Basic Rigs is for people who want a car or truck they can understand, fix and keep. We cover vehicles from about 1965 to today that pass one test: an owner with hand tools, a code reader and a service manual can keep it on the road.
That puts a 2000 Mazda B2500 with a five-speed on the list. So does a Jeep Cherokee XJ with the 4.0, a Ford pickup with the 300 inline six, and a 2009 Corolla. A 1977 Lincoln does not make it, and neither does a late-model truck that needs a dealer laptop to replace a window switch.
What you will find here
- Platform guides: the engines, years and trims worth buying, and the failures to check before you pay.
- Daily driver stories: what it costs and what breaks when a simple rig is your only vehicle.
- New simple rigs: new trucks and cars built around fewer screens and easier repairs, judged against the old ones.
- Buying at auction: how to read a condition report, set a maximum bid and avoid the common traps.
- Builds: real projects from our shop in Anacortes, Washington, tracked from purchase to high miles.
Who runs Basic Rigs
Basic Rigs is owned by PNW Vehicle Services LLC, a licensed Washington vehicle dealer based in Anacortes. PNW Vehicle Services LLC buys, repairs and sells used trucks and other vehicles. When an article mentions a vehicle PNW Vehicle Services LLC owns or is selling, the article says so at the top.
We do not accept payment for reviews. Some articles contain affiliate links and the site shows ads. Our Affiliate and Advertising Disclosure explains how that works.
Get in touch
Story tips, corrections and sponsor inquiries are welcome on our Contact page.