Thinking about buying a car

[skcin]

I've had my car for about 7 years now (it's 8&1/2 years old) and I'm thinking of getting something else. I like it, it runs & looks great, but it's a 2 door & not really practical anymore as far as the dog, fam & other stuff go. It's a Monte Carlo.

I'll be selling my car myself - I refuse to let a dirty dealer screw me out of $1000 or more to trade it in. I'm thinking of a smaller SUV (shut up, Diss) - I like the Jeep Liberty, Hyundai Santa Fe, Saturn VUE, etc. Used, preferably 2003 or 2004 (I'd go 2002 if the miles are low & it's in good shape.)

Any advice? Recommendations? Warnings? I've heard the VUE has lots of problems, so I'm leaning away from that. Jeep does a really thorough check on their "certified used vehicles" but I hear the Liberty is not a smooth ride. I've heard great things about the Buick Rendevous, but eh.