Jimmy's average lifetime and other question...

[strafingmoose]

Hi guys!

I recently realized that I can't really afford a new/fairly new car since the insurance companies will skin me alive for not owning a car previously but I'm still looking, in older models.

Is a 1997 Jimmy with 73k miles on it still a good deal (for about 7k $ CDN) ? Suppose it has been well maintained, am I good to go for a few years still?

Also, I might use this car as a "tent on wheels" so I need to know whether the rear seats fold flat too.

Thanks!

[jdmccright]

As long as everything is working on it and there are no leaks or drips, sounds like a reasonable price for the 4x4 version (you didn't state if it was). Certainly low miles for the year (especially if in km). Give it a good inspection including removing the underside skid plates...these can hide/catch a lot of drips. Check the fluids for any off odors or colors (though some used dealers will have those changed to hide problems or past neglect). Give it a good test drive, including operating the 4wd system (this must be done off-road or on a wet surface) and listen for noises. Of course, an independent service shop or dealer can also do these inspections for a fee and if you're not mechanically inclined, they can be a lot more thorough than you since they know what to look for. Good luck!