Choosing Your First 4x4: Things to Keep in Mind When Going Shopping for Your Off-Road Vehicle

Maybe you recently rode in a friend's Blazer, maybe you absolutely love military vehicles, or maybe you just like to explore and are feeling limited by your current set of wheels. Whatever the reason, you are now interested in buying your first 4x4. There are several things to consider that can help point you in the right direction, and I'll try to outline the most important ones here.

PRICE. This can have a major impact on what you choose for your first 4x4 vehicle. Most of us are looking for something cheaper that can take a punch and isn't too expensive to build into a trail 4x4. Some are able to buy a turnkey monster that is ready to tackle the Rubicon right away. Let's assume for this article that you are the former, and are looking for a budget runner.

MILEAGE. Most of the vehicles in our price range are going to have a fair share of mileage on them. What is important is that the higher mileage 4x4s are going to have a tendency to need more mechanical work. Not always, of course, but if you purchase a 1977 Bronco for $1200.00 for instance, I would recommend taking it to a mechanic for the once over. Replacing things on these older 4x4s doesn't cost a whole lot of money or take a bunch of time, which makes them a great candidate for first timers. If the owner says something like "I'm not sure, but I know the speedometer probably isn't right", just assume it is approaching the 200k mark or more, and take it for what it is. Look for oil leaks, listen for knocks, put the transmission in drive and reverse a few times (if it's an automatic) and feel for hesitation or sloppiness. If it's a manual, or stick-shift transmission, feel for a sloppy clutch pedal and listen to the engine RPM for gradual slowing when you let the clutch out. It should bite right away, and if it hesitates just be aware you may have to replace it.