cheap mini vans.

Nimommyof2

New member
Looking into a mini van for my parents. Probably would be the years between 2002-2007 as they don't want to spend much. How were the Dodges in those years? What about the Ford Freestar? Chevy ventures/pontaic montonas? Kia minivans? Any input is appreciated Thanks.

Oh and I am in Canada in case there was any difference across the border.
 
ADS

Nimommyof2

New member
Also see the Saturn vue and saturn relay popping up at the price/years I am searching so any info on those appreciated as well.
 

Nimommyof2

New member
Honestly don't think they are looking for the best safety rated vehicle maybe not the worst. I don't see any 2006 coming up in that price range. I know typically you guys seem to know about other things in vehicles as well like which ones needed transmission engines replace so was hoping for some feed back on those types of issues. I think probably a Dodge caravan, saturn vue, or the ford escape are the top contenders at this time price/km range/year range.
 

DawgDad

New member
The Dodge/Chrysler minivans in that price range would put you in the wrong years for them. So many problems...just not a good car at all. Almost all my friends are trying to unload their vans before they drown in repair bills.

Saturn Vue is a compact SUV...and is no longer being made. It's also part of the large GM recall...also don't think it fared well on safety scores off the top of my head. Ford Escape, also a compact SUV, are not the best from that age as they were more like a truck than the Ford Escape is today. Also, didn't score well in safety scores for that model year.

If you are willing to look at SUVs, then a Toyota Highlander (2002-2005 could be in your price range), Hyundai Sante Fe, or a Subaru Forester are all safer vehicles. Definitely check out those makes/models to see what you can find in that price range. It's going to be tough and you are going to be looking at ones with some miles, but if safety and reliability are your concern, then it's worth the extra effort.
 

jjordan

Moderator
Pre-2006 Kia Sedonas, besides not being as safe, were not as reliable either. Though for $3000 you're not going to find something without issues.

Ford minivans are not bad; Pontiac has terrible crash tests.
 

carseatcoach

Carseat Crankypants
I have a 2006 Saturn Vue and I like it. It has a lot of cargo space for its size. Three-across is easy, but there is no third row. I understand that some of the automatic transmissions have proved troublesome (mine is a stick shift and it's been fine).
 

Keeanh

Well-known member
I've been looking for a while myself and have pretty much decided on the 06 or later Sedona. Starting in 2008 they moved one of the 4 tether anchors to the middle rather than outboard, at least on the long wheelbase version. So this could be good or bad depending on your ideal car seat setup.
 

Car-Seat.Org Facebook Group

Forum statistics

Threads
219,654
Messages
2,196,889
Members
13,530
Latest member
onehitko860

You must read your carseat and vehicle owner’s manual and understand any relevant state laws. These are the rules you must follow to restrain your children safely. All opinions at Car-Seat.Org are those of the individual author for informational purposes only, and do not necessarily reflect any policy or position of Carseat Media LLC. Car-Seat.Org makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis. If you are unsure about information provided to you, please visit a local certified technician. Before posting or using our website you must read and agree to our TERMS.

Graco is a Proud Sponsor of Car-Seat.Org! Britax is a Proud Sponsor of Car-Seat.Org! Nuna Baby is a Proud Sponsor of Car-Seat.Org!

Please  Support Car-Seat.Org  with your purchases of infant, convertible, combination and boosters seats from our premier sponsors above.
Shop travel systems, strollers and baby gear from Britax, Chicco, Clek, Combi, Evenflo, First Years, Graco, Maxi-Cosi, Nuna, Safety 1st, Diono & more! ©2001-2022 Carseat Media LLC

Top