Looking at a '98

[espressomiata]

Going to look at a '98. The seller says the only issue with the 4Runner is that the driver's airbag is blown but there is no other evidence of an accident. I'm going to look at it closely but would appreciate any insight into replacing the airbag and what else I might check out.

 

[rubbman]

Just make sure that the title is clear and not salvaged!

 

[t4r4life]

Just make sure that the title is clear and not salvaged!

lol my runner is salvaged but everything is good so far

 

[espressomiata]

I went to look at the 4Runner and I'm on the fence. The title is good. Saw the Carfax and it doesn't seem like the seller is trying to hide anything. However, I did find more issues:
Needs a muffler
Needs a spoiler-it had one and now the open holes are exposed
Needs some shocks
Not sure if the power steering is working-seemed pretty stiff
Had a pretty bad vibration from the driver's front above 60 mph
Otherwise, the body is fair (no rust) and no signs of leaks or anything in the engine compartment or tranny seals.

It is priced below KBB and Edmunds considering the condition, mileage, etc. I am willing to do some work on the vehicle but I'm not a mechanic so not real sure about some items. Especially the vibration. It could be tire balance but it was pretty rough for just that. I didn't see any signs of abnormal tire wear. So, I really don't know about this one.

 

[INSANEREINDEER]

If you're not much of a mechanic then I'd say wait for the next one. It could have just problems like that or it could have much more. I don't really care much for a project car anymore. I always felt like it was a good idea but I finally decided I'd wait for something nice at a good price and just make it better. I'm not saying that 4runner is crap I'm just giving my opinion. I wouldn't want to buy a car that could have many problem hiding or about to appear. (but if that's your thing go for it.)

Most the things you mentioned up there are a pretty easily fixed and not to expensive but you have to think that if they can't even get those things fixed, what else have the failed to maintain?

 

[Maxil]

I may be mistaken but I don't think Carfax is something that is updated daily. It could have been wrecked, patched, and put back on the road long before Carfax got wind of it.