Buying a used van: what to look for
So I've spent the past few days trying to absorb all the different numbers involved and reading thread after thread, and I think I'm ready to ask my own questions. I'm sure I'll still sound like I hav...
Forum Discussion
I will offer my thoughts, after just selling my 2500HD and replacing with a Chevy Express 3500.
I was only looking at GM vans. I was looking at 2011 and newer, to have the 6sp transmission. I was looking for a 3500, so that I would have over 3000lb payload. I also really wanted an Express/Savana LT that was totally loaded. The 6.0 V8 was required, and I preferred power mirrors, G80 locking rear axle, backup camera, backup sensors, Onstar, tow package, 12 passenger, power seats, CD radio with USB, and bluetooth.
I looked for several months on cars.com and autotrader. Very few "retail" vehicles exist. Most start life at a rental company. I quickly determined that the combination of equipment did not exist. So I prioritized my list, and the 2014 Express 3500 was sent to Enterprise with power mirrors, backup camera, backup sensors, and power drivers seat.
So I ended up with a certified preowned Express. You can find them for under $25k with under 30k miles. You get 12 months / 12k miles of bumper-to-bumper warranty.
I installed a class 5 hitch, and my Prodigy P3 brake controller.
So far my daughters like the ability to sit without touching their sisters. My fuel mpg is 1 better than the Silverado. The vehicle is easy to drive, and easier to park than the 2500HD. I will know more on how it tows after July.
I was only looking at GM vans. I was looking at 2011 and newer, to have the 6sp transmission. I was looking for a 3500, so that I would have over 3000lb payload. I also really wanted an Express/Savana LT that was totally loaded. The 6.0 V8 was required, and I preferred power mirrors, G80 locking rear axle, backup camera, backup sensors, Onstar, tow package, 12 passenger, power seats, CD radio with USB, and bluetooth.
I looked for several months on cars.com and autotrader. Very few "retail" vehicles exist. Most start life at a rental company. I quickly determined that the combination of equipment did not exist. So I prioritized my list, and the 2014 Express 3500 was sent to Enterprise with power mirrors, backup camera, backup sensors, and power drivers seat.
So I ended up with a certified preowned Express. You can find them for under $25k with under 30k miles. You get 12 months / 12k miles of bumper-to-bumper warranty.
I installed a class 5 hitch, and my Prodigy P3 brake controller.
So far my daughters like the ability to sit without touching their sisters. My fuel mpg is 1 better than the Silverado. The vehicle is easy to drive, and easier to park than the 2500HD. I will know more on how it tows after July.
