Hey guys! I'm brand new to this forum and just found out about overland and it seems like an awesome sport to get into. I'm not ready to jump into it yet but am doing research right now so that when I am ready I can go in with both feet. SO my question is, when I'm ready, should I go out and get a brand new vehicle such as the 4runner or tacoma and use that as a DD and overland rig, or should I look at the used market and get something cheaper like a 100 series or older jeep maybe. I do have some opinion about this already but I'm looking for guidance from people that have more experience than I do. My opinion is simply put, with a newer vehicle I feel like I won't be replacing as many broken parts, and I run less risk of things breaking while out on the trail. Older vehicle the obvious advantage is the start-up fee is a lot lower and I guess I wouldn't be nearly as afraid to drive it a little rougher. Would love to hear from all of you guys, and like I said, I'm brand new so let me know if this is the wrong sub.
New overland rig vs used
- Thread starter kaydub
- Start date
Influencer II
It really depends on your budget. Personally I don't think I'll every buy a new vehicle again. I've bought 3 new vehicles in my life and I can't stand the depreciation hit. I'd buy used.. Especially if it's going to see dirt. Just make sure you do a good baseline maintenance routine on it when you first get it.
Member II
I agree with Scott above, it all depends on your budget and needs. I bought my 2013 Land Rover new and then spent a lot of money modifying it for overland. From an investment perspective, it was really stupid, but this had been a desire and hobby to work on a new rig and have that as a challenge, and my finances allowed it. With that said, when I get another overland vehicle, it's probably not going to be brand new. In fact, I want something really simple with no computers. That's one draw back about new vehicles is the use of computers and modern systems. Sure, it makes for a much easier overland experience with some of the off-road modes on certain vehicles. I love the idea of something extremely simple that I would build up for more extreme terrain, but nothing beats the comfort of some of the newer rigs. My recommendation is to go with a used rig, but something not extremely old if it's also going to be a daily driver. You can't go wrong with a used 4Runner or Tacoma - both are awesome. If you want something that is more dedicated only for the trail and trips, then something a bit older is a great idea. Please keep us posted, it's a great ride no matter what you pick. A lot of folks, not really on here, may be a bit bias about certain vehicles, but OB is about the adventure and getting out there in nature, no matter what you drive. The most negative part of off roading for me are haters. ;-(
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Also consider your skill with a wrench... If you get a new rig that will also serve as a daily driver, are you comfortable installing that suspension system on your own, knowing a mistake can temporarily ruin your transportation? If not, are you willing to pay a shop to do it for you?
Personally, I'm a total noob when it comes to under the hood stuff, and since my rig is a daily, I have to be very cautious about what sort of nonsense I get up to. Some things I simply have to pay someone to do.
If you get something older that you don't have to rely on day-to-day, you can be a bit more adventurous. And, as @finlayforprez mentioned, older vehicles are often simpler and less computerized.
Personally, I'm a total noob when it comes to under the hood stuff, and since my rig is a daily, I have to be very cautious about what sort of nonsense I get up to. Some things I simply have to pay someone to do.
If you get something older that you don't have to rely on day-to-day, you can be a bit more adventurous. And, as @finlayforprez mentioned, older vehicles are often simpler and less computerized.
I went with a new vehicle and use a shop for the critical work, for the same reasons you mentioned.
I bought and upgraded my truck as a present to myself for my 40th. There was a lifetime of dreaming before that...
Instagram: @dhcave
To simplify the concept: New rig = less work, higher stakes. Old rig = more work, lower stakes.
Member II
While I have never owned a new vehicle, my experience with my parents cars (both owned from mile 0) and my 21 year old rig (owned from 179000 miles) is basically as stated above, so I won't repeat what has already been said.
One thing that I have discovered about my old rig is that it's less expensive then I thought, and it's one of the best teaches I have had. Through working on the car, with both general maintenance and some mods I have developed my technical and wrenching skills, I have always known about motors and transmissions and the like, but reading doesn't quite compare to working with your hands on the real thing. I have also built my confidence in my own ability to fix my rig if something does go awry, and also my confidence in my rig.
Just my one cent (ain't quite worth two)
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One thing that I have discovered about my old rig is that it's less expensive then I thought, and it's one of the best teaches I have had. Through working on the car, with both general maintenance and some mods I have developed my technical and wrenching skills, I have always known about motors and transmissions and the like, but reading doesn't quite compare to working with your hands on the real thing. I have also built my confidence in my own ability to fix my rig if something does go awry, and also my confidence in my rig.
Just my one cent (ain't quite worth two)
Sent from my Nexus 6P using OB Talk mobile app
New versus seasoned is a often dictated by how deep your pockets are. I found a good compromise in a low mileage 3 year old Xterra that had full service history and remainder of warrantee. It didn't hurt quite so much when the first back country excursion left its indelible stripes. Or, the first bit of plastic that broke off from trail abuse . When you do decide to wrench, tweak and add stuff, (and you will) it is super rewarding. Whichever route you choose, take your time, do your research and post back here for feedback. There is a good mix of great rigs . I am sure lots of valuable advice is there when you need it. Just ask. Happy hunting and welcome!!
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The most important part as I read it in your post is the wrenching skill level not only for installing parts yourself but also out in the field. Newer cars (generally but not always) are more reliable. If you are not handy with a wrench and don't want to have as much of a risk of breaking down in an inconvenient place (again generally but there are exceptions to the rule) than a newer rig is probably a better option! I have limited field repair ability and confidence (getting better daily) and as such I went for a new vehicle. Some day I plan on buying an older land cruiser but that day isn't here yet!
Good luck either way you go!
Good luck either way you go!
Member II
I've been thinking about this a bit more because I am considering a second overland vehicle. I think mase001 makes a great point above. A big part of going with an older, simpler vehicle is the ability to easily obtain parts and work on it yourself. So your ability to do so, as well as your garage/work area and collection of tools is really important. I now have a big garage and building up a workshop, so I am going to consider an older 4x4 - likely a Land Cruiser as well.
