Auto for sure. AWD would be nice to avoid all the crazies causing accidents out here. Leather isn't necessary as the seats will most likely be getting covers on them because of the dogs. I went and looked at the 99 mid gen upgrades and the only ones that would really be nice is the dual power outlets but not a deal breaker by any means, is it true that the 99's have the highest suspension? Might be nice if I'm not lifting the truck. And I have no clue about the traction control? Do you think it would help?
3rd Gen 4Runner Buyer's Guide
- Thread starter 4-Ripcord
- Start date
Auto for sure. AWD would be nice to avoid all the crazies causing accidents out here. Leather isn't necessary as the seats will most likely be getting covers on them because of the dogs. I went and looked at the 99 mid gen upgrades and the only ones that would really be nice is the dual power outlets but not a deal breaker by any means, is it true that the 99's have the highest suspension? Might be nice if I'm not lifting the truck. And I have no clue about the traction control? Do you think it would help?
4-Ripcord
New member
Welcome
Seems decent. As long as you are happy with it and confident on the maintenance that has been performed.
It sounds to me that even you barely know what features you want. So IDK how you expect us to tell you what you need.
I suggest you browse craigslist and see what you find in your budget.
And yes, 99's are the tallest.
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SCRunner12
New member
^^^What Ripcord was saying is that he can't know what you want or need if you don't. You've given us a small bit of info and a very indecisive response to questions he asked. Each person is different and it really all depends on your preferences and needs. For me I had to have the 99+ upgrades for more than the dual outlets. I wanted the up down feature on the front windows, rear power outlet, 99 cup holders, and clear headlights to name a few. I also wanted AWD and a locker, so 99 or 00 were the best bet for me.
Traction control can be nice if you are unexperienced or drive in slippery terrain often. The only way to get traction control and AWD is an 01 or 02. 99 and 00 Limiteds have AWD, but no traction control. Also the 99 suspension is nice to have, but they will need to be replaced as 99's are 12 years old now. Don't limit yourself to a 99 just for the suspension and FYI not all 99's have the tall coils.
I would say go for an 01 or 02 if you have the cash. If you are on a budget then a 96-00 might be more in line. Really the best thing to do is test drive as many as you can. You will get a feel for which years and options suit you best.
Traction control can be nice if you are unexperienced or drive in slippery terrain often. The only way to get traction control and AWD is an 01 or 02. 99 and 00 Limiteds have AWD, but no traction control. Also the 99 suspension is nice to have, but they will need to be replaced as 99's are 12 years old now. Don't limit yourself to a 99 just for the suspension and FYI not all 99's have the tall coils.
I would say go for an 01 or 02 if you have the cash. If you are on a budget then a 96-00 might be more in line. Really the best thing to do is test drive as many as you can. You will get a feel for which years and options suit you best.
A.Wilson013
New member
He's not chasing anyone out, but if you truly read this thread, you will learn a LOT more about what you're asking... If you have already really read it, give it another look over. From the very little I read of your post I would imagine that the center differential lock would be a good option for you. With that, when you're in "4WD" it will function like AWD until you lock the center differential, bringing you into true 4WD. ( I am pretty sure that's how it works... I could be wrong.)
Do a bitttt more reading and come back with a little better idea of what you want. In my PERSONAL opinion (this is my opinion, no offense to you pre-99 fella's) there is no reason, at all, to get a pre-99 4runner. I myself would not even consider one.
the great him
Elite Member
go f*ck yourself wilson, i love my 97 its the best year ever! how dare you.
you want go grab some lunch later?
4-Ripcord
New member
Mhmm
4-Ripcord
New member
Mhmm. If you still dont get it, go back and read that section again.
alexb
New member
Interested in a 4Runner
Hello. I've been interested in picking up an older SUV/Pickup to have for a daily driver and winter car. I've been looking between the Toyota 4Runners and Tacomas, along with the Nissan pathfinders and Frontiers. I have come across this 97 4runner on craigslist and was wanting to get some thoughts and opinions. http://oklahomacity.craigslist.org/cto/2803415051.html
I've been reading through this thread and it has been full of a lot of helpful information. Is there anything specific I should look out for on this year vehicle? Also is that a decent price? It seems like a lot of miles but how many can one usually expect out of this vehicle with proper maintenance?
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks
Alex
Hello. I've been interested in picking up an older SUV/Pickup to have for a daily driver and winter car. I've been looking between the Toyota 4Runners and Tacomas, along with the Nissan pathfinders and Frontiers. I have come across this 97 4runner on craigslist and was wanting to get some thoughts and opinions. http://oklahomacity.craigslist.org/cto/2803415051.html
I've been reading through this thread and it has been full of a lot of helpful information. Is there anything specific I should look out for on this year vehicle? Also is that a decent price? It seems like a lot of miles but how many can one usually expect out of this vehicle with proper maintenance?
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks
Alex
alexb
New member
Yeah unfortunately it has been removed so I guess it sold.
I've found this one on autotrader. Almost seems to good to be true.
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=p&car_id=314148634&dealer_id=66933785&atc_id=AT-12B9871A
I've found this one on autotrader. Almost seems to good to be true.
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=p&car_id=314148634&dealer_id=66933785&atc_id=AT-12B9871A
alexb
New member
Yeah I don't know. From the add it seems ok. I sent an email asking for the vin to run a carfax.
I have a feeling it could be a false listing though. I called the number in the add and it seemed like it was for a fax line or something.
alexb
New member
:What do you thinnk?
OK so I think I found a good one finally. Here is the link to the add:
1997 Toyota 4runner SR5 4x4
He sent me pics of the interior and it looks good. Driver side seat is a little worn but thats it. Now the KBB on it is just over 5K and thats with all options and excellent condition. I realize he has several extras in the car but does that justify the price he is asking? I'm not so much interested in the stereo upgrades but the brush guard and lights are a nice add on.
Its one owner, well maintained and garage kept 4x4. What do you think a good offer would be?
OK so I think I found a good one finally. Here is the link to the add:
1997 Toyota 4runner SR5 4x4
He sent me pics of the interior and it looks good. Driver side seat is a little worn but thats it. Now the KBB on it is just over 5K and thats with all options and excellent condition. I realize he has several extras in the car but does that justify the price he is asking? I'm not so much interested in the stereo upgrades but the brush guard and lights are a nice add on.
Its one owner, well maintained and garage kept 4x4. What do you think a good offer would be?
alexb
New member
OK thats what I was thinking but wasnt sure. I dont want to low ball the guy either and offend him or run him off. I am going to run a car fax tonight just to be sure on everything. The last two I have looked at have appeared to be good but the carfax proved to be a horror story on them.
If everything is good on that I might offer him like 5750 and see what he responds with. Not the biggest fan of the green but after all the searching I've done I'll have to settle somewhere.
Weejub
New member
This may sound stupid, but you may want to double check your tire pressure. I've got 235/85s on my stock 4Runner and it was up to like 45 psi - bounced all over the place and went nuts, etc. Even if you have high-end stiff-side-walled tires like the T/A's, you should still be running the recommended 32 psi for all radial tires for highway/around town.
