Plymouth Repair: 1996 plymouth voyager 68,000 miles, plymouth voyager, timingbelt

Question
hello I am looking to buy a minivan.  I found one in craigslist that says 1996 plymouth with 68,000 original miles.  They want $2,700 for it.  Do you think it would last for a while. I need a relialbe car. I have a 3 year old, and not a lot of money.  They say the van is in good condition. But you never know with a used car.  Let me know what you think.  Thank you.

maria

Answer
Maria,

 There are two kinds of 1996 Caravans.  1.  A well maintained 3.3l 4spd automatic fully loaded with air conditioning that has all of the service records and maintenance schedules completed in good order.
   2.  A poorly maintained 3.0l 3sp with a leaking waterpump (600.00) transmission ready to puke (1500.00) leaking proportioning valve (250.00).  No air because the evaporator leaks (900.00) leaking exhaust valve guides (2500.00)
  What I am trying to say is they can be very good, and very very very bad.  Your best bet is to find a private shop with someone who you can build a relationship with (technician/owner).  Someone who will not only look after their interests (a customer that trusts them and is loyal) but your interests (a vehicle that will be having minimal visits.)
 I would stay away from teh 3.0l  The pump, timingbelt and head problems are not worth the hassle.  If you need to have ac no matter what, don't buy a caravan. If the air works it works, if it quits, it might be too expensive to fix.  They have compressor problems, evaporator problems, line problems, condenser fan and condenser problems.  The only thing that doesn't fail is the controls.  Oh wait a second, they quit all the time too.
 I am a bit of a pessimist but my wife drives a caravan too.  I have one because I like the way they handle and I like the creature comforts.  If you really want a good minivan find a MPV, Sienna, Odyssey.  they are worth the extra $$$$$
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Wayne


If you buy something used, have it checked.  We offer free vehicle inspections for the first time customer as well as long time clients depending on how throrough they want us to be.  It is a small thing that goes a long way. Check a vehicle out for free and it ends up being serviced here. Thats my approach and it works.  I can't be the only guy in the world doing it. Just don't waste someones time.  make sure the vehicle you have checked out is the one you are ready to write a cheque for.

Wayne