3rd Gen 4Runner Buyer's Guide

[MPott227]

Lots of great info there. Wish I would’ve read it before buying my first 4runner! (Sorry for the dumb post, trying to get my post count up)

 

[Jidaran]

I feel like I've been posting in this thread way too much, as I've been looking for a Runner for almost a year at this point, but I figure the worst than can happen is that I get ignored. Anyway....

I was wondering what the consensus was on these two trucks:

https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/ctd/d/2001-toyota-4runner-sr5-118k/6748901173.html

https://baltimore.craigslist.org/cto/d/2002-toyota-4runner-4x4/6746224999.html

Both seem way undervalued for the mileage and condition. I would imagine the dealership would have good reason to price them low. I called both numbers, no response yet. Anything I should be on the look out in particular that would cause them to price them so low?

 

[jgue467]

Rust.

I'd go see the 2nd one, that mentions frame was replaced at dealership.

Luck. :cowboy:

 

[Arrow2013]

https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ram/ctd/d/2001-toyota-4runner-sr5-4wd/6744780555.html

Any inputs? 3 owner with 260,000 miles. Little rust, no engine knocks or odd noises. From what I can tell it needs nee gasket seals and lower ball joint.


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[Jidaran]

looks like the engine has been power washed, which is a little concerning.

 

[Arrow2013]

looks like the engine has been power washed, which is a little concerning.

What kind of concerns should I look for since it has been power washed?


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[Jidaran]

there could be a fluid leak or other problem they're trying to cover up for.

 

[Arrow2013]

there could be a fluid leak or other problem they're trying to cover up for.

Thanks I will look for any leaks when I test drive it again today


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[Sawdog]

This is a great aide to my search, thanks for putting this together!

 

[Jidaran]

came across this in my searches. i'm looking for one with multi-mode, so it's not for me. but maybe someone out here is interested:

https://newjersey.craigslist.org/cto/d/toyota-4runner/6771680352.html

assuming the rust isn't bad, that's a hell of a deal.

edit: guess he got inundated with replies and realized his mistake. the original price was $4500, now it's $5900.

 

[HemingwaysPen]

Just purchased a '00 Limited with 4-speed auto trans. Doesn't look like the transmission ever had a service. I'm at 146,000 miles. A good mechanic in my area said it's probably not a good idea to do a fluid swap if it hasn't been done at this point because it could agitate the transmission and start causing problems. Anyone have additional input on this?

 

[TrexRunnerGirl]

Following this because I’m at the same point. 144K and novtrans ever been messed with.
Still have to fix that slow leak in an engine gasket. But runs like a top.

I did run my Mazda move to 198K wo ever doing a trans fluid swap/clean. Never had an issue.
Carry on.

 

[TRD4me]

Lots of great info on my new to me 3rd gen 4runner. Is it just my computer or are a lot of the links (owners manual, shop manual ) no longer avail?

 

[4-Ripcord]

Yes, there are many dead links. But my level of care is quite low.

 

[TRD4me]

Yes, there are many dead links. But my level of care is quite low.

Well I still appreciate all the work you put into it in the past! Lots of great stuff! And your Taco is sick!! I have an 11 Taco that I just finished the 2012 front end swap on also. Hoping to make my 3rd gen 4runner very similar to your first one.

 

[4-Ripcord]

Thanks!

 

[Gauss]

Awesome resource! I'm starting to look for mine. Thanks for all the work.

What do people think about a 'new' engine or transmission? Seen those pop up a few times. Would normally be a red flag for me but never really shopped around for 200k+ vehicles.

 

[JBiss]

I have an '00 Limited, but it has a scoop hood. Was there any factory package that included this combo?

 

[Jidaran]

Not sure I'm the most qualified to answer, but from what I've read it wasn't an option. A lot of people liked the look though and installed sport hoods themselves. The hood should have a VIN someone where on it so you can confirm either way. Not sure where it is though.

 

[214K_02T4R]

I see that the OP isn't maintaining this Guide regularly any more but I'd like to pose a suggestion regardless.

I think a problem under the "KNOWN ISSUES & RED FLAGS" section is in order to warn about the ABS Power Brake Pump Master Cylinder Booster Assembly leak/failure issue and the approximate cost of the repair, common in the 2000-2002 T4Rs. As these vehicles are now reaching an average age of 180,000+ miles (probably higher) I am seeing more complaints about this issue across many automotive forums. Its a $1200 part (OEM) and 5-hour shop time charge, costs that could be the deciding factor between a purchase or "walk away".

My recently purchased T4R's assembly is leaking. Had I known to look for this I probably would have passed on the purchase, despite the great price.

Just my $.02