New member question about buying a 08 4runner

[Jotun666]

Hello,

I've been lurking around on here for a while as a guest and reading a whole bunch of the threads that are on here. And after doing a bit of research I came to the conclusion that I wanted to get a 4runner.

I found a 08 4runner limited 4x4 near me for just under $18k with 101,650 miles on it. The miles are a little high for the age, but I can live with that. The thing that I find a little concerning with it is that on it's carfax report it has an accident reported back in 2011. It doesn't give specifics of the accident, it just says "Accident reported Involving front impact With another motor vehicle. Functional damage reported"

It is a 1 owner vehicle and has a good maintenance history. So my question to you guys is, do you think this is good value? or should I just walk away and look elsewhere?

 

[chmura]

Go in person and check out the vehicle.

If its been in an accident check all the VIN stickers on each of the body panels. This should tell you how bad/minor the accident was. If all the stickers are in tacked that usually means it was a small fender bender.

The front should have 3 VIN stickers. Hood, left and right fenders.

When I purchase a used vehicle I check right away if these stickers are there or not.

 

[Jotun666]

Go in person and check out the vehicle.

If its been in an accident check all the VIN stickers on each of the body panels. This should tell you how bad/minor the accident was. If all the stickers are in tacked that usually means it was a small fender bender.

The front should have 3 VIN stickers. Hood, left and right fenders.

When I purchase a used vehicle I check right away if these stickers are there or not.

Thanks for the reply. Where abouts on the fenders is the VIN located? in the engine bay?

 

[chmura]

Thanks for the reply. Where abouts on the fenders is the VIN located? in the engine bay?

Yes. Open the hood and look up. And its ontop of both fenders when you open the hood. I believe the front bumper has one too, I would have to check my vehicle.

Also all 4 doors have them also. Even the rear bumper has it, but you have to get on the floor to look. This one is not important because bumper is just a cover and easy to replace.

 

[arod221]

honestly with the report saying "functional damage reported" sounds to me like it was a little more than just a simple little fender bender. My assumption is just that though, an assumption. Your best bet is to go inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Good luck!

 

[WXman]

honestly with the report saying "functional damage reported" sounds to me like it was a little more than just a simple little fender bender. My assumption is just that though, an assumption. Your best bet is to go inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Good luck!

My thoughts exactly. I've never seen that wording used before. Sounds to me like the vehicle was rendered useless at the time of the crash. To me, I'd pass unless they came WAY down in price. Some of those issues will not be noticeable until after you've owned the truck for a while.