Too good to be true?

[TRDCal]

Hi Guys (and Gals)

I'm fairly new the this forum and have spent most my time in the 3rd gen section cuz I had my heart set on a 99-00 limited. Never really looked at getting a 4th gen cuz there usually much more expensive to get a good one (no accidents, low milage). BUT I managed to find a 2003 v8 sport edition with 185,000kms (115,000 miles)for $8000.

It has 20" chrome rims + tires (way too bling for me) which the guys is selling seperately for I assume probably around $2000. Not that I want them its just that in the end he'll probably make $10000 off his 4runner which in my opinion would be a fairly good price for a 4runner of this age and possibly cuz it's a v8 it's less desireable for some people (NOT ME! lol). I dont know what do your guys think? I'm pretty good and careful when buying cars, I know generally what to look for as far damage, repainting, transmision and engines problems ect. but if there's any specific 4th gen issues to look for any advise would be appreciated.

I just want to get some more opinions on whether this is a reasonable deal and to jump on it or does it seem to good to be true and not even bother.

I'm going to look at it today and will let you guys know how it turns out. But this will be the most I have ever spent on a vehicle so ill be sure to check it out a few times so please feel free to give your advise even if its after I first go and look at it.

Thanks Callum

 

[krupnation]

I'd first get the vin and run a carfax to see if any accidents have been reported or if it's a salvaged title. If so, steer clear! Then check the value on the usual - kbb.com, nadaguides.com, edmunds.com to see if they line up. I ran a quick one on nadaguides (thats what my bank uses to get the value) and it came back at $14k. That's probably in excellent condition so I'd figure somewhere around $11k-13k depending on it's condition.

Also, check to make sure it's a 4x4. The 2WD models are a lot cheaper. Not sure if you're looking for a 4x4 or not, maybe a 2WD will suit you fine, but I'm guessing that if you live in Ontario and drive in all that snow that you want a 4x4. It's a SE so check the XREAS system to make sure it's not leaking. If it is then you'll have to replace it with an aftermarket suspension or get it fixed by Toyota (which I've read is really expensive). Other than that, no major issues with these trucks, they last forever if maintained properly. Good luck in your hunt!

 

[d2huffman]

If he has been running 20" bling wheels I would bet that it has not seen any offroading in recent times so be sure and see if it will engage low range (L4). In netrual with foot on break and then engage. A short pause with the light flashing is not unusual. Try a couple times if not the first to give it a chance.

 

[Cdn4Runner]

That is a great deal if everything checks out ok. Check CarProof, its' the better one for Canada as it checks all the provinces up here for accidents, liens, etc.

 

[jimithing]

Make sure the timing belt has been changed. It should have been changed at 90k miles. If it hasn't that'll be another $700ish dollars that you'll want to get done sometime soon.

 

[TRDCal]

Make sure the timing belt has been changed. It should have been changed at 90k miles. If it hasn't that'll be another $700ish dollars that you'll want to get done sometime soon.

$700!!!! is the belt gold plated lol. I'm hoping most of that cost is labor which wouldn't apply to me since i'm a mechanic and I should be able to do it myself unless special tools are required.

 

[TRDCal]

FML!!!!! it sold sometime between last night and tonight....I might have to settle for a 3rd gen again unless i find another deal like that...I was really looking forward to that v8 power tho lol.

 

[chaz]

try & find an 05 , the v8 has a little more hp than an 03.

 

[TRDCal]

try & find an 05 , the v8 has a little more hp than an 03.

I actually found an 05 loaded sr5 with 169,000kms (110,000 ish miles) for 13,900 at a local subaru dealer. Looks like a real nice one the only problem is its a v6. I think if I supercharged it one day tho, that would have enough power...I always like that fact that the v6 is part-time 4x4, that way I can have some fun in snow/mud until I start getting stuck then slap her into 4x4.