Buying a 99 4runner

gmata

New member
Hello guys, i am new to the forum and i am from BAJA Mexico.

I currently have a 02 TRD 4x4 Tacoma xtracab that i love very much but i really need more room to carry more people since i own a spearfishing charter company and i dont want to take my guest on the back of my truck.

So i was looking at a 99 4runner Limited 4x4 with Locking diff.

I know a little bit about Tacos but nothing about 4runners. So just wondering what should i bee looking at when i take a look at the 4 runner, trouble spots or common problems with this car. What about timing belt? when does it need to be replaced?
this 4 runner has 164 xxx should that be a problem?

Here are some pics of the 4runner.

serb088


serb088


serb088
 
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Welcome! Pics aren't showing up. I had a 99 T4R Ltd, loved it.

Timing belt needs changed every 75K or so, so yours should have been done twice by now. The Ltd has a nice button on the transfer case shifter that allows you to switch between 2H and 4H with a flick of your thumb.

Really not much in the way of chronic problems except for rear axle seals, which will look like this:
Helmuth_rear_axle_seal_failure.jpg~original


Yours will need fluid changes, new spark plugs (NGK double-tipped, not Bosch) maybe plug wires, new air and fuel filter.

With diligent maintenance, these things will do 300K. Except maybe for the dash clock, those fail early and often.
 
Yours will need fluid changes, new spark plugs (NGK double-tipped, not Bosch) maybe plug wires, new air and fuel filter.

WRONG... Bosch 4 prong have been waaaaay better than NGK in my 4runner. but Ive had this argument with a zillion people, just letting the guy know there are other thoughts on that.
 
I have a 99 with 166k on the clock and it runs tip top. The rear springs have started to sag a bit and the shocks need replacement, but other than that it's money.

I'd buy it expecting to do the timing belt and full fluid change unless the seller has records to prove it's done.

FYI, my 4Runner has taken me to Punta Abreojos and back with no problems, Baja tested and approved!:surfer:

Good Luck!
 
WRONG... Bosch 4 prong have been waaaaay better than NGK in my 4runner. but Ive had this argument with a zillion people, just letting the guy know there are other thoughts on that.

X2, and also check for rear diff whining, rear bumper rust (doubt it in mexico, but it is baja so it could be near the ocean), t belt and water pump, MAF sensor, Auto tranny problems I.E. pink milkshake fluid in tranny cooler lines, Rear axle seals, Leaking head gasket, that about covers the list, but most of those problems are uncommon, but they are some consistant ones that should be looked for.
 
Thanks guys,

If i am not mistaken Tacomas and 4runners share the same engine right? V6 3.4?

I am pretty exited of this purshase hopefully today or tomorrow, i will send pics when i get it.

So just to know, besides the obviuos leather seats and woodgrain and luxury stuff like that, what are the differences between limited and the other models? do all limited have RR locking diff or is an extra option?
 

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