Handing off my Vibe/ WHat to look for in a used 4x4

[WhgVibe]

Hello Fellow Vibers...................Im consideing handing off my Vibe to my daughter and want to buy a used 4x4, I dont buy new cars anymore but I have never owed a 4 wheel drive vehicle before. Since many of you are savy "car guys/gals" what do I look for when buying a used 4x4? I dont want to buy something with 4x4 "problems". Thanks in advane for your tips!!!

[SeattleJeremy]

4x4's are so varied in size, style, and seats, that we or any community with that question will need more information.

How many people does it need to seat?
How important are it's off road chops? 99% onroad with the capability to drive in the snow? Rock climb?
What is your budget?

Are you thinking Suzuki Samurai? Subaru Outback? Wrangler? Bronco? Kia Sportage? Suburban? Vibe AWD?

[Chiadog]

The biggest concern with a late-model 4X4 at this time is Hurricane Sandy! If your buying a truck in the 10-30K range, have a good mechanic inspect it for signs of flood damage. Youtube may help here also. Otherwise same as a car, except lots more stuff to check! Again, a good mechanic with a rack would be wise, lots of U-joints, etc. to check. An expensive truck also warrants a compression check - don't want to get stuck with a bad engine. Check the entire truck for rust and fluid LEAKS. Check the tires for wear indicating suspension problems. Thoroughly check the electrical system, every single fuse,bulb, wiring bundle! People wire some pretty stupid things into their trucks. Test the four wheel drive, test the posi -rear end, if it has it. First test drive a low-mileage truck of similar vintage at a dealer to see how it is supposed to feel and sound. Lastly, don't fall in love. It's a buyers market for trucks! Good Luck.

[Nasmfell]

Buy new, that way no worries of how the previous owner maintained (or not) the vehicle

[Kincaid]

Do not know much about 4x4's except that if you want something basically stock, unmolested, not beaten to death on the trail, but that WILL handle off road stuff, pretty much you need to look for a Jeep that is "Trail Rated" and that fits your needs.

If you are just looking to get around in the snow but 99% of driving is just on the road, you have a lot more options that should work well.

[WhgVibe]

Thanks Guys for the advice. Im not looking to go off roading just street driving and in the snow. Thinking Ford Explorer, they seem plentiful with a lower price, or a Jeep. Not a fan of AWD sytems except Subaru but the local dealer has a nightmare rep so Im staying clear of the brand for that reason. If I go Kia Sorento or Chev Equinox I may just op for FWD only.