New Member/Looking for Advice on What Model Year

[NYToyotaFam32]

Hello All,

I am a faithful Toyota owner. My husband has had several and I have had my 2002 for 8 years now and she just turned 205K. I would like to start the process of looking for an updated Runner. Can you tell me what the best model's/years are for the 4th Gens or what to watch out for? I am not scared of a little mileage since I purchased mine with 78K on it and we are up to 205K with only regular maintenance and 2 rack assemblies.

I would really like a limited, but love the look of the sports too. I toyed with getting a V8, but I really dont need the extra power as we only tow snowmobiles with it in the winter because we have a diesel to tow our gooseneck trailer. I will probably do some aftermarket mods to this one, as we are a full blown off roading family and managed to keep the old 02 stock.

Thanks in advance!

 

[philskeeter]

Out of the 4th gen category I would say the majority will say to go for the 06-09 years if your budget will allow it. There isn't anything wrong with the 03-05's per say besides the cracking dashes and possible head gasket trouble on the v6's. And most people like the face lift on the 06-09's(fog lights, headlights, grille, tail lights, front and back bumper covers, and maybe a few more I forgot to mention?)

 

[awdjunkies]

Hello and welcome to T4R.ORG!!!:wave:

Have you peeked at this thread? http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-g...modifications-write-ups-quick-links-faqs.html

Good Luck with your search.. As philskeeter mentioned, a lot do tend to go for the 06+ .. But it's all in your preference (As I dont care too much for the updated front end, although I do like the updated LED tail lights)

Either way, look around and decide for yourself.. :driving:

 

[jsmith21]

I'd say go with whatever you can get the best deal on. I know where I am, the 06-09's go for considerably more money than the 03-05's do. I lucked up and found a 08 for a 05 price or else I wouldn't have an 08. I looked at and drove both years while looking and they're a lot the same. Only minor styling differences. And 08+ has VSC off switch, early ones don't. And I think thats about it.

 

[MikeInNH]

I'd take an 03 with a real good maintenance record over an 09 with questionable maintenance record. Maintenance of a used vehicle is key.

 

[gshadow325]

I'd take an 03 with a real good maintenance record over an 09 with questionable maintenance record. Maintenance of a used vehicle is key.

I fell in love with the 09 GX470 I drove the other day. thats what prompted me to get search and eventually find my black piano finish steering wheel! cant get the truck might as well get the wheel LOL