Newbie here im looking for a 97-01 4runner. Im just wondering what kind of things to watch out for. Also wondering what kind of mileage these things get only the V6s no four bangers for me.

Chris

Here's a year to year breakdown and pay close attention to the mid gen upgrades that got added in the '99 year,some are a big deal to everyday convenience.

http://www.top4runners.com/ja/runhist31996.html

The only real issue I've had with my two Runners (the other '97) was the rear axle seals at about 100k which really isn't an uncommon problem and it's more normal wear and tear.

I drive hard and have heavier tires and I get anywhere from 16-17 in the city and up to 21 on the hwy.

If you plan on off roading then look for the rear diff lock since that really helps out a bit. Also a fair amount of '99s and a bit less '00s (all Highlander/Sport models) got 1" taller coils.

Yep look out for the rear axle seal problems. I had that on mine when I bought it. If it isn't dealt with in time it will ruin the axle. Mine is a 1998, I think the axle may have improved in 99. What is your budget?? If it is around 12-13K I would definitely go with a 99. You will be able to find a few 99s below that but it will be kind of hard.

Other than that just make sure to take it to a mechanic to get checked out and you should be OK. Just keep in mind dealerships don't always do the best job checking out cars. I took mine to the one in Santa Monica and they missed about $1000 in repairs. I was pretty upset to say the least. I did everything right I thought but oh well. Make sure that who ever tests it does a road test in addition to the the diagnostic checks and inspections. It may be better to take it to a place that specializes in used car inspections since their reputation hinges on it. That is not the bread and butter of dealerships.

It will cost you under $150.

what are symptoms of the rear axle seal being bad?

Whats a good price for a 98 150k sr5?

Chris

You have to take off the back wheels and from what I understand there will be axle grease everywhere on the brake drums. You will know if the axle is dead if there are metal shavings. Probably will be a little uncomfortable asking the owner to take off the back wheels, but oh well just make them aware it is a common issue.

With full service, up to date maintenance, decent tires, and only minor dings I would say $7000. A good price would be $6000. Im assuming it is 4x4 and V6. Any maintenance just subtract from the $7K price.

I had mine inspected by an import shop for about $65 before I bought it. They removed all four wheels and checked the axle seals and brakes as part of the inspection. From now on, I would never buy a used vehicle without an independent inspection. It only takes an hour or so, and the sellers are usually more than willing to drop it off for an hour if it makes the sale.

Get the independent inspection done even if you are getting the car from a used car dealer. If the seller doesn't want to do the inspection, NO SALE.

If you dont mind, how much did u get ur car for? I saw the pictures you posted on the other thread and really like ur new truck. I am looking for a 96-99 myself hoping to spend about $10k

Because the 4Runner was very clean and had a bunch of add-ons that I was looking for, I paid just about high blue book price (www.kbb.com). Most add-ons do not factor into the KBB price, so I figured that I got a decent deal.

Cool..btw which shop did you take it too? I live in Orange and I saw a potential car in Diamond Bar.

Thanks

I normally take my cars to Strege Automotive in La Habra, but they were busy so I used JMO in Fullerton . They seem to know Toyotas very well.

Cool..thanks

I paid 8800 for my 98 limited, with 137K on it.

I paid 15,500 for my 98 SR5 V6 Auto, with 80K miles. That was in 2005, though.

is 130k miles too many?

Chris