How much should I pay?

Kanger328

New member
So, I'm still lurking on here...been a little over a year now, but I'm finally very close to picking up a 4Runner. I know this type of question is always asked...and it's a very subjective question, but would like some input from the 4Runner veterans here.

Here are some specs:
-Location: SoCal
-Year: 1996
-Model: Limited
-Drivetrain: Auto
-Drive: 4x4 (no locker)
-Miles: 135,000
-Condition: Not a single noticeable ding or dent, no rust, rear diff and axle seals not leaking, engine bay looks clean (haven't thoroughly checked for leaks yet), a little paint oxidation on roof, driver's seat leather torn to shreds but all other seats look new, all electrical works, when starting...car takes about 2-3 seconds to start, rear suspension sagging, replaced brakes a year ago

My friend bought this truck from an auction a little over 3 years ago for $4,500 with 90k miles on it. He immediately had the timing belt and water pump changed and has done regular oil changes since (he's not really a car guy, so hasn't done much else). Hasn't had a single problem in the 3 years he has owned it. I haven't checked for the pink milkshake yet...I won't get around to a thorough check until he's officially ready to sell.

I offered $2,500 to which he said okay. Of course I still have to do a detailed run through, but even if there are a few flags...I figured $2,500 is so cheap it doesn't matter much (unless it has pink milkshake or it's burning oil, etc). A concern is that I checked the VIN number on Toyota's site and it doesn't have any maintenance records. This could mean it was just done at home or some small shop?

So what y'all think? Thanks in advance!
 
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$2500 is ridiculously cheap. They go for that much up here in non-running condition.

Why did he buy it at an auction? Was it wrecked? Something is suspicious there. Also, paint oxidation on a 1996 strikes me as odd. Repainted?

AS for the service records, that doesn't really mean anything besides the owner never took it to a dealer for servicing. Not a big deal as long as the drivetrain is solid. Especially for $2500
 
$2,500 with a major issue could even be feasible. I payed $4200 for my 97 2.7l 4x4 5 spd at 156k miles and I had to beg him to come down from $5,000. For $2,500 forget looking for leaks just buy it. GL
 
Awesome. He bought it at an auction because he just wanted a cheap car. I've been there before. The owner of the auction just goes around buying up cars at police impounds and such. As far as my friend, I trust that hasn't messed with the car since he's had it. I guess I'll pull up a carfax, though I thought the VIN check on the Toyota site would suffice. Thanks all! Hope to be posting picks of a 4Runner here soon.
 

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