Looking to buy, updated

[swathdiver]

2013 was the last year for the ESV and EXT. Is it worth $10K more for a low mileage unit? If you have the dough I would say so. How many years will it take you to drive from 50K miles to 100K where most of these are selling for? How much maintenance is not due until then?

 

[mpicasso]

2013 was the last year for the ESV and EXT.

While trying to figure out if I wanted Denali vs Escalade, shortbed vs longbed, I have been using 2009-2014 for years. Thanks for letting me know about the ESV, as I honestly did not notice (not interested in the EXT).
My biggest thing right now is deciding why to buy either the Escalade or Denali. Fond of both vehicles though have a slight preference towards the Escalade. If someone has a reason why they prefer the Denali, definitely all ears.

Is it worth $10K more for a low mileage unit? If you have the dough I would say so.

Think I am going to stick to the budget of $25K, with $10 down. Looking for later model, lower mileage, not in the salt belt, and decent service records. At this price, if something happens, easier for me to afford and can probably pay off in a year.

How many years will it take you to drive from 50K miles to 100K where most of these are selling for? How much maintenance is not due until then?

Hard for me to tell because I am (re)exploring things I have not been able to do without a truck - back to kayaking, field work with my dog, etc. Would guess 3 to 4 years, for mileage.

Finding a few vehicles to look at so hopefully soon, I will be posting in a different section!!!

 

[swathdiver]

While trying to figure out if I wanted Denali vs Escalade, shortbed vs longbed, I have been using 2009-2014 for years. Thanks for letting me know about the ESV, as I honestly did not notice (not interested in the EXT).
My biggest thing right now is deciding why to buy either the Escalade or Denali. Fond of both vehicles though have a slight preference towards the Escalade. If someone has a reason why they prefer the Denali, definitely all ears.

Think I am going to stick to the budget of $25K, with $10 down. Looking for later model, lower mileage, not in the salt belt, and decent service records. At this price, if something happens, easier for me to afford and can probably pay off in a year.

Hard for me to tell because I am (re)exploring things I have not been able to do without a truck - back to kayaking, field work with my dog, etc. Would guess 3 to 4 years, for mileage.

Finding a few vehicles to look at so hopefully soon, I will be posting in a different section!!!

I forget where you live, if in a big city, go for the Denali as thieves are drawn like flies to cowpies when it comes to Escalades.

Esky's are have a nicer interior IMO, especially the Platinum with their Tehama Leather seats.

 

[mpicasso]

I forget where you live, if in a big city, go for the Denali as thieves are drawn like flies to cowpies when it comes to Escalades.

SE Florida (Palm Beach county), though hoping to head to at least central/SW Florida within the next year or so.

Esky's are have a nicer interior IMO, especially the Platinum with their Tehama Leather seats.

That is what has me drawn to the Escalade...headlights and the Tehama leather seats. Most of my driving will be distant, so looking for quiet and comfort.

 

[swathdiver]

SE Florida (Palm Beach county), though hoping to head to at least central/SW Florida within the next year or so.

That is what has me drawn to the Escalade...headlights and the Tehama leather seats. Most of my driving will be distant, so looking for quiet and comfort.

That's right, we're neighbors! Both will serve you well in the comfort department. @Seamus @RebelBelle

Gene has an Escalade Hybrid that he does long commutes with. Maybe he'll get this message and pop in and share his experiences with it thus far.

There are a lot of these things sitting in parking garages all up and down the coast while their owners are up north. They turn them in with low miles and get another, they turn up at all kinds of big name dealerships like Toyota, Lexus and of course other GM dealerships.

 

[mpicasso]

Both will serve you well in the comfort department.

Definitely looking forward to that!!!

There are a lot of these things sitting in parking garages all up and down the coast while their owners are up north. They turn them in with low miles and get another, they turn up at all kinds of big name dealerships like Toyota, Lexus and of course other GM dealerships.

Struggling to find many of them, though, not REGISTERED up N. Do not have the time/patience to continuously look at vehicles from the N, to see how much rust is involved because of salt.

Personal opinions - 2011 Escalade Premium, 134K miles, $17K vs 2013 Platinum Escalade, 113K miles, $25K.

Based on what I have read, the Platinum and newer style is worth the upgrade...but is it worth $8K, if everything else is comparable (accidents, service records, etc.)?

 

[swathdiver]

Definitely looking forward to that!!!

Struggling to find many of them, though, not REGISTERED up N. Do not have the time/patience to continuously look at vehicles from the N, to see how much rust is involved because of salt.

Personal opinions - 2011 Escalade Premium, 134K miles, $17K vs 2013 Platinum Escalade, 113K miles, $25K.

Based on what I have read, the Platinum and newer style is worth the upgrade...but is it worth $8K, if everything else is comparable (accidents, service records, etc.)?

Yes, it is 2 years newer and maybe a year or two less miles on it and it comes with improvements in the navigation unit/radio (although the maps cannot be updated anymore on either, the display is nicer) such as voice activated navigation commands and trailer sway control. No escalade has an integrated trailer brake controller but like all the others, the wiring for an aftermarket controller is under the dash. And finally, the Platinum has a much nicer interior, the Premium's seats are more like a Denali.

 

[mpicasso]

Yes, it is 2 years newer and maybe a year or two less miles on it and it comes with improvements in the navigation unit/radio (although the maps cannot be updated anymore on either, the display is nicer) such as voice activated navigation commands and trailer sway control. No escalade has an integrated trailer brake controller but like all the others, the wiring for an aftermarket controller is under the dash. And finally, the Platinum has a much nicer interior, the Premium's seats are more like a Denali.

Thanks for that! Had been leaning towards the Platinum but wanted confirmation that I was making the right choice. Now just need to get the deal done.

 

[mpicasso]

Pulled the trigger on a 2011 Escalade Platinum, 1-owner, 118K miles. Financed through DCU for 1.99%, dropped to 1.49% with direct deposit!!!
Thanks again! After I get it home and have my mechanic take a quick peek, will start look at what comes next...thinking exhaust, CAI, and then a tune.

 

[intheburbs]

thinking exhaust, CAI, and then a tune.

You already have a CAI.

 

[mpicasso]

You already have a CAI.

No benefit to going to something like an airaid, then?

 

[Geotrash]

No benefit to going to something like an airaid, then?

That’s correct.

 

[swathdiver]

No benefit to going to something like an airaid, then?

You up for taking her down the quarter mile drags? We were supposed to go yesterday but my wife was not feeling well. We're going to run both trucks on the 11th or 18th, lots of stuff going on at Moroso, err, Palm Beach International Raceway right now. Be good to get a baseline before you start changing things.

 

[intheburbs]

No benefit to going to something like an airaid, then?

Leave the filter box alone. The Air Raid intake tube is allegedly 'proven' to add a few HP. Literally, like 2-3. You won't feel the difference. To me, the juice just isn't worth the squeeze ($175). Makes it sound cool, though.

Fastest/easiest way to significantly wake it up is a tune. After that, I'd start looking at hardware upgrades - exhaust/headers, cam, forced induction, etc.

CAFE has forced the manufacturers to squeeze every cheap efficiency trick into modern engines. There are no shortcuts nowadays.

 

[Geotrash]

Leave the filter box alone. The Air Raid intake tube is allegedly 'proven' to add a few HP. Literally, like 2-3. You won't feel the difference. To me, the juice just isn't worth the squeeze ($175). Makes it sound cool, though.

Fastest/easiest way to significantly wake it up is a tune. After that, I'd start looking at hardware upgrades - exhaust/headers, cam, forced induction, etc.

CAFE has forced the manufacturers to squeeze every cheap efficiency trick into modern engines. There are no shortcuts nowadays.

+1. If I’d have had more time when I responded before, this is exactly what I would have said.

 

[mpicasso]

You up for taking her down the quarter mile drags? We were supposed to go yesterday but my wife was not feeling well. We're going to run both trucks on the 11th or 18th, lots of stuff going on at Moroso, err, Palm Beach International Raceway right now. Be good to get a baseline before you start changing things.

Well, it is back to the drawing board for me. Customer service and relationships are a big deal and something I did not have, during this purchase.
Sadly, the list is extensive. Had been there earlier in the week and price was finalized. Went in Sunday thinking I would only have to sit with the financing guy and sign paperwork (waiting on a check from CU, so had asked for a flatbed delivery once they were paid). After almost 2 hours, I still had not made it to the finance office.
Frustrated and having other obligations, I said I would be back Thursday. On the road home, I called the salesperson, and said I think I am going to pass. His response, "OK, well, we have not charged your card for the deposit yet, so you are good"...nothing more.
Car was over my budget by almost $1K, not including warranty, so already on the fence. But with a 1.49% interest rate, as opposed to the 5-6% I expected, I was willing to at least have considerations. Customer service is what broke this deal for me. I have messaged the GM and awaiting a response. Not sure what is going to happen but looking at other options, including just cleaning up my '04 'hoe (probably going back to looking for a '09-14 Esky Platinum).

 

[petethepug]

Still hunting?

 

[mpicasso]

Took some time off to confirm what I want/need.
Looked at 2018-2020 Tundra's but carry a large dog crate and portable fridge/freezer. Though not all of the time, enough that I cannot justify a truck, right now.
Went back to looking at '05-06 Tahoes, for reliability, but struggle to find one with service records, without massive amounts of rust, and around $10-11K, or less. Did locate a 2005, under $11K, with 145K miles, that I am considering.

That said, I do like creature comforts and a comfortable ride (minimum distance will be 100 miles, up to 3K round trip). Decided to considering a 2012-2014 Tahoe LTZ or Yukon. Leaning towards the Yukon because of the 6.2 being available (it is a large SUV, for working purposes...not overly concerned with gas mileage).

Would consider a 2017-2019 Tahoe but nervous about their reliability history and getting parts. Seems like things got better in '16 and up but prices also get significantly higher...not wanting to spend $40K+ on a non-daily driven vehicle.

1) would someone comment why they would take an '05 Tahoe over say a '12 Tahoe? Seems a no-brainer to me, with auto-ride, safety features, etc. Price is round $8K difference, so at this level, not a factor for me. Looks is preferential and this is a "working" vehicle...and fairly fine with either style (do like the looks of older style better but focus is on comfort, handling, safety, etc.)

2) for what I am doing, I do believe the AWD on Yukon will be fine. Only "concern" will be some softer patches of dirt or boat ramps. So in my head, it makes sense to go with the Yukon Denali over Tahoe LTZ but help me set this idea to rest, one way or another. Why should I buy Denali over LTZ, or vice versa? Do want 4WD or AWD, for pulling a boat on somewhat slippery ramps.

Thanks in advance!!!

 

[Geotrash]

Took some time off to confirm what I want/need.
Looked at 2018-2020 Tundra's but carry a large dog crate and portable fridge/freezer. Though not all of the time, enough that I cannot justify a truck, right now.
Went back to looking at '05-06 Tahoes, for reliability, but struggle to find one with service records, without massive amounts of rust, and around $10-11K, or less. Did locate a 2005, under $11K, with 145K miles, that I am considering.

That said, I do like creature comforts and a comfortable ride (minimum distance will be 100 miles, up to 3K round trip). Decided to considering a 2012-2014 Tahoe LTZ or Yukon. Leaning towards the Yukon because of the 6.2 being available (it is a large SUV, for working purposes...not overly concerned with gas mileage).

Would consider a 2017-2019 Tahoe but nervous about their reliability history and getting parts. Seems like things got better in '16 and up but prices also get significantly higher...not wanting to spend $40K+ on a non-daily driven vehicle.

1) would someone comment why they would take an '05 Tahoe over say a '12 Tahoe? Seems a no-brainer to me, with auto-ride, safety features, etc. Price is round $8K difference, so at this level, not a factor for me. Looks is preferential and this is a "working" vehicle...and fairly fine with either style (do like the looks of older style better but focus is on comfort, handling, safety, etc.)

2) for what I am doing, I do believe the AWD on Yukon will be fine. Only "concern" will be some softer patches of dirt or boat ramps. So in my head, it makes sense to go with the Yukon Denali over Tahoe LTZ but help me set this idea to rest, one way or another. Why should I buy Denali over LTZ, or vice versa? Do want 4WD or AWD, for pulling a boat on somewhat slippery ramps.

Thanks in advance!!!

I think you're over-thinking it

I faced the exact same set of decisions when it was time to replace my '02 Suburban and landed on a '12 XL Denali. Very happy with my choice. Side note: I thought the Suburban was near the end of its life with 230K on it, but I sold it to a buddy who has since put another 80K trouble-free miles on it. Lol.

I like the AWD, and I like the 6.2 so much I would never be happy with a 5.3 again. And the AWD is competent off-road. Last December I pulled our camper out of a mud pit of a campsite in West Virginia, and the AWD was key. Once that G80 rear diff locked up, it pulled like a D6 Cat. I'd also rather have AWD on a boat ramp than have the 4WD actuator choose that moment to let me down.

If you get an '06, yes they're reliable, but you're going to have a whole heap of age-related things start coming due. Bushings, body mounts, rear heater lines, brake lines, etc that you won't have yet with a newer vehicle. And my '12 has been rock solid reliable too.

 

[mpicasso]

I think you're over-thinking it

I faced the exact same set of decisions when it was time to replace my '02 Suburban and landed on a '12 XL Denali. Very happy with my choice. Side note: I thought the Suburban was near the end of its life with 230K on it, but I sold it to a buddy who has since put another 80K trouble-free miles on it. Lol.

I like the AWD, and I like the 6.2 so much I would never be happy with a 5.3 again. And the AWD is competent off-road. Last December I pulled our camper out of a mud pit of a campsite in West Virginia, and the AWD was key. Once that G80 rear diff locked up, it pulled like a D6 Cat. I'd also rather have AWD on a boat ramp than have the 4WD actuator choose that moment to let me down.

If you get an '06, yes they're reliable, but you're going to have a whole heap of age-related things start coming due. Bushings, body mounts, rear heater lines, brake lines, etc that you won't have yet with a newer vehicle. And my '12 has been rock s

I think you're over-thinking it

I faced the exact same set of decisions when it was time to replace my '02 Suburban and landed on a '12 XL Denali. Very happy with my choice. Side note: I thought the Suburban was near the end of its life with 230K on it, but I sold it to a buddy who has since put another 80K trouble-free miles on it. Lol.

I like the AWD, and I like the 6.2 so much I would never be happy with a 5.3 again. And the AWD is competent off-road. Last December I pulled our camper out of a mud pit of a campsite in West Virginia, and the AWD was key. Once that G80 rear diff locked up, it pulled like a D6 Cat. I'd also rather have AWD on a boat ramp than have the 4WD actuator choose that moment to let me down.

If you get an '06, yes they're reliable, but you're going to have a whole heap of age-related things start coming due. Bushings, body mounts, rear heater lines, brake lines, etc that you won't have yet with a newer vehicle. And my '12 has been rock solid reliable too.

I probably am. The '05 I saw was very nice looking (garage kept), at a 140K miles, decent service records, 1 owner, no accidents, and around $11K.
2012-2014 Tahoes around here are from $20-30K, depending on where one is looking, mileage typically under 100K. So the frugal side of me looks at the $11K vehicle and says, let's save the $10+K. The realistic side says, let's go with the better, quieter ride and spend the little extra.
Ultimately, I am confirming the ride/drive upgrade from '02 to '12 is worth the extra $10K, all else aside.