I am considering buying a 4-runner.. most of the ones i've found are about 100-120k miles 2nd gen , and both 4cyl and v6.

what are some problems to look out for and is this a worthwhile buy?

what is the avg gas mileage on each, and what preventative maintenence should i ask about for a 4runner with about 100-120k miles on it.

Any advice about what to look out for when buying a 4-runner is much appreciated

Thanks,
Robert

 

do a search or go to the FAQ, that should answer most question you have about prepurchase points.

 

Timing belt (and water pump)been replaced?

Head gasket recall been taken care of?

Power steering pump leaking?

Rust, especially under areas hidden by plastic or chrome trim?

I have been happy with my '92 4runner since purchased at 75k miles. It gets about 12-14 MPG around town and 15-17 MPG on the highway. I would not recommend the 4cyl just because the 4runner is such a big truck and is underpowered with the 3.0V6 as it is. Let us know how your search is going and run some prices by the forum before buying. Good luck!

Scott

 

well for example lets say the timing belt wasnt replaced... what is the charge do do that, so i can have that taken off of the total price.. along with some other prices..


this is one im looking at:



Price $6200

Mileage 118000

Exterior Color Silver

Interior Color Grey


6 Cylinder

Automatic
4 wheel drive


"AS IS. V6-SR5 4x4, automatic transmission, cd player, air condition, cruise control, power windows, power rear window, rear defrost, power steering, rear heater, supreme sound package, digital clock, power locks, tilt steering, brush guard, luggage rack, nerf bars, big tires, easy four wheel transition, abs brakes, and towing package."

opinions?

 

If this is his description of the rig, I would be a little worried about him starting the description with "AS IS".
Makes me think it may have some problems??

 

My timing belt and water pump cost about $700 less than a year ago. Take the VIN # and have the local dealer check it for the head gasket recall and any other major work. Also, run the VIN thru Carfax to check it's history. That seems like a reasonable price, but I am no expert. Also, what year is it?

 

its a 1994

 

What year is it (the 4Runner)? Be warned, the automatics are slugs compared to the 5spds. Costs for timing belts can run from $300 to $800, so shop around or do it yourself if you've got the time and tools. Gotta agree w/DrummerDave on the 'As is' comment.

 

2 things you should ALWAYS do when buying a vehicle:

1. Run a CARFAX on it

2. Have it checked out thoroughly by a mechanic

I third the "as-is" comment being a warning.

 

hey,
did you ever find a 4 runner ? do you plan on taking it off road ? where abouts ya from ? any plans on mods ?

 

Make sure you run a Carfax report at Carfax.com, this may cost $15-$20, but it might save you thousands. Nice lookin truck though, not bad for the $$$.

 

That one looks surprisingly level. Sits about stock so I'm assuming something has been done to the rear - airshocks? springs? I'm not crazy about the wheels but thats just me.

Personally I thought the auto 2nd gens were way underpowered. The 5 speed trucks won't amaze you with their speed but they keep up with traffic better. Things to look for on a 2nd gen:

1. Call a dealer with the VIN# and see if the V06 headgasket campaign has been performed
2. Check the rear tailgate closely for rust.
3. Have the auto tranny checked closely - there are a few guys who have had expensive repairs with those.
4. Check the front CV joints. Although not really expensive it can be a pain.

 

Check to see what kind of routine things he has done, and when. Like fluids, fuel filter, plugs and wires. It might not seem like much but it's better than having to spend the extra money and a Saturday afternoon taking care of them. AT 120,000 miles I have heard that the crank shaft seal should be replace as maintence. I have a friend who was losing alot of oild out of his 91 runner 3.0 due to that.

just my thoughts,
joe