Didn't buy new car

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Apr 25, 2023
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Looked at a brand new vehicle to replace one that is 20 years old but still running. Went home and read the reviews of the new model we had test driven. Read that the frequent problems in the new model involved mostly the electronics in the dash with faulty screens, controls, etc. Drove the 20 year old one. It runs fine does all the things a vehicle is supposed to and none of that electronic stuff. So on we go with the 20 year old Jeep Grand Cherokee. It's fine.
 
Remember that people generally only post things on the internet when they are unhappy. So it's easier to find negative information than positive. Could be accurate, could be an angry customer. Take it with a grain of salt.
I understand and agree. I went to what I consider an unbiased source that compiles information and did not look for one unsatisfied owner's complaints. What I discovered for myself that I was at least as happy with the 20 year old Jeep and maybe more so than the new vehicle.
 
We test drove a few new SUVs and came to the same conclusion: the old Jeep does what it's supposed to. Drove a VW Atlas Crossport and a new Grand Cherokee. Now no longer in the market and no plans to look at others. I just have no faith that any 2026 model would last 20 years.
 
I too have been thinking about new vehicles. At my age it would be my last vehicle. I have a 15 year old truck that has been 100% reliable and runs like a top. So far I have not seen anything that really appeals to me. I too balk at all the electronic gizmos.
 
I understand and agree. I went to what I consider an unbiased source that compiles information and did not look for one unsatisfied owner's complaints. What I discovered for myself that I was at least as happy with the 20 year old Jeep and maybe more so than the new vehicle.
You are to be admired. We live in a consumer society, where everyone wants the latest thing, and few people these days can find satisfaction with the car that they already drive, when compared to a new car. And it is a rare exception to be satisfied with a 20 year old car.

There is nothing wrong with being able to be satisfied with what you have. And it is even more admirable if you continue to keep it well maintained, so it serves you reliably.
 
More and more often, consumers are assigned the task of being beta testers for new cars. Not excited about the slew of issues that may await me in my new CX50. If I can get the bugs worked out, hopefully I can keep this car a very long time. I'm tired of being the beta. 😄
 
Looked at a brand new vehicle to replace one that is 20 years old but still running. Went home and read the reviews of the new model we had test driven. Read that the frequent problems in the new model involved mostly the electronics in the dash with faulty screens, controls, etc. Drove the 20 year old one. It runs fine does all the things a vehicle is supposed to and none of that electronic stuff. So on we go with the 20 year old Jeep Grand Cherokee. It's fine.

Outstanding. The only way we fight back against all this overcomplicated electronic garbage is by refusing to buy and letting the vehicles rot on the dealer lots. Well done.
 
Lots of discussion on the internet about the complication of new vehicles. There is at least some truth to it.

Components now tend to require replacement rather than being repaired, a simple bulb change, etc. Have you priced the cost of replacing a tail light? (Often, you can't just replace a bulb any more). A tail light on my Tesla is around $500. Ouch.

Engines and transmission which (10 or 20 years ago) were pretty reliable are not so much anymore. You never had to wonder about the cost of having your intake valves blasted with walnut shells for example.

So I'm keeping my 2007 Honda Accord. If I'm ever forced to replace it I might go for a used Lexus E350 or GS350 with their relatively old timey technology. And I'm really impressed by the 2013 Chevy 3/4 ton truck my friend just bought. There is room around the engine. You can maintain and repair that thing with fairly basic tools.
 
I really love my 2017 VW All Track. Bought it new 9-1/2 years ago and just turned 70,000 miles. I maintain it well and aside with my recent replacement of the water pump/thermostat unit, all I have done is tires, fluid changes and spark plugs. Runs like a top. Still has knobs for control of heat, AC and radio. I looked at a new Tiguan R Black unit and was not impressed by the giant screen and lack of easy to use controls. I would have to put out over $40,000 and it may not run as well or last as long as the All Track. And there is that pesky 6% Pennsylvania sales tax.. lots of money for nothing. So on it goes. No car payments, which I also like although I usually buy for cash.
 
We test drove a few new SUVs and came to the same conclusion: the old Jeep does what it's supposed to. Drove a VW Atlas Crossport and a new Grand Cherokee. Now no longer in the market and no plans to look at others. I just have no faith that any 2026 model would last 20 years.
New vehicles are good for the features and driving comfort, that is it. Neither of those vehicles I would have much faith in either. Have you considered the WK2 (2013-2020) Grand Cherokees? My father is on his second WK2 with the 5.7L V8, the first 2013 had just over 200k and his current 2020 has over 100k. I own a 2019 Grand Cherokee with the 5.7 as well and just ticked over 70k. I know several who own the 3.6L version which is much more common and they like them as well. The best thing to do is find one as basic as possible. Mine is a limited with heated leather, but no sunroof, no air suspension, and no collision avoidance or radar cruise.
 
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