by Mark » Thu Sep 01, 2016 8:26 am
If you go on vehicle specific forums you hear more about the issues which makes them seem like they are more common than they really are. There was an issue with early '06 H3 heads but more than likely at this point if it was going to be an issue it would have happened already. This is no guarantee but the odds would be in your favor. That being said the '06 model year was extremely reliable for a first model year vehicle but getting a later model year will have benefits such as a slightly higher displacement to the 3.7L. The radiators do have a tendency to crack at the top and can be replaced with an aftermarket if it does happen. It's common enough that you hear about it but not common enough that you can expect it to happen to you. I would look for an H3 with the adventure package which gives you the rear locker in '06-'08 or front and rear lockers in '09-'10. I would also look for the lowest mileage H3 you can find with the features you want. As you know as with any vehicle the higher the mileage the more issues you are going to have but overall they are very reliable. I know a lot of people with 130K plus miles and still very reliable trucks.
Not sure your budget but I do know of a '06 with luxury and adventure packages with only 34K miles on it. It's priced based on the mileage (think he is around $18,900) which is high for most '06s at this point but is supposed to be in like new condition if your interested.