Finding a new ride sucks.

[streetglideok]

Some of the later Nissan SUVs and trucks, I would avoid with automatics. I can't remember the exact year range, so you'll have to do some research. They had issues with the transmission coolers inside the radiators leaking. It cross contaminates the cooling system and transmission. Destroys the transmissions in short order as a result of this. I've encountered a few of these at work just this year, so not a good sign. With any SUV, there tends to be higher repair costs, some more than others. Toyotas a pretty good, but tend to be pricey. When they do need repairs, it costs. Jeeps can run the range of cheap to pricey, and repairs run that range too. I bought my '05 Liberty in 2011 well under your budget with 44k miles on it, 4wd and a 6spd manual. The only repairs I've had to do is a battery(had the OE in it still) and a belt idler pulley. It would be smallish for you though. Cherokees are getting cheap but finding one not beat to hell is a challenge. Being what used to be a die hard ford guy, I would be reluctant to recommend any of their SUVs, or pickups. GMs with the 5.3L, early 2000's vintage should warrant close scrutiny as they have had plenty of cylinder head issues that required head replacements. Most of those have cycled thru but I'm still seeing a few.

[cofi]

buy my trailblazer (4500)

[stoner01]

buy my trailblazer (4500)

Wish I could. But it has to be handicap accessible for the MIL

[hurley842002]

buy my trailblazer (4500)

Definitely one of the nicer looking trailblazers I've seen, nice rig!

[Ah Pook]

Maybe a little more info on what your needs are. A handicapped accessible MIL is a bit of a special need. I was going suggest a Jeep Cherokee but unless you don't mind the MIL in the front seat, then maybe not.

How about a Mommy van? Large sliding doors for easy access.

[Lex_Luthor]

Is a Honda CRV too small for your taste? My parents got a 2010 CRV and they LOVE it. I've driven it several times and it is great. The newer ones seem a bit bigger than the older ones.

[Irving]

If you don't need to go off road, I also vote minivan.

[fullmann]

I've been really happy with my 4runners. I've been in my last one for 8 years, at 215k now. Supercharged it at 100k and she's still going strong.

[ruthabagah]

I've been really happy with my 4runners. I've been in my last one for 8 years, at 215k now. Supercharged it at 100k and she's still going strong.

One piece of advice: NEVER "upgrade" to the new 2010 and after 4runner.... they are total POS as far as I am concerned. I can't wait to unload the one I bought...

[stoner01]

My wife has her carolla. We take care of her mother who has severe arthritis. She usually rides front seat but needs at least the running boards to get in. We want room in the back for either my duty gear or space for two medium sized dogs. All wheel or four wheel drive for the snow. Smaller than my expedition but not a small SUV or crossover. Mid sized is the preference. It will be my daily driver. Which is why I don't want or need a minivan.