Hey Matt, nice Jeep. Even as a Land Rover owner myself, I agree- a great choice of vehicle, perhaps only, to buy new.
But yet I have to extend my remorse...
"It was time to grow up, put on my big boy pants, and get something reliable that I could travel in."
New does not mean reliable. Complex is definitely not reliable. And the newer the car the more complex than its predecessor.
Again love the Jeep. It's a good buy, I like them a lot. It just feels like there is so much social pressure to buy a new vehicle because it will be reliable, like its responsible. Been there done it, and learned from it.
I've heard people say that ignorance is bliss, but true bliss is knowing every square inch of the machinery that you operate and the ability to maintain, diagnose and repair it.
Wearing "big boy pants" is relying on yourself to solve problems, to be resolute; to rely on the machinery that you yourself look after- whether it be new or old. Don't let anyone fool you.
And also- enjoy the Jeep. It's the last of its breed, you know.
After building, modifying, and maintaining my 1997 Disco I, my 1993 FZJ80, my 1999 Jeep TJ, my 1971 Land Rover Series IIA 109, and my 1971 FJ40, I can say that I am ready for something new.
I wanted a new car, it was a personal choice, Land Rover doesn't offer a new Defender in the 'States. End of conversation.
There's a good chance the JK is the last of its breed, and that's part of why it's sitting in my driveway.
I can maintain, diagnose, and repair most every problem I have with my new vehicle, and I don't have to spend $250 for an oil change...because my car has a dipstick...and an oil drain...try that on a new Rover.
Complex, well engineered, reliable electronics will always trump ****ty Lucas electronics.
Again, if Land Rover was to offer a brand-new Defender in the 'States, and actually back it up, that's what I'd be driving.
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