Help! Should I buy this T4R?

[dcbonnie08]

I've been trolling around recently during my search of a 4runner. I found a 2003 today at the dealer with 104k. The body is in really good shape as is the interior. However, the wheels are showing some rust, the tires were crap, and the 4 wheel drive wouldn't engage in 4LO. They said they would put on new tires and fix the 4wd. Before I left they quoted me a price of 11k. I told them I wouldnt talk price until they fixed the car.

Any thoughts here? 104k miles isnt too bad for a 2003. It's the grey color, which I really like. This is an SR5 but I was looking for a sport model to get the better suspension. Since the wheels and tires are bad I could use that to talk them down on the price and just put a leveling kit on it with new wheels.

I just dont know what to do. I wish I could buy private party but I need to sell my 2007 BMW 328i. I'm on a bit of a time crunch as I'm relocating at the end of the month.

I wanted a 2005 so I could get a 5 speed. Does the 4 speed on the 2003 make that much of a difference?

Any input/help here would be greatly appreciated.

-Nathan

 

[mikey's2010SR5]

Sounds like it is not the truck you are looking for, so pass. Find the one you want and will be happy with.

 

[rebelbowtie]

Definately pass, might consider a Limited since you are coming from a BMW. I came from Audi and I had slight buyers remorse for not getting the upgraded trim model. Just food for though, you may not care about that stuff.

 

[chris360hawks]

Get a V8.

 

[ASUMTNEER]

I would definitely pass on this one. The price is good, but not great. Do your engine research and get the V8.

 

[dcbonnie08]

All that I'd ever really need to tow is a trailer with my motorcycle on it. A V6 would be able to do that just fine. Do you guys get the V8 just because its a better overall engine? I found a 2005 V8 with 90 miles listed for 15k. I know at 90k you need to replace the timing belt as well as the water pump? I'll make sure the dealer does that. I'm off work today so I'm going to go down to test drive it. Will let yall know how it goes. Thanks for the help!

 

[me_rikey]

All that I'd ever really need to tow is a trailer with my motorcycle on it. A V6 would be able to do that just fine. Do you guys get the V8 just because its a better overall engine? I found a 2005 V8 with 90 miles listed for 15k. I know at 90k you need to replace the timing belt as well as the water pump? I'll make sure the dealer does that. I'm off work today so I'm going to go down to test drive it. Will let yall know how it goes. Thanks for the help!

Don't let people sell you a v8. I personally have an 8 in my ltd; however, if you would like a v6 and you're just towing a motorcycle you'll be fine. If you were towing that up in the Colorado mountains I may consider the v8 option. Not having the t-belt in the v6 is pretty sweet, and if you want an extra mpg or three and do not need the power, the v6 is for your.

I will agree with what everyone else said -- don't get into a pinch and buy a 4runner you really don't want just because you're moving soon. Unfortunately if you're in or moving to an area where there's snow, you'll pay a premium for that 4runner and probably lose a little bit of value on the beemer unless it's an xi (just my $0.02). I had to shop for over a year before I found the one I liked and purchased.

100k miles wouldn't scare me away; however, crap tires, rust, and a busted 4x4 system would. What kind of owner would allow their vehicle to fall into such disrepair? A bad owner -- who knows what else will come up if you purchase it.

Keep looking and good luck!

edit: I'm interested to hear about the vehicle you're going to look at. An 05 v8 for $15k is pretty cheap with that amount of mileage. So condition could certainly be an issue.. Give it a very thorough look over, test drive, etc, etc..