1996 reliability?

[JayRolla]

That's good to know. My fear is I buy something with that mileage and I end up spending more time and money underneath it then driving it. I'm going to look at the '96 tonight and a 2000 tomorrow. What worries me about the 96 is he's replaced 1 rear seal but not the other one. I'll be asking him to see where he got his parts, he has all the receipts. I appreciate your help with this decision.

Thats no worrisome. Thats shade tree mechanic. Its completely fine to replace just once side. If it aint broke, dont fix it.

 

[GunslingerT4R]

I bought a 97 with 193k 3 weeks ago for $1650. I need a driveshaft rebuilt(or a used one) needs new tires and brakes, valve cover gaskets which I keep putting off. Ive replaced the solenoids in the tranny, swaybar links, had some body rust. But for what I paid I don't mind putting in another 2 grand over time.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

 

[StreetCreeper]

What did you end up getting? I'm looking at a '96 limited with 225,000 miles. He's done a lot of maintenance on it that needs to be done. I was hesitant at first but I think it's almost too good to pass up.

Hey Mcfly, my truck isn't a 96 model year but rather a 1997. However it was made in 1996 so I guess it still counts...

431,314 miles – original engine and transmission.

 

[jhfleet]

Bought my '96 Limited new 21 years ago. I've got a couple of other vehicles so I don't put a lot of miles on it, although it is my favorite ride. It's got 115000 miles so far and looks and runs like new. The only failure was a leak in the AC evaporator. I've replaced all the usual wear items plus ball joints, AC compressor, and alternator. All were still serviceable but the compressor was making a little noise at idle and the rest were replaced for precautionary reasons. I did put new seat covers on the front seats a couple of years ago due to leather cracks. It's easily the most reliable and trouble free vehicle I've ever owned.

 

[69project]

Hello everyone, I really want a 4runner but have come to realize that I probably wouldnt have more then $4500 to spend on one. so my question is how reliable would a 1996 with higher miles (up to 200k probably) be as an every day driver and occasional outdoors vehicle?
thanks jordan.

I have a '96 with V6 & 5SPD with 261k miles and it runs great. I have had it for almost two months and over 2k miles. It has the usual issues like leaky valve covers, suspect shocks/springs, suspect steering rack but everything but the alarm and trip odometer works on it. For a well used 21 year old rig it is great shape. I am not a Toyota fanboy either so for me to be impressed with it is saying something. 4.5k would get you a lot of 4Runner here in NC. I read out West they bring more money.

I think though you should be able to find a T4R in good mechanical shape with some cosmetic defects. Make sure you do the research on what you are getting though. The stickies with the buying guide is a good place to start so you know what to look for.

 

[96Runr]

Have a 96 1/2 Limited w 147K. Been my daily driver for one year. Had to replace starter - everything else I did was preventive (fuel filter, TBU 231, upper/lower bjs, 3inch lift etc).Changed all fluids. Feed it 89 (just seems to have better p/u)

Runs like a champ. Hopefully year 2 not so much investment, but can't seem to stop. Have diagnosed myself with 4Runner Psychosis, most recient episode manic, severe with psychotic features

 

[jtnumberthree]

Bought my old 2.7 manual 1996 4Runner for $3400 and shortly thereafter found a small headgasket leak into cyl. 3. Sealed it up with a bit of Alumaseal and ran it for 50k miles .....solid truck! Sold it(and disclosed to buyer headgasket issue) @270,000 miles for $1600 3.5 years later.

 

[Mark_BC]

Have diagnosed myself with 4Runner Psychosis, most recient episode manic

Wait till the depression stage starts.

 

[mcfly0913]

Hey Mcfly, my truck isn't a 96 model year but rather a 1997. However it was made in 1996 so I guess it still counts...

431,314 miles – original engine and transmission.

That's impressive! So I went and looked at the '96 last night, the 2000 I was going to look at sold as I was leaving my driveway. The '96 was a complete POS. He told me on the phone he had all maintenance records of recent work and all I see are oil change/tire rotation receipts. He advertised as no rust but the front driver's side fender was bubbled up all the way around and the rear axle was completely covered. I took it for a drive because I drove an hour to get there, and he tells me the 4wd hasn't worked in a while, and the check engine light was on but his mechanic told him that's normal for cars that old. The gist is I'm still looking. The majority of 4runners in my price range are either 200,000 miles + or have been in accidents.