3rd Gen 4Runner Buyer's Guide

[Michael44107]

Advice on a 4Runner

hi everyone - new user new to 4Runners. i'm looking at the following vehicle at a local small dealer - the kind where they have about 12-15 used cars on their lot.

2001 TOYOTA 4RUNNER 4x4 - $3900 (Cleveland )

after reading the buyers guide, i looked for a few specific things. here's what i saw:

• under body rust was what i would call a good bit, but i really dont have a good point of reference. the picture at the start of this thread looks pretty much like what was under this truck.
• the rear differential was pretty well covered with black crud.
• on the passenger side of the engine closer to the firewall, there was a bit of black crud - valve cover leaking a bit?
• the front tire were not evenly worn. the insides were worn more than the outer. rear tires were evenly worn.
• when driving in 2 wheel drive, when i took my foot off the gas and coasted, there was a bit of a whir or whining noise coming from the front. when in 4 wheel drive, it didn't seem to happen as much.
• the rear bumper is rusted, and there is a dime size surface rust spot. otherwise, the body and interior are in really good shape.
• the sales guy initially tried to say the timing belt and water pump never needed replacing. :laugh: he then checked with his boss, who said i had been replaced and that it came with a 90 day warranty so that proves it was replaced. bottom line is i'm assuming it may have been replaced at one time, but ought to plan on replacing it soon.
• it also looked like the radiator had been replaced fairly recently.

well, that's about it. any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated. my next step, assuming no one here says, "you really need to pass on this vehicle," is to get it looked at by a mechanic.

michael

 

[poleclimber63]

Price?!?

Great! Thanks for this info. I started reading the thread you linked. The guy with the 98 is asking 6500, which I think is entirely too high, esp with 190k miles. I'm thinking anything over 4.8k is too much....thoughts?

It would be difficult to comment on value, because in Vancouver BC, Canada (West Coast, 180 miles north of Seattle Wa.), that truck would be listed for $7500CDN. Vehicles last longer here, with significantly less rust than back East. Generally Bluebook values are lower the farther East and North you look. However, if this truck is being offered for $6500, I would think a more reasonable value would be $5000-5500 in view of the rear seal failure... and that's assuming there are no other issues identified through a mechanical inspection. You can't loose anything by offering $4800... who knows, maybe you'll luck out....

 

[poleclimber63]

Wow, where to start...

hi everyone - new user new to 4Runners. i'm looking at the following vehicle at a local small dealer - the kind where they have about 12-15 used cars on their lot.

2001 TOYOTA 4RUNNER 4x4 - $3900 (Cleveland )

after reading the buyers guide, i looked for a few specific things. here's what i saw:

• under body rust was what i would call a good bit, but i really dont have a good point of reference. the picture at the start of this thread looks pretty much like what was under this truck.
• the rear differential was pretty well covered with black crud.
• on the passenger side of the engine closer to the firewall, there was a bit of black crud - valve cover leaking a bit?
• the front tire were not evenly worn. the insides were worn more than the outer. rear tires were evenly worn.
• when driving in 2 wheel drive, when i took my foot off the gas and coasted, there was a bit of a whir or whining noise coming from the front. when in 4 wheel drive, it didn't seem to happen as much.
• the rear bumper is rusted, and there is a dime size surface rust spot. otherwise, the body and interior are in really good shape.
• the sales guy initially tried to say the timing belt and water pump never needed replacing. :laugh: he then checked with his boss, who said i had been replaced and that it came with a 90 day warranty so that proves it was replaced. bottom line is i'm assuming it may have been replaced at one time, but ought to plan on replacing it soon.
• it also looked like the radiator had been replaced fairly recently.

well, that's about it. any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated. my next step, assuming no one here says, "you really need to pass on this vehicle," is to get it looked at by a mechanic.

michael

First, I run a mile from rust. Out East however, this may be impossible. Is there rust perforations in the bumpers and body? Is there significant frame rust, cables corroded?
Crud. probably oil leaks... valve covers probably... is there oil collecting on the inside of the skid plate? steering rack? drive shaft and/or inside of the frame members? That could indicate oil pan or crank seal failure... uneven tire wear... could be ITREs,OTREs, BJs, rack bushings etc. all of this should be checked by a mechanic! Anyone that says a timing belt never needs replacing, has no idea what they are talking about. Usually, mechanics will put a sticker on the fan shroud or somewhere obvious with a date or mileage indicated as to when the timing belt was replaced. Otherwise, assume it needs replacement, if no receipts are produced. I'm guessing that from everything you're saying it is questionable if this vehicle was maintained...
When buying, it is essential you do research. Carfax is a great place to start... get the VIN and go to a Toyota dealer they should be able to tell you if its been serviced. Don't let a low price tempt you, without research. $3900 sounds really low... mileage?? GET AN INSPECTION... Carfax, lien check...

 

[Golfinz]

It would be difficult to comment on value, because in Vancouver BC, Canada (West Coast, 180 miles north of Seattle Wa.), that truck would be listed for $7500CDN. Vehicles last longer here, with significantly less rust than back East. Generally Bluebook values are lower the farther East and North you look. However, if this truck is being offered for $6500, I would think a more reasonable value would be $5000-5500 in view of the rear seal failure... and that's assuming there are no other issues identified through a mechanical inspection. You can't loose anything by offering $4800... who knows, maybe you'll luck out....

Thanks! I offered 4800 and was turned down. Rebutted with 5250 and haven't heard back

I've since found the below. I've got them down to 8850

2002 Toyota 4Runner Limited 4WD in Houston | Texas Auto Pros

Good deal? Feel like its not too bad. I can't find a 4wd t4r in Texas to save my life. I'll travel but I'm not sue if traveling for a 9k car makes sense. I traveled for my 2002 z06 last year but that's bc it had 15k miles

 

[poleclimber63]

Better...

Thanks! I offered 4800 and was turned down. Rebutted with 5250 and haven't heard back

I've since found the below. I've got them down to 8850

2002 Toyota 4Runner Limited 4WD in Houston | Texas Auto Pros

Good deal? Feel like its not too bad. I can't find a 4wd t4r in Texas to save my life. I'll travel but I'm not sue if traveling for a 9k car makes sense. I traveled for my 2002 z06 last year but that's bc it had 15k miles

By the link, this looks like a better choice, if you're not into wrenching. It has some nice features ie sunroof, much lower mileage, newer etc. The dealer has staged this one well. It is important you do your research. Carfax is a start. Go to a Toyota dealership with the VIN, they should be able to get you maintenance info. If you arent going to look at it, you must do extra leg work. Get it mechanically inspected and OBD2 codes read. In Canada, CAA (AAA) has mobile inspection services. I used them to check out a vehicle I bought in another city. As far as the price... $3600 difference... totally depends on your budget and/or condition and maintenance. If you have clear indications its been maintained, and things like timing belt have been replaced, tires in good shape, then the difference in price is worth it... if the other truck requires extra work and needs tires etc. you'll be spending that difference quickly! The price appears to be about right--- you'll probably be paying the going rate-- no hot deal.... just my take.

Just looking back on the posts... you are talking about the 98', right? From the post on that one, this is a hard choice. Again, you'll be spending $1000 on the seals. How's the rubber? The brake upgrade has value...... but again, are you mechanically minded? You can see, if its been cared for... 50k miles difference, is it worth it to you? Is this going to be a daily driver or a pleasure vehicle? Without seeing them, all I can say, is that you need to decide what you expect out of these trucks. If they both appear as advertised, and this will be a DD, I'd be tending towards the 2002. If budget is a consideration, and this is a pleasure vehicle, I'd tend towards the 98'... my 2 cents...

Good luck!

 

[Golfinz]

By the link, this looks like a better choice, if you're not into wrenching. It has some nice features ie sunroof, much lower mileage, newer etc. The dealer has staged this one well. It is important you do your research. Carfax is a start. Go to a Toyota dealership with the VIN, they should be able to get you maintenance info. If you arent going to look at it, you must do extra leg work. Get it mechanically inspected and OBD2 codes read. In Canada, CAA (AAA) has mobile inspection services. I used them to check out a vehicle I bought in another city. As far as the price... $3600 difference... totally depends on your budget and/or condition and maintenance. If you have clear indications its been maintained, and things like timing belt have been replaced, tires in good shape, then the difference in price is worth it... if the other truck requires extra work and needs tires etc. you'll be spending that difference quickly! The price appears to be about right--- you'll probably be paying the going rate-- no hot deal.... just my take.

Just looking back on the posts... you are talking about the 98', right? From the post on that one, this is a hard choice. Again, you'll be spending $1000 on the seals. How's the rubber? The brake upgrade has value...... but again, are you mechanically minded? You can see, if its been cared for... 50k miles difference, is it worth it to you? Is this going to be a daily driver or a pleasure vehicle? Without seeing them, all I can say, is that you need to decide what you expect out of these trucks. If they both appear as advertised, and this will be a DD, I'd be tending towards the 2002. If budget is a consideration, and this is a pleasure vehicle, I'd tend towards the 98'... my 2 cents...

Good luck!

Yes, I was comparing the 98 to the 02. Even at 8850, I feel like the 02 is priced too high. At 8850, the dealer is fixing 2 dents on the rear hatch, and one of those had paint chip off. The brakes need to be replaced as well; I had a friend drive it and he knew they were warped.

As for the 98, the seller won't budge off 6k. He does have an extra new toyota radiator that he will give me along with the needed fluid. If he would do 5500, I would pick it up today. Just think 6k is too high...unless I'm being too picky.

I've started to look around the country but it's hard to negotiate with dealers and to get a lot of info and it seems like all the individuals I talk to don't get the importance of keeping records. The toyota owners website is a HUGE help! I just wish I knew someone that is selling their car that had all maintenance records

Ive since found a few more looking nationwide, but that has become a little overwhelming to say the least.

 

[poleclimber63]

man...

Yes, I was comparing the 98 to the 02. Even at 8850, I feel like the 02 is priced too high. At 8850, the dealer is fixing 2 dents on the rear hatch, and one of those had paint chip off. The brakes need to be replaced as well; I had a friend drive it and he knew they were warped.

As for the 98, the seller won't budge off 6k. He does have an extra new toyota radiator that he will give me along with the needed fluid. If he would do 5500, I would pick it up today. Just think 6k is too high...unless I'm being too picky.

I've started to look around the country but it's hard to negotiate with dealers and to get a lot of info and it seems like all the individuals I talk to don't get the importance of keeping records. The toyota owners website is a HUGE help! I just wish I knew someone that is selling their car that had all maintenance records

Ive since found a few more looking nationwide, but that has become a little overwhelming to say the least.

I know how you feel. I spent a year looking and I still didn't find EXACTLY what I wanted... I settled for most everything I wanted, except the 5 speed. Very hard to find here in Canada! The truck I found was in excellent shape so I have alot to work with! I did, however, end up paying more than I wanted ($7500 for my 98') as these trucks demand premium $$$.

Big decision.......... $6000 and a Rad, that's not that far from $5500. You could replace the seals only, and see what happens, replace the rad and walk away with an outlay of $6200. I'll be honest, I didn't replace my rear bearings, just the seals, and I haven't had a problem yet. I don't know what taxes are like in the USA, but the last time I bought privately here, I paid 1/2 the taxes rather than the full 13%, from a dealer.

As for the 02', in view of the body work required and having to do brakes etc.(maybe a timing belt?!) I would definitely be reluctant...$$$

If the 98' doesn't grab you when you see it (and considering its got new brakes-- the upgraded Tundra setup, new rad, ok timing belt, front bumper, good body and interior), then there's nothing wrong with continuing the search.

I went through this too! Good Luck!

 

[Golfinz]

I know how you feel. I spent a year looking and I still didn't find EXACTLY what I wanted... I settled for most everything I wanted, except the 5 speed. Very hard to find here in Canada! The truck I found was in excellent shape so I have alot to work with! I did, however, end up paying more than I wanted ($7500 for my 98') as these trucks demand premium $$$.

Big decision.......... $6000 and a Rad, that's not that far from $5500. You could replace the seals only, and see what happens, replace the rad and walk away with an outlay of $6200. I'll be honest, I didn't replace my rear bearings, just the seals, and I haven't had a problem yet. I don't know what taxes are like in the USA, but the last time I bought privately here, I paid 1/2 the taxes rather than the full 13%, from a dealer.

As for the 02', in view of the body work required and having to do brakes etc.(maybe a timing belt?!) I would definitely be reluctant...$$$

If the 98' doesn't grab you when you see it (and considering its got new brakes-- the upgraded Tundra setup, new rad, ok timing belt, front bumper, good body and interior), then there's nothing wrong with continuing the search.

I went through this too! Good Luck!

Ya, I think I'm going to pass on the 02. It will be in good shape after the body shop does their thing, but I think it's worth less because of the brakes.

The 98 grabs me. I love the desert dune, but I just think it's crazy to spend 6k on a car with 193k miles...unless that is what they are going for? It does have a quarter size paint chip in the driver side fender that needs to be repaired but that's the only exterior flaw on the entire car. I do have access to a lift/tools so I can do the seal myself

Taxes in texas are 6.25% but buying from an individual, I won't have to worry about dealer fees/etc

 

[poleclimber63]

I wish I had access to a lift!

Ya, I think I'm going to pass on the 02. It will be in good shape after the body shop does their thing, but I think it's worth less because of the brakes.

The 98 grabs me. I love the desert dune, but I just think it's crazy to spend 6k on a car with 193k miles...unless that is what they are going for? It does have a quarter size paint chip in the driver side fender that needs to be repaired but that's the only exterior flaw on the entire car. I do have access to a lift/tools so I can do the seal myself

Taxes in texas are 6.25% but buying from an individual, I won't have to worry about dealer fees/etc

Sounds exactly like the same truck as mine. I'm not sure of values but again I paid $7500... I don't think $6k is totally out of line... depending on condition?? I've heard of guys paying $3500 (pretty rough!) and some have paid $10k (excellent condition).

I've got 130K miles, but lots of us have far more (400K)! Over the last year I've replaced the seals, installed roof rack, installed tranny cooler and gauge, completed the Satoshi grille mod, removed front and rear bumpers and coated them with Rust Bullet as a rust inhibitor, tires, re-finished rims and various other maintenance jobs. I'm just in the process ordering poly bushings for the rack and stab front and back. This Spring, I hope to do the Tundra brake mod, install air bags and/or rear springs (to tow my boat) and I'll be looking for bumpers... all dependent on $$$... I've a son starting College this Fall...

 

[Michael44107]

First, I run a mile from rust. Out East however, this may be impossible. Is there rust perforations in the bumpers and body? Is there significant frame rust, cables corroded?
Crud. probably oil leaks... valve covers probably... is there oil collecting on the inside of the skid plate? steering rack? drive shaft and/or inside of the frame members? That could indicate oil pan or crank seal failure... uneven tire wear... could be ITREs,OTREs, BJs, rack bushings etc. all of this should be checked by a mechanic! Anyone that says a timing belt never needs replacing, has no idea what they are talking about. Usually, mechanics will put a sticker on the fan shroud or somewhere obvious with a date or mileage indicated as to when the timing belt was replaced. Otherwise, assume it needs replacement, if no receipts are produced. I'm guessing that from everything you're saying it is questionable if this vehicle was maintained...
When buying, it is essential you do research. Carfax is a great place to start... get the VIN and go to a Toyota dealer they should be able to tell you if its been serviced. Don't let a low price tempt you, without research. $3900 sounds really low... mileage?? GET AN INSPECTION... Carfax, lien check...

thanks for the feedback - i ended up passing on this one. too much uncertainty about vehicle history and the salesman was less that straight-forward.

there are two others i'm looking at.

here's one: Excellent Condition 1997 Toyota 4Runner 4-Runner SR5 - $3500 (Wellington)

i've seen this vehicle. way better than first one for a few reasons. much less underbody rust, though there was a bit. valve cover gaskets need replaced. much smoother tranny - which is expected as the original was replaced ~10K miles ago with a used one with 47K miles on it. first timing belt / water pump was done by first owner, though no paperwork on that.

trying to see this one today: 1997 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Sport Utility 4-Door 3.4L - $2800 (Twinsburg)

former socal vehicle. more miles than green one. in general, does anyone have an opinion on miles? would it be better to get a cleaner vehicle with 250K miles or one that needed a bit of work at 157K miles?

michael

 

[downpour11]

thanks for the feedback - i ended up passing on this one. too much uncertainty about vehicle history and the salesman was less that straight-forward.

there are two others i'm looking at.

here's one: Excellent Condition 1997 Toyota 4Runner 4-Runner SR5 - $3500 (Wellington)

i've seen this vehicle. way better than first one for a few reasons. much less underbody rust, though there was a bit. valve cover gaskets need replaced. much smoother tranny - which is expected as the original was replaced ~10K miles ago with a used one with 47K miles on it. first timing belt / water pump was done by first owner, though no paperwork on that.

trying to see this one today: 1997 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Sport Utility 4-Door 3.4L - $2800 (Twinsburg)

former socal vehicle. more miles than green one. in general, does anyone have an opinion on miles? would it be better to get a cleaner vehicle with 250K miles or one that needed a bit of work at 157K miles?

michael

Not sure if you want a 2wd, but that 97 is 2wd.

 

[poleclimber63]

Cheap?

thanks for the feedback - i ended up passing on this one. too much uncertainty about vehicle history and the salesman was less that straight-forward.

there are two others i'm looking at.

here's one: Excellent Condition 1997 Toyota 4Runner 4-Runner SR5 - $3500 (Wellington)

i've seen this vehicle. way better than first one for a few reasons. much less underbody rust, though there was a bit. valve cover gaskets need replaced. much smoother tranny - which is expected as the original was replaced ~10K miles ago with a used one with 47K miles on it. first timing belt / water pump was done by first owner, though no paperwork on that.

trying to see this one today: 1997 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Sport Utility 4-Door 3.4L - $2800 (Twinsburg)

former socal vehicle. more miles than green one. in general, does anyone have an opinion on miles? would it be better to get a cleaner vehicle with 250K miles or one that needed a bit of work at 157K miles?

michael

The first one looks good but you said it had under-body rust..... how bad? Can it be treated? If its surface, treat it with por15... lots of work! But worth it, for the right truck. Can't see the 2nd, its been deleted. Without being able to touch them, I can only comment on what you've said. I would pick a truck with 100K less miles as long as its been maintained and its had no accidents and the rust issue can be treated. I would only pick the vehicle with high mileage if the body/interior was fantastic and no tranny/engine issues aren't observed (leaking VCG are insignificant). Again mech. check is essential. Research, Research. Are these prices normal, in your neck of the woods?

Wow, for 2800, thats not a big investment... if the mech check is ok, maybe worth a try... an engine/tranny could set you back 2800...


Hold it, I just spotted downpour's comment!! I personally, have no use for a 2WD. They are definitely cheaper for obvious reasons. If this will be a towncar, then you may have no reason for 4WD. Where I am, I haven't taken it out of 4WD for the last week, as we have a ton of snow, and it will continue to snow for the next few days... I'd never get up the mountain without it.... sorry, my opinion...

 

[Golfinz]

Just to update this thread, I ended up purchasing the below car:

2002 Toyota 4Runner Limited 4wd

The carfax looked good, the Toyota Owners site had a bunch of maintenance records up till 2009 and the current owner had the rest of them, timing belt had been done, tires in decent shape, and had a Toyota dealer inspect the car and found the valve covers were weeping and the front rotors are close to needing to be replaced. Other than that, the truck is in great shape! Drove up there on friday, traded cash for title, and drove the 3.5 hour ride back home without a hickup. Had the truck inspected and changed the oil yesterday and ordered a bunch of parts for her: koyo radiator and b&m cooler, radiator cap, air and fuel filter, plugs and plug wires, and valve cover gaskets and spark plug hole gaskets for when I changed the VCG. Thanks for all the help guys!

 

[calithirteen]

Just wanted to say this is an awesome thread!!!! :trophy:

Just got my 4runner last week w/ 185,000 miles on it. It's running well but I'm noticing my mpg aren't looking to well. Kicking myself for doing an oil change already but i can't wait to seafoam and do a bunch of the stuff listed here.

Thanks for the info! Very helpful!:reddance:

 

[4-Ripcord]

Welcome to the site!

 

[amax_08]

Potentially buying a 4Runner tomorrow!

Hey guys just joined the site...what an awesome and informative thread! Anyways, thought I'd see what you all thought about the 4Runner I'm potentially buying tomorrow. It's a 2002 Limited 4x4 with only 88k miles. Inside and out looks fantastic in the pictures (haven't seen it in person yet) and they were asking $15,000...I talked them down to $14,000 but that still seems a bit high to me. Would I be paying too much?

Edit: Here is a link to the CL ad. http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/ctd/3603951520.html

 

[4-Ripcord]

Hey guys just joined the site...what an awesome and informative thread! Anyways, thought I'd see what you all thought about the 4Runner I'm potentially buying tomorrow. It's a 2002 Limited 4x4 with only 88k miles. Inside and out looks fantastic in the pictures (haven't seen it in person yet) and they were asking $15,000...I talked them down to $14,000 but that still seems a bit high to me. Would I be paying too much?

Edit: Here is a link to the CL ad. 2002 Toyota 4Runner Limited (Sport Utility 4D)

Don't pay a cent over $12.5k
remain firm on that.

 

[amax_08]

Don't pay a cent over $12.5k
remain firm on that.

Shoot. I tried getting the guy to just cover licensing/reg fees and keep it at $14,000 but he wouldn't budge. Should I just move on? I'm drooling over this rig it was just what I was looking for...just a little more expensive than I wanted.

 

[4-Ripcord]

Wave 12 thousand dollars in cash in his face then see what he says to you.

 

[amax_08]

Wave 12 thousand dollars in cash in his face then see what he says to you.

Will do thanks for the advice. I'll post an update tomorrow. I was looking over your build and just wanted to say wow that is one pretty 4Runner!