To minivan, or NOT to minivan, that is the question.

[user 15857]

carcomplaints  Somewhat useful to check for owner reported problems.

 

[user 37446]

The Dexcool fiasco if I remember correctly was early 2000. Drain, flush, flush again and replace with standard coolant. Problem solved. Problem resolved in mid 2000 GM and why i choose the latter years, better engine, most issues resolved. Your price range hits the vehicles in need of repairs. +10yrs. The Honda tranny problem falls right in those years. If you going to buy a car older than ten years, you better know what your doing or else a money pit. 
In the Phoenix market, very hard to buy a good solid vehicle for less than $2500. Most are beat, abused and ready for expensive repairs. Save your money, get a second job. Buy newer, better,  will get more reliable. But it sounds like you can't make a decision.
First, determine your budget, decide on type that you want. Test, rent,  try, research.
Second, decide on brand, model, engine size, options.
Third, go find the best example that you can find, purchase and live happily ever after. Good choices and decisions give good happy results. Your call my friend. Become the expert of your search.

'Tis true that right now I "cant make a decision", partly cause I don't have to yet... I'm strictly part time between 2 countries. When I make a decision I have to consider gas prices cause for 6 months of the year I'm paying over $4 a gallon, thus wondering a bit about the minivan. But my situation isn't shared by many... Either way I appreciate your statements about the GM minivans that you personally know about.

 

[Minivanmotoman]

Domestic Westy version available for rent for those who want to see if a minivan can work for them.
With the kitchen sink. Fully equipped and roof top tent. Check them out online.

 

[highdesertranger]

jeez could they have picked an uglier color scheme. you would have to pay me to drive that. highdesertranger

 

[Minivanmotoman]

jeez could they have picked an uglier color scheme.  you would have to pay me to drive that.  highdesertranger

Exactly what they want, got your attention didn't it? And you will remember it! Double bonus.!!
There are also companies renting out fully equipped full size vans with vivid paint jobs for those who want a bigger van here in the Southwest/ CA I think.

 

[Minivanmotoman]

In the mechanical issues forum, Gideon33w has an excellent sticky thread on common vans. Lots of details, information and experience relating to vans and minivans. Great resource and many thanks for that work and effort on the write-up.