March 27, 2008
SUVs
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If you are searching for a fun, compact four wheel drive vehicle that will keep you out of trouble on the occasional foray off the road, then the Land Rover Freelander may be worth a close inspection.
While the Freelander has the famous Land Rover name, it is not in the same league as the Discovery, Defender or Range Rover when it comes to its off road abilities. For starters, it does not have a low-high range transfer case. However, on the plus side for off road driving, it does include Hill Descent Control which will definitely benefit more novice off roaders. Hill Descent Control basically does the hard work for you when you are trying to crawl your way down a steep, rocky or slippery slope. It also has permanent four wheel drive and electronic traction aids. Unfortunately though, the ground clearance is not enough to stop you getting hooked up on really rough tracks and the travel in the suspension is not what you would expect from a serious off road vehicle.
If you are after a compact four wheel drive with a petrol engine, then you can probably forget the Freelander as from 2001, only a 2.0 litre turbo diesel version was available. While the turbocharged diesel is a bit sluggish off the mark (it takes just over 14 seconds to get from zero to 100 km/h) it does have good mid range pulling power so you can overtake on the highway with confidence. And as it’s a diesel, the fuel economy is great with figures of 10 litres per 100 kms fairly easy to achieve and you’ll get even better fuel economy out on the open highway.
The Freelander comes in two different body types: the three door and five door station wagon. The three door is available in both Softback and Hardtop versions. The Softback is really a semi convertible with a soft top that actually folds forward. This allows greater access to the rear luggage area. If you’re after a vehicle for cruising down to the beach, then the Softback is probably the Freelander you’ll want to check out.
While the Freelander offers a smooth ride, the handling is not up to scratch when compared with other four wheel drives in the same class. Another problem with the Freelander, particularly for taller drivers, is the high driving position. Unfortunately, there is no real height adjustability. For the back passengers, the seats are hard and for longer trips, would prove rather uncomfortable. There is not much leg room to speak of either.
Overall, the Freelander is probably not the best choice if most of your driving is done on suburban and inner city streets. This is mainly because of the sluggish start of the Freelander’s diesel engine and auto transmission. It can actually make city driving a bit of a chore. Where the Freelander performs best is out on the open highway or on not too difficult off road tracks.
The Land Rover Freelander probably doesn’t represent the best value when you consider the other options from the Asian manufacturers. Initially, they were fairly expensive, with the price dropping on later models.
What to watch out for when buying a one owner Freelander
If you like the looks of the Land Rover Freelander, and you are not too concerned about the sluggish response of the engine around town, then here are some points to watch out for when you’re inspecting:
March 27, 2008
SUVs
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The Land Rover Discovery has been available in Australia since the early nineties and has proven a popular choice judging by their numbers on Australian roads. Since its introduction, the Land Rover Discovery mostly retained its original stylin, until of course the recently released 2005 model.
If you are looking for a four wheel drive with a pedigree name then the Discovery, with its Land Rover badge certainly fits the bill. It is a good performer off road although not quite as good as the more rugged Land Rover Defender. But with its two range transfer case and low torque, it will perform more than adequately for the average off road enthusiast. The Land Rover Discovery also has good wheel travel and ground clearance and the underneath of the car is fairly well protected from anything that the off road track can fling up at it. For driving through those creek and river crossings, the Discovery also has very good approach and departure angles
On the highway, the Land Rover Discovery offers a smooth ride, but don’t expect sporty acceleration. Even the V8 petrol engine is fairly unremarkable in its acceleration, thanks to the enormous weight of the vehicle. For this reason, the turbo diesel is generally a much better bet because it offers similar performance, but will cost you a lot less in fuel than the thirsty V8 petrol engine.
Inside the cabin, some will find the feel a little disappointing, especially taller drivers. Some of the controls are in hard to reach places and the height of the seat base means that some taller drivers may find it a little awkward and uncomfortable with their heads almost touching the roof.
Another problem that seems to afflict the Land Rover Discovery is that of reliability. The turbo diesel for example has somewhat of a reputation for snapping timing belts and cracking crankshafts. Turbochargers and starter engines have also provided problems for some Discovery owners. Other mechanical problems have included electrical faults and all manner of gearbox problems.
Tips for buying a one owner Land Rover Discovery
If you’re in the market for a good one owner Land Rover Discovery, then make sure that you check for the following:
March 27, 2008
SUVs
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If you’re looking for a big pick up that’s got plenty of power and room in the back, the Ford F250 XLT 4×2 certainly fits the bill. While the Ford F250 is big and rugged, it’s a different story once you climb inside the cabin. The F250 has been a popular choice in Australia for many years and it seems that this will be unlikely to change any time soon.
The Ford F250 XLT 4×2 is a huge luxury pick up truck that dwarfs over the Japanese models such as the Toyota Hilux and the Mitsubishi Triton. The F250 is not only a lot bigger; it’s much more expensive as well. In fact, a new F250 XLT 4×2 will set you back over $62,000, so if you’re after one of these behemoths, you may just have to look for a good one owner used vehicle.
The Ford F250 XLT 4×2 is available in a Super Cab and Crew Cab version. They are powered by a 5.4 litre V8 petrol engine, so if you are concerned about rising fuel prices, you may need to look at something a little smalle, and in diesel. The V8 engine is coupled to a four speed automatic transmission.
If you like a little comfort when you’re behind the wheel of your pick up, then the F250 shouldn’t disappoint. Inside the spacious cabin of both the Super Cab and the Crew Cab, you’ll find premium cloth trim seats, six disc, in dash CD player, air conditioning and a fully adjustable, soft feel steering wheel as standard equipment. Cruise control is also standard as are power windows and remote entry.
Safety options include four wheel ABS braking as well as driver and front passenger airbags. The Ford F250 also has a limited slip diff for when you’re driving on the rough stuff or in hazardous weather conditions.
Both versions of the Ford F250 are powered by a 5.4 litre V8 engine that produces 194 kw of power at 4,500rpm and produces a hefty 475Nm of torque at 2,500 rpm. The power of the V8 coupled with the 4 speed automatic transmission makes the F250 a great option for towing larger boats, caravans and horse floats as the towing capacity is a massive 3.5 tonnes. And if you want to throw your tools in the back as well, then the payload allows up to 1.5 tonnes. .
For many, the F250 will not be a suitable option as it is hard to park, chews through the fuel and tends to invoke certain stereotypical views about their owners. However, for others, the F250 will probably be the only option worthy of consideration. It’s a love it or hate it kind of vehicle.
oneowner is an online classified specialist in new and one owner used cars. Enjoy the benefits that come with buying a
one owner used car.
March 27, 2008
SUVs
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Saab was a latecomer to the SUV game with its first ever SUV, the 9-7X in 2005. If you’re a Saab lover and prefer to buy pre-owned cars for the sake of better value, now is the time when you’ll finally begin to see the used Saab SUV on the used car lots. Aside from price, one of the major benefits of buying a used vehicle, especially one in its first year of introduction, is that enough time has passed to accrue real-world road test data, consumer opinions have been cast, and recalls have been issued to alert any big potential problems.
Recalls for the 2005:
So far it seems that instead of rushing into the SUV space, Designers spent the past several years perfecting the first ever Saab SUV. Now midway through 2006, there are no recalls for the 2005 Saab SUV. The fact that the first SUV from Saab is recall-free isn’t merely a stroke of luck. As auto trivia buffs may know, the platform of the 2005 Saab SUV is actually the same as the tried and true Chevy Trailblazer.
Future year changes:
Another way to identify any possible imperfections in a year’s design or performance is to scrutinize the changes made to the following year model. Many times the changes are simply enhancements, but other times they represent fixes to previous problems.
Surprisingly for a newly released model, there weren’t too many changes to the 2006 model; another mark in favor of the 2005 used Saab SUV. Among the changes were a 15 horsepower increase to the 6 cylinder engine and a new fuel saving technology for the 8 cylinder, yielding a more favorable gas mileage than the 2005 used Saab SUV.
Professional Reviews:
The most noted point of caution among professional auto reviewers was the assumption that loyal Saab drivers wouldn’t be able to accept the fact that the SUV was manufactured by GM in the United States. Saab realized that when it was time for their almost fanatically loyal car ownership base to trade-up, around 30% of them bought an SUV. Wanting to get into the space quickly, Saab contracted the manufacturing and some of the design of the Saab SUV to GM.
GM has had a long time to perfect the SUV, starting with the Suburban back in the 1930s. No doubt this is one of the reasons for the model’s performance success. Though the majority commented on the SUV’s classic Sweedish stylistic elements, many professional auto reviewers wondered if that fact that it was assembled in the US using the platform of a GM would be a turn-off for die hard Saab fans.
Customers Reviewers:
As wound up as the reviewers might be over the connection between this Saab SUV and GM, Saab owners don’t seem to mind a bit. While professionals gave this used Saab SUV a rating of 8.0 for overall reliability, drivers of this used Saab SUV rated it an exceptional 9.4 out of 10. When it comes to Saab, it seems the mainstream has never understood what makes the tight-knit Saab community tick.
Reliable, confident, and luxurious, the 2005 Saab SUV has the qualities of an ideal used vehicle purchase. Having been on the market for just over a year, this used Saab SUV might be difficult to track down, though not impossible. Choosing a dealership with a vehicle locator service will help to increase your odds of finding a 2005 used Saab SUV just off of lease contract. With a little determination and ingenuity - inherent qualities of Saab owners - you can easily be one of the first to own the 2005 used Saab SUV.
Author is a writer for A&G Select Imports who specialize in used
SUV’s and luxury imports. For more information you can visit http://www.AGSelectImports.com
March 27, 2008
SUVs
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Hyundai has become an increasingly popular carmaker in the Australian market, thanks largely to the ubiquitous Hyundai Excel. But it’s in the off-road market where Hyundai is now really making in-roads. Here we look at the off-road offerings from this emerging Korean carmaker.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson offers a good off-roader at a great price. A new Tucson will set you back around $30,000 for the standard 2.7 litre V6 five door wagon. For the top of the range Tucson Elite S, you’ll pay around $33,000.
The Tucson has air conditioning, automatic transmission, driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock brakes all as standard equipment. One thing to consider though with the Tucson is its lack of real ground clearance which inhibits its off-road abilities. But despite this, the Tucson represents good value for money.
A good one owner Tucson in good condition should be relatively easy to come by. If you are looking at buying a used car, check for off-road damage in the body and try to go for one that has done little or no off-roading. Also, get an inspection from a qualified Hyundai mechanic.
Hyundai Santa Fe
The Hyundai Santa Fe has been a great success story for Hyundai in Australia. The Santa Fe should be considered more as a soft-roader rather than a serious four wheel drive. However, if you’re just looking to have a little fun on the weekends, then this may be a viable option for you. The Santa Fe looks great and has the same standard features as the Tucson. The Santa Fe is reasonably priced at around $34,000 brand new.
If you’re in the market for a used car, go for a one owner late model, as earlier vehicles weren’t built as well as later models. And remember to check underneath and in the body for signs of off-road damage, and get a professional inspection.
Hyundai Terracan
The Hyundai Terracan is much boxier in appearance compared with the Santa Fe and Tucson, but this vehicle is built for more serious off-roading and the boxier shape actually makes it look like it means business in the bush. The Terracan, as opposed to the Santa Fe and Tucson, has good ground clearance offering good entry and exit angles. The Terracan is in permanent four wheel drive and has a two speed transfer box for torque low down when the going gets tough. The Terracan has some little luxuries too, with front fog lights, an MP3 CD player and ABS brakes standard from 2004 models onwards. New car prices start from around $35,500 for the standard model and $37,500 for the Highlander.
If you’re looking for a used car, check for steering stability on the open road and check the body for damage from off-road use. Try and go for a one owner car made after 2004 as these will have the extra equipment as standard.
oneowner is an online classified specialist in new and one owner used cars. Enjoy the benefits that come with buying a
one owner used car.
March 27, 2008
SUVs
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For a long time, the idea of purchasing used was an unattractive option for luxury car buyers. After all, the person who wants a luxury experience doesn’t necessarily enjoy the idea of traipsing around town searching for the exact BMW they had in mind. Though used luxury cars cost much less than new luxury vehicles, the time required to do the legwork and the uncertainty of the quality just wasn’t worth the savings for many luxury-minded people.
However, times have changed and so has the process of buying used luxury cars. The first wave of change brought about by the internet in the form of online classifieds only skimmed the surface of the possibility. While online classified gave buyers the ability to search faster and within a larger area, the method still didn’t solve the underlying problem of used car buying.
Once a shopper found a car they liked in an online classified, who knew if the vendor was just some fly by night internet company or if the car was flawed? The first stages of car buying online made for a better process, but one far from a luxury experience.
Now that we as consumers have had our fair share of experience with the internet, we’ve learned that what we want is exactly what most e-companies hoped would be eliminated from the buying and selling process-a real business with real people behind the website. In the case of buying used luxury cars, this is especially true.
Today, it’s the established brick and mortar used luxury car dealers-not the dot-coms, that have discovered the smart approach to buying used luxury cars. Some of today’s forward thinking used luxury auto dealerships have become all inclusive, luxury auto consultants rather than a local-only resource.
Full service luxury dealerships today offer vehicle location services that track down a particular vehicle within your specifications and deliver the vehicle to your front door anywhere in the country. The main difference between this process and the online classified, is that a personal relationship is first formed with the established dealership, not with a picture of a vehicle on a website.
The trained pros at the auto dealership do the legwork when it comes to locating the vehicle, which is a serious benefit to buyers of used luxury cars who prefer to spend their time in ways other than comparing the specs of dozens of cars on dozens of websites.
Now that the average price of a used luxury vehicle today is 50% less than the new sticker price, smart shoppers have more incentive than ever to buy used. Aside from price, luxury autos today are being manufactured to perform better and last longer than ever before. A two or three year old Lexus is in the prime of its life, compared with some other types of vehicles that may have reached middle age after just a few years. If you’ve shrugged off the idea of buying used in the past because of the hassle, now may time start saving while also enjoying a true luxury shopping experience.
Author is a writer for A&G Select Imports who specialize in available used
luxury vehicles. For more information you can visit http://www.AGSelectImports.com.
March 27, 2008
SUVs
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It is no surprise that SUVs are among the most popular cars in the United States. SUVs provide amble room, and can handle adverse driving conditions and surfaces. They are the perfect vehicle for the busy family on the go. There are a number of problems with SUVs, however, that need to be kept in mind while purchasing any new vehicle in order to ensure that you can purchase the very best SUV for you and your family.
Poteneial problems with SUVs
Fuel economy is always a concern when buying a new SUV. The average SUV is 33 per cent less fuel efficient that the average passenger car; with rising fuel prices, that can translate into an expensive drive. For instance, if you drive 15,000 miles a year with gas prices at $1.15 a gallon, you will end up spending an extra $420 a year on gas.
SUVs also have an unfortunate tendency to roll over during accidents. SUVs are more likely to roll over because they are far heavier than normal care and ride higher, on average, 8 inches higher than passenger cars. This has likely led to higher levels of fatal accidents in SUV crashes than passenger car crashes. A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that rollovers accounted for 37 per cent of all fatal SUV crashes, as compared to only 15 per cent for passenger cars.
SUVs also usually result in higher insurance bills, thanks to the increased safety risk, higher maintenance costs, and the overall popularity of SUVs. On survey showed that SUV owners would pay between 5 and 19 per cent more for their car insurance because they own a SUV.
Which is the Best SUV for Yor Family?
How do you pick the best SUV from the over 80 different SUV models available for sale in the United States? The first step is to identify whether you want a small or full-sized SUV, and whether you will he content with a basic model, or if you want to go all out for a luxury model. Finding the perfect SUV is as much about finding a vehicle your pocket book is comfortable with as it is finding a vehicle that you are comfortable driving.
As with buying any type of car, the most important step in buying a SUV is research. You need to arrive at the car lot prepared, or the salespersons will be able to sell you something you do not really need or want. When you get your research done before you start looking at cars, you will be able to figure out what extras and options you actually need. So, read consumer magazines, look through message boards by current drivers, ask friends and family. It is only once you have done your research and have a general idea what you are looking for, you can start looking at cars.
You have to be sure you are absolutely comfortable with the SUV. There are a lot of models available for you as a consumer, so you do not have to content yourself car you are not truly excited about owning. Take your time, and ask a lot of questions about its safety features and fuel economy. If the salesperson does not have the answers you like or need, go somewhere else.
Of course, before signing any deal to pay for the SUV, be sure to take it for a spin. If you plan to take the SUV off-road, get the salesperson to take you somewhere where you can test this functionality. If you are buying the SUV to make the bumpy trip down your cottage laneway, you are not going to fully experience what that drive will be like by taking a smooth and straight drive down the freeway.
Steve Dolan loves vehicles of all typess. Click SUVs and Trucks to find out more. If you have an accident click Accidents and Injuries to see what you should do.
March 27, 2008
SUVs
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With the birth of the first Escalade in 1999, General Motors provided a luxury Sport Utility Vehicle through their popular Cadillac model. The interest in SUVs has increased since the late 90s with consumers searching for intriguing full size, higher end selections. The 2003 Cadillac Escalade came a long way from the basic model, successfully competing against rivals in the German and Japanese SUV market.
The growing concerns of an effected environment, as well as the gas guzzling nature of a sport utility vehicle makes some shy away from the thought of purchasing an Escalade. This has not stopped well known personalities from jumping on the band wagon. Not only can they afford the expensive cost to maintain and fix these SUVs, but use these vehicles to make a trendy fashion statement.
A Definite Status Symbol
The ownership of a Cadillac Escalade has become something of a status symbol throughout the years. They are showcased within music videos to denote wealth and flashiness. Movie stars and other celebrities, such as Paris Hilton own one in their personal collection of cars. The Escalade model is also quite popular among athletes. Former Golden State Warrior player, Chris Mills prefers the design of this particular SUV, which was also purchased by more than five of his fellow teammates. Top draft picks from an array of NFL teams have acquired a Cadillac Escalade with their newfound wealth. Besides on the road, this popular model also appears in various movies, commercials and music videos.
Customizing Your Vehicle
A popular trend in today’s society (in regards to cars) is personal customization. Car owners have shaped and transformed their factory models to suit their own tastes and style. A common upgrade on SUVs is to add larger wheels or chrome rims. Some exchange their factory engine for one that is equipped for racing. One of the more popular customizations is to choose a custom paint color or add visual detail to the body. This allows car owners to fully express themselves through their vehicle.
When considering the purchase of an SUV, you will find three different choices that were introduced in the 2003 Cadillac Escalade. Each model possesses an appeal that usually attracts a certain type of customer. There is the standard Escalade Wagon option, as well as the Escalade EXT Pick Up Truck. One of the more expensive choices is the Escalade ESV, which features a lengthy base.
2003 Cadillac Escalade Upgrades
Like all car models, General Motors is constantly tweaking their line of vehicles to push the envelope within the car industry. This was seen in some of the improvements made within the 2003 Escalade product line. Some of the features attached to this vehicle include Rear Wheel Drive; power assisted pedals; an improved 4 Wheel system; as well as 5.3L V8 or High Output Vortec 6000 V8 engines. In 2003, the EXT Pick Up Truck was introduced to the public. It gave consumers the ability to accommodate a total of five people and featured the convenience of four doors. This model also provided a High Output 6.0L engine as a standard. It will be interesting to see some of the other improvements that come out in future models.
Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as Cadillac Escalade accessories at http://www.autopartsandaccessoriesplus.com
March 26, 2008
SUVs
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If you
March 26, 2008
SUVs
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The Dodge Challenger was a car that was first released in the 1970s and at that time every teenage boy in the United States wanted one. Now however they are coming back and it seems that the love for the Dodge Challenger will start all over again. Due to be released in 2008 you can be sure that there will be a lot of people that will lose a few nights sleep as they start to get excited about the release of this legendary car.
The Dodge Challenger secured a place in Americana car culture forever as the classic 1970s muscle car that every teenage boy wanted. There was always that one really cool guy in school that had rich parents and they bought him a Dodge Challenger, usually bright orange to draw even more attention to this fast car. Ladies flocked to the guy with the cool car and the guys wanted to be his friend, riding in the Dodge Challenger was a privilege and honor to most high school kids. Then there were always those guys that somehow got their hands on an older model Dodge Challenger or one that had been in an accident that they worked on in a garage for weeks on end to fix it up and hot rod it around campus.
A concept of the 2007 Dodge Challenger was revealed at the North American International Auto Show recently and people went wild for it. Although it does not appear as though a Dodge Challenger will actually be available to the public in 2008, the 2007 Dodge concept was a spectacular sight. They even made it bright orange to remind the crowd of just what the Dodge Challenger had been nearly thirty years ago. The exterior may be the same as the 1970s version of the Dodge Challenger, but the 2007 Dodge concept Challenger had many differences under the hood and body. The new Dodge Challenger has a brand new platform that is also found in the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum and Dodge Charger. This LX platform is impressive from start to finish, as it is one of the most highly refined and responsive chassis available in any American manufactured automobiles. The importance of a solid underpinning, like the LX provides, is essential when handling the amount of horsepower generated by the famous Hemi performance engine. The 6.1-liter SRT8 models generate 425 horses and 420 pounds per foot of torque, which can be a lot for a driver to handle without a well-built chassis to support the power.
The similarities in appearance between the old Dodge Challenger of the seventies and the new 2007 Dodge concept car are evident to event he amateur eye. However, the new version is slightly longer than the original, by nearly half of a foot and it is two inches wider. This does not seem to impact the stunning presentation of the nostalgic vehicle to most people because the overall look is still so cool. The updated mechanical features and power of the classic Dodge Challenger will only help to increase the likelihood of the cars success in the market in 2008 or whenever Chrysler decides to release it. The way things have been going in the automotive industry; Detroit could sure use the boost from a popular new car coming out of the once dominating car capital of the world. We will just have to wait and see how well the Dodge Challenger can comeback after three decades of hibernation, the challenge it on!
Not everyone will remember these cars but we can all agree on one thing and that is that they were defiantly in need of a facelift. When they were first released they were new and looked perfect for that market. But now Dodge need to make sure that you do not look like you are driving a dust cart.
Kevin Dark is a dedicated car fan. Learn more about Dodge Challenger on MotorCounry website.
March 26, 2008
SUVs
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Many of today’s four wheel drives are either too expensive for serious off-road action or are pretenders with limited off-road abilities. Not so the Jeep Wrangler. This beast is built for serious action in the bush.
The Jeep Wrangler has an impressive pedigree. It was the Jeep that transported troops and equipment around Europe and the Pacific during World War II. And it was here that the Jeep earned its reputation as a rough, sturdy, dependable vehicle. Today, the Jeep Wrangler is still rough, sturdy and reliable when it’s off the road.
This vehicle is at its best when it is in rough terrain. Its 4.0 litre 6-cylinder engine provides real grunt when needed, its high ground clearance will get you over the roughest of tracks and through the rockiest of creek beds and the turning circle will continuously get you out of a tight situation. The Jeep Wrangler feels more at home in the bush than on the road where the steering can tend to wander and the ride not as smooth as the average family car. But this is not why you buy a Jeep Wrangler. You buy a Jeep Wrangler for having fun in.
If you like to feel the wind when you’re driving then the Jeep Wrangler will not let you down. Not only can you take down the soft top, but you can rip off the doors and lower the windscreen for that real exhilarating driving feeling. There’s not many new four wheel drives, or any car for that matter, that you can feel this close to nature while you’re driving.
New, the Jeep Wrangler starts at about $30,000 for the Jeep Wrangler Sport with a manual gearbox through to around $34,000 for the Jeep Wrangler Renegade Auto. If you’re looking for a used car, check for body damage caused by off-road use. Also check the bumpers, under the door sills and the protective bars. Check that the gears shift easily in manuals and check for crunching gears when changing back down. Also, check for evidence of a leaking roof. Try and go for a good for a good one owner car, as owners may be tempted to drive them hard in the bush. And the more owners a car has had, the more likely it is to have been on the receiving end of some rough treatment
If you’re after a car to do some fun, serious four wheel driving in, then the Jeep Wrangler may just be for you. On the other hand, if you want a four wheel drive to stick to the city and suburbs, then perhaps you should look elsewhere.
oneowner is an online classified specialist in new and one owner used cars.