Bought this Geo Tracker for my daughter's first car. It was the “perfect” car to her – low miles (most of its life was as an RV tow vehicle), the right color, hard top, auto trans – overall good condition and well taken care of. Everything about it was just “perfect”. So I paid $4500 plus shipping to get it home.
After about 4 months the transmission acted up, so I had it rebuilt ($1200). Soon afterward it wouldn’t start, so the starter was replaced with new ($130). The AC and power steering were not working as they should, so PS pump and AC compressor were replaced. The plastic radiator hose outlets broke while replacing hoses, so a new radiator was in order. AC, PS, radiator, belts and hoses ($1000).
Old stereo was intermittent at best, so a new Kenwood from Best Buy was installed. ($110).
Someone at school parked too close, and then parked somewhere else. (Think “hit & run” - no idea what car it was) so new grille ordered and replaced ($150). Soon after, someone at school walked past hitting the passenger outside mirror and broke the plastic mounting. New mirror ordered and replaced ($30).
Oil leak caused spotting on the driveway. New valve cover gasket set and spark plug seals. ($120).
I now have over $7,000 invested in this Tracker (stupid I know, but we do these things for our kids). Daughter has graduated and bought herself a newer vehicle. I know there is no way to recover anywhere even close to what I have in it, but I want interested buyers to know that this Tracker has been mechanically rebuilt (one piece at a time) and should now be in very good condition. Engine is strong running, does not smoke or use oil and I believe that it will be reliable transportation for its new owner for many years to come.
Original paint has fade spots but is good looking at 20 ft. and original interior is not bad - I'd give it a 8 out of 10. Tires are about 50, but should last for another 2 to 3 years.