Buying advice 2005-2006 model

Eric Miguel · Oct 11, 2011

Hi, I have been looking into a 2005-2006 models with the 4.0 V6. I know nothing about these trucks.. How is the reliability? Is the transmission a weak point? Do they last past 100K miles? Are parts expensive? Is it easy to DIY these trucks? I saw a 2005 XLT at a dealer for $7500. It was leaking coolant from the thermo housing from what I can see. It also has a transmission leak possibly the rear main seal? What do I need to look for with these trucks?

My second choice is the Nissan Frontier crew cab. Should I just ditch the Sport-Trac idea and get the Nissan? Which I guess is more reliable??

Gavin Allan · Oct 11, 2011

My dealer's service manager says he has never seen a 2006 model come through his shop. The 2006 is by far the most trouble-free, cheapest to operate, and cheapest to insure. You won't find anyone here bashing the 2006's either. However, they are very rare to find.

:banana:

Read the FAQ page on this site to learn about some of the differences between the model years.

EddieS'04 · Oct 11, 2011

The 2006 is by far the most trouble-free, cheapest to operate, and cheapest to insure.

Cause they dont exist...Gavin that is funny....

Travis Stevens · Oct 12, 2011

that is the funniest thing ive heard this week lol... but i have a 2005 with 65000 miles on it and all i have to do is basic matinance tires, brakes, and oil.

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H D · Oct 12, 2011

How is the reliability?

Very good if taken care of.

Is the transmission a weak point?

Pretty good transmission. Some reported problems but not a weak point.

Do they last past 100K miles?

Unless they're totaled in an accident.

Are parts expensive?

Which parts? Most can be picked up at any local parts place. Cheapest parts of any vehicle I've owned to date.

Is it easy to DIY these trucks?

Depends on your skill and how good of shape the one you get is in. If it's in great shape and you're comfortable changing fluids and some front suspension parts after a while, yeah, it's easy.

Which I guess is more reliable?

Asking this question here is like going to a Batman website and asking "Who's a better superhero, Batman or Superman?" Of course we all know it's Batman!

Eric Miguel · Oct 12, 2011

I can't seem to find a 2006 model? Was this a rare year for the Sport Trac? Is the "Adrenaline" the 2006 model? Also, I heard that this is the same 4.0 liter V6 that the Jeep Cherokee/Wrangler uses. Since they are the same company, this should be a solid engine then I used to have a 4.0 grand cherokee and it was pretty reliable.