First car advice

[Lostmind223]

I'm about to turn 18 and I'm going to get my first car. I plan on asking for a T4R, but I want some advice from people who actually drive them regularly. I chose the 4Runner because I'm active with sports and go camping a lot so an SUV would be the best choice for me. I'm going off to college next year so I need a reliable vehicle. Any advice on what year or trim to get would be outstanding. Thanks in advance,

Lostmind223 aka Jake

 

[SCRunner12]

It all depends on what your price range is. The 3rd gen 1996-02 are great years and very reliable. The 1st gens 1984-89 are a lot of fun with the removable top. Do you want a 5 speed or 4wd? Then we can narrow down what generation would best suit you, but price will really narrow it down.

 

[4-Ripcord]

Welcome.

To answer your question we need some more information first. What year/generation are you interested in? What would be your plans for it? More off road oriented or a city driver? What kind of a budget are we talking here?

All clues to the puzzle.

 

[Lostmind223]

I will be doing most my driving in town and on the highway, but it needs to be able to go off road on camping trips. My budget is about $10000 and I like the look of the third generation. It needs to be reliable because I will be driving about 120 miles home from college and back.

 

[4-Ripcord]

If it's 3rd gens you are interested in. Take a look at this thread: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html

I recommend a 99-00 limited or a 99-00 sport 'highlander'. Both should be within your price range.

 

[Lostmind223]

Thanks for the guide, it had some helpful things to look out for. I found a few listings around me for a '99 limited. What do you think of these?

1999 TOYOTA 4Runner Limited 2WD Leather Tow Pkg Greate Condition

1999 TOYOTA 4Runner SUV 4dr Limited 3.4L Auto

 

[4-Ripcord]

If you are going to look for a 2wd as a camping vehicle, can I at least recommend one with a rear diff locker. Other than that, you are on the right track. I really like that 2nd one.

 

[SCRunner12]

I would suggest a 4wd because IMO it is better to have it, than to not have it. You never know when it will come handy, especially if you are going to go camping in more remote areas. The 99 limiteds are nice because if you get a 4wd then they have the awd capabilities and the possibilities of a rear diff locker.

 

[4-Ripcord]

I completely agree with you. But in Florida, there isn't the same level of terrain that we are blessed with. I think a 2wd w/locker is perfectly fine for him. But yeah, if I had to do it again knowing what I know now, it would be a 2000 limited with 4x4, e-locker, silver on silver trim or jade mica on tan trim.

 

[Lostmind223]

I found another one that is actually closer than the other two and I like more.

2000 Used Toyota 4Runner Limited at Mullinax Ford Inc Serving Central and South FL, FL, IID 6687899

 

[4-Ripcord]

I like that one a lot. I think I can see the locker button in that one pic but i'm not sure. You should call and ask them if it has it. But dang that's nice, low miles, great price.

 

[Lostmind223]

Since tomorrow's the 500, I think I'm going to go look at it because all the traffic will be centralized at the track. Wow, what an opportunity!

 

[Lostmind223]

Thanks for all the advice guys, Ill post again here after I see the vehicle in person. I might take some pictures too.

 

[SCRunner12]

Damn, why can't I find them for that price around here. Definitely go for that one if it works out. I just checked out a 99 Limited 4x4 with 277k yesterday. It was at the local Toyota Delearship and was in amazing condition, but they wanted 9k for it. It didn't even have a locker or factory fogs.
When you check that one out ask about the transmission and radiator history and if it has needed and transmissions flushes in the recent past. The automatics are prone to issues if precautions are not taken.

 

[Lostmind223]

I just got a call from the dealership and it was sold. That's a shame, but I'm still going to keep my eye out for a good T4R.