New here! Don't own a 4runner yet, but would like to buy a used 4th gen. Browsed the 4th gen forum for a little bit and found a few threads regarding their engines blowing up!? Is this car not reliable? I need something reliable, are there any common problems or known problems with the 4th gens? Anything I should look out for when buying used? Thanks!
I am not expert and a bit new to the 4Runner scene and most ppl will come and give some better info, but i figure i give my .02
The 4Runner's are bullet proof if properly maintained and care for. Ofcourse you have your rare instances when **** does go wrong, but you cant let a few bad things change your opinion. Ppl usually only report on things when stuff goes wrong, look at all the members that have never had any issues with their trucks are in the 200k mile range. Personally its not my first toyota and definitely wont be my last.
I just picked up a 2006 Sport 4wd V8. I did the usual checklist:
1. ran carfax & autocheck (sometimes one report gets something and other doesnt).
2. Had toyota run the VIN to see what maintenance was done if any at toyota. Had the person i bought it from give me the previous maintenance records.
3. Looked at tires, brakes, made sure 4lo and 4hi engaged, checked the oils.
4. checked paint for signs of replacement done without reporting. (checked trunk hinges to make sure they hadnt been replaced).
5. Checked for any leaks under the hood and under the truck (under the hood on the sides above fenders, make sure there are VIN#'s printed on both sides, that means the original fender wasnt replaced).
6. Checked underneath for rust and wear and tear.
im sure ppl will add more things to the list. I actually flew out to Vegas and drove it back. I love this truck. I dont think i can ever drive a car again.
Good luck with your search.