Midsize SUV's under 5K

Wanna spend under $5k for a SUV really don't want anything bigger then a Expedition/Tahoe.

What are years and models to avoid?

What are some standout years and models that can be had at this price range?

I don't have a lot of experience working on cars but I can follow a T.O. and don't mind getting my hands dirty so MX friendly vehicles would be a plus as well.

I searched but didn't see any recent threads on this specific topic.

I am going to be selling my financed 08 in place of this so occasional MX is an expense I can afford. I just don't want something that is in the shop constantly.

Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee sport, that sort of fun stuff.

Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee sport, that sort of fun stuff.

Any specific years? Also any trouble areas or things to check for when I look at them? How worried should I be about mileage? I have never owned a car with over a 100k miles and most of the offerings are in the 130-150K range I have seen locally.

Any specific years? Also any trouble areas or things to check for when I look at them? How worried should I be about mileage? I have never owned a car with over a 100k miles and most of the offerings are in the 130-150K range I have seen locally.

I hear the 2000's had some excess transmission problems, for 5k you'd probably be looking at a late 90's model. All the earlier GC's will last you a good 250k miles, 05 or newer (a little higher than your range) I wouldn't put my money on

Outstanding information I am sure there are a plethora of junkyard parts for them too?

Guess it's time for me to start reading the jeep forums on here and see what kind of stuff to look for.

Any other good options aside from the Jeeps that would make good alternates?

I see alot of 4runners, Pathfinders, QX4's, Explorers, Blazer/Jimmy/Bravada, and 2002-2003 kia's and hyundais in that price range.

If I am not gonna be out in the desert off roading are any of these better options?

Outstanding information I am sure there are a plethora of junkyard parts for them too?

Guess it's time for me to start reading the jeep forums on here and see what kind of stuff to look for.

Any other good options aside from the Jeeps that would make good alternates?

I see alot of 4runners, Pathfinders, QX4's, Explorers, Blazer/Jimmy/Bravada, and 2002-2003 kia's and hyundais in that price range.

If I am not gonna be out in the desert off roading are any of these better options?

The Exploders were't terrible. Though the nick name kinda sums up their problems. The Pathfinders are good, as are the 4-runners. S10 Blazer wasn't great. Not the safest things either. I wouldn't recommend many old KIA's/Hyundai's for various reasons