Craigslist Find?

[Jumpkix]

I admit, I freaked out a little bit when I found it this morning:

2002 Toyota 4runner 4x4 Sports Edition. Must See

Normally I would never consider buying a salvage/branded/rebuilt title, but a black '02 Sport Edition with cloth seats are extremely rare in the PNW. I've seen less than 3 in the past year. So how do I investigate the damage? What kind of questions should I be asking? Or should I just walk away and pray that someday I'll find a clean title with fewer miles?

This is my dream 4Runner, so I'm not worried about recouping some of my money later on. If there's a possibility that this is still a reliable rig despite the title, I'd definitely go for it. But I know you have to be extremely careful.

Thoughts?

 

[PitbullRescuer]

It was more than the front bumper and grill. The fenders aren't striped and don't appear to line up correctly. I'd stay away.

 

[Jumpkix]

It was more than the front bumper and grill. The fenders aren't striped and don't appear to line up correctly. I'd stay away.

You have sharp eyes. I honestly couldn't see the difference

However, this little gem also popped up today:

2002 BLACK 4RUNNER SPORT 4X4

I'm wondering what I could negotiate for price on that one.

 

[MStudt]

They don't give out rebuilt titles for bumper and grill damage. No stated mileage either. Ask them for pictures of the front end, more specifically the front frame. Chances are this rear-ended another car, and the insurance company totaled it. Or, this could have been a stolen car with damage. Stolen cars can also get salvage titles. Rebuilt Titles are just a pretty name for Salvage Title. Stay away!

 

[Jumpkix]

They don't give out rebuilt titles for bumper and grill damage. No stated mileage either.

It's on the side, 165K. But yea, definitely not something minor as they make it seem. I admit, I got car fever when I saw it pop up. Being in the hunt this long is starting to get to me...

 

[MStudt]

It's on the side, 165K. But yea, definitely not something minor as they make it seem. I admit, I got car fever when I saw it pop up. Being in the hunt this long is starting to get to me...

That seems pretty cheap for your area too. If I saw anything with rebuilt title or salvage title I'd walk away instantly.