Recommend SUV for mother in law for $8k

In that price range, it's easier to tell you what not to get (IMO). I have heard of models but I won't mention them as I have never had a first-hand experience w/them.
 
Tough budget. $5k is beater territory these days. 8K it’s possible to find something decent but it will take some searching and flexibility in colors and trims etc.

I would look for a well cared for Mazda CX-5 with the 2.5L NA motor and 6 speed transmission.
 
Contact @macarose and see what he can do for you.

There is an easy answer to this question.

2007 thru 2011 Honda CR-V with around 120k to 150k

1) It should have at least one transmission fluid changes.

2) Absolutely avoid any from a rusty part of the world. This is the reason why.

3) The maintenance history is the most critical ingredient. These are not invincible machines. But they will drive wonderfully with over 250k... but only if it had the right owner. Records matter.

I doubt I'll work well with your $8k budget unless she's comfortable with dings, dents, scuffs, scratches, etc. It sounds like she wants a showhorse when that price range is pure workhorse territory. Take care.
 
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There is an easy answer to this question.

2007 thru 2011 Honda CR-V with around 120k to 150k

1) It should have at least one transmission fluid changes.

2) Absolutely avoid any from a rusty part of the world. This is the reason why.

3) The maintenance history is the most critical ingredient. These are not invincible machines. But they will drive wonderfully with over 250k... but only if it had the right owner. Records matter.

I doubt I'll work well with your $8k budget unless she's comfortable with dings, dents, scuffs, scratches, etc. It sounds like she wants a showhorse when that price range is pure workhorse territory. Take care.
Cx5 isn’t as good an option? I see they are much cheaper for the miles and age.
 
I've bought 2 2008 CR-V LX recently for friends. $5000 and $9500. The cheaper one had 125K and needed brakes, tires and maintenance. The other one had like 80K and needed nothing. I expect both of these cars to serve their owners for a long time, with a minimum cost. Both ladies love them and put the miles down!
Good choices! My '08 has 346,000+ miles on it and the only thing I'm truly diligent about is oil changes and keeping up with fluid levels.
It still drives like a new car; tracks straight and true, no rattles, no leaks. It's starting to look its age a little but all in all, good, solid car!
 
Good choices! My '08 has 346,000+ miles on it and the only thing I'm truly diligent about is oil changes and keeping up with fluid levels.
It still drives like a new car; tracks straight and true, no rattles, no leaks. It's starting to look its age a little but all in all, good, solid car!
That's crazy! The mighty K24 for the win! I highly suggest checking valve clearance, but you must be doing something right!
Well done!
 
Does she really need an SUV, or just any tall vehicle would be good enough? How "big" is she?

For 8k you either need to buy a beat up worn out durable SUV, a questionable unreliable one, or a fake SUV that's pretty much similar to a Corolla Wagon lifted up higher?

Will she be ok with a Scion xB? or a Matrix? or something like that?
 
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