Other. Posted July 6, 2011 Posted July 6, 2011 I'm on the market for buying a new truck. Basically I only see two trucks on the market in my price range. #1 2005 Chevy 1500 LS 2WD with 120k miles for 4k (speedometer is broken) #2 1997 Dodge 1500 4WD with 200k miles for 4.4k (comes VA inspected, I'll still have to get it MD inspected) I really want a 4x4 vehicle but 200k miles sounds like a lot.. I should be able to get more out of the chevy then the dodge before it breaks or something. Basically what I'm asking is, is 200k mileage to much for that price? The Chevy is a really good deal and I'd get it for a great price but I'd honestly rather have something I want then get stuck with a 2WD truck just because it's worth more money then what the guy is selling it to me for. But again if the Dodge will break down in 10k miles it's probably not worth it.. Quote
Super User Grey Wolf Posted July 6, 2011 Super User Posted July 6, 2011 No way would I drop 4.4 K on a 97 anything. Quote
OHIO Posted July 6, 2011 Posted July 6, 2011 That Dodge is on its last leg for sure especially if it's an automatic. Dodge automatic transmissions are garbage, but their manuals aren't half bad. I can't believe that those are the only two trucks you can find, but if it were out of those two I would go with the Chevy. I like Dodges, but I've never seen one go much past 200k unless the owner takes care of it, which most don't. I think that speedo problem with the Chevy is actually pretty common. Do you know if the odometer is on the speedo? If the odometer is broken too (I'm assuming it isn't) I would stay away from the truck. No telling how many miles are on it. If the only thing wrong with the Chevy is the speedo, I would get it, but first I would try to look for some other options. Chevys are good trucks, but Dodges and Fords are better IMO. (This will probably start an argument.) Quote
Super User J Francho Posted July 6, 2011 Super User Posted July 6, 2011 I'd wait for something better. Quote
tipptruck1 Posted July 7, 2011 Posted July 7, 2011 I agree with ohio on the dodge. That truck is on its last legs. That gen of chevy truck is known for having gauge cluster problems. GM knows about this and you have to pay 300 dollars for a new one from GM. To get one you have to go to a certified GM shop and let them repair it also. Two of my buddy's had this happen to them this winter. As for the millage. All newer cars and trucks with a digital odometer are controlled with the cars computer. So you really can't roll back miles any more. If you ever want to buy a newer car or tuck with out a working odometer. Take it in before you buy and let them hook it up to a computer. If them were your only choice I would buy the chevy. If not I would wait around. Quote
Super User KU_Bassmaster. Posted July 7, 2011 Super User Posted July 7, 2011 Worst thing you can do in buying a used car is be in a rush. I say wait. Quote
Super User SirSnookalot Posted July 7, 2011 Super User Posted July 7, 2011 I've never owned a utility vehicle, that said I've owned many heavy duty & med duty commercial trucks spanning over 35 years, both new and used. Often times buying a used vehicle is buying someone else's problem, but I've had some winners too. My advice is not to take anyone's advice as which of the 2 vehicles is better buy,someone's success or failure has no bearing on your situation, too many variables. Lower mileage and a newer used vehicle does not guarantee that's it's better. I'd spend the $$ to have a qualified mechanic check them out, on the surface neither sounds like an exceptional buy. Don't be hasty, there is a always a deal out there. One of the most important factors is the body, parts, engines trans can always be fixed replaced. Rust in my experience is a big no- no, also the frame is in top condition, no prior straitening. Quote
Super User clayton86 Posted July 7, 2011 Super User Posted July 7, 2011 What engine is it in the dodge if its a diesel id buy that thing in a heartbeat 200k ain't nothing for a diesel that's just broke in. If a car truck what ever it be is taken care of it will last forever no matter who made it. I just retired a 97 cavy in april with 298k on it and its a cavalier!! But the oil was changed ever 3k on the dot tires rotated every few months brakes done every 6mo(car was drove 180mi a day RT for work) every oct it was shake can under coated to survive ny winters. It went out with no rust original paint original head gasket and almost 300k getting 35mpg. Id have both trucks checked out or wait till something nicer comes along buy from old people to if u can they like to take care of there vehicals and usually save there reciepts for the work done to it. Quote
Super User clayton86 Posted July 7, 2011 Super User Posted July 7, 2011 I just noticed the dodge is a 1500 so no cummins in that thing but the 318 still was a good engine if taken care of Quote
Other. Posted July 7, 2011 Author Posted July 7, 2011 That's not what I wanted to hear lol I might just go with the Chevy... It's not what I want. I'd actually use the 4x4 so getting a 4x2 sounds like a bad idea. I just think it might be the Washington Metro area economy. People are asking for 7k for like 199X vehicles with over 200k miles. I'm not going to find a truck that I like for the money i have to dish out. Quote
Super User J Francho Posted July 7, 2011 Super User Posted July 7, 2011 I might just go with the Chevy... It's not what I want. Dumb decision, bro. Quote
Super User clayton86 Posted July 7, 2011 Super User Posted July 7, 2011 Yeah don't get something u won't like Quote
Super User J Francho Posted July 7, 2011 Super User Posted July 7, 2011 Stick to the topic, ladies. Quote
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