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Selecting the best used 4×4 under $10000

July 8th, 2011 |

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It’s easy to get a used 4×4 for a small amount of money but you’ll probably end up with a lemon if you don’t know what to look out for, so here are some tips to help you spot the best used 4×4 under $10000.

One of the first things you need to find out about a prospective used 4×4 is the mileage. Most people instantly think that a high mileage 4×4 vehicle means that it’s been run into the ground but that doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. 4×4 manufacturers such as Ford, Toyota and Honda have great reliability even when the mileage is high and when weighed up with other factors such as age, model and make of the vehicle, can be a decent indicator of the vehicle’s worth.

What is the best used 4×4 under $10000

A major factor that goes hand in hand with the above is the vehicle’s service history and the amount of abuse that the vehicle may have suffered. If a 4×4 truck has been used as an off-road fun truck whether purposefully by the previous owner or simply by necessity because it was owned by a farmer or suchlike, then your best used 4×4 under $10000 is going to literally that: best used (if not abused!).

Of course, it goes without saying that if you are in the market for the best used 4×4 under $10000, then you’re going to want to have a vehicle whose 4 wheel drive train (Whether part, full or AWD) is functioning correctly and undamaged. If you can take a knowledgeable mechanic with you when you test drive the 4WD then he’s going to have a better chance of spotting potential problems with the drive-train while you test drive the vehicle.If selecting a part time 4×4 ensure that the 2WD and 4Hi/Lo modes are also operating correctly.

Make sure that you inspect the underbody and lower sides of the used 4×4 for damage as this is where most damage obviously occurs when the vehicle has been subjected to over-zealous off-roading. Again, get your mechanic to physically get underneath for inspection.

Reliability and value-for-money are what you need to look for if you are small budgeted and looking for the best used 4x4s under $10000. Nissan Pathfinders represent very good VFM if you manage to get hold of a decent condition 2002 / 2003 SE or LE. Subaru Foresters are also a good bet although anything over 10 years old should be very thoroughly checked out. RAV4s also represent great value for money if you’re looking for a decent ride under 10k and they also tend to drink less fuel than the Foresters. A four-cylider 2005 Escape is also a decent ride as are Suzuki Grand Vitara v6s when you can get them for the price and they require no further work.

Generally speaking, if you’re looking for the best used 4x4s under $10000 you wouldn’t go far wrong with any of the following:
4Runners, Pathfinders, Outbacks, Rav 4 and CRV (don’t forget to have a look at Landrover and Jeep) but you’ll need to chose carefully to get your absolute best value for money for that kind of budget.