Alright guys, Should I or should I not?

[djskorch]

Ok well, I would love some input from the 4runner community.

I need to make a decision on this truck and since I dont know much about 4runners, I would love your input.

99 sport/highlander edition.
200,xxx miles
Rebuilt rear diff
replaced radiator (i thought it didnt hence my last thread but her dad says he did)
Bilstien Struts
New brakes
Brand new tires
Locking diff
no rust
Timing belt, water pump, timing belt tensioners done about 25,xxx ago

The bad
Good ding in drivers door
Looks like a decent leak from the transfer case (see pics)
Chunk out of front bumper
Scrape rear bumper
looks like the front skid plate is bent???
rear diff leak???

Says it runs perfectly drives great, shifts smooth, no rattles, squeaks, ect.

Im thinking about offering them around $4500 for it but want some input before I do and buy a plane ticket to go look at it ($180 for a plane ticket one way or $380 round trip)

Here are some pics, let me know what you think

 

[djskorch]

More Pics

 

[durrell]

I personally would offer 4 grand for it with the problems mentioned and the mileage. You can find better deals than that.

 

[cj80cruiser]

I'd be hard pressed to pay that kinda money for a plane ticket just to look at this truck. If it was local then I'd understand but this one, I'd walk away from if they wouldn't take $3000 for it.

What are your plans for it? dedicated trail rig or daily driver?

 

[djskorch]

its gunna be my daily driver. thats why im a bit hesitant but I really only have a max of around $4500ish and im having a hard time finding one in that range and ones locally are just crazy on price. im talking 7000-8000 for one with 165000 miles and not in much better shape.

 

[Volley]

Where are you located? Having been doing a LONG search for one myself. I would probably look at that one and think it hadn't been taken care of very well. Looks like he may have been pretty rough on it and if that is the case you see there is some wiring work as well. It would also make me wonder what kind of hack job may be in there.

Where are you located?

 

[98OzarksRunner]

I bought a 98 in similar condition/mileage for $2750 last October, though I replaced the timing belt, brake rotors, and shocks. I'd be hard pressed to offer over $3500.

 

[kzak]

I'd be hard pressed to pay that kinda money for a plane ticket just to look at this truck. If it was local then I'd understand but this one, I'd walk away from if they wouldn't take $3000 for it.

Exactly!

That is how I got a great deal my rig. I let the seller know I was looking at some 4Runners that were closer and had less miles, and I didn't want to travel that far at that price (he was about an hour drive away). I offered him $1000 below his asking price, and he said he would do it. I was surprised he said yes, so I made the journey to look at it. I ended up buying it bc it was a great price and was in good condition. But even if I hadn't bought it, the potential of a great deal was enough to get me to check it out.

 

[A.Wilson013]

Post up where the truck is located, I am a sure a member would be willing to check it out for you unless it's located in Egypt.

 

[8sm]

give it time @ over $4.50 a gallon their will be plenty of deals. Yet, if you post up you're location or search for members in your vehicles area perhaps they can check it out for you. Could save you time and money.

3500 ish would be my target price. Since you're willing to travel there are better deals out there for $4500 - $6500 range. Check the 4 Runner forums as well.

Love the sport hood .....good luck with your search

Regards, 8sm

 

[MAD 69]

Low ball the hell out of him, if he refuses give him your phone number and tell him to call you if nobody else buys it. If he calls you back tell him you'll pay even less since you know he can't get rid of it. it might work if the guy really wants to get rid of it...

I would def have someone look at it for you before offering any money, can you bring a mechanic along to check it out?

 

[Hepar]

I would agree that it seems a little too rough for the price. And especially if you plan it on being a daily driver. Patience is the key. Also, don't be afraid to look outside your area too.

 

[SCRunner12]

I'm pretty sure he has already bought a different 4runner.

 

[djskorch]

lol, thanks for the continued responses guys but yes, I bought one last monday and just got home from a race this afternoon. I posted a thread with the pictures the buyer took but I will take some of my own and post them up in the next day or 2

Thanks again guys.