4Runner and a Big Oak Tree

[Lou]

Well, my 4Runner had a massive oak tree fall on it last week. We had fairly light winds and very little rain in the Cary, NC area, but one gust was strong enough to topple over the tree. Made a heck of a noise!



Adjuster came over and my 4Runner is totaled. The tree smashed the roof and headliner, wiped out the moonroof and windshield, and damaged the dash, hood and fenders. I didn't drive it, bit did move it a few times. All the electronics seemed to be working, and no funny noises from the engine compartment. The hood opened easily and there was little damage inside.

Starting to look for a replacement. Spent a few minutes on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, but when I went to a few forums, I LMAO at the many problem descriptions! Turn right, left headlight goes off, .... funny stuff. Looked at the Cayenne, have a recent 911 so comfortable with Porsche, but they are so hard to get and the 6 cyl versions seems to be an all electronic 4x4. Checked out Ford, tempting, but the Explorer and Edge do not have the off-road capability I want.

So, looks like I am off to a 5th gen. 4Runner. See you over there!

 

[jimithing]

That sucks, I really like that color. It was my second choice after Shadow Mica when I was looking for a 4Runner. Have you driven a 5th gen yet? Let us know what you think after going to drive one. I'm not a big fan of the styling but I'm curious how they handle compared to the 4th gens. Supposedly they're heavier but they now have dual VVT-I.

 

[4Runners]

Aw man that sucks. What a weird way for a 4runner to die...

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Looks like there are a lot of usable parts on there.

Good luck finding a new vehicle. I think you'd be happy with a 5th Gen.

 

[Lou]

Many nice, low miles, usable parts. My insurance uses a company called Copart, and Copart picked up my 4Runner a few days ago. Don't know much about Copart, but believe they are an auction house.

I drove the 5th Gen Limited, handling seems great to me. Feels much bigger inside though, in particular the head room is several inches taller. The only things that bug me are the front grill look, the big old light bulb in the tail light, and lack of interesting colors. I really like the darker blues of the 4th Gen, but will see if I can get a Shoreline Blue 5th Gen. More impressions as I go on additional test drives.

 

[Jeff T]

Who smashed my twin brother!!!

 

[czastrow]

I want your grille! The grille on mine's paint is all fading and coming off! I'll trade you!!!!

 

[Mytoy4]

Wow, that sucks! To bad you weren't closer, I'd be interested in buying it as a builder. Good luck in your search!

 

[t4r4life]

cash the insurance check, buy it back and make it in to a trail rig

 

[MikeInNH]

You do have the option of keeping it. You basically buy it back from the highest salvage yard bidder. Then get it fixed with the money they give you. If you know a good bodyman who can give you a good break..it may be worth it.

 

[8086bruce]

Man sorry to see that! Hope all goes well finding a new one!

 

[rockwall]

Horrible news. Have you considered a Tacoma?

 

[jbmccul]

That really sucks about your 4Runner man, my friend had the same thing happen to her Scion tC. Needless to say yours fared much better than hers. You should try and get a Mag Gray Trail. Those things look sick!

 

[Lou]

Yes, looked at the Tacoma. I have a 2 year old, so I like the idea of weatherproof storage in the back (not for him, the stroller, toys, .....). Didn't like the drum brakes on the back, although I am sure they work fine.

Magnetic Gray is a very nice color. Will be out looking at stock this weekend.

Great idea on making a trail rig, but allready have too many cars for the garage space. I need a 4 car garage plus a nice work area -- not going to happen soon.

Appreciate all the comments!

 

[H1_VLTG]

Really sux about the runner...but I am glad no got hurt. Good Luck with the new ride.

 

[TheTuckerTaxi]

Starting to look for a replacement. Spent a few minutes on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, but when I went to a few forums, I LMAO at the many problem descriptions! Turn right, left headlight goes off, .... funny stuff. Looked at the Cayenne, have a recent 911 so comfortable with Porsche, but they are so hard to get and the 6 cyl versions seems to be an all electronic 4x4. Checked out Ford, tempting, but the Explorer and Edge do not have the off-road capability I want.

So, looks like I am off to a 5th gen. 4Runner. See you over there!

Sorry to hear about the truck! Good call to stay with a toyota, reliability problems can be a real buzz kill with any vehicle. Did you see the inside of the Cayenne? I heard they have pretty small interior for an SUV.

Get the Trail Edition if you can find one! They are Sweeeet!!

 

[mckbrew]

Looks like oak trees have something against 4 runners.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/97554-oak-tree-vs-4runner.html