Looking at '03 4R

bste3

bste3

New member
Hi all, I'm looking at a 2003 runner with 77k on it. It is an SR5 4x4 v6. It has the newer style painted fenders.

The car is a little ways from where I live so I will be making my decision on the first and only time seeing the car (in person). I'm looking for any hints or advice on what to keep an eye out for. Were there any particular issues with the 2003s?

Couple other quick general questions...

All 4runner comes with the power rear window on the tailgate, right? It isn't an option, correct?

Is the base audio system really bad? This on doesn't have the JBL Synthesis system, though I will be adding a superwoofer myself and possible a head unit and/or speakers. Just want an idea if I'm going to be depressed with how bad the stock audio is or if it's alright...
 
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the system in it is really good. i added 2 12 inch subs and a kenwood head unit to mine and it sounds Amazing! mine is an 03' too
 
bste3 said:
Is the base audio system really bad? This on doesn't have the JBL Synthesis system, though I will be adding a superwoofer myself and possible a head unit and/or speakers. Just want an idea if I'm going to be depressed with how bad the stock audio is or if it's alright...
Click to expand...

The stock audio system in a 2003 is Ok for playing CD's and FM/AM radio. It does not play MP3's and no aux input...does not sound cheap but is not loud if you like bass. The stock speakers have flat response but I like it. A level one upgrade, is by directly swapping it to some Pioneer/Scion units.
But if your standard is with todays sound system, then getting an aftermarket upgrade is easy and many compatible headunits and speaker systems are proven tested by some members here. Some are not even contented w/ the JBL.

I have a multimedia player system but 90 percent of the time i'm only listening to the radio( DVD, AUX input, pic viewer DiVx reader.. etc - No use).
 
Thanks for the responses! I am thinking that I will do a "level one" upgrade. I have an iPod so I will be using that 95% of the time. I'm no audiophile, I just wanted to know if the 6 speaker system sucked, but I guess not which is good to hear. I already have a kicker so I'll probably use that with a Pioneer double din unit.

So, anybody have any advice about the mechanical things I should look for when I go to see/buy the truck?
 
make sure that the trunk cover that u can pull to cover up whatever is in the trunk is still there. when i bought mine it wasnt there and didnt notice for a while. then i had to buy one from the dealership. dont really remember how much but it was a good bit. and make sure the cargo net is there. check the tires to see how much wear is on em and check the spare.
 
All the 4th Gen (03-09) back windows roll up and down. The basic stereo is BAD. I had an 05 and the antennae always had static. If the price is right, you can upgrade the stereo. Good luck.
 
jstutz101 said:
You know its a well built truck when the biggest argument is the stereo!
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has thats so true!! but anyways what color is the one your looking at cause if i would ever buy another it would be an 03' forrest green. they stopped makin em in that color for some reason? i wish they still did though:(
 
borgzman said:
The stock audio system in a 2003 is Ok for playing CD's and FM/AM radio.
Click to expand...
Man I can't believe you forgot it can also play cassette tapes. Wow, how super.

Actually, your right in all counts. It is OK, to me I have never seen a great stock unit and it does not play MP3's.

To be honest, I never even tried the cassette player. I bought my 2004 last year and I never even checked it before I bought the car.
 
peter78 said:
Man I can't believe you forgot it can also play cassette tapes. Wow, how super
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ha! ha! ha! I forgot !.. I now miss the "plakk!" sound when inserting cassette tapes in car stereo. How I love that those technology could stay atleast in my generation.

Many have replaced their headunits with aftermarkets but there will be minor problems like:
1. compatibility with the diversity antenna - reception is not as good as the OEM
2. hum
3. speaker under wattage etc.
plus an aftermarket will always look aftermarket.

So, if you're looking at older model 4Runner and got turned-off because of not so modern stereo system, get an OEM equivalent replacement like the Scion/Pioneer headunits.
 
4Runner8 said:
make sure that the trunk cover that u can pull to cover up whatever is in the trunk is still there. when i bought mine it wasnt there and didnt notice for a while. then i had to buy one from the dealership. dont really remember how much but it was a good bit. and make sure the cargo net is there. check the tires to see how much wear is on em and check the spare.
Click to expand...

The rear cargo/tonneau cover is standard equipment for two row seating 4Runners. The cargo net (envelope style) is an accessory, not all 4Runners will come with it. The only net that's included are 4Runners with the double decker optoin (double decker is standard on the Limited trim). That is a flat net for the DD shelf.
 
peter78 said:
Man I can't believe you forgot it can also play cassette tapes. Wow, how super.

Actually, your right in all counts. It is OK, to me I have never seen a great stock unit and it does not play MP3's.

To be honest, I never even tried the cassette player. I bought my 2004 last year and I never even checked it before I bought the car.
Click to expand...

have u ever heard of a majic tape that a cord runs out of and plugs to your ipod. then presss tape on the unit and ipod plays. yay mp3's!:bluejump:
 
I got an '03 and have had NO problems with it, and yes the first thing to change out was the stereo. I got a pretty cheap Pioneer unit that has an ipod cord running from the back that you plug into the bottom of your ipod. Pretty cool b/c it charges it while it plays the music!
 
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