'97 Limited - worth a look?

[NE_Lou]

I'm in the market for a 3rd gen 4Runner, and came across this ad:

$3750 1997 Toyota 4runner « Cape Cod Yard Sale

Any opinions on whether this is worth checking out and/or taking to a mechanic for an inspection? Or should I just skip it?

Even ignoring the torn driver's seat and dent in the rear panel, it seems it's already around $2k+ worth of work....and that's assuming an inspection doesn't turn anything else up.

I haven't pulled a CarFax, but if it needs a timing belt/water pump, that's another $600-$1,000.

Add in fluid changes and a new radiator as pre-emptive maintenance, that's what? Another $600+?

With the age, mileage, a '97 being before the mid-3rd gen upgrades, I'm not sure if it's worth taking a look.

Thanks in advance for any input...

Lou

 

[YotaZach85]

I'd take a look at it, offer $3000 if you don't like their price.

 

[4eron]

$3,000 for a '97 is a fair price. i just bought a '95 for $4,000 because it has some new parts such as tires, shocks, and some other stuff.

The rear bumper you can easily find on Kijiji or Craigslist. if not, you can always check a junk yard. you will be surprised of how many good stuff you can find in those places.

And, like i always say, take it for a test drive. it might look ok in the outside, but what about if you hear a terrible noise in the test drive?

Good luck friend!

 

[t4r4life]

that is a very fair honest price, the owner seems like a good gal