I know nothing about cars. I'm a 69 year old woman, love my 4Runner, hate to part with it, but the engine is toast (I think the last mechanic that installed new timing belt and water pump 1 month ago screwed it up). Does it make sense to spend thousands of dollars to install rebuilt/reman/used engine in a car with this many miles? My common sense says no. I have the funds to get a new used 4Runner but I prefer the 3rd gen d/t the smaller size and increased ground clearance (my permanent home is in the mountains of Colorado) so I'm also nervous about buying a car that old even with low miles. The only mechanic I know and trust is in Salinas. Any advice would be appreciated.
97 SR5 with 341k needs new engine
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tre9er
New member
These 4Runners last a long time, as you can tell by the 341k you have on yours. I wouldn't hesitate to buy a 3rd gen with 150k ish miles on it and they can be had for a song if you hunt hard enough. Being that you wouldn't be doing the engine swap yourself I'd say that's going to cost you a pretty penny. Probably better off getting another used 3rd gen that will last you a good 100k+ and selling yours to someone who has the know-how to swap the motor.
My $0.02
My $0.02
quicksilvr
New member
^^Exactly what he said. Start looking for a good condition, average mileage 4runner that you like, have it checked out by someone you trust or at the very least make sure you feel very very good about the seller....and ask a LOT of questions.
Reading the buyers guide that is stickied at the top of this forum would be a great place to start!
Reading the buyers guide that is stickied at the top of this forum would be a great place to start!
tre9er
New member
paddlenbike
Member
First off, if your truck is in good condition otherwise, it's probably worth considering an engine swap. I would check with your trusted mechanic in Salinas and see what he might charge to do the work. It's under 100 miles between Los Banos and Salinas, so if you have AAA you can have it towed there for free. Let's say you spend $2,500 on the swap ($1000 for a used engine and $1200 in labor and $300 in new hoses and belts, fluids, etc), you're still spending less than you would on another 4Runner that probably hasn't had that work done and also has an unknown history.
If your 4Runner is rough, well, maybe it's better to buy another one.
If your 4Runner is rough, well, maybe it's better to buy another one.
tre9er
New member
I can't tell if the second one (1999) has locker...I see a button, but can't see what it says. Doesn't look like it, though...? Just curious.
