I'm considering getting an '06 H3 (those seem to fall in my price range) and am looking for opinions on that year. Is there things I should look for? Stay clear of the '06s all together?

 

If it has over about 60-70k miles then the was probably replaced and now has the hardened valve seats (hopefully). The next item is that it will be a little down on power from the 07+ years. Some folks like the better placement of the late 07 and later door controls. I would get one if I found a 5speed and didnt want to run 35's. (the manual might be better geared for 35's though)

 

My first H3 was a 2006 with manual transmission. I never had one single issue with it.....none! Just put fuel in it and drove it.

Walter D. Robinson Phoenix

Walter Robinson

 

Our first H3 was totalled at about 160k miles late this spring. It still looked and drove like new but I'm somewhat of a maintenance freak. We were so impressed with the durability of the truck that we immediately replaced it with the first cherry H3 we found which happened to be a low mileage '09 3.7 Lux with all options.

The only major post warranty repair needed on our old truck was a new transmission at about 130k miles. We had it replaced by a dealer for a reasonable $3k. It turned out that the forward sprag broke in the trans, something I probably could have fixed myself for under $200 with a lot of effort if I had the time.

I would look for one in the best condition possible that was well maintained regardless of mileage. As far as things to look out for, avoid trucks that have a lot of poorly installed aftermarket accessories, especially ones owned by people who like to drill a lot of holes and dink around with the electrical system by twisting wires and wrapping them with tape.

Good luck with your search!

 

I have an 06. I have over 120k on it and it runs like a dream. The things to look for are the head issue, and the plastic shift fork in the Transfercase. I run some of the heaviest wheel and tire combo on mine, and I have a lot of engine mods, but all in all it runs good.