What to look for when buying used 4-gen 4Runner

[YuriB]

I was driving 2nd gen Xterra for last few years, which unfortunately was destroyed in an accident last week, so I'm looking for a replacement.
I will probably be looking at 4-gen V6 4Runner, not because I was unhappy with Xterra, but just to get something different this time.

So when looking at used 4Runners from 2005-2008 period, what should I pay special attention to?
From reading so far I found these common problems:
- Oil leak from transfer case actuator (seems to be affecting V8 only?)
- Rusted and seized brake calipers. I'm sure I can fix this myself, but will request price reduction.
- sulfur smell - will this still be a possible issue on 2005-up, or is it old thing?

Is there anything else to look for specifically, beside general used car inspection?

Also, I understand that SR5 will come without X-REAS, Sport with X-REAS, and Limited can be with or without. Is there an easy way to tell if Limited has X-REAS? And do I want this X-REAS? I'd appreciate improved on-road handling, but from what I read this system may fail around 100K mark (I'm in Canada, with snow, salt, etc.)

Thanks,
Yuri

 

[Dougtoms01]

This was just recently discussed, see this thread.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/100523-test-driving.html

Best regards, Doug

 

[zachb_NW]

All toyotas I have had have sulfur smells, it's not a problem it's just something ou have to deal with.

 

[YuriB]

Thanks. So it seems that there is not so many model-specific failures on these.

 

[jimithing]

This was just recently discussed, see this thread.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/100523-test-driving.html

Best regards, Doug

Pretty good advice in that thread. Definitely make sure 4wd engages. Hi and Lo. Check undercarriage for rust.