Totaled 2003 V-8, Limited - Need your insight & advice!!!

[aggie64]

We were informed today that the best vehicle we have ever owned was totaled. It was a 2003 Limited V-8 with just over 176,000 trouble free miles. We are retired want to replace it with another 4Runner Limited, but must have a V-8 as we are "Campers" and pull our ultra-lite travel trailer. Therefore we must buy a used 4Runner since we must have a V-8 and Toyota stopped that option in 2009.

We need and will appreciate your insight & advice, both pro & con, into the changes which were made to the 4Runner over the years. Which year model, 2003 - 2009 was "Best" & which do you recommend.

Thanks in advance for your insight & wisdom!

Best Regards,

Carl Shannon
325-247-4986:thanks:

 

[mattleegee]

Think the 2005+ v8 motor got some upgrades

 

[MICA4R]

some would argue for bullet proof reliability the pre 2005 models were superior given lack of vvit ( i believe ). slightly less efficient but more reliable.

 

[Mytoy4]

Sorry to hear about the accident. Hope everyone is okay.
Actually it was the 2006 that had the refresh and a lot of features were added.
Maybe this would be helpful.
Toyota 4Runner History 2006

 

[cabowally]

Consumer Reports publishes a used car buyer's guide that includes detailed ratings on vehicle reliability on 7 or 8 areas by year manufactured. The data is based on an annual survey sent to members. It's pretty helpful.

.

 

[TRDCal]

Actually it was the 2006 that had the refresh and a lot of features were added. [/url]

Your correct, the mid generation update was in 2006 but they added VVTi to the V8s in 2005.

As for which to buy, have you consider a Sequoia?

 

[BOSMECH]

Welcome to the forum Carl sorry about your 2003.
I would get a 2006 or newer.
Not that there is anything wrong with the 2003 to 2005 models but the small fine changes to the 2006 and up are refinments to the 4Runner.
I have a 2003 SR5 and love it.