Help Pre purchase used 06 sr5, ASAP White smoke

[john181]

Hello I am in process of buying a lease return one owner 2006 sr5 (110k) BUT a couple concerns... During test drive after 10 minutes of warm up I punched the throttle entering freeway and noticed a puff of white smoke in rear view. Not a continuous trail, just a momentary bright white puff. A moment later I hit the throttle hard again and got another puff. I tried to repeat afterwards but no smoke at all. Should I be worried? No issues with drivability or idle, etc. The other thing I need help with does anybody recommend a San Jose CA mechanic to do a good pre purchase check of the running gear and body for hidden damage? I noticed both front and rear bumper covers seem to be pretty loose is that normal? When I grab and tug a corner the covers move slightly. I would appreciate any and all responses, need to make a decision by tomorrow, 12/23. Thanks!

 

[FourEyedWilly]

Hello I am in process of buying a lease return one owner 2006 sr5 (110k) BUT a couple concerns... During test drive after 10 minutes of warm up I punched the throttle entering freeway and noticed a puff of white smoke in rear view. Not a continuous trail, just a momentary bright white puff. A moment later I hit the throttle hard again and got another puff. I tried to repeat afterwards but no smoke at all. Should I be worried? No issues with drivability or idle, etc. The other thing I need help with does anybody recommend a San Jose CA mechanic to do a good pre purchase check of the running gear and body for hidden damage? I noticed both front and rear bumper covers seem to be pretty loose is that normal? When I grab and tug a corner the covers move slightly. I would appreciate any and all responses, need to make a decision by tomorrow, 12/23. Thanks!

My guess is that the white puff you are getting is simply built up condensation in the exhaust. You have gotten your fair bit of rain over the last few days so that is a good possibility. If you can, I would take it to another mechanic. I'm from the Bay Area, but I can only suggest things up in the Daly City / Redwood City area.

The bumpers sound normal. Mine moved. Just take a look at the vehicle again under bright sunny conditions and check for paint differences, color, sheen, and orange peel.

I think you are okay, buit please go get a mechanic to take a peek.

Good Luck!

 

[john181]

Thanks for the advice, bought and Happy

Thanks for your well thought out advice, the white smoke apparently was from cats/exhaust system collecting moisture, etc. As you suggested, the car checked out mechanically and made the purchase. Had the vehicle for 2 months now and have not found any negative surprises. Wife is still on cloud nine! Took me a long time to get her to give up her old 91sr5 4x4.

Working through the long term maintenance "to do" list, hope to get many years out the "new" 4runner!