Trading in my van and need to find a replacement vehicle

So I'm trading in my 02 Chrysler town and country because the transmission is starting to go and I need a reliable vehicle to transport my aunt and her wheel chair to and from dialysis 3x a week. I'm looking at buying a 04-05 ford explorer. Anyone own one or have any suggestions for a vehicle I should be looking at? I'm trying to spend less than $8000.

 

Ive never drove a explorer but i did stay at a holiday inn last night....lol, i just read a article that had explorers listed as one of the top ten least reliable vehicles. A friend has one and a coworker have one and they are always complaining about it.

 

2006-2008 Ford Escape Hybrid AWD, Good gas mileage, plenty room and reliable. I like mine a lot but 26 mpg is more accurate and I transport my Gma and her wheel chair with ease.

 

ford Escape or a Toyota Camry would be good cars.

 

So you currently have a van but, an Explorer will work? I take it, it's not a handicap access van. If an Explorer will work, will your Tacoma?

And good man helping a family member out especially as a nephew.

 

I don't have experience with the 00-04 explorers, but my mom as a 08 explorer and i don't like it, it handles bad, the interior is small, and the ride is stiff.

 

What about a 4 runner or sienna ?

 

just gotta watch out for the battery cooling fan after 100k miles. buddy of mine keeps having issues of the batteries overheating and the car shutting off abruptly with little warning.

 

They don't call them Exploders for nothing. Ferds...