Our 2002 has been very reliable, only a couple of times has it been down, once for a crank sensor shortly after we bought it used, and the 2nd time when we hit 90,000 miles and the plugs fouled out.
If the 2002 VUE can be reliable, and repair prices are fairly decent, mileage is great for this vehicle, the Honda engine in the 04-07 models gives so much power, runs smooth.