Newbie Needs Help Buying 4Runner!

[warr0088]

Hey all,

I'm looking to purchase a 4Runner to replace my current vehicle (Honda Prelude) as I need something of size that can tow, off-road, etc.

I know these 4Runners have an awesome reputation, but I really don't know what to look for in purchasing a used one. I like the 1997-2002 style, and want the 3.4 litre engine with 4x4, diff. lock, etc. I'm particularly interested in Limited models because of the options they come with.

I'm looking at vehicles on Ebay in particular, as there is a limited market for these vehicles in my area of Ottawa, Canada. Many of them seem to have high mileage however, and I'm really not sure yet whats involved with shipping a vehicle.

Anyways, down to business ... what do I look for in a used 4Runner? Are some models better than others in the 1997-2002 gen? Are there any common problems with 4Runners to watch out for / reliability issues? Should I look at the newer 2003 models and above for an overall better vehicle? (Looking to spend around $12,000 to $14000 for one!

Any advice is MUCH appreciated !!!
Thanks!

 

[Greedy]

Hello,

I guess I am biased, but I would say go for a 1999. Higher ride height stock, Locking rear still available (still is in 2000 too), 5 speed still available, New style headlights and center console.

Basically all the good parts of the pre-99 and post-99. Take a look for the "Highlander" model (here in the states at least). It has hood scoop - which you may like the look of.

 

[warr0088]

Thanks for the good info. Shoulda mentioned i'm also looking for an automatic. So by reading your post i'm assuming the diff. lock was dropped in later years? Were there any other changes in the 4wd system throughout those years / major changes ?

 

[RonMAIDEN]

This is a year by year breakdown

http://www.top4runners.com/ja/runhist31996.html

Do you plan on just keeping as a daily driver? Off road intentions?

'99 is the mid gen upgrades and they were a plenty so check out that section particularly. 5 speeds and rear diff locks were discontinued after the '00 model and they also got the shorter coils in '01.

 

[Snookster]

main things to look out for would be maint. records. the mileage on the runner will obviously depend what it needs. around 90k mile (idk how many km) you need timing belt, other belts, all fluids changed, possibly new sparks and wires. Before purchasing any vehicle have a certified toyota inspection done, or if you have a good mechanic have him take a look at it. I'm not sure what to look for as far as a 4WD, as i am a 2WD.

Also, use the search function there is a lot of information on here, also try www.yotatech.com as there are targeted for the 4x4

 

[p nut]

Interior ergonomics of 99+ are much better. Personally, I'd get a 99 or 00 Highlander ("Sport")/Limited, or 2001-2002 Sport Edition. I have the 2002 Sport and love it. It does not have a rear locker, but does have a CDL. What I really like about the 2001-2002 is the ATRAC system. Allows you to get up some hairy stuff with just a push of the throttle.

If you're mainly getting it for comfort of a daily driver, 2001-2002, hands down. If it's a second vehicle, then any 99-02 models would be a good choice. **Note: '99 owners claim the higher ground clearance, but a simple lift takes care of the difference. They're just jealous of my TRAC system. I'll give them the fact that 5-sp is not available in 2001-2002 trims, but the last thing I want to do after skiing or in traffic is shift. The auto works great for me. :bigok:

 

[Tri C]

I just went through this in buying one for my son. As you have no doubt noted on ebay (and/or elsewhere) there is huge difference in pricing between a '97 and an '02, so you budget may well in large part dictate your course of action. It's nice to talk about how one year or model is more desirable as long as you are willing and able to pay extra to get it.

It seems like there's 5 or more SR5s around for every Limited so if you want a Limited, you may have to compromise a bit more due to less selection.

Decide what's most important to you. For example, is lack of a locking differential a deal-breaker? In our case, the push button 4wd operation offered by the Limited was very attractive and that what we got.

Don't be too concerned about higher mileage on the older ones - they seemingly all are that way. As others have said, maintenance history is the key.

 

[warr0088]

Thanks so much, good info. This vehicle will be my daily driver for the most part, and light off-roading when I go hunting and tow the toys (which is probably only 10% of my driving time). Not too sure about buying a vehicle off of ebay and knowing its maintenance schedule / condition beforehand ... also wondering, why did toyota drop the diff. lock? Is it not an essential off-roading tool? What's the deal with CDL and ATRAC?

Thanks again!

 

[RonMAIDEN]

The diff lock can be a difference in making it up a hill or getting unstuck in some cases and Toyota did give up some of the 4Runners off road worthiness discontinuing the diff lock (it's stilll on the Tacomas and the FJs) but not a major deal if you don't venture too far off dirt roads.

The ATRAC is nice in the slick stuff and makes a big difference instead of just having 4hi as the option like myself. I have to use a little more winter driving skill.

'99-'00 Limiteds did have the full time 4wd option similar to AWD and can be used in the rain or snow.

 

[Sloan]

if i could do it over again i probably would have tried to get a 4runner w/ a rear locker or sports edition

but i love my '01, just wish it was a little higher up

 

[p nut]

... also wondering, why did toyota drop the diff. lock? Is it not an essential off-roading tool? What's the deal with CDL and ATRAC?

Thanks again!

They dropped it, because 99% of the 4Runners are used on-road and will never need the rear locker. This is the same reason why they went to IFS, and less ground clearance. CDL really doesn't do anything, but it does turn off traction control, which is why I need to use it at times.

ATRAC is great in slick surfaces (ice, snow, mud, loose gravel). Although I'd much prefer a front/rear locker, it's done a good job so far. One advantage the ATRAC system has over the rear locker is, if both of your rear wheels are stuck, it will be really hard to get out with a rear locker equipped vehicle. ATRAC will have a much easier time getting out. But that is the only instance where I see ATRAC being better than just a rear locker.

 

[Joey Link]

If you're mainly getting it for comfort of a daily driver, 2001-2002, hands down.

Why is this?