Posted on 10/27/2010 4:00:56 PM PDT by GRRRRR
My GMC 2002 Envoy has tripped over 113,000 miles. While still in great condition and it is not costing me anything other than gas and oil for now, I am quite tempted to move it out of the garage and get a 2010 Toyota Highlander, Limited Trim package, NON-hybrid.
With the economy on the edge, I have a pre-approved loan through my State Farm group at 3.49% @36 mos. but ONLY until 10/31/10. Toyota will match this rate plus $750 cash back. They also have 2 years of free maintenance for routine things.
So, who has experience with the Highlander and what are your opinions of car buying in this economy? I can afford it, have the ability to pay off the loan after one year with no penalty. The ONLY thing hanging me up on just doing it is having a car payment to make every month, it just seems onerous.
There are very few used Highlanders available with low mileage that would be a good option too...
Your thoughts?
A vehicle in good condition that is not costing you anything. I would not take on new debt unless it was necessary..
There will ALWAYS be car deals out there..
I’m with him on this. The current auto is in good shape and has a couple of more good years left. If you want something fresh, simply put some money into sprucing it up, maybe, new rims or some other sort of bling.
Toyota Highlanders are great cars for the money.
You’ve got lots of years and miles ahead of you on the car you own. Can’t imagine why you’d switch now. Ego? Take pride in taking good care of your things and appreciate what you have. Especially if it is working perfectly for you now.
Everyone is trying to sell you something. Everyone.
Owned several Toyota/Lexuses over the last 10 years. Great cars.
We live in Colorado and the 4WD/traction control system works great. I have driven around in 12 - 14 inch deep snow with no trouble at all. I can't think of anything I don't like about it. We didn't get the GPS Nav system or the DVD player - that was $4,000 extra we didn't need to spend. We used an auto broker and got it brand new (113 miles) with zero down and $500 /mo 5 year lease.
Lastly, in two years we have changed the oil - that's it.
We put over 122k on and 02 Highlander.All we ever did was change the oil, rotate the tires, change the air filters and wash it. We repalced tires twice. It’s a great car. We went for the 2010 4Runner. It’s a dream! Give it a try!
Dave says...don’t buy the car!!!
Spend some money spiffing up your current ride.
The Highlander is a great vehicle. If you have the itch for a new ride, you will not be disappointed.
I cast my vote with the majority. Hang on to your ride if it is costing you no more than routine maint.
I have a 8 yr old Highlander. The 90k maint is a big deal as a timing chain must be replaced, and other minor repairs. About 1200 dollars is routine. Also replaced a rear handling strut/component of some sort—700 dollars.
So in almost 180k miles—that is the grand total. Still runs fine.
Decent ride, 21mpg highway. Good vehicle. But still I agree—hang on to what you have for now.
Keep your car. My daughters 97 Honda Civic EX will hit 250,000 miles in 48 more miles and it runs great! Change the oil, keep on on maintenance and cars last.
Same with my Jeep 03 Grand Cherokee, 115,000 miles runs like the day I bought it.
No monthly payments. So what if you have to sink a grand in it once a year... no montly payments.
Why not keep the current Envoy for a few more years, yet put the Highlander “monthly payment” into your bank each month.
Then, in two years you would have almost enough cash to plunk down on the dealers desk!
Listen to Dave Ramsey. Taking on debt to replace a good car with a new car is STUPID. You should save the money that you otherwise would use for car payments over the next three years in a federally insured depository account at your local bank or credit union. The economy alway is inherently uncertain, and risk exists for individuals even during times of intense prosperity.
For example, you could lose your job. Would you prefer to expend your meager savings or diminished income on debt or on food, rent, and utilities for your family? If you’re in debt, debt payments must come before you get a chance to eat.
When your bank account includes an emergency fund at least 6 months of expenses (I’d prefer at least 12 months of income, especially in this economy) plus the money necessary to pay for another car, then you could choose to replace your good-running car.
But even then, remember: you always run the risk of buying a “lemon” if you get especially unlucky, even with an otherwise reliable model.
I don’t have any experience with the Highlander, but I do with Toyota.
I own a 2010 Toyota Tundra CrewMax, 4x4, Limited with TRD package.. it’s very loaded. I had to have a pickup to tow our Airstream and boat, both are heavy and we love going on very long trips with our Airstream. Additionally, I live above the snow-line for part of the year, so all of our vehicles are 4x4.
I flat love the Tundra and the service from Toyota is the best I have ever had from any dealer.
As an example, I found a small scratch on the headliner after having the truck for a couple of months. It was hardly noticeable and was about 1/4” long. I mentioned it to the dealer when I stopped by to buy a cargo net.
I took my truck in for routine servicing about a month later. When I picked up my truck, I was surprised to learn that they had replaced the entire headliner at no cost to me. I doubt that I will ever buy another brand.
As for buying a new car right now, it’s probably best to wait out the present storm. I didn’t and so far I have no regrets, but even if things were to go as bad as I suspect they may, I would still require a truck that can do what this one will do.
Obama is not going to dictate to me how I will live my life. He is not going to make me drive one of his stupid cars. My house and other toys are paid for, so the bastard won’t get any of that either.
Think about this though. Most millionaires didn’t get to be millionaires by buying new cars. There are some very nice 2-3 year old vehicles out there that you can buy and save big bucks. But hey, I’m 62 this weekend so I deserve the heated leather seats and recliners in the back for my dog. LOL
Good luck.....
I really hate it when you guys use common sense!
The only debt I have is the house payment...but you’re so right, gonna hold off on something all shiny and new with all the latest gadgets and gizmos and put a few $$ into my trusty Envoy with the Gadsden Flag sticker on it.
FReepers truly are the best, thanks guys.
G
If you cannot pay cash for the car, don’t buy it.
The Envoy is a time bomb. If you have a great deal in hand on a super-reliable vehicle like the Highlander, and your finances are otherwise solid, go for it. Inflation will be kicking in soon, and financing is cheap.
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