First Toyota - 2003 4Runner Sport

[Pilotmatt]

Just bought a 2003 4Runner Sport 4x4 V8. I sold a Mercedes here in Florida as I'm taking a job in Minneapolis. I did as much research as I could, and figured this was the safest bet for a used 4x4 out there (for the money I had to spend). The job is on call pilot with some life flights so the truck is my lifeline. In the winter instead of driving 30 minutes around a lake to the airport, the short cut is 10 minutes across an ice road...I can't wait!

Owned 5 Fords, Nissan, Mercedes, Subaru, Honda, but this is my first Toyota!

 

[kylebacc]

Well it took you long enough to come from the dark side. Your job sounds super cool. And ice roads almost sound cooler than saving people with a plane/helicopter! Welcome to the forums! You and I have the same truck. I promise you, you made the right choice. I'm weary of buying the first run of a new car, but with Toyota, it really doesn't seem to make a difference (I had an 06 before, so I was able to compare). There's lots of good info on this site, and the people are nice for the most part. Enjoy!

 

[Pilotmatt]

Well, I got to drive my 4Runner for the first time today. Ran strong and smooth. If my car broker wasn't a total pos then everything would be great. A couple things that were bad right off the bat...The wheels are flaking badly and make the entire appearance of the car poor. Smoked-in interior, that isn't too bad, but still disappointing. Very minor rust on screws and bolts. I'll be able to coat them and correct it, but this wasn't expected.

I bought the car from a dealer who specializes in luxury auction sales. He basically "did me a favor" according to him in even handling the purchase. I'm almost embarrassed at the price now that I see it. Since I don't know anyone personally, I'll throw it out there. I paid $13,050 plus tax and tag totalling $14,000 even. 2003 4Runner SR5 Sport 4x4 V8 with 99,000 miles in good condition. I was expecting it to be like new, but it isn't.

I think after a $200 wheel restoration, $50 interior cleaning, $50 in misc plastic parts, and $100 to a ding guy...then the car will be like new. Except for the tires which are pretty bad. In 6 months the tires will be replaced with whatever I hear is the beastly tire out there (keeping the stock look).

Thanks for listening and for your suggestions!:roadkill:

 

[kylebacc]

Well that's kind of crappy I'm sure once you get all that stuff done it will be much better. But still, I can understand your annoyance. Probably a lesson to be learned about buying a car without seeing it in person first. Better go with a different broker next time. Anyway, sounds like most can be remedied, so enjoy it! Don't forget, you just got a new awesome car!