03 vs. 04 vs. 05?

[BostonBull]

I am looking for what the differences, if any are between these years.

I am looking into buying a 4Runner V-6 limited. I want Leather, roof, heated seats etc etc.

Were there any major changes in these three years? Anyhting to watch out for?

 

[Methodical]

couple oddities in the '03, nothing serious however.

04 got long life coolant and tire pressure monitor.

05 got new 5 speed tranny with lifetime fluid.

 

[jsgreen]

I know the OP stated a V6, but wanted to add that the 5-speed is available on the '04 if you get the V8.

 

[toto]

See this thread for a quick summary of the changes.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=33792

 

[97hb]

I just don't understand how the trans is sealed on the newer models. As much as I change my tranny fluid and it comes out nasty, I just don't know how come they made it sealed? Just one overtemp in the tranny and the fluid is usually toast. Maybe they just want it serviced at the dealer instead of DIY??? Pretty interesting.

 

[Methodical]

I think it is sealed because it's a brand new design with a new fluid. the fluid is probably 100% synth so overtemp shouldn't be a problem, it also has a dummy light for tranny temp as well.

Also a dipstick would mean jiffy-lube would say "Hay! this thing is weird! Ill put some random fluid in your tranny and charge you for it!"

I honestly believe its mostly the last part.

 

[BostonBull]

I do a lot of highway driving. I dont want to be running at 3K, at 85. Maybe the 5 speed is the way to go......?

 

[jharris2]

I do a lot of highway driving. I dont want to be running at 3K, at 85. Maybe the 5 speed is the way to go......?

How often do you drive at that speed? I have an early 2003 model with the V6 and it runs fine at legal highway speeds and above. If the rpms are a concern, then you can limit your search to 2005 V6 models.

 

[icantsee]

 

[icantsee]

Full Article
http://www.top4runners.com/ja/runhist42003.html

via J.A.

Another Full Article
http://www.toyota120.com/html/4runner.html

 

[BostonBull]

How often do you drive at that speed? I have an early 2003 model with the V6 and it runs fine at legal highway speeds and above. If the rpms are a concern, then you can limit your search to 2005 V6 models.

My cruise is almost always set at 80. I do 85 when possible/safe to.

Mainly drive along 93 and 495. Fast roads.

My 99 WJ is at 2300 at 80mph. I have 2.5" lift with 31's too.