Looking for a new vehicle, need input.

[stevelamby]

So its about time I get a different vehicle. Im almost positive I want a truck, I know I know gas mileage blah blah, the truth is I dont drive very far (<20 to work and back, I rarely drive over 40 miles at a time).

It must be a 4x4. (I live in WI and the winters suck, especially this year. Cant have rear wheel drive in this state)
Must be at least a 1/4 ton/1500 (no rangers, s-10's, or any little trucks.)
Must be a V8.
Prefer a Extended cab but it isnt a must.
2002 or newer.
Budget is around $12000.
Safety is a big plus.

Im currently looking at Dodge Rams, mostly because I can get a 2002+ for a reasonable amount and the safety on these trucks is pretty good. I'd prefer the Hemi, but would be OK with the 4.7.
Before 2004 Ford's were horrible at safety, and I cant really afford a 2004+ because of my budget.
Chevy's have pretty crappy safety as well, and they have some problems with the 5.3.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Experience with any of these vehicles that they would like to share?

Thanks in advance for any responses!

 

[kyleking007]

ive been a mechanic for 6 years. ASE master tech. I would say go for the dodge 4x4 but stay away from the 4.7,the hemi is a much more sound engine. just stay on top of maintenance and they are great trucks. I have a chevy but only because my dad works for GM so it was far cheaper to go that route. if you are going used I am also a big fan of carmax worked for them for a little while. buy from them and take it to a trust worthy independent shop and have them give it a good lookover. if they find anything carmax will fix it in the first 30 days. goodluck.

 

[dmopar74]

i had a 2002 dodge ram quad cab 4x4 with the 5.9 360. i loved that truck and never had a problem with it and it had 110,000 miles on it when i traded it in. the 360(02 was last year for 360, 03&up is hemi) with 3.90 gears got me 12mpg. only reason i got rid of it was because we had to get a mini-van for the family and the wifes car was crap. truck was a real brute and could tow/haul whatever you threw at it.