Help from the experts

[Frankhenrylee]

I've decided I want a 3rd gen 4runner. Some things I know I want are leather, hood scoop, and flares. The main thing I know I want is the e-locker. I could do without the rest to make sure I get that. How hard are they to find? Where is the button specifically located so I can just tell by looking at the pics? Also, what other options should I be looking for? Thanks for the help. I've been browsing through the rest of the site and it seems like there are some cool people on here that seem to know what they are talking about. Let me know what you guys think!

 

[Vantage85]

Leather was standard on limiteds and optional on the sr5.

Fender flares were the same, and also on the sport/highlander.

Hood scoop was only on the 99-00 highlander and 01-02 sport. Leather was not an option on this truck.

Elocker was only available from 96-00 as an option.

Another nice feature that I am looking for in my similar search is 99-00 Limiteds have automatc climate control and more wood on the dash.

98+ has a nice 4 spoke wheel.

Also,99+ have a few minor interior changes. See the sticky for more info.

My search has 2 main platform.

99-00 limited with elocker.
96-00 sr5 5spd elocker.

Both are rare.

I would look for a highlander with elocker, but they were never made in Canada.

 

[Frankhenrylee]

Hey thanks for the info. I pretty much just started looking for one the other day. I'd started trying to find a Tacoma but they seem to run about $2000 higher than a 4runner and the 4runners always seem to be in better shape.

Now where is that e-locker switch?

 

[SCRunner12]

The e-locker will be left to the steering wheel. It will say Rear Diff Lock in reddish orange color. Good luck. Your best bet is to get a limited edition if you want the locker, leather, and flares. These are more abundant and easier to find with all those options. You can always buy an aftermarket hood scoop later on. All limiteds are automatics if that has anything to do with your decision.

 

[Frankhenrylee]

Hey thanks man. I guess that just about tells me what I need to look for.

 

[TheDurk]

My $.02 on the Automatic Climate control: Don't insist on this. The digital control system causes a fair number of problems and is seriously expensive to replace. I also think the manual systems give the driver more control.

I wanted a manual trans so no Limited for me--when they told me in '99 I was stuck with manual A/C controls I was happy and I'm still happy. I hate working on those those ACC's on any car. /end rant

 

[topdown4runner]

If you don't have this switch, you don't have the factory E-locker.

 

[PrelateBishop]

Leather was standard on limiteds and optional on the sr5.

Fender flares were the same, and also on the sport/highlander.

Hood scoop was only on the 99-00 highlander and 01-02 sport. Leather was not an option on this truck.

Elocker was only available from 96-00 as an option.

Another nice feature that I am looking for in my similar search is 99-00 Limiteds have automatc climate control and more wood on the dash.

98+ has a nice 4 spoke wheel.

Also,99+ have a few minor interior changes. See the sticky for more info.

My search has 2 main platform.

99-00 limited with elocker.
96-00 sr5 5spd elocker.

Both are rare.

I would look for a highlander with elocker, but they were never made in Canada.

I feel kinda stupid for asking (you'd think I'd know as I DID buy it), but I have the following specs for my rig:

1. 2000 Model Year
2. Color-Matched Fender Flares + Bumpers
3. Leather Interior
4. 5-SPD Manual Tranny
5. OEM Hood Scoop/Fog Lights

If I'm reading properly, this makes my truck a Highlander and NOT a Sport. Someone wanna confirm?