1. Transmission blew at 104,600 miles. Reverse gears got stripped, out-of-pocket cost to repair: $2643.00
this has been the most cost to me as of 5/14/2008.
These items was covered on an extended warranty - thank God it was purchased from Day 1.
2. Fuel gage sensors 2 times, and it still does not work properly!! Why can't the dealer fix this item??
3. Rear window wiper motor went dead.
4. Front ball joints, not sure upper or lower.
5. Wheel hubs, I think only one time so far.
6. The 4 x 4 electronic engage system (twice).
7. One nagging issue is that when I go up a long hill and the heat air vents are pointing to the floor position, the system will slowing start pouring air from the dash vents. Then when I level out it will go back to the floor position. Is there anybody that knows the fix? The dealer keeps saying "No problem Found". That is so upsetting.
8. The driver seat plastic is breaking apart.
1. I do love the ride and comfort.
2. It's very good in the winter using the 4 x 4 system.
3. Still has original exhaust system!!
4. The Vortex engine is powerful and reliable.
5. The exterior black paint still shines
6. I would say this is a SUV that needs an owner that carry's a nice tool set.
7. Service light never came on (maybe I should see if the bulb is working?).
8. Solid ride, but the steering is soft and feels like you are driving a fluffy sofa on the highway.
9. Problem is I bought a Toyota Prius and will be passing this SUV to my son, should I?
10. Gas is now $3.76 in Massachusetts.
Pass it on to the progeny? Eh.. kind of a slight roll over risk for an inexperienced driver. Gas prices what they are and all.. all kids want a car.. but that one could break the bank. And yea.. I've owned similar models.. its probably mere moments away from needing another 2000 dollars pumped into it.
Sell it (if you can) get a late 80s toyota or something.. 87/88 was the year with the highest mpg to date.. Repairs may be needed being older.. but would be cheap.
Volkswagen beetles are a good choice for the tinkerer.. They always need a little TLC.. but parts can't get cheaper and they can't get much easier to repair. I always got in the mid to high 30s mpg when I was driving classic bugs.
Good amount of horsepower for a young driver to.. (next to none)
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