Tips on Buying Cars: Purchasing a New or Used Vehicle, gmc duramax diesel, gm duramax

Question
Hi Jeff,
I currently own a 99 GMC Yukon w 140k in the motor and don't expect to get a big return on it, My first Question is it better lease the vehicle or buy? Also I would like to get your opinion on the following vehicles GMC Duramax Diesel, Nissan Titan V8, Toyota Tundra V8 I am in a toss up between the 3 and would like some direction on Dependability on each, If i lease it would be 2008 and if i buy it would be 2005 or better and looking to spend 25k.
Look forward to hearing back.
Thanks,
Chris

Answer
I've always been a big proponent of leasing (leased my first new car in 1983), because I think it's one of the best ways to purchase a new vehicle.  In fact, if I want new I always find a way to lease it; if I want to own the vehicle, then I always buy used (can't see any good reason to buy a new car or truck outright).  The most important thing to know about leasing is educating yourself on all of leasing's aspects.  Every day I'm contacted by people who have been burned on a lease, and everyone of them got into it without really knowing what they were doing.  Go to my own website:

http://www.carbuyersedge.com/home.asp

Roll your mouse over the heading at the top marked "Financing," then scroll down and click on "Leasing."  I get into the real nitty-gritty on leasing, showing you exactly how it works.  Start there and then don't be afraid to come back here and ask more questions.

As for the models you're looking at, I know the Titan has had (surprisingly) a lot of problems, especially the 2004-2006 models.  The Tundra has been exceptional, and I'm not that familiar with the GM Duramax, but I'm suspicious of any diesel motor with aluminum heads.  How does the alloy stand up to all that heat and pressure?  You'll need to research the 'Net on your own further to see if you can get more reliability data on that motor.