Future owner questions

[hionbusa]

Hello all,

First, thanks you all for such a great forum community . Lot of great info and advice . I'm on the market for a limited v8 4WD . I didn't realize how rare these vehicles are. Will be my first SUV. Planning to use it for some long road trips. surfing , some very very light off roading and towing .

Ideally I would like a 06/07 for the power ,aux , and updated look but i could live with an 04 if it came down to a good number . I'd like keep it around 15k or under .
I found an 04 limited 99k one owner need timing belt and sunroof fix which the owner will consider discounting price versus 06 limited pushing 150k miles. Both 4r are out of my area and will require me to fly and drive it back

Choosing the 06 .Is the updated vvti v8s more reliable than 04 v8s and would justify the extra mileage ?
Choosing the 04 . Could I drive 700miles and not have to worry about the timing belt breaking ?

Please share your similar purchase stories .

Thank you,

 

[WXman]

I purposefully bought the '04. I like the more simple design of the non-VVT engine. I feel like it'll last longer and run quieter. I am happy with the torque and fuel economy considering all the things the vehicle can do.

Here, Limited V8s are everywhere. Mine was at 104,000 when I bought it and was a one owner. The interior was pretty much flawless and the exterior was in great shape. It just needed some maintenance and TLC. The timing belt was already changed. I paid $13,500 for the truck. I've spent probably $1,000 total doing all the maintenance upkeep and replacing the cracked exhaust manifold. I hope it'll be a good vehicle for another 100K. If so, I'll be very happy with my purchase.

 

[hionbusa]

I purposefully bought the '04. I like the more simple design of the non-VVT engine. I feel like it'll last longer and run quieter. I am happy with the torque and fuel economy considering all the things the vehicle can do.

Here, Limited V8s are everywhere. Mine was at 104,000 when I bought it and was a one owner. The interior was pretty much flawless and the exterior was in great shape. It just needed some maintenance and TLC. The timing belt was already changed. I paid $13,500 for the truck. I've spent probably $1,000 total doing all the maintenance upkeep and replacing the cracked exhaust manifold. I hope it'll be a good vehicle for another 100K. If so, I'll be very happy with my purchase.

Good to hear .

 

[hionbusa]

a pre purchase inspection show some oil spots around the transfer case of the 04 v8 with no active leaking or dripping ...Car has a stellar dealer service record even on oil changes.

I'm aware of the common seal leak issue . Is it a major concern in this case?

 

[hionbusa]

a pre purchase inspection show some oil spots around the transfer case of the 04 v8 with no active leaking or dripping ...Car has a stellar dealer service record even on oil changes.

I'm aware of the common seal leak issue . Is it a major concern in this case?

Any input ? Greatly appreciated .
Not finding too many in my area.

 

[RPS13]

Yea, seems to be common. Leaks around the TC actuator, and not switching things regularly like you're supposed to do usually makes things leak sooner.

Honestly, most 4X4 systems seem to be pretty prone to leaks in general on ALL vehicles as they get some age. It seems to be par for the course if you want all 4 wheels a turnin'.