Opinions wanted

[Jerry Gilles]

Im retired , I can do some work on vehicles , I just put plugs in my 02 kia sedona van v/6 . I have a 2010 Sebring which is in good shape . When we bought the Sebring 3 yrs ago we were excited and both overlooked something. That something is not being able to see the hood or front fenders making it hard to judge things. It’s also hard for us to get in and out . Not long after that, we bought a 2002 Sedona because at that time I was still working and wanted two vehicles. I usually do my homework but this time I didn’t and was not aware of the electrical problems these 02’s had. Soon after,, my interior lights quit working on the Sedona. I had a leaky heater line for the back heater I bypassed that. We like the van ,easy to judge and easy to get in and out. It has 93,??? miles on it. I have no maint.history but I’m pretty sure it has the original timing belt . It looks great and no rust .It’s blue book value is 3,000 give or take a few bucks. Our Chrysler is worth blue book around 10,000. A newer van is very pricey . I would sell our Sedona outright and the Chrysler Sebring too. Then get a newer van . I am undecided .If I keep the Sedona ,for sure I am looking at a timing belt job or a huge repair bill if a shop does it. If the belt breaks the engine is trash so is the whole vehicle. So I am open for opinions.

Topic

[James O’Hara]

If you are retired do you need a van? Do you use it for side work or grandchildren or something? I would assess needing a van in the first place.

If you sell both you can afford a decent vehicle or a good down payment on a nice one. I personally believe the 90s was the last time a decent vehicle was built but, since that is asking for issues. I would go after a vehicle that has been using the same model for a long time and is about to switch to a newer model. They are normally priced down due to the newer model coming out. They are also normally more mechanically sound due to it being revised each year and the problems addressed. I would also look into a Volvo, Toyota, or Honda. They are the most reliable brands out there. I would also steer clear of vans as they are not as reliable as they once were. Vans used to be built like trucks any more they resemble suv’s mixed with cars and have all kinds of technology to make kids quiet in the back seat while on long road trips. It is just more stuff to fail. Also buying a vehicle that is at the end of its model life normally bodes well for replacement parts both aftermarket and junkyard. With it being new they also must keep making new parts for the next 10 yrs.

I would sell both do research, look for what I said and get something new. Something that is known for reliability and is at the end of its model life. From a good brand like Honda, Volvo, or Toyota

[Jerry Gilles]

I know what you mean about a van ,your right. Lots of more stuff we dont need, to go wrong . We would like something that we can pull our small utility trailer with for hauling mulch for our flower gardens and wood for some projects .Also something we can carry at least two more people If the occasion arises. I appreciate your comment. Insight , thats what its all about . I will research your advice. I’m not in a big hurry so that makes it better .

[Author]

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