Check out the 3rd gen buyers guide if you haven't already... lots of good info in there, with advice on what to look for. 3rd gens hold value, so I'm not surprised by the price, but maybe someone with more recent buying experience can chime in on the cost. As for things wearing out... check his records for lower ball joint replacement... if he has replaced them, check to make sure it was a toyota part that was used. Check for rust. I'm from VT and have a different level of tolerance than what those out west do... But surface rust on the rear diff is ok, and normal. Check when the last time the timing belt was replaced... its a good idea to change it with the water pump every 60-80K. Leaky valve covers are pretty common too. I've had them on both my 3rd gens, but haven't cared enough/ they didn't leak enough for me to fix it. Oh, and check the rear axle seal for leaks, or if he has had axle seal leaks in the past(look for oil streaks inside rear wheels). If he has had one recently... be prepared to fix it again. If not, after those kind of miles, its most likely won't happen. I've had a third gen since 1997, for a 4X4, they are extremely reliable and low cost to own (except for the whole mod thing!!). Good luck
