I started this thread, and have finally purchased a good used car. It is a 2010 Ford Escape Limited, with low mileage, and it has been rust proofed over the years. My mechanic checked it all over and says it is a keeper. After months of searching online, and at local car dealerships, I found a place that only sells used cars, and they were willing to search for me. They buy their cars in many locations, and have a good reputation in town. They found 2 great suv's for me -- a Honda CRV EXL 2011, and a Ford Escape Limited 2010. Both were about 200 miles from where I live, and in different directions. They even found the colour combination I wanted. The dealership purchased both cars in online auctions, and said that when they arrived I would have first refusal, but was not obligated to purchase either one. I adjusted the seats in the Honda, and finally found a comfortable position for me, but my teenage Grandaughter just could not get comfortable in the passenger seat. The salesman did everything he could to adjust it for her, but after a 20 min. test drive, her neck was hurting. She spends a good deal of time with me, and I want her to be comfortable. She is also not one to complain, and is the sweetest girl ever ! Well, she is my Grandaughter ! We then drove the Ford Escape LTD, over the same roads, and we both agreed it was the more comfortable SUV. We could both adjust the seats so that the headrests did not bother us. It is also quite a bit less expensive than the Honda, so we chose that one. I just ordered some Weatherteck mats to protect the floor, and the cargo area. I am a gardener, and always hauling plants, or gardening supplies in the summer. The pattern is made by a laser, and they fit your car perfectly. Also, they have a good upper ridge which comes up high on the car to protect the carpet.
I did drive my old Ford Taurus Stationwagon for years with some rust, but the rocker panels are now gone underneath, and there is a hole in the floor near the front passenger seat. The heater is also gone. This alone is a $600.00 repair. The bodywork would be about $2500. The car is 15 years old. I got it used too, and it has served me well for 12 years. The bodywork and the heater repair just are not worth it to me, when something else may soon go on my old car. I need to have a good dependable car, and am happy with this deal. They gave me a good trade in value, a bit off the list price, and a whole new set of tires. I saved half the price of a new Ford Escape, and it is $10,000 less than the Honda CRV. I have leather heated seats, as well as a sunroof, and the Ford Escape LTD looks like new. I am quite happy so far. Let's hope my great mechanic, whom I have trusted for 11 years is right, and I have no trouble getting another 10 years out of it, the way I drive. I do not put as many miles on a car as some people, since I am retired, and live in a small town, where everything is convenient, within short distances.
Thank you everyone for all your good suggestions, and comments. My search has finally ended ! I hope this thread helps someone else.