Looking at 08 SR5s, need advice

[ian1982]

Hi All
I've been lurking here forever and have finally saved enough to go after a 4th gen. I am looking at a few 2008 SR5s at neighboring dealers. Aiming for something with less than 75K miles thru the dealers for under $20k. As a first time used buyer and 4runner buyer, what would you recommend i look for most importantly as I evaluate which to buy? Should I arrange for a self-ordered inspection even though its thru a dealer? Are auction cars riskier than trade ins? Appreciate the help of all of the t4r experts here!
Ian

 

[Joeggernaut]

Hi All
I've been lurking here forever and have finally saved enough to go after a 4th gen. I am looking at a few 2008 SR5s at neighboring dealers. Aiming for something with less than 75K miles thru the dealers for under $20k. As a first time used buyer and 4runner buyer, what would you recommend i look for most importantly as I evaluate which to buy? Should I arrange for a self-ordered inspection even though its thru a dealer? Are auction cars riskier than trade ins? Appreciate the help of all of the t4r experts here!
Ian

From what I have read on this forum. Currently in same boat looking for a 2006+ white 4runner. 2006+ of course got the facelift and the v8 got vvti.

Specifics:
v8:
timing belt/water pump
exhaust manifold crack

v6:
4wd system, particularly transfer case since most soccer moms dont use 4wd the tend to seize from lack of lubrication over time.

4th gen 4runner:
frozen brake calipers


Overall, your usual used car wear parts, pads, suspension, tires, and fluids.

 

[Derek]

One other thing you can do is register on the Toyota Owner site and then view all service records by entering the VIN of the 4Runner you're considering purchasing:

Login

I did this before purchasing my '07 and it was nice to see the previous owner did all of the recommended maintenance such as oil changes, air filters, etc.

 

[SureShot516]

you should be able to find what your looking for at that price point

I bought my 2005 V8 SR5 in the summer of 2009

my truck was delivered in Nov 2005

i bought it with 42,000 miles
certified to 100,000

and i paid $20,250

 

[JustSomeName]

I got my 08 SR5 with 50K miles Certified Preowned from Toyota in July 2012 for 23K out the door. In hindsight, CPO probably wasn't worth it and if I had a do-over, I probably would've purchased from a private seller and got it for $20K or under.

 

[ian1982]

Thanks guys. I appreciate your input. After looking at over a dozen 4runners in my area (really everything under 75K in the 08 vintage within 25 miles), I finally landed a Driftwood Pearl 08 SRT 4WD, CPO, 48,000 mi flat for $19,000. Very happy with my purchase even if I paid a bit of a premium for the CPO label. Truck is sweet, plan to drive it forever... Any advice on good tires? Will be mostly city and highway, but want something a step up from ordinary. Amped!