Noob wanting to get a 4runner and need advice

[Josh-L]

Looking to pick up a 3rd gen 4runner. I have my eye on a 1997 SR5 4x4 with 160k miles on it. I'm not a car person at all. I can change a flat tire and the oil and that's about it. What should I look for when looking at this vehicle and what should I do to it if I purchase it to make sure it's reliable? I plan on changing the oil and spark plugs just in case but should I flush the radiator/transmission fluid/anything else? Thanks!

 

[tbst]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html

 

[GladeRunner]

Congrats on looking at the T4R for your vehicle. They are great. As tbst stated, look at the Sticky written by 4-Ripcord at the 3rd Gen buying guide. Should answer 99% of your questions.

 

[Josh-L]

Great link. Thanks! Looks like my daily reading is covered for the next few days....

 

[Josh-L]

Looking at that link it looks like the timing belt/water pump is an expensive maintainence issue. How do I check if that's been done or not if they don't have the records?

 

[tbst]

There are several ways. There is a toyota site that tells you if it has been done at a toyota site. Google toyota owners site or something like that and you can run a VIN. I found out mine was done (after I bought it) using Carfax. Usually, however, there is a sticker somewhere under the hood saying when it was done.

 

[4-Ripcord]

Welcome to the site.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Water pump and timing belt will run you about $650, not the end of the world. If there are no records of it, use it as a bargaining chip.

 

[Josh-L]

Ouch! Called my two local dealerships today. One was $850 and one was $904.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Where are you located? You don't need to go to the dealer, it's actually not even a bad DIY. But if you're not up for it, ask for recommendations on a good Indy in your area. Shouldn't be more than $650 with the cam and crank seals. But use the dealer quote in your negotiating.

 

[Josh-L]

I'm in oklahoma city.