Chevrolet TrailBlazer?

[Glesjw]

I have a 2003 Oldsmobile Alero 4 cyl. 2.2 lt. Fwd, and I want to get rid of it.

I'd love a full sized truck, but can't afford it, and overall I like the TrailBlazer, and it's a little bit cheaper, and around my price range.

However, I know nothing about them, so if some of you could give me your advice, or a heads up on what to expect, pros/ cons, that would be great, or if you have another suggestion.

I am looking for a truck, or suv that I can switch between 4wd, and 2wd, four doors, 5+ seating, under 100k and at $200.00 per month, or less from a dealership.

Thanks.

[wrenchslinger]

My wife drives a 2002 Trailblazer. I bought it with a knock in the engine and 100,000 miles. I bought a 50,000 mile engine from auto salvage guy I know personally . I swapped the engine and it runs like a top. I had no idea a trailblazer with a six banger had this much power. Gas milage is ok for the amount of power you get in return. I have about 5000 in this truck and I like driving it. My wife and kids dig it.

[jdmccright]

We've got an '03 Envoy XL with the I-6 that is great for long trips. Plenty of room, good power, and 21 mpg highway. The long version is LONG, hard to see out the rear window backing up so the large side mirrors help. I also installed a back up camera.

I also recently read in Car and Driver that one of their best vehicles for under $20k is the Trailblazer SS. It doesn't come in long WB, but certainly fun.

BTW, never go into the dealer with a payment limit. Most important is the truck's cost...the dealer can massage the terms of the loan to fit any price into that window and will end up soaking you.

If you can get a good loan rate from your local bank or CU (5.5%) you should be able to swing about $11,000 purchase price...which falls into the 2004-05 range of TBs depending on options & mileage.

This is a nice calculator at edmunds.com that will let you include everything including any trade-in you get for the Alero:

http://www.edmunds.com/apps/calc/Cal...Fc9h2god7VEmrg

Good luck!