Posted: Oct 08 2007 at 1:37pm | IP Logged

"Buy Quality, you'll never be Disappointed!"  I'm not single, I have no children, I've already retired from one career (Military) and am comfortably employed in my current career... And I live in Hawaii.   (Send flowers in leiu of letters of condolence...)

If this were the Lincoln Navigator or Porsche Cayenne forums I'd speak in different terms but since were speaking of the Nissan Frontier, I can't see where any purchase would be too extravagant.  Use some universally accepted practices:

1. Figure out what your needs are and FULLY fulfill them. Then look at your WANTS and try to come as close to them as possible.  If this means that you sacrifice in the short term to get the V6, or the SE or the XM radio - do it.  The goal is be so satisfied with the truck that you will drive it for 10+ years rather than looking to trade-up after 2 years.  Every year you can drive your vehicle without a mortgage is a year of paying yourself. (or saving for the 2017 LE with heated-leather and moon roof.)

2. Try to get the best, but shortest terms on your financing.  Often that won't be the 0% Dealer Financing, because the dealer will be try to use the financing as a way of justifying a higher sticker price.  Many Banks/Credit Unions will pre-approve an attractive rate (3.5-4.5%) on a new vehicle so you can take (or use)that  bargaining chip away from (or on) the dealership.

3. Maintain your investment.  In regards to maintenance the old commercial that goes "You can pay me now, or pay me later." is important to remember.  Oil, Water and Rubber  go a long way to extending a truck's life. (My previous truck was a 1992 Nissan  4-Cyl 5-speed manual P/U with 240,000 miles which is still running for the current owners) 

Hope you enjoy your new truck!

Aloha,  Bob