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2008 Saturn Vue VS 2008 Dodge Caliber

Tiny
KAYX
  • MEMBER
  • 2008 SATURN VUE
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 141,130 MILES
Choosing between these two, which is better?

2008 Saturn Vue:

141,130 Miles, transmission replaced (dealer says 90,000 on it) old transmission only went in reverse (scared because I do not know what caused that and may happen again). Slow to accelerate (takes long to pick up- scared that's a bad transmission thing). Remote start, New-ish wheels, multiple minor scratches.

2008 Dodge Caliber:

156,000 Miles, engine light was on (dealer showed papers-mechanic thinks the fuse needs resetting-I do not know). Very clean, better throttle than Vue, no other recognizable issues. Many miles. I prefer SUV's.

Both : $2,000.00, Saturn from Used Car Dealer. Dodge Private Buyer who is reselling.
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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 8:41 PM

9 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
Welcome to 2CarPros.

If it was my choice, I doubt I would consider either. However, if I had to chose, the Vue would be my first choice, but you have me a bit concerned with the slow acceleration. Is the check engine light on in that vehicle?

As far as the Caliber, not a bad vehicle, but there is no such thing as resetting a fuse. I have no idea what that is referring to.

Does the dealer offer any type of warranty on the transmission? Is the check engine light staying on when the vehicle is running? Has the owner of the Caliber provide you with the trouble code that is causing the check engine light to stay on?

Not to sound negative, but I suspect both of these vehicles are nearing the end.

Let me know. Have you tried finding an older Camry or Subaru?

Joe
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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 9:09 PM
Tiny
KAYX
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Thanks for answering and picking. Neither have warranties for anything, the Caliber engine light stays on, the owner did provide codes but I don't remember it, should've taken a picture. When you step on the pedal for the Vue, you hear the engine but there's not much power and the dealer can't tell me the history.
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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 9:26 PM
Tiny
KAYX
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
For the Vue.
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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 9:29 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
Welcome back:

I would hate to point you in the wrong direction. If the Caliber is a consideration and you live in a snow area, check the engine cradle. They had a lot of rust related issues. Actually, if I recall, Chrysler was replacing them.

My friend, I don't know who you are and you don't know me, so what I say may or may not mean much. However, I question both vehicles. I can't feel good about recommending either. Is $2,000.00 the asking price? Have you tried to negotiate the price down to help in the event that something happens?

Joe
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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 9:36 PM
Tiny
KAYX
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Yes, I live in snowy Michigan. I think the Caliber is on the low side, but it has a great interior and I spend a lot of time commuting. The Vue is very plastic-y in the inside and not as luxurious. The commute is also why the Vue's slow speed scares me.

I haven't negotiated yet, but I plan to. The Vue seller is a lot more uncompromising. What do you think a good price would be for them?
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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 9:44 PM
Tiny
KAYX
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Oh also, the Caliber is from California and has never seen snow, so I'm told.
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Monday, October 28th, 2019 AT 9:47 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
Welcome back:

I have to be honest, I'm not sure what to offer. Just remember, you can't go down lower than you start. Without seeing the vehicles and driving them, I'm a bit nervous to put a value on either of them. I don't like what they have told you and something tells me something may not be right.

I live near Pittsburgh, so we aren't too far apart. Salt eats our cars apart. LOL

Here is what I suggest. If you know a mechanic near you or a reputable shop, ask them what they would charge you to check the vehicle before you make a purchase. If it isn't too expensive, I would do it. Something is not sitting right with me. The lack of power and the check engine light worry me. Never forget the old saying, "buyer beware."

Are you sure there is nothing other that is available? It's funny. If you lived here I know the perfect car for you. My best friend's mother (and I'm not making this up) is now 90 and can no longer drive. He is selling her car for her. 2005 Malibu with 90,000 miles, one owner, a few scratches from her driving, but a solid car and never abused. I believe he is asking $1500.00 for it. That is what I feel you should be looking for. Something like that. There has to be some near you.

I hope I'm not overstepping the line saying that.

Let me know if I can help.

Joe
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Tuesday, October 29th, 2019 AT 8:59 PM
Tiny
KAYX
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Thanks.
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Wednesday, October 30th, 2019 AT 6:36 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
You are very welcome. Let me know what you decide and if you are able to have them checked over before purchasing.

Take care and good luck,
Joe
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Wednesday, October 30th, 2019 AT 5:50 PM

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