Newb Looking at '99 SR5 4WD

[repo]

I'm a total newbie to this forum and 4Runners, although I have spent a few days browsing the threads. I've never had a 4x4 before and I love the look and reputation of the 4Runners and Tacomas. I'm in Kansas and I've had enough of getting stuck in flash floods and snow last year (although we got off very light compared to down south of course). I want a 4x4 this winter.

There's a 4runner forsale at a local dealer I'm thinking about buying. I'd like to hear your thoughts on it if you have a couple mins to spare...

'99 4Runner SR5 4WD
V6 3.4 Automatic
143,000 miles
Air-con, power locks, power steering, sunroof etc.

It's marked $8,995. It's been there for 3 or 4 weeks and I think it started off at $10,500 (which it is listed as on their website). The latter price is about the Kelly's Bluebook value. I'm guessing no-one has bit on it because of the high gas prices of late. The dealer is one of those small scale kinda "podunk" places with just 15-20 high mileage cars/trucks. I had a glance over it tonight when they were closed and it looks in nice condition except for a cracked front light.

The only thing that concerns me is the high mileage but the price is right. What things should I check out when I go look at it and test drive?

 

[One_96TR4]

Well I don't think you should worry about the mileage. These trucks can go A LOT longer. If you can get service records on it to see how the previous owner(s) took care of it that would obviously be great. Ask if they know when the timing belt/water pump was done. The price sounds about right for the mileage on it. If that's a listed price you could probably bargain with them because of the light and see if you can find any other imperfections. Good luck.

** Probably going to get a few ppl on here saying search. It's a good idea as this type of question seems to be popping up a lot lately. Just try something like buying 4runner.

 

[p nut]

That's not a bad price. Make sure the timing belt/w-pump has been replaced. Take it by a Toyota Dealership or a trusty mechanic to have a look over. Pull a carfax report.

Look under the car for any leaks AFTER the test drive. Check to see if the front sway bar bushings are toast (they are pretty simple to replace, but you can use that for negotiating the price down ) and also if the endlinks are broken. Check to see if the rear brakes are covered in oil. If so, the rear seal is torn.

Good luck.

 

[RonMAIDEN]

Get a once over from a trusted mechanic and if all's good then that's a great price.

My Highlander cost me $13.5 w/97k two years ago fyi.