Input on new 3rd generation 4runner purchase

[yosh1975]

Hey, I have been watching the classifieds section here forever. I am looking at purchasing a 3rd gen 4runner. I hope to start doing some family long weekend trips this Summer and feel the 4runner is best fit for my desires. The 4runner will also be used as a secondary vehicle on occasion.
I have looked at cars.com, autotrader.com, craigslist, TTORA.
I live in the salt belt so I would like to purchase from out west and drive back home.
I did see a 99 4runner here listed for sale but it may be a little much for me with locked rear, coilovers, and 210K miles. Any thoughts on this 4runner?
http://denver.craigslist.org/cto/4812617530.html
Would it be "safer" to make purchase from an individual or dealer?
So any and all input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks for your time

 

[tanglefoot]

Hi, and welcome!

It depends on exactly what you're looking for, but I think you can do better than that (and closer...are you in Ohio?) with an unmodified example. The used prices on 4runners tend to be a chunk lower than those of similar Tacomas, so the values should be pretty good.

I do think the 5-speed has the durability advantage over the auto though...good call on the 5-speed, although it does hurt availability.

I don't know where in Ohio you are, but:

http://columbus.craigslist.org/cto/4839632059.html low miles!

http://cincinnati.craigslist.org/cto/4824045837.html

http://columbus.craigslist.org/ctd/4806683189.html 4-cyl

http://columbus.craigslist.org/cto/4789590433.html


Hmm, I see why your shopping far away. The availability isn't very good around Ohio, is it?
Well, if you're willing to travel to Denver:

http://denver.craigslist.org/cto/4837894695.html

http://denver.craigslist.org/ctd/4830450346.html

http://denver.craigslist.org/cto/4841312087.html

There are pros and cons with the dealer vs. private owner. The dealer cars are nice and clean but they usually cost more and dealers usually don't have as much information about the vehicle. If the service department gets its hands on it, it possible that they performed some maintenance items. I still usually prefer private owner cars, especially because I don't like to deal with salespeople.

Good luck!

 

[yosh1975]

Great, thanks.
I too dislike the car buying hassle from dealers.
We have a large selection of 4runners but rust is the issue. My 2005 Tacoma is currently having frame replaced. So I would like to purchase from elsewhere and drive home.
I love manuals in anything I drive.
How about this one? 2nd gen but...

https://columbus.craigslist.org/cto/4786551149.html

Thanks again for the input

 

[AxleIke]

Second the 5 speed. The automatics on the 3.4L are kinda dogs. They aren't horrible, but they are noticeably slower than the 5 speeds. The 5 speeds are actually pretty peppy on the road.

 

[tanglefoot]

Ooh, that 2nd gen you posted is making me drool. They are different animals than the 3rd-gen though...more of an acquired taste. The engines are quite a bit more primitive and less powerful than those in the 3rd-gen, and the power tailgate on the 2nd gen can be problematic (power window needs to function in order to open the back gate). The V6 in the 2nd-gen is the 3VZ-E, which has a questionable reputation. Some people love them, but they don't produce much power for the fuel they consume and have some trouble areas--it wasn't one of Toyota's better engines. In the 2nd-gen, the 22RE is the more reliable engine choice, although it's even slower. The third gen got the 3RZ 4-cylinder (which has about the same power output as the 3VZ V6 but with less weight and better fuel economy) and the 5VZ V6, which has a good chunk more hp and torque than the 3VZ and a better record for longevity.

 

[the kid]

i personally know of several autos with over 300k on them with rebuilds or issues of any kind. if you take care of the auto trans in the 3rd gens they will outlast the rest of the vehicle. -its the same auto that was put into some of the lexus V8 cars from the same area. while i do agree that the 5spd are more fun and would be a plus, do not shy away from the autos. they have their advantages. -i am a huge manual trans fan, but i did like the auto in my 4runner. it never has given me any trouble, and i wasnt easy with it either -but i did take care of it.

 

[summerprophet]

In my opinion, and I have owned both, the 2nd gens and third gens are complexly differnt vehicles, imagine the second gen as closer to a jeep with raw interior design, but simple engine and electronics.
The throw gen is akin to modern suv's. Nice creature comforts, well thought out ergonomics and complex electronics. Honestly, the 2nd gen is a half measure between the first gen awesomeness and the third gen awesomeness, and in my opinion the result is rather lackluster.

On the 3rd gen, if you seek out a 5 speed, it will be really hand to find it with a locker as that would be a customer addition, as I don't believe the combo was ever an offered option. Also, 99 onward had nicer center console with better cup holders (unless you like coffee spills on your stereo)

Bone stock, with good tires, the 4Runner is incredible off road, and really good on road. I think with the 5 speed, on road performance would be even better. The third gen also offers quite a bit more power, although neither really have power to spare.

 

[yosh1975]

Thanks all for the input. Keep it coming.
I am leaning towards 3rd gen, mostly d/t engine. I am a little nervous with the 3.0 reputation.
There are a couple of 96 and 97s with under 150K and appear to be well maintained with little to no modification that I am in contact with.
We will see.
I have to start shoping suspension for my Tacoma, it should be getting a new frame soon d/t "technical bulletin".
Thanks

 

[p nut]

4th Gen pricing may be worth the "upgrade", especially if a family is involved. More room, more power, same MPG.

 

[bkg]

I've owned and built both the 2nd Gen and 3rd Gen.

I long for another 2nd Gen.. with major mods. I just prefer the look, interior and "weight" of the vehicle. Then again, if I ran across an 01/02 Gen 3 Sport in beautiful shape, I'd be begging my wife permission...

 

[yosh1975]

It would be nice to have a 3rd row for kids and such.
I think 2nd gen may be most cost effective though.

 

[yosh1975]

So as far as 2nd gen, any words of advice?
I am looking at a 3.0 w/ manual.

 

[bkg]

So as far as 2nd gen, any words of advice?
I am looking at a 3.0 w/ manual.

Tons....
Make sure the HG's were done under warranty.
Make sure the steering rod was replaced under recall.
only get the SR5. Stay away from limited (hard to get with manual) as the leather quality is poor. The non SR5 models have crappy seats
Bring a magnet and check for rust - especially under wheel trim, upper/lower tailgate, below doors
Validate rear window works, including defrost, and that the track is in good working folks.
I personally hate the blue and brown interiors - gray only for me.
Get a 94 or 95. Adds 3rd brake light. 90-91 have rear tire carrier - look for rust at mounts
Look for rust on roof rack mounts.

 

[Arktikos]

^Great advice. Idler arm is somewhat of a weak link, so check that it's either been replaced or in good shape. A manual hub upgrade on the front axle would also be a nice find for a 4x4. So, the basic check for proper 4x4 function is advisable.

 

[yosh1975]

As if there weren't enough choices.
I just stumbled across another option, the 4th gen.
I see a few priced in my budget or at least close.
One that caught my eye is a 2004 with v8 ,good maintenance records, western life, 3rd row option.
I know it won't be the ultimate off road but my wife likes it and she's the banker!
Any thoughts?