Newb Questions 05' vs 06'

[Outsider]

I'm curious as to the differances between the 05' and the 06' 4runner. I've searched but only turned over the obvious answers as in head lamps etc. Here are few others I have:

1) Which year would you prefer? (05 - 08)Why?
2) Are the projector headlamps interchangable with an 05'? Is it difficult?
3) Are there any common problems with the 4runner?
*I'm an ASE mechanic so I can fix about anything I'm just curous if there are anything to look out for.
4) Is the navigation option easy to install if not preinstalled from the factory?
5) Are there any options that I should absolutly have?

Thanks for any input!!

 

[Uneek]

1. I like the 2006+. I like the headlight styling better, it has the previous 3-series look to it, a more pronouced grille and rounded fender flares. Instrument cluster is cleaner with three defined circles. LED tail lights and memory seats on the Limited. Just about all the upgrades in 2006 were cosmetics.
2. Yes, you will need the trim peice under the headlight, plus the wiring harness. The projectors uses H11 bulbs for the lowbeam, same 9005 bulbs for high beam.
3. Moonroof rattle, driveline thunk, seat squeak (which I don't have yet).
4. Plug and play for the OEM system, if you already have the JBL system, since the analog version of the nav is no longer sold/available from OEMvalue.com. But if you want Bluetooth and backup camera, there is a bit more work involved. If you have the JBL system, you'll need the by-pass kit to get around the amp if you want an aftermarket unit. Eclipse units are plug and play if you don't have the JBL system.
5. IMO, the spoiler, completes the look of the back. Looks funny without it.

 

[toto]

A brief summary of the changes from year to year is here:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=33792

There were a lot of little cosmetic changes in 2006 which I happen to like, so I'd also be biased toward 06+. 06 is also when MP3 playback was added to the CD players, and that's a huge plus for me. All 4Runners have an excellent track record, so there isn't a certain time period to avoid due to some sort of chronic problem.

As for the must-have options, you'd have to look at the trim level you're buying first - SR5, Sport Edition, or Limited. SE has a number of features that are only standard on that trim level or even unique to it. The biggest one is the X-REAS suspension, which uses dynamically-adjustable shocks to reduce body roll in turns. X-REAS is standard on SE and hard to find on the Limited. A search for "X-REAS" will bring up a lot of information about it. In contrast, Limited has a few more fancy interior features that are standard. You can get a lot of features on the SR5, too, but many are optional. A look at toyota.com will help you see the differences in the trim levels.