Hi Scotty,
I really need your advice. I'm semi retired and work from home. I currently drive a 07 Grand Marquis but it's becoming a problem for me to get in and out of as it's low to the ground and I have hip, knee, and back issues. I'm looking for something which could haul around my walker and possibly a wheelchair. I narrowed it down to a mid 2000s Rav-4 or Element as they are known for their reliability and I'm on a budget. I'm kind of partial to the Element with it's suicide doors, but it has a lower ground clearance than the Rav-4. I want something I can hold on to for a while and can count on. Thanks, Joe
The problem here is that you want something that will last a while but it sounds like you're looking at vehicles that are about 20 years old. In general that's towards the end of a vehicle's expected life span.
So, you'll want to try to find something that has fairly low mileage and a documented history of regular maintenance so it has some life left in it. In fact when looking at vehicles in this age range how it has been treated and maintained is usually going to be more important than how reliable it was when new.
Of course you'd also want to do some research for any inherent design flaws of a model you are considering. (An internet search will find those quickly.) Additionally, it is vital to have the vehicle's current condition evaluated by a good mechanic before purchase.
Thanks. I found a local Honda dealer with two low mileage Elements. I like their utilitarian looks with all washable plastics. I guess because I meticulously serviced the Grand Marquis, I'd hope to find something as well taken care of. It is close to 20 years and have been told it should stick around for a while. I was looking at a new Grand Caravan as well as Outback wagon, but I hear they are rolling money pits. Thanks for the advice.