Hello everybody.

I joined up to get an idea of how durable and capable the 4Runner is. I know that is directly linked to what trim/option package & engine (V6/V8) I choose, just thought I would be best served with experienced people's input.

Basically, I now drive an 06 Avalon as my general commuter car. It's a GREAT CAR and I love it. However, I am finding I need something with more versatility. Also, I want something for playing in the woods, modding (lift/tires) and what not.

Also, I lease a 2012 Tundra 5.7 4X4 CM as well. I love the Tundra but cant play with it much due to it being a leased vehicle. I want to stick to a lease for my muscle/tow vehicle. However, I would want the 4Runner to be able to step in and tow my HTT when needed. I am also going to want to plow snow with it (just my driveway, maybe one or two more).

All that being said, I think I'm going to have to go with a 4th gen w/the V8. My HTT is approximately 6000# (being very generous, it is likely less than that) loaded (Coachmen Freedom Express 23TQX). I have a WDH in place already. But, I'm open to other suggestions.

And oh yeah, anything I should watch for/look out for with these 4th gens (chassis issues/powertrain issues etc.)?

I already have a specific question, what does the "Sport Edition" mean on the 4Runner?

Thanks for all of your input guys!!

I don't currently own a 4th gen, I own a 3rd gen (you can look at my build thread in my signature). I don't think you can go wrong with a 4th gen V8 at all. I've been seriously thinking about selling my 3rd gen to go with a V8 4th gen. After all the reading I've been doing I'm pretty much convinced on it. This is my set of criteria I'm looking for in a 4th gen when I look. I typically look for 2006-2009's, but if I find a 2005 for the right price I wouldn't mind it. I want a 4th gen under 50K miles, but that's asking a lot. The closer the mileage is to 90K I would start looking for the timing belt being changed. Other than that, I don't think there is a whole lot. Take a look at this thread:

4th Gen Common Problems Question

I would say get a v8 sport edition And if you get a newer 4th gen you get a 5 speed auto

Thanks for the info guys.

The reading I have been doing appears to indicate that the 4Runner isn't set up to plow snow. I'm not a fan of the wannabe plows, so looks like I'm going to have to get one installed on my Tundra.

Kind of funny that Toyota used a timing belt on the V8 and a chain on the V6?? Is the V8 an interference motor? If I pick up a 4Runner with the V8 then I would likely have the timing belt done right when I picked it up.

Im looking to keep the purchase price down to <$10k. That being said, I am looking at the 2003-2004 model years, 100k plus miles. That sort of millage doesn't bother me with Toyota, I just need to know what to look out for.

I actually have a line on a couple that I like.

One is a 2003 with 147,000 on it for $7,000....plenty of $$ left over for some toys...

The other is a 2003 Limited with 109,000 on it, they are asking $9,500.00 for it.

There are 4 more that fit the bill, just want to know what to look out for (body/frame rust/rot trouble spots etc.).

What does the "Sport Edition" actually include???

The 3rd gen v6 was non-interference the 4th gen v8 is not. The sport ed. comes with a fancy non functional hood scoop (I had hood scoop envy), two tone cloth interior, and JBL radio. The Limited may have the same radio as well. When moving onto the 4th gen I wanted a sport and didnt look at the other trim models so I really dont know what the differences were. My old limited has leather which seemed to be the only real difference for interior.


Good luck

Has anyone done the timing belt DIY style on here?

If everything is up front I don't see why it would be too difficult.

I looked at doing it on my wife's 03 Eclipse GTS Spyder, no damn room in front of those sideways V6's.....lol

I have a sequoia with 197k and its fine. As far as I know its v8 is almost the same

If at all possible, look for a 2009 4th Gen TRAIL Edition! Only 4th gen that came with a rear locking diff stock!

That would be out of my price range for sure!

Im more interested in a V8 model for towing my camper. I also want to be be quite capable in the woods, but pretty developed dirt roads mostly. I don't really see myself doing any over landing or real serious wheeling....

I will be wanting to do a lift/rims & tires/skid plates etc...nothing crazy, 3" lift and the plates over the critical parts...

Yes - Blackworks knocked one out, I was reading it yesterday. Not gonna bs you. It looked like a pain in the ass.

2UZ-FE R&R T-Belt & Water Pump

As for what to look out for, the center diff lock and low range actuators can get frozen if not used. Check for that. Fix can be expensive.

Great, this is good stuff!

And DAMN....that timing belt does look like a hell of a task...

I am going to look at an 03 Sport/V8 with 123k on the clock later today. I'll be sure to shift it in and out of 4 wheel (low & hi) a bunch of times to test all of the actuators.

Thanks for the info everybody!!

Have a look here to see year by year differences.
Toyota 4Runner History

So, it's official....I picked up a 2003 4Runner!!!

Sport/V8/4WD/Grey

What a SMOOTH V8 this little guy is. So much smoother & quieter than my Tundra (Tundra is the 5.7, but is much noisier in the cab).

Anyway, already did the first little mod...installed an iPhone/iPod adapter.

Really want to get the lift done after all of the maintenance type things (tranny/tcase/coolant flush, differential fluids etc.).

Does anyone know if Tundra rims will fit on the 4Runner?

as long as they are 00-06 tundra rims, yes after that tundras went to the 5 lug and they will not fit on any 4runner