Cracked exhaust manifolds happens to pretty much every 2UZ at some point in its life, not a huge deal to just live with the ticking, and an expensive fix unless you just weld the cracks to get by. The dash crack is pretty commonplace as well unfortunately, unless you find one whose previous owner got it replaced during the recall. Lower control arms is probably just the bushings actually needing replaced. That's a regular wear and tear item. Watch for seized brake calipers, common issue on these and 4th gen 4Runners. Leaking transfer case actuator seals is also another common issue on these and 4th gens. Make sure to cycle the 4x4/lock the center diff when test driving to make sure it goes in and out without problems, and then do it at least once a month every month so it stays in working order. Leaky/failed air suspension in the rear is pretty common at this age as well, but I assume you'll be lifting it so not really an issue, but could be a negotiation point.

I have a V8 03 4Runner Limited and an 04 GX. Pretty much the same car, but the interior is set up better in the 4Runner. The center console that you can rest your elbow on is, in my opinion, vastly superior to the arm rests in the GX if you're into driving with one hand. Cup holders are shit in the Lexus, but the cabin is a little quieter. Rear seats fold down nicer in the 4Runner as well. Small things like these here and there that I've noticed since picking up the GX. Neither have given me any issues yet other than a seized caliper on the 4Runner. I like the looks of a built GX a little more than a built 4th gen, but prefer the 4Runner interior. So I wouldn't rule out a Limited 4th gen with the V8 if you haven't thought about that.

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