Thinking of buying this one. Do u guys think its worth it?

[californium90]

Hello guys. I am a potential buyer of a 1999 toyota 4runner. Here is the ad the seller posted for it. Do u think the vehicle is a decent buy? Kindly let me know your views. All input will be highly appreciated! and please if you like it do not go after it. If I end up buying it, it will be my first vehicle ever! thanking you all!
here is the link to the vehicle.
http://buffalo.craigslist.org/car/667631342.html

 

[techno]

Impossible to say if its a decent buy or not simply from 4 pics and a brief add. But having said that, it is definately worth looking at. The price is a reasonable ask for the miles it has. Give it a thorough test drive. Good luck.

 

[californium90]

any ideas as what should I look out for while taking a test drive and anyways to test the trucks 4 wheel drive system? what things would signal bad problems and lookouts if you could tell me about them, i would appreciate it!

 

[RonMAIDEN]

Defintely engage the 4wd system on any gravel or dirt road will be fine and make sure the rear diff lock works too if it has that.

Look at the backs of the rear wheels for possible axle seal leaks or any other fresh leaks along the driveline too including the tranfer case.

Just check everything you can think of.

 

[sant6236]

Alrighty~

If the transmisison was replaced, this was a near $3000 or more replacement, which is already half the value of what is listed.

They then replaced the timing kit, which is an easy $700 replacement, you are now at $3700.

However, at this mileage, multiple components have the potential of going out or in need of repalcement.

What I would recommend, is to not only get the documentation to support all of this, such as the tranny, etc., but to also as what else has been done to it, such as the starter, fuel pump, filter, etc.

You will want to know exactly what has been done to it to make it worth your while.

Again, at this mileage, w/o proper documentation and anything to support it is a decent vehicle, you could be getting yourself into a money pit.

Demand documentation supporting the transmition and timing relplacement.

 

[californium90]

I went to see the vehicle. I did demand the documentation but the guy was insisting that he did it himself so I decided not to buy the vehicle. I did show it to my dad as well and you were right sant. it is indeed a money pit! My dad has promised that he will help me look for another one from a dealership. I learnt how to drive for the first time on my uncles 4 runner and i fell in deep love with the vehicle. If you guys happen to come across any good deals for about 7000 usd or around there. kindly inform me! I shall be happy to take a look at the vehicle. I am primarily looking for a 3rd generation! thanks for the input everyone ! I am so stupid i ended up paying 27 usd for a carfax report! even though the car has not been in an accident the seller didnt seem very trust worthy!

 

[sant6236]

Interesting to say the least.

You more than likely made the right decision.

On the contrary, you were brilliant for buying the carfax, never a stupid decision.

Its these investments that save you money in the long run.

The Toyota 4Runner is a spectacular vehicle, especially the 3rd gen, but you want to make sure you get it at the right mileage and at the right time.

If you are looking to spend $7000, you more than likely can get a 3rd gen w. about 160,00 miles on it.

At this mileage, you are lookingat replacing several parts for the second time, such as shocks,plugs, filters.

 

[californium90]

I wouldnt be able able to afford more than that because I am a student and I hail from a not so well to do family! anyways thank you for your great input.

 

[TR4Runner]

FWIW

I recently bought a '99 SR5 4WD auto w/ 83K miles from a local (Bflo area) Nissan dealership for $8700. Carfax was clean. It didn't have any service history, but it was very clean inside and out. No scuffs or worn fabric inside. No fluid leaks or trashed driveline components. I even have the original window sticker.

The dealership did replace the steering rack (a bit worn), put on new front pads and rotors, and changed all the fluids (synth).I will need to do the timing belt. I've had it for a little over a month and I"m impresed with the mileage. 18.5-19mpg in mixed driving. I still have a bit of a heavy foot from my previous car (BMW) soI expect it to be a bit better. Keep looking around, you'll find a nice one.

I did get a bit lucky with the timing of my purchase. Last weekend of the month, a Toyota on a Nissan lot, and the first really nice sunny day kept everyone in a good mood and wanting an easy deal....

I really couldn't be happier.


You'll find a decent one locally...just keep looking.