Buying advice 4th generation 4Runner

O

ozmanyyy

New member
Hi guys,

I've been looking at some 4Runners lately. It would be a daily driver as well as something I'd be offroading with. I have a 2 door wrangler now and its just too small for trips with the family. I've been thinking about a Discovery as well, but the maintenance costs worry me a little. I figured I should investigate the Toyota's too as, next to the Jeeps, Toyota's are what I see the most on the trails.

So, I'm just getting started with the 4Runners, and have looking at 4th generation trucks with 75K to 100K miles range. I've driven a 6 cyl so far but not the 8. I'm not really planning on towing anything but I wonder if I try an 8 anyway. Will it be noticeably different in a daily driver ? How different is the mileage between the 2 ? Also, I thought I read that the 8 cylinder needs a timing belt change (around 90K?) , but the 6 doesn't, is that true ? Since the cars I've looked at are in that range, I'd assume that would be about $1000 to tack on if hadn't already been done ?

Anything else specific to these I should look for or know about ?

Thanks Much
Oz
 
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Oh, so sorry for the multiple post, I kept getting an error message that said the server is too busy, and couldn't get to the forum. I had no idea the posts were getting out there. Major apologies, I'll try to remove them, if not, hopefully the admins can.
 
Anyone?

There's a local car with an 8 cyl for sale, I want to check it out on Saturday. Let me know if you guys have any feedback.

Thanks
Oz
 
ozmanyyy said:
Anyone?

There's a local car with an 8 cyl for sale, I want to check it out on Saturday. Let me know if you guys have any feedback.

Thanks
Oz
Click to expand...


If it's between 90K miles or over find out if the timing belt has been replaced. If not, just know that it is a cost you are going to have to incur at about $650 to $900 depending on where you get it done. If it has not been done, then try to negotiate more than that amount off of the price.

Check the CV boots for leaks and tears. If they are torn or leaking, just use it to negotiate more off the price. They are cheap and an easy fix.

Check to make sure it shifts into 4LO. (have the dealer/owner do it for you so they can't blame you for doing it wrong if it doesn't work). If it properly shifts, you should have a steady amber "4LO" light and no beeping noise.

Check the brake linings, look for even wear on all 4 corners and check for steady breaking and that the vehicle tracks straight during breaking. Any problems with breaking or uneven wear could indicate a frozen caliper.

On a side note, if you can get a V8 then I would do it. The extra power is very welcome and the difference in fuel economy is almost negligible.

DG.
 
Thanks guys, I appreciate the feedback. I'll drive the one on Saturday to get some seat of the pants perspective between the 6 and the 8. I can't really think of why I wouldn't want something with more power, unless there was a huge hit on fuel economy. But it doesn't sound like there is.

Thanks
Oz

PS - I'll wait to post in the 4th gen forum until I have more questions as I already posted this one by mistake 3 times here.
 
You should DEFINITELY drive the v8 whether you plan to tow or not.

There is a clear difference and I think you'll find it very impressive in comparison.

If there is no v8 available around you then be a little patient and wait until,one comes along for you to try.
 
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