4th gen 4runner vs 2nd gen Tacoma

[hoptroll]

I def want the v6 since I commute. That extra couple of mpg will pay off. It seems strange that it's the same motor but that all of the stories that I have read have been 4runners. I read that the replacement gasket is a redesigned one but this is the first place I have seen definitive answers on the problem being solved in 2006. Would be a bummer to drop some coin on a rig with 80,000 miles to blow a head gasket around 130k. That being said, from what I have read it seems to be a rare occurrence. The forums can be a bit scary due to people looking for assistance and a general collection of bad stories as a result.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[SIZZLE]

Your best insurance on a used Toyota is to find one with good maintenance records. If you find one with all the scheduled stuff done, you shouldn't have any problems. Blown HG are usually due to overheating, so give the cooling system a good once over, then forget about it and enjoy your truck!

FWIW i had the same option and went with a Tacoma. Better storage (open bed), visability, aftermarket support, and available locker. Check out the cargo area of the 4th gens, they're pretty tight. But the aftermarket is catching up on the 4th gens and there are definitly better deals out there on 4runners up in NoCal. And the shorter wheel base is a benefit too. Anyway, can't go wrong as long as you get out there and use it! Good luck!

 

[hoptroll]

All good info still. I know this keeps running on and on, but are there any other vehicles I should be considering?

 

[Clutch]

All good info still. I know this keeps running on and on, but are there any other vehicles I should be considering?

Nissan Pathfinder or Xterra.

Jeep Grand Cherokee or JK

We have been happy with our Trooper, getting hard to find clean ones though. A bit roomier than a 4Runner, can find them for cheap.

I like Chevy Tahoes for some reason too...

 

[surlydiesel]

I have a 2004 Grand Cherokee but it is our 3rd vehicle and is only used when the wife, dog and I are going anywhere together. It does see some long highway trips but I wouldn't want to DD it. The interior is lacking in regards to fit and finish, the plastic is cheap feeling and creaks and makes noise. It was half the price of a 4runner with the same miles of the same year. We get 17mpg with the inline 6 and it really does great in snow and hasn't complained from the rough roads we take to get to trails. When it craps out, I'm prob getting a Sequoia. Again, it's our 3rd vehicle not a DD unless the weather is terrible then the wife drives it.

-jorge

 

[hoptroll]

Been reading a whole lot more about those pesky head gaskets.... I can't find any definitive answers on then changing the gasket after 2006. In fact I have only read that here. From what I have read, it seems to happen no matter what the use is and regardless of overheating. Very suspicious since all of the accounts I have read have started in cylinder 4 or 6, but mostly 6. One theory that suggests it is due to the exhaust running under that side and across. Most of the cases I have read are from 2003, 2004, and 2005. I think I read a 2006 too. The fix can be catastrophic if not caught early because the aluminum head can warp or crack. In severe cases the block can crack (this is from folks that keep driving them and ignoring the warning signs). I'm curious if they fixed it and that is why there are not any reported later models or if they are just not reported? Any thoughts? This is starting to steer me away from the 4runner


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[hoptroll]

Ok, so I might have been a little freaked out on that last post. I did some more research and have decided to stick to a 2006-2009 V6 as I have read few problems with that era. I actually test drove one today. It is a 2008 SR5, V6, 4WD with almost 92k on the clock. It was a little bit smaller than I thought, but I think it will work for me. it was a really comfortable car to drive. I was hoping to find something with a little less miles, but I havent seen much in my price rang with less miles. The carfax for this car said it has had 2 owners, clean title, and spent most of its life in Tahoe, Ca. No reported accidents. My only issues with it were a little bit of surface rust on the underside from its time in the snow, and it pulled to the right a little on the freeway. The dealer said they would look into that. If I push forward, I will have my trusted mechanic look at it. Going to sleep on it for now, but it is what I want in terms of trim, etc.

 

[Viggen]

I have been looking for a 4th gen as well. One thing that has removed a few trucks from my list is checking their service history. Get the VIN and enter it here:

http://www.toyota.com/owners/web/pages/parts-service/history

See if it has had anything done on it.

Oh, and this has been a good read for me
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-g...modifications-write-ups-quick-links-faqs.html

 

[hoptroll]

Pulled the trigger on an '08. Going to remove the wind deflectors and running boards first thing!

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[deadbeat son]

Congrats, I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

 

[Clutch]

Sweet!

 

[java]

Looks clean! V6 or V8?

 

[hoptroll]

V6 SR5, basic options. Very nice to drive, smooth and quiet with plenty of power. Ordered weathertech floor liners, wet okoles are next!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[java]

V6 SR5, basic options. Very nice to drive, smooth and quiet with plenty of power. Ordered weathertech floor liners, wet okoles are next!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Sweet. Im happy with my 4th gen. With I had the 5 speed though!!

 

[tchlong03]

I love my 4th gen, except for one thing the 4wd dial selector. Not a fan of those. Would rather prefere the lever so you know your in gear..