just accepting that if they need reliability and only have $3K, then an SUV is not for them.
Besides if your budget is that tight, can you afford the dismal fuel economy?
You make it so hard for me to quit my 3rd gen 4runner.
I own a 1999 Nissan pathfinder with 3.3 man I love this car with all my heart. She has 185k miles = 300k km and still runs and drives as if It just got out of showroom. Yes the only downside of this car is rust gotta keep up with the body maintenance I’m planning on lifting it soon.
4.0 is pretty good? It’s bulletproof!
my dad always says pretty good, when he actually means really good/excellent. when he doesn't like something he's just silent lmao.
It is outlasting the floorboards
Lincolnator it's 2018 lol still worth to get the 4.0?
アッキー yes lol
Most of the time if it's maintenance is up to par yeah but there's been a few lemons that don't hold up to the legendary 4.0L 242ci.
I can agree my 2002 4runner with over 200k miles runs like a champ,never had any issues ,just kept up with basic maintenance like oil and coolant changes , water pump housing had a crack but did not leak but did replace it when I changed out the belt at 180k miles
I knew 4runners would be in this list. I want a fwd one for winter
Toyota 4runners never come in fwd thou, only 4x4 or Rwd
My personal top five (commonly) under 3000
1. Gen one Expedition
2. Gen 2 explorer
3. Grand Cherokee (wj/zj)
4. Cherokee xj
5. Tahoe/suburban (1990s to 2000s)
Hahaha "well it is a Chrysler"
My 3rd gen was 500 bucks, I welded up the frame it is the best vehicle I’ve owed! Glad to have found one I could fix myself
As many S10s and Blazers I've had to work on I can't agree with it being on the list. Although yes they do go forever when maintained properly but if it's constantly in the shop it's not very reliable.
I mentioned this as well. The years he picked probably had the most issues, mostly with the fuel injection.
They don't go on forever....just stop
i have a 99 chevy s10 with 400k still run like new
Thanks for sharing your knowledge it's so important to be aware of the pro vs con especially for us women. I grew up watching my dad, he was a top of the line auto mechanic...
Lol, shameless plug at the end. Love it.
Had a 96 Blazer with the 4.3 Vortec. Don't worry about the 180 hp. The 240 lb/ft of torque more than makes up for it. Also had that 3.3 V6 in my 00 Nissan Xterra. Bulletproof motor. Had 220k when my kid totaled it.
Kudos for the straight cold face while doing promo for the merch! 😂🤣
For sure agree with this list, but am curious as to why the 1st Gen Nissan XTERRA isn’t on here. I bought one with 191k on the engine and have been driving it for about 2 1/2 months now with no issues other than a minor transmission slip from 2nd to 3rd gear that doesn’t happen if I keep the engine above 1,500 RPM in between those gears. [Edit] It does have the 3.3L V6 (VG33E, non-R since it doesn’t have the supercharged) that starts up and runs like it’s brand new!
I would have put the jeep at number 2 and blazer not even on the list maybe a 2 door Tahoe instead
Ryan Osborne 4 door Tahoe’s were better. The 2 doors rusted really bad
The push rod 4.3 is a very reliable engine and the s-10s are very solid trucks so idk what your talking about
Ya i agree . From where I am i don't see many blazers on the road as much as 4.0 Cherokees
I agree
4.0 liter xj cherokees are hard to be in price and dependability.
For the Chevy- I'm surprised that the EGR and Intake Gaskets were mentioned for the 4.3L Vortecs but not the fuel issues. On my 95 s10 I ran into both the EGR and intake gasket issues on mine, but hands down the BIGGEST pain in the ass with them is failing fuel pumps- which can be a costly (labor intensive) repair. I replaced 3 different pumps (over 3 different shops/mechanics) in 50k miles. Also did the spider assembly at least twice. They're so notorious for this that people cut holes in the bed to access the pumps easier- this includes the full sized trucks. Besides that- never had issues with axles, bearings, cooling system,overheating, transmission, etc. she only left me stranded twice when the fuel pump gave out.
Not bad but to get below 3 grand, these things are going to be in the 250-300k miles and they will have lots of tiny defects and could well crater in only 10k miles. Do yourself a favor and save up 6k and get one with under 180k miles.
you trippin . ever heard of offerup?
Got a 99’ 4runner limited , 338.689 miles running strong !
Love my 98 xj.
Have had 3 Blazers
Love them. Had at least 8 4.3s in various Chevy trucks. Great engines! One was still going strong at 310,000 miles when the 4L60E gave up.
It would have been helpful if you had included mpg. I'd love to see you do a video on reliable full size vans under $5k.
Great channel! Thanks for all the great content! I see that you mention 96-02 4Runners as being very reliable but what do you think about newer 4Runners, even just a few years newer? Looking for something in the $5k - $10k range sometime in the next 12 months. Thanks in advance!
Good luck finding a second generation crv under 200k for that price though.
Yeah, I was just going to make the same comment. 2nd gen CRV's start around $5,000 at least near me. (Chicago, IL)
good luck finding any of these vehicles listed for 3 grand in the Midwest that aren't rusted out pieces of junk.
Same for the Chevy 4.3's...all day for the jeep $500 to 3500 100k to 299k...and I wouldnt by a pathfinder for 1500.. most suspect vehicle on the list especially over the i6
I'm in North Texas and there seems to be a good handful on car gurus and Craigslist for around $4-6k with many around 130-170k miles in decent shape. I don't think he would mean all of these cars to be under $3k to have under 200k miles on them, I would assume if your budget is that tight and don't have many options.
Unfortunately the prices for all of these SUVs are about 6k and higher where I live
I know this video is a year old, I am currently shopping for a third generation forerunner here in Georgia, and you cannot get one under $4000, unless it has around 300,000 miles or more, or is a rust bucket from up north somewhere. A decent one is $4500 minimum if it’s been well maintained. Great video, thanks for this series.
Love your videos and our President.
I bought a 2001 4runner with 4wd for the x wife. Just had the timing done on it and heads. From Florida, we are in Michigan. She bent the front right strut in a little accident... Instead of getting it repaired, she junked it and got a vw golf.....
First gen Durango's 👌
That Cherokee is a damn tank, my buddy's mom in highschool ran U.S. Mail in one and it had almost 600,000 miles on it and was still going when I saw them last
I think the 4 liter is more reliable than the 4.3
I had a first gen Honda CRV. I adjusted my valves at 110,000. I sold it at 200,000. It was an awesome car. Very reliable.
please make a video for mini and full size vans