We needed to replace our car because it had come to the end of its life. My kids had grown up and moved from home. I wanted a little pickup truck so I could bring home things easily for maintaining our home, and carry my art equipment and projects to wherever I went. It is doing well. I put together my wish list for my second-hand truck: small, fuel economy, small engine, extended cab but no back seat, regular bed, body in good shape, from original owner, “lived” in a snow-free and ocean-free area, low mileage, and in excellent shape. I finally found a used car dealer who was willing to hunt for my truck, instead of trying to talk me into buying what he had on his lot. My mechanic told me that I wanted a Ford. After test driving what other dealers had on their lots, I agreed. This dealer found exactly what I wanted in just a few minutes. He had access to an online database, and knew which sellers were trustworthy, and which ones to avoid.

This truck has gotten me cross country several times and has been reliable for 9 years (I purchased used). It has over 180,000 miles and still going strong. It has hauled furniture and lawn trimmings, and has pulled a trailer many times including the several cross country moves. The negatives are it only seats 2 comfortably, it's not good in snow, and the lack of cruise control was slightly annoying during the moves across country