About to purchase my first 4runner

[NoMoreJeep]

So I am about to purchase my first 4runner and I was wondering what I need to be looking out for when I go look at it. I am looking at V8 models and the only thing I am aware of is that I need to check and see if the previous owner changed the timing belt if its over 100k on the odometer. What else do I need to be on the look out for?

 

[jimithing]

Cracked exhaust manifolds and frozen brake calipers.

 

[NoMoreJeep]

Whats the best way to check the exhaust manifold? Will you be able to here an exhaust leak?

 

[jimithing]

Whats the best way to check the exhaust manifold? Will you be able to here an exhaust leak?

Yes you can hear it. If it's just a small leak you'll only hear it when the engine is cold.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/93178-exhaust-manifold-leak-tick.html

 

[NoMoreJeep]

Im looking at 2003-2005s. Is there any reason I should stay away from the 2003s being that they are the first year of the 4th gens?

 

[jimithing]

This site should show you the standard features and changes

Toyota 4Runner History 2003

The biggest thing IMO is that in 2005 they added VVT-i to the V8's

 

[Granite]

Rear sag

 

[20034RunnerV84x2]

Rear sag

???????

 

[20034RunnerV84x2]

Other than what others have posted and the timing belt, that's about it. Except for the usual still like condition, maintence records and missing trim, and any leaks from the engine. Other than that, that's mostly it.

 

[dadigab]

If Xreas equipped look for leaks especially high mileage 4Rs. Do a search for Xreas for more info. This could cost you 1K or more to fix.

 

[me_rikey]

If Xreas equipped look for leaks especially high mileage 4Rs. Do a search for Xreas for more info. This could cost you 1K or more to fix.

meh, if the XREAS is leaking use that as a tool to get the price down. Toyota would replace the system and it would cost you more than a $1,000 to do it. I would get a runner with a shot XREAS suspension if you could get a discount for that, and then put some springs and possibly coils of your choice.

 

[NoMoreJeep]

So I found a 2003 with just over 102k miles. It is a V8 limited. It has not had the timing belt replaced yet. How many miles on the factory timing belt OK? It also has FJ springs and a 3" front and 1.5" daystar spacer lift. Are there any problems I should look out for with that much lift? It has 2" wheel spacers as well. Do these cause any damage to ball joints or any other components over time? I also noticed that both front cv boots have thrown some grease out and a fluid leak at the transfercase. Are either of these common? Thanks for all the help!

 

[oceancrest67]

Prior to purchasing any vehicle always ask for any maintenance records.

I bought the 2003 4Runner V6 with 32k miles on it. I now have 175k miles on it due to a long commute. Routine and regular maintenance make it last.

The V8 model is really meant for towing and if you are not towing anything, it really is not worth the extra gas and expense.