[thinman]

I picked up a 2004 recently for $5K. It had 185000 miles, body is near pristine, interior very well kept, engine compartment reasonable for its age. Came with owners manual, indexed by previous owner, perfect original cargo net. Everything functions as it should. I needed something for winter and crappy weather in general so it also has AWD. Frame has no rust issues. Of course I figured on spending a chunk of change but it would be worth it as I intend to keep it until I am no longer driving. I was right about the chunk, it needed the following...power steering pump, high pressure and return lines, radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, rear shocks, rear springs front shocks, front springs, end links, strut bearings and of course tires and alignment. Yes, I spent a bunch but it drives and runs great for a 20 year old vehicle. Just beware you may come close to spending as much to get it up to speed as you do for the vehicle. I could have spread the mentioned repairs apart but I wanted all knocked out at once.