First time 4Runner buyer

[Patrick1991]

Hello guys, this is my first post on here and I sure could use some advice. I have my eye on a '00 4runner 3.4 2wd auto(I know not 4wd, but it'll be my DD so I can park my toy). It is my brother in laws vehicle and all maintainence records have been well kept in his possession. Tires are brand new, and the truck itself has around 140k on it. It needs a new front bumper(small fender bender), as well as the starter rebuild(contact issue I read). I was given a price of $4000. I'm curious if this is a good price. I'm not green to vehicles, but I tend to venure in the realm of low, loud, and fast(Built '94 mustang). Any welcome, and help y'all could provide would be wonderful as I would be frequenting the site quite often if/when I make the purchase!
Sorry to the mods for posting in the wrong subforum the first time.

 

[downpour11]

Hello guys, this is my first post on here and I sure could use some advice. I have my eye on a '00 4runner 3.4 2wd auto(I know not 4wd, but it'll be my DD so I can park my toy). It is my brother in laws vehicle and all maintainence records have been well kept in his possession. Tires are brand new, and the truck itself has around 140k on it. It needs a new front bumper(small fender bender), as well as the starter rebuild(contact issue I read). I was given a price of $4000. I'm curious if this is a good price. I'm not green to vehicles, but I tend to venure in the realm of low, loud, and fast(Built '94 mustang). Any welcome, and help y'all could provide would be wonderful as I would be frequenting the site quite often if/when I make the purchase!
Sorry to the mods for posting in the wrong subforum the first time.

Welcome to the forum!

What's the blue book on it? NADA, Edmunds, KBB?

The price sounds about right to me.

 

[Hollis]

Good price plus you know the history. Pull the trigger. You will enjoy having a reliable vehicle especially if you get a 'fun' car on the side. Check Lower Ball joints, Radiator, and Timing belt.
Have fun!

 

[Patrick1991]

Timing belt was done around 95,000 fortunately. Just waiting to drive it for a day or so to be sure it feels solid. I'm still unsure as to what the trim package is, but I am thrilled to join the Toyota family. Are spacers frowned upon on 2wds strictly for aesthetic purposes?

 

[mbcdef]

Sounds like a very reasonable price assuming condition is good.

Chris

 

[Kanger328]

The value will depend on the trim (SR5/Limited), but regardless it seems like a good price to me...especially since it has records and it's from someone you know. The bumper damage seems like a good reason to get a custom one! Or you can go to a junkyard and save a ton of $$$. Post pics if you get one!

 

[white_n_slow]

Timing belt was done around 95,000 fortunately. Just waiting to drive it for a day or so to be sure it feels solid. I'm still unsure as to what the trim package is, but I am thrilled to join the Toyota family. Are spacers frowned upon on 2wds strictly for aesthetic purposes?

It's all up to you, won't hurt anything. I've seen some pretty built-up 2wd's on this forum. Whatever floats your boat.

Since the timing belt has been done, here are the two things you need to check on and do ASAP if they have not been done yet:

1) Lower ball joints. If they have not been replaced, replace them NOW. Failure of this part can lead to deadly crashes. Use OEM toyota LBJ's and bolts.

2) Since it's an auto, you will want to check on the condition of the radiator and possibly replace. You will also want to bypass the factory in-radiator transmission cooler and get an aftermarket transmission cooler.

Price seems a little high to me, but 2wd go for really cheap around here.

 

[mbcdef]

1) Lower ball joints. If they have not been replaced, replace them NOW. Failure of this part can lead to deadly crashes. Use OEM toyota LBJ's and bolts.

Is this just a given after certain number of years or miles? If they appear to a mechanic to be in good working order leave alone, or is it just inevitable so just do them anyway?

chris

 

[Patrick1991]

Just as an update, I did pick up the 4runner. Going through the records to see what needs to be done. I know the starter contacts need to be replaced, and I need to check the radiator/bypass the cooler, then check all suspension wear areas. As far as pricing, any kind of 4runner seems to hold value and sell high down here(no rust).

 

[white_n_slow]

Is this just a given after certain number of years or miles? If they appear to a mechanic to be in good working order leave alone, or is it just inevitable so just do them anyway?

chris

It's my personal opinion that these should be replaced every 100k or so regardless of condition. There have been some failures where there was no visual sign of wear or vibrations or anything before they failed (or at least not that the owner noticed).

 

[shalverson]

yes good forum