I'm looking at buying a 2003 V6 4wd, what to look for?

[jedc]

Besides having a mechanic look over the vehicle, what else should I look for? Are there any big ticket items that may come up. The vehicle has 102k mileage btw. Thanks for the help.

 

[03L4RUNNER]

1. Make sure serpentine belt has been replaced
2. Spark plugs
3. check cv axles for leaks if not replacement at that mileage
4. Diff fluids changed
5. front wheel bearings

Those would be my main 5

 

[jedc]

When you say serpentine belt, do you mean accessory belts? I'm not too familiar with this engine, but I do know it has a timing chain.

 

[keitht253]

The serpentine belt is the same as the accessory belt, which the v6 has and needs to be checked. Yes, you're right that the v6 has a timing chain (this is a different thing entirely).

If you look on the Problems and Warranty Issues sections of this forum, you may find other things that need to be checked (i.e. various TSBs, sunroof rattle, frozen caliper, etc).

Good luck!

 

[progress4m]

In addition, I would check ability to switch to 4x4, 4x4 low and Diff lock. Because if PO was not using any of those options (or “exercise” them at least once a month) it may have a bad solenoid in the transfer case and repair is expensive.

 

[jedc]

Thanks for the help.

 

[2003-4x4runner]

Besides having a mechanic look over the vehicle, what else should I look for? Are there any big ticket items that may come up. The vehicle has 102k mileage btw. Thanks for the help.

I have 2003 V6 w/ over 112,000k miles with no problems. You should be Ok as long as they did all the scheduled maintence.

 

[Zuke]

Front brake calipers.
Leaks in sunroof if equipped.