Need advice on purchasing a used CRV

[Y3LLoWF3LLoW]

I am looking to buy a used CRV for my parents. I am wondering what year was a good year for the CRV? Ofcourse I understand that the newer the better (ie more bugs and glitches worked out) but I am looking for something in the $7000-$10000 CAD range. 2dr automatic ac.

Also I was wondering if the crv is capable of transporting two mountain bikes. My parents like to go bike riding alot. Thanks guys

[irwinje]

I'd say, list out your criteria and see how many match up with what the CRV offers. I think it is great for practicality, hauling, and everyday driving. The Gen 2s are a little bigger in the cargo area.
As far as 2 bikes, you can put 2 bikes on anything that has the appropriate roof rack, so yes, that'll work, though I might recomend side steps if you go the roof rack direction. Other rack suppliers also make options that fit into the trailer hitch.
Good Luck

[Y3LLoWF3LLoW]

Well my parents will only be using it for day to day driving. They prefer the style of the CRV so that is pretty much set. I was wondering generally how well do CRVs hold up? My friend has had her for 10 years and its in great condition and great working order. For example, Im jus asking whether I should be worried about anything in particular if I was looking at a 7 year old CRV (ie the master cylinder on the 04 rsx usually fails after 2-3 years)?

- jonathan

[2RedV's]

Well my parents will only be using it for day to day driving. They prefer the style of the CRV so that is pretty much set. I was wondering generally how well do CRVs hold up? My friend has had her for 10 years and its in great condition and great working order. For example, Im jus asking whether I should be worried about anything in particular if I was looking at a 7 year old CRV (ie the master cylinder on the 04 rsx usually fails after 2-3 years)?

- jonathanIt sounds like you are looking at a 99-2001? Stay away from the 97/98's because they have 20 fewer horsepower and it is a big difference. The 99-2001's also had a nicer interior than the 97/98's.

Make absolutely certain that whatever you buy, it has had at least 1 or more valve adjustments over the life of the vehicle. This is the only "weak spot" and it is only a weak spot if the previous owner did not have it done. Burnt valves could cost you $2500+ to replace the cylinder head.

If the vehicle you are looking at is near 105,000 miles (or 7 years old) make sure that the timing belt, etc. has either already been replaced or make that a part of the deal; meaning that you get at least $600-$700 off of the price as you will need to have it done anyway.

[Y3LLoWF3LLoW]

Thanks alot man, thats the exact kind of advice I was looking for!

It sounds like you are looking at a 99-2001? Stay away from the 97/98's because they have 20 fewer horsepower and it is a big difference. The 99-2001's also had a nicer interior than the 97/98's.

Make absolutely certain that whatever you buy, it has had at least 1 or more valve adjustments over the life of the vehicle. This is the only "weak spot" and it is only a weak spot if the previous owner did not have it done. Burnt valves could cost you $2500+ to replace the cylinder head.

If the vehicle you are looking at is near 105,000 miles (or 7 years old) make sure that the timing belt, etc. has either already been replaced or make that a part of the deal; meaning that you get at least $600-$700 off of the price as you will need to have it done anyway.