Questions and Answers

What To Buy?

Q. I just finished an 11 day road trip from Alaska to California in my friends 1977 Blazer, which we used everything from paper clips to coat hangers to repair. I want to buy my own vehicle and am looking for some advice. I want something old enough/simple enough that I can learn to repair it (I've never worked on a car beyond oil changes but I learned to remodel a kitchen so I figure I can learn this!). I'd like to get something big like the Blazer so I can camp in it if necessary. Any advice as to years/make/models things to look for. I know it's a vague question, but I'm trying to gather advice and direction from as many people as possible so I can make an informed decision.

Thanks,
Micki

A. Gee Micki, I think the last "simple" car was built in 1921. This is really a tough question to answer because I can find reasons to buy and reasons not to buy any just about any car on the road. For simplicity, ease of maintenance and repairs, I would have to say late 1988's, early 1990's Toyotas, Hondas and Nissans. European cars are much harder to maintain and repair and American cars went through too many "transition" periods as far as electronics. I think the late 1970's, early 1980's American cars were the best to maintain and work on.

Not knowing the extent of your expertise and ability, it would be very hard to recommend a specific year, make and model.