How to find a solid 3RD Gen

[Buck208]

Hi, looking for 3RD Gen advice. I'm looking for a 3RD Gen that will be a daily driver and am asking the experts here what you would look for in a 3RD Gen, what to watch out for (common issues), and general advice in hunting for a solid 3RD Gen. Thanks in advance. I searched for this topic but didn't see what I was looking for so hopefully this isn't a thread that'll get shot down.

 

[zumogo]

What are you looking for?

 

[Rocky5000100]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html

 

[afg10000]

Here's things that I always check. There should be VIN stickers on every body piece and windows. If not, then something has been replaced (except Canadian ones). Thoroughly inspect the frame, especially the passenger rear by the muffler. Common place for rust holes. Check the condition of spare tire and check for the bottle jack and accessories. Other than that, the same due diligence as purchasing any other vehicle.

 

[thebrandon]

The buyer's guide is very in depth, but very helpful. If you don't know what to look for, take a look at the guide and put together a more condensed version, or a checklist to take with you when you check the vehicle out. It is difficult to find the perfect 3rd gen. Even the newest ones are getting old.

Good luck!

 

[Colorado buff]

Here's things that I always check. There should be VIN stickers on every body piece and windows. If not, then something has been replaced (except Canadian ones). Thoroughly inspect the frame, especially the passenger rear by the muffler. Common place for rust holes. Check the condition of spare tire and check for the bottle jack and accessories. Other than that, the same due diligence as purchasing any other vehicle.

This! And the buyers guide! Take your time or you will pay more in rust repair!

 

[Buck208]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html

Thanks for the link, i'll def check this out and post any specific questions afterwords......

 

[Buck208]

What are you looking for?

For now I'm searching for a stock or lightly modded (tires/ suspension) 3RD Gen 4x4 either Sr5 or Limited with less than 175,000 miles. Beyond that I'm not sure yet but want to start with "good bones".....

 

[zumogo]

My advice, ask for records and inspect under he truck for rust.

 

[zumogo]

I am sure you have read other problems that like pink milkshake.

 

[MTwEeZi]

Put it on a lift and check for leaks and rust. If it the engine/transmission are smooth and it has a clean frame, buy. Everything else can be fixed.

 

[A.Wilson013]

For what it's worth, the VIN on windows was an option.

Mine doesn't have them =)

 

[Buck208]

Wow, I must admit the 3RD Gen crowd is quite helpful.... thanks again for the input. Have the day off today so I'm spending it reviewing all the threads while conducting my craigslist search for a 4RNR... :keyboard: If anyone is wondering, my wife has decided that she likes my 5th Gen more than her Sienna.........

 

[afg10000]

For what it's worth, the VIN on windows was an option.

Mine doesn't have them =)

The '98 I bought from this lady baffled me. There were no VIN tags anywhere except on the door jam. Ran the carfax later on and it was a Canadian. It also had DRL's. More confused. Learned some lessons about Canuck vehicles. Though, good point for the OP. Most 3rd gens I've looked at had VIN tags all around.