Calling All 2002 SR5 Owners!

[ram22592]

As you can see I'm new to the forum. I am not yet an owner of a T4R, but am searching hard all over the internet for an '02 SR5 4WD that my parents would get for my 17th birthday in February.

Right now, my two favorite colors are millennium silver metallic and black. I've been searching craigslist, eBay and Cars.com. First few questions are has anyone purchased a 3rd generation T4R recently? If so, what are some common mechanical problems that this model has on it (if any) if it has between 50 and 80 thousand miles on it? Has anyone dealt with buying used cars based on photos and online communication with the seller?

I am interested in tinting the front two windows to 20% and putting 50% on the windshield. Dual exhaust pipes (Borla or Flowmaster), and doing some stereo work and possible put a sub (or two in).

I am wondering if the EXTREMELY common color is Dorado gold, because i think everyone knows that cream color that we see everywhere, and when looking at photos online, it is hard to tell when the seller just says "silver" if they are talking about millennium silver metallic or was there another silvery color made in '02?

I know ive said a lot, and any answers are appreciated. I'm sure you all can relate to extreme curiosity with car buying.

Thanks everyone.

 

[rdgt4r]

i have an 02 sport edition with 130k on it and the only problems ive had with it so far are bad spark plug wires which were a quick fix and now its running like a champ.

from my knowledge the only problem areas typically are timing belt and water pump both should be replaced at the same time according to factor that should be done every 90k or such but some have gone 110k and up so i guess its up to what you want to do.

i bought mine from cars.com but the seller only lived 30 min away so it was convenient and as far as colors there is also thunder cloud metallic gray which is what i have and love.

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Also look at the rear axel seals.

The color you are thinking about might be Desert Dune. I think silver or black are the best choices for color. Jade Mica seems to be pretty nice as well.

Do you think you could get them to buy a limited or sport?

 

[miztgrfan]

I bought a 2002 SR5 in April '08, had 64,000 miles. The only thing I've had a problem with is the power attenta broke, other than that everything is awesome.

What I did before I bought it was took it to our family mechanic and had him look at it, he said everything looked good. I did have the dealership put in new bearings and ball joints before I would sign for it.

 

[KellyJ]

I like my silver mainly because it takes a while for dirt to show up on it, but if I had a choice I'd go with a black one because when they are clean they looks hella sharp. If you could get a black Sport Edition that would be the best IMO (that's really what I want anyways haha)

 

[3rdgengrog]

i bought a 2002 millenium silver nov. of 07. had 113000 on it and have put an additional 28000 on. runs like a top and couldnt ask for more. love the color! good luck with yours, lets see some pics when you get a chance.

 

[ram22592]

To Clemsonfan:

I actually haven't even looked into the sport edition. With regards to limited, I i dont really like the wood grain. What are the advantages with those two models?

____

Thanks for the replies; please keep any suggestions or answers coming.

 

[KellyJ]

To Clemsonfan:

I actually haven't even looked into the sport edition. With regards to limited, I i dont really like the wood grain. What are the advantages with those two models?

____

Thanks for the replies; please keep any suggestions or answers coming.

The differences between the SR5, Sport Edition and Limited are, for the most part, cosmetic in 2002 editions (the last year for 3rd gen's). Limiteds get some other things like color matched bumpers/flares and things like sunroof, leather heated seats, rear air, automatic climate control, etc. all as standard equipment. They all share the same 4WD system ([if you opt for the 4WD model that is] shift on the fly 4WD with a center differential lock). 2WD models get a TRAC off button for improved traction. Not many major problems but there are a few areas you'll want to look into:

-Timing belt (should be replaced at anywhere between 90-100k) Might as well get the water pump replaced at the same time while the front of the engine is apart, so expect that service to cost close to $700

-Rear axle seals (haven't had any problems with mine at 122k)

Good luck in your search. If you don't like Limited wood grain, there are tons of dash kits online if you find a good deal on a Limited in good condition

 

[GottaBeTRD]

Hey buddy maybe i can help a bit. the sport model i dont think has the wood trim unless its after market, you get the "infamous" scoop, a higher lift and some body trim stuff. its all one solid color i bealive too.
as far as buying the truck, i used to sell cars and private party is best for price but it has its disadvantages. make sure you do take it in to a mechanic to over look everything. get a carfax report if you can. Now if you buy from a dealer i can tell you all the secrets haha. its a good place to buy becasue you can pretty much get all that stuff for free. Dont say yes to the 1st 2nd or 3rd offer see if you can swing some free oil changes or free repairs, Shop at the end of the month because dealerships useually dont meet their goal and they will do whatever it takes to get a deal. or go when it is snowing, it will be very slow and once again they will do anything for a deal
KBB isn't the best on value of cars it's close but not the best I dont think I ever took in a trade or sold a car for the value of Kelly Blue. Check out NADA for the closest value of the truck your looking at. all the dealers use it for trade in value and i bealive its free online.
I 2nd on the rear axel seals too. they seem to be a common problem? one of mine is leaking a little but i guess not enough for the dealership to see on the oil changes.
well good luck on finding the runner! Let me know if ya have questions.

 

[GottaBeTRD]

sport model

this is the sport model

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Just noticed you were in SC, me too.

I'd take a Limited or Sport over a SR5 anyday, no offense to SR5 or base owners. They are just nicer. It's going to be hard to find a sport though. I hardly ever see on in Greenville.

KellyJ makes a good point about the dash kits.

 

[ram22592]

Re: sport model

Yeah man, gotta love the palmetto state!
This is going to sound stupid but i really just don't like the hood vent on the Sport. With the limited, i will definitely look into it with those benefits that were mentioned. The only problem is, it seems that the mileage on the limiteds is consistently higher than that of the SR5s on cars.com, and with the money coming out of my dad's pocket, miles and service make a big difference to him (he gets rid of his cars when the warranty runs out).

 

[KellyJ]

Re: Re: sport model

Yeah man, gotta love the palmetto state!
This is going to sound stupid but i really just don't like the hood vent on the Sport. With the limited, i will definitely look into it with those benefits that were mentioned. The only problem is, it seems that the mileage on the limiteds is consistently higher than that of the SR5s on cars.com, and with the money coming out of my dad's pocket, miles and service make a big difference to him (he gets rid of his cars when the warranty runs out).

If properly taken care of, these engines will most likely last well over 200,000 miles. They are pretty bullet proof if regular maintenance was performed. I have over 120,000 on my Limited and I have not been let down yet

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Hell, if you buy a sport I'll trade you hoods. Lol.

I would persoanlly check out craigslist and the paper for 4runners.

I auctually got lucky on mine and saw it sitting in a yard with a for sale sign. It had only been there for a day or two.

I'm not sure why the Limiteds have more miles. I'm sure you could find a Limited with low miles if you keep looking. I guess if looks really don't matter to you just get a base or SR5.

 

[twitchee2]

As long as they are well maintained, there shouldnt be much to worry about. rear axles seals go out as stated already and the 3.4 runs like a champ, my sisters 96 is right about 238,000 miles. and runs great. I just did some major service on my 02 and the thing just purrs right now.