New member, shopping around

[A1cChampion]

Good evening to all!

Been lurking around for a few weeks now checking out what there is to know about 4Runners. Let me point out one thing, you guys & gals have no idea what it is to have a new vehicle that is plagued with problems! What I wouldn't give to only have a squeaky seat!

I bought my 2003 Silverado 2500HD Ext cab LT model rig a year ago last week. In that time it has been in the shop for over 30 days. Now before anyone starts jumping all over Lemon Laws blah, blah, blah, I live in Oregon and our laws are crap. I met with a lawyer a few times and the bottom line is our laws were designed for the dealers/manufacturers and the not people who keep them paid. With that I'll move on!

One thing I have found is that this group respects one another regardless of opinion. I find that a genuine quality to have in a Web community so for that reason alone, I plan on hanging around a while.

Now to my point! I have always been against buying anything that is not made in the USA. Please, before the flames begin, I am aware that most vehicles are now built here. If it were not for all the problems I have had with my rig, and the dead ear I have received from GM, I would probably be happy keeping it but I won't even go into them building engines in China. (Nothing against China, just their oppressive government!) But alas, after owning 5 GM trucks over the years, I have realized they care nothing about other than bringing out "new features" that are built like crap. (Oops, said that word twice now I think). Toyota has always been know for quality so I figured it was time to make the move. As far as need for a truck, that will be accomplished by an old 70's model Ford or Chevy when I find one. But for now...

It is time for a new rig. One that hauls the family safely, comfortably, and can handle strapping on some game each year and get me where I need to go without monthly trips to the shop and sucking gas like Monica.

This is where you all come in to play...As I begin looking this weekend, what do I need to be aware of and what should I be nit-picky about? The only requirement I have at this time is 4 wheel drive. From there, I leave it up to you all to help direct me where to go!

Regards,
Jeff

 

[jharris2]

Not to start a flame war, but your reference to GM building engines in China is a good example of how the auto business has become global. Years ago, our Chrysler Concorde was built in Ontario (Canada, not California)....and it was before the Daimler buyout. Our Camry was built in the US of a Japanese design. And some Fords, depending on which laws you apply, can be either domestic or foreign. Net is, "foreign" versus "domestic" is not nearly as clear-cut as it used to be.

Now, to your question. You should treat this like any other vehicle purchase. Does it have the room you need? The features you want? Drive the vehicle -- does it feel good? Are the safety tests good enough for your family?

This board should give you a good idea of the 4Runner's relaibility. There have been a few lemons, but the vast majority have been rock solid. The issues you read about hear are the rattles and squeaks, not blown engines and crappy transmissions.

Before you buy an older model truck, you could also consider an SUV and a trailer. We downsized from 3 to 2 vehicles because a utility trailer is lots cheaper than a pickup.

My $0.02.

 

[Mark86]

Welcome to the board. We can all guide you in what to look for in your purchase and share our experiences with the 4Runner, but nothing beats test driving the vehicle. You have to be the one that is happy with the way it drives, comfort of the seats, and the features (just to name a few). Since you are coming for a truck, there should really be no adjustments for you. You are used to the ride, comfort, and gas mileage of a true SUV/truck.

As for me, I have been very happy with my 4Runner. I love the way it drives and how it handles. It is very fun to drive. The only downside for me is the sunroof and price. It is a bit pricey for the compared to others and the sunroof's are made like garbage. The only other big problem I have had is my 12V outlets went on me. They had to replace the entire fuse block. Other than that, no other problems. It would not stop me at all from getting another 4Runner! Good luck with your purchase!!