N00bie question

[Nunyabiz]

I am looking to buy a 4Runner right now and would like to pick the brains of those of you here that know far more about these vehicles than I do.

We are hoping to find one for under $6000, preferably with less than 150,000miles. I have seen a few in my area that fit the bill.

What should I look for in a 4 Runner?
I was thinking the 3.4L engine, definitely 4WD.
Are there any particular years better than others?
Are there any problem areas to look out for?

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[cj80cruiser]

I am looking to buy a 4Runner right now and would like to pick the brains of those of you here that know far more about these vehicles than I do.

We are hoping to find one for under $6000, preferably with less than 150,000miles. I have seen a few in my area that fit the bill.

What should I look for in a 4 Runner?
I was thinking the 3.4L engine, definitely 4WD.
Are there any particular years better than others?
Are there any problem areas to look out for?

Any advice would be appreciated.

Here you go:

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

 

[Hepar]

Here you go:

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

Why isn't that think a stickie yet?!?! :bash:

 

[Nunyabiz]

Thanks, I was just looking at that and decided I should come back and post how stupid I was to not look through this excellent site before posting my question.

That thread is EXACTLY what I was looking for and is invaluable information to someone like myself.
Thank you.

 

[Hepar]

Thanks, I was just looking at that and decided I should come back and post how stupid I was to not look through this excellent site before posting my question.

That thread is EXACTLY what I was looking for and is invaluable information to someone like myself.
Thank you.

It is a great thread for sure. If there is any confusion about something or you're left with other questions, definitely still ask. People here are good about trying to help people out, especially if they've done their research first.

 

[blcktpgsr]

Why isn't that think a stickie yet?!?! :bash:

^x2. I knew it was there somewhere and even I had to rummage thru the pages just to find it.

 

[SCRunner12]

I PM'd RonMaiden about making it a sticky a few days ago. Not sure if he is the right person to PM, but thought I would try.

OP you should put where you are located so people can pass along deals they see.

 

[4-Ripcord]

I PM'd RonMaiden about making it a sticky a few days ago. Not sure if he is the right person to PM, but thought I would try.

OP you should put where you are located so people can pass along deals they see.

Ive done so aswell. Maybe hes just a busy guy.

OP, glad it helped you. And welcome.

 

[Nunyabiz]

I PM'd RonMaiden about making it a sticky a few days ago. Not sure if he is the right person to PM, but thought I would try.

OP you should put where you are located so people can pass along deals they see.

Ahhh yes good idea.
I am in Raleigh North Carolina.

Ideally what I would like is the latest model (2000?) SR5 4X4 that has a manual 5 speed and the "Highlander package" sounds perfect.

Sounds like I am going to be replacing lower ball joints on just about any 4 runner I find unless it has just been done.
Looks like I can buy the joints for about $160 for both lowers and should only take my mechanic about an hour to replace them ($75). So probably less than $250, that sound about right or am I missing something?
I live in a town home with no garage so doing the work myself is basically impossible here.

Thanks for all the advice.