What To Look For In Used VehiCROSSs

[Big G]

I am starting to look for a VehiCROSS. I would like to know what thing I should look for and look out for. Also how sensitive is the TOD system to tire size differences? For example if you have to replace a tire do you need to replace all 4 to keep the size coerrect?

THANKS BigG

[VX KAT]

you might want to look over my comprehensive list I put together...lots of good places to start asking questions...

http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...=comprehensive

[MSHardeman]

Thanks Sue, I was actually hunting around for that while you where posting it up.

BigG, the list that Sue put together is for sellers, but it will help you figure out what to look for. The window's binding (not rolling up straight) is a pretty common issue, and if the VX still has it's original CD player it tends to eat CD's so there may be one or two stuck in there. Some of our engines burn oil so check the dip stick and ask if the oil level has been looked after.

I'm sure others will chime in with more.

Good luck on your search. If you find one that isn't near you feel free to ask if someone here can go look at it for you (that's how I found mine).

[VX KAT]

The list really evolved into a BUYER checklist, actually, but can be used by either buyer or seller.

I tried to make it be very specific to the VX and common "issues" or "problems", since this group of forum members knows more about this vehicle than anybody else on Earth!

That thread is locked now so Scott can add it to our database/reference material, but we've had some additional suggestions we can add / expand to the list:

~ABS -Check and make sure ABS light on dash comes on when you first turn the key to the ON position. If not, could be an indicator of a problem and / or the bulb has been removed. But do note, many owners have disconnected the ABS system, or never repaired it when it went out, and the truck seems to function fine (just no ABS).

~ALL 4 tires NEED to be, MUST BE, the same circumference (give or take VERY LITTLE) or it will cause the TOD system to make some horrific noises. Numerous owners have experienced this issue. Obviously the donut spare isn't full size, but you're not supposed to go too far on it, only use it on the front, and only in an emergency....so I'd suggest you evaluate the tire situation in this light.

[Marlin]

~ALL 4 tires NEED to be, MUST BE, the same circumference (give or take VERY LITTLE) or it will cause the TOD system to make some horrific noises. Numerous owners have experienced this issue. Obviously the donut spare isn't full size, but you're not supposed to go too far on it, only use it on the front, and only in an emergency....so I'd suggest you evaluate the tire situation in this light.

I disagree with this, I think it is partly urban legend. I rolled a 31" tire on one side and a 32+" tire on the other side on the rear axle. I did this for almost 6 months.(tire size was a special order, none in stock anywhere) No problems, my limited slip still works perfectly. My TOD still works fine as well. All the more reason to get manual hubs for the front, then it doesn't matter what you do as far as tire sizes, such as using over sized tires and having to use a different size spare. It also minimizes wear and tear a small amount since front drive train no longer under load, it definitely improves steering, and perhaps at a psychological level, makes it a little peppier.
As for the ABS, KAT is right, I disabled mine, it was more problems than anything, especially on the trail.
Just my 2 cents with what I have experienced long term.

Good luck on your hunt, rust would be the only deciding factor for me, pretty much the only thing you can't fix. If you are strapped for cash, then this is NOT the vehicle for you. Being mechanically inclined, or fairly well off financially is nearly a must for this vehicle. Especially if it is going to be your primary vehicle. I DD mine, but its purpose in life is a trail truck. You have to think about what you want. I don't mean to scare you off, but its just a fact, ie, the AC compressor for the 01 vx is about $1K. You can't get it at autozone,pepboys etc...the 02 trooper compressor can be fitted in, but its a PITA. Our trucks eat trannys, some have replaced 2 or even 3 times. (I take immaculate care of mine, all royal purple, all maintenance up to date, still had to replace tranny ) Then there are a ton of little "quirks", such as the windows that were mentioned, not a life changing component, but still inconvenient.
I love my truck!!!! Even with all her unique problems. I welcome you to the addiction if you find a suitable rig.

[lasturbo]

The varied tire height if the tires were mismatched (even varied tire pressures & tire wear) on the rear axle would cause the limited slip to be "slipping" all the time, right? It should also cause the vehicle not to steer or track straight when driving on the road and braking for that matter. If it is slipping all the time in a straight line, that should increase the wear factor long term?

[89Vette]

I am starting to look for a VehiCROSS. I would like to know what thing I should look for and look out for. Also how sensitive is the TOD system to tire size differences? For example if you have to replace a tire do you need to replace all 4 to keep the size coerrect?

THANKS BigG

Just like ANY 4x4 system (or one with limited-slip),,,use GOOD judgement. If the tires aren't nearly new, do at least two -- four is better. Otherwise tires/wheels on won't be turning the same speed. And, it's likely to wear your diff/gears sooner.

[Big G]

THANKS to all who replied. I live in the East (Connecticut) and rust is an issue on older vehicles. Are there any particular place(s) the VehiCROSS is susceptible to rust? Big G

[Mile High VX]

http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=18054

He's a member on the forum here..

[VX KAT]

THANKS to all who replied. I live in the East (Connecticut) and rust is an issue on older vehicles. Are there any particular place(s) the VehiCROSS is susceptible to rust? Big G

One of the common ones I can think of is the front bumper support bar (behind the front cladding) is frequently found to be completely rusted through and will just break off in your hand.

I'm sure several of the East Coasters will chime in here with other areas to watch for.

[etlsport]

luckily i dont have much rust on my vx, but the one i did have was very costly to fix, above the windshield, worth looking at.

also as kat mentioned look at the bar behind the front bumper (accessible through the holes on each side of the front license plate bracket, or through either wheel well)

also above the rear license plate look at the tag lights, the bracket up there behind the cladding tends to turn to swiss cheese

[RallyDude]

Sounds like your a pretty handy guy, when the auto trans dies, do a 5-speed swapout; several members have done just that here. Welcome to the addiction. You'll have plenty of leg room and I'm guessing headroom as well.