Newbie Looking to buy a 3rd Gen 4Runner. What to look for?

[white_n_slow]

One other maintenance issue to look out for is the lower ball joints. They should be replaced every 100k or so, so if you don't have a record of it being done, you should probably bite that bullet. Only use OEM toyota lower ball joints and new toyota bolts for this job.

 

[Ol'Blue]

Okay, so I used all the points of interest that you guys told me and what I read in the Buyers sticky, and picked up a 2000 2WD 4runner today.

My GF loves it! 100K miles with every maintenance receipt from day it was bought.
V-6 100K with timing belt changed 15K past.
The guy was asking $6000, got him down to $5200. In this area thats a great price for the mileage.
Gonna need new tires soon so I'll be on CL for those.
No leaks, No rust, Brand new Kenwood, Sunroof, and Excellent interior.
"Score!"

Thanks again Guys!
Got some questions on tire size but I'll post that in the appropriate area.
Gonna detail it tomorrow so I'll post some pics after.

After reading the post I was going to say that you should have no issue finding one in all of the South Land area in 2wd v6. They are all over the place and you paid a fair price for it also, so that is a win. For everything she will need it for and even a trip to Big Bear in the winter it will be fine. Throw a set of chains on for above 5k feet and take it easy if you ever go there. Other than that just read they sticky's and you and her will be set. I have 204k on mine it is running strong. I just have to change a sensor right now but they go out.Got over 200k out of it. You both will be happy with it. Good for the beach, dogs, and about anything else. Welcome to the family of T4R.

Blue

 

[Hollywood1]

So far it runs Great. The guy sold it to us with no Detail wash. I spent a good 3 hours yesterday detailing it and if he would of had it detailed I think would would have had no problem listing it for $6500!

Paint looks great!!! only wear on the paint is from the hood and some bird dropping spots that ate through the paint, but nothing major. I wouldn't even bother but if she wanted, all I would have to do is paint the hood and it would be immaculate. Or do a cheap vinyl hood wrap.

Only problem is the sagging rear coils, riding on bumps most of the time. So Im on the way this afternoon to pick up some OME 906's that I found for $80.
The guy had them on for 1 month but wanted more lift so swapped them out.

Gonna have to leave the current stock replacement shocks on for now until I can find a deal on some 1" over shocks. probably Rachos or something on the cheap.

Then later down the line I'll do a front coil swap to try and level it off best I can.
I'll post pics of before and after coil install asap.