New guy needs advice
 

Hey everybody,

I'm currently looking for my first Jeep. The model years in my budget seem to be 2000-2002, with anywhere between 140k - 220k on them. I just test drove a 2001 that seemed solid, 4-L 6-Cyl, hard and soft tops, body and paint in great shape, clutch seemed good (I was told the clutch is great by the salesman), new front brakes, 70% on back brakes, 80% on tires, asking price is $8900. My reservation is that it has 220k on it. Should I be concerned? I've heard the straight 6 engine is a workhorse but the last thing I want to do is replace an engine.

Any input would be appreciated...thanks!

Re: New guy needs advice
 

I'd check some on-line price places. I wish I could remember this one site I was on that gave a price on a car but then there was a graph that showed more or less money for the amount of kilometers on it. After you put the tax on this one your into almost 10k....I wouldn't do it.

Re: New guy needs advice
 

Tax isn't an issue, I have a vehicle to trade. I'm even trying to get some money back. To sweeten the pot the dealer has now offered a free 1 year powertrain warranty.

Re: New guy needs advice
 

Chk out www.kijiji.com not sure where you are in Ontario but just put your closest town they have lots of jeeps etc for sale can find prices there.

Re: New guy needs advice
 

keep looking that seems high to me... I purchased 2000 4L auto with 220K on the clock for $3,500. certified with new brakes and tires!

Re: New guy needs advice
 

Spooge,
A one year power train warranty is costing the dealer "peanuts". 220K on the straight 6 is nothing but keep in mind the REST of the Jeep has 220K on it as well. Ball joints, electrical, heck even the frame. Nothing lasts forever. 9K does seem steep and I have a 2000 GC (LTD) that I bought for 7K two years ago with 90K on the odo from a dealer. Maybe TJ's command a premium price. Still, IMHO TOO MUCH!! I'm thinkin' somewhere in the 5K range given the mileage.
You still don't mention where in ONT you live. Location DOES have SOME influence on price.
Peter

Re: New guy needs advice
 

Sorry...I live near Niagara Falls
I'm starting to get the picture...I've been talking to some other people and they've told me the same as you, Savasa...the engine is the least of my worries!

Thanks everyone!

Re: New guy needs advice
 

Spooge,
Don't give up hope. YOUR TJ is out there just waiting for you. As Mr. White suggested kiiji is one source as is Autotrader.ca. Do a LOT of looking and price comparing and when that "special" girl comes on the market you will know. As I mentioned, 220K on a well maintained 6 is fine. When I sold my '94 Cherokee she had 495K on her and passed the E-test with flying colours. Might be a good time to find yourself a good mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection. The reason I sort of pressed for your location is that I suspect prices in the more remote areas (northern Ontario for example) COULD be higher but southern Ontario should be your best place price/competition-wise.
Peter.

Re: New guy needs advice
 

Great advice everyone, I pick up my 1999 TJ with only 112k on Saturday! A few years older than I was originally looking at but only one owner and clean, with all the typical repairs already done!

Thanks

Re: New guy needs advice
 

nice... enjoy and get it dirty...