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I really, really, really hate to purchase a foreign vehicle. I don't want too. However, we need a SUV in relatively new shape with basic options. Fords and GMs sell really high, and their fuel mileage sucks. We can purchase a well equipped Kia Sorento with all the bells and whistles, huge warranty, and great gas mileage for about $15K.
I want to help our local economy. I can't stand the idea of my money going to Korea, Japan, etc. I want it to stay in circulation here within the States. However, a new Ford Escape, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Dodge Dakota, all are too pricy and their fuel mileage stinks.
The Escapes interest us a whole bunch. However, their cost is a little higher than it should be. Has any one noticed that most Fords are traded in before they reach 25K miles? They run really well for about 15K miles. I have owned several Fords, presently own a Focus.
The Focus has rear shock problems and an engine tick. The dealership has had two opportunities to fix it. They deny anything is wrong. I have about 10K left on the warranty, then it is my trouble. Do you honestly think I could sell that car with problems to a buyer? NO! The first time anyone with common sense were to test drive it, they would run away so fast.
The focus runs pretty well and gets decent gas mileage and has pretty good pick-up. However, the dealerships don't want to tweak a little item, because they don't get paid for it.
My neighbor is on there 2nd Kia Sorento They love it and have had no issues.They drive from Fl. to Canada alot.If a new car delaship will not get a warrenty issue fixed take it to another dealership.And call the hotline phone # in your owners manual and complain.A squeakie wheel get fixed.I know I retired from the new car dealership service world after 27 years.Just make sure you give correct info.When,were,hot,cold,at idle,highway speed.And smile.The more people fussed at us the longer we would take.And yes most repair tech don't know what they are doing.They are just parts changers.
I really, really, really hate to purchase a foreign vehicle. I don't want too.
Maybe look into a Jeep Patriot or a Chevy Equinox if you dont want to go import. But remember, most popular Japanese/Korean models are built here in the states while your "American" companies are building cars in China, Mexico, Canada, etc, etc.
Sales sells the first car, service sells the second.
In any brand you are looking in, check out the service dept. Are they informed, courteous, is the place neat and clean, do they offer loaner cars, do they have any customer satisfaction reports, etc. Check it out before you buy. If the place is a mess, the parts room a shambles, everyone skulking around with bad attitudes, people yelling in the shop, etc., then it's probably not the place for you. It makes a difference, believe me. There are always people waiting around the dealership for their cars to be fixed; ask them what they think. You might be surprised.
Honestly, you cannot buy a "bad" car these days. Everything is much better made than even five or ten years ago. As far as Kia/Hyundai; I would buy one over a GM anyday.
Stay away from Kia and Hynduai, unless you want to get a new car every 80k miles.
My mom has a 98 accent that got 60k miles before it threw a rod. She bought a 2001 accent after that, and that lasted 85k miles, and needed a new head gasket and destroyed one of the valves.
Kias arent much better, my uncle has the SUV from Kia, its a 2005 and it has been to the shop at least 20 times before they finally fixed it, and it still runs like crap.
Take your money and buy a honda.
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