Help me pick

[mteolus]

CarFax is not always accurate. Better to check AutoCheck as well, although both are not 100% reliable.

This author actually prefers AutoCheck but recommends checking both and not to rely solely on the reports.

https://www.carprousa.com/truth-vehicle-history-reports-2

Unless he comes way down, I would avoid a vehicle with a front end collision. "Minor" damage is probably very interpret-able. I would keep looking. Not that much more expensive to get a brand new SR5 with good negotiation.

 

[Bill_B]

I voted Limited :naughty:

 

[Xtremluck]

Easy commute during the week.
Driving back and forth to my farm 60 miles away on weekends. Gravel + dirt driveway.
Some light offroad, but have 4 wheeler for that.

Getting up dirt roads in the winter.

Driving my kids around.
Rarely have all 3 at a time but the smallest in 6 and still fits in the back (with the dog)

For these use cases a 5th gen 4runner would be a terrible choice. There are MUCH better options out there: Highlander, Outback, Honda Pilot, CRV etc

 

[jimmynotjim]

For these use cases a 5th gen 4runner would be a terrible choice. There are MUCH better options out there: Highlander, Outback, Honda Pilot, CRV etc

I'd bet 90% of 4Runners on the road probably aren't necessary or the best option for the driving the owner does. Doesn't mean someone shouldn't consider purchasing one if it's the vehicle they really want.

 

[smithbp]

I would go with the black limited due to the extra features. I have a SR5P and wish that I had the duel zone climate control for my wife who hates when I blast the heat in the entire truck.

 

[wadle5]

SR5. . .whichever one has a better carfax and maintenance records.

 

[petron5000]

Looks like I'm buying this one.

Single Owner. From the Original Selling (and servicing dealer). Paying below ask.

Thanks for all the help!

 

[mteolus]

Looks like a nice one, congrats!

 

[Bayou_Pro]

Here's another. SR5 with 84k miles, clean carfax

And another Limited for $22,800 with a "Accident reported, Minor damage reported" on the carfax from 2012. How do y'all feel about vehicles with minor incidents in the past?

And a 2013 SR5 with 62k for $24k

Okay here is my take on buying one with an accident history.

1. You don't have a way of knowing how bad it was unless you can find out who repaired it. If you can then you have a better idea of the damage and if it was a reputable shop that did the repair. If you are buying from a dealer they may be able to help you find out. If not, call all of the Toyota dealers in you area and they can run the VIN and see if they repaired it.

2. Most people freak out when they hear accident, but let's face it, it happens all of the time and probably half don't make it to Carfax. If you like the vehicle then spend a few dollars and bring it to a very reputable body shop and have them go over it and check out the work. BEFORE you buy of course.

3. Use it as a bargaining tool. If you like it and the repair checks out good then use that info in your negotiations. Argue diminished value. You could save some money on a good quality 4Runner that way.

Oh and my vote would be for the LE from what you described.

 

[Bayou_Pro]

I'd bet 90% of 4Runners on the road probably aren't necessary or the best option for the driving the owner does. Doesn't mean someone shouldn't consider purchasing one if it's the vehicle they really want.

Exactly!! My wife drives a '18 TRD Pro. Think she actually needs that, hell no. We wanted out of her Audi Q7 and started off looking a LE Highlanders. She liked it but wasn't overjoyed with it and I suggested she drive a 4Runner. After driving a few she loved it and she settled for a beautiful Silver LE with the redwood leather. Well that is until a black TRD Pro pulled through the parking lot and she was like, "wait what is that"?? Of course they didn't have any on the so we went to the service department to look at it. It was a customer in for his 1st service. Guy was cool and even let her drive it after it was done in the shop. She was sold on the looks and she thought it rode better then the LE. We searched for a month and then found her a Black one about 10 hours away.

Moral of this long story; Buy what you want and what makes you happy!!!!

 

[petron5000]

And it's here...old and new. Thanks for the help along the way!