hey guys, i finally graduated college and got a fulltime position. (i'm actually working as a chrysler engineer, but i won't stray from my yota!) so, i'm looking to to get another (newer) 4runner. this way, i can turn my current 1st gen into strictly an offroading truck and work on building it up cuz it won't be my daily driver. i can't go too crazy on prices (i've seen them up to $25,000) because i still have student loans and all. i don't want a 2nd gen, because i know the 3.4L is quite a bit more powerful than the 3.0L. i won't even consider a 4th gen, because they are hideous. (just for grins though, i test drove a brand new tacoma. they're friggin sweet, if you're wondering. too rich for my blood though). so, that leaves me with the 3rd gen 4runner. i found 2 similar trucks (even down to the color) in my area that are in my price range. one is a 98 sr5 (v6, auto, 4wd, fully loaded) with 97k miles for $9500. the other is the same truck with 136k miles for $10700. (obviously the first is better face value). blue book says these are good deals (both are at dealerships). what do you guys think?

also, is there anything with the 3.4L (with auto tranny) or the 3rd gen runners that i should specifically be looking for?

 

the first is a much better value, i guess an expected price from a dealer...the 2nd is outrageous...

any owners (not dealerships) with a 3rd gen for sale around you?

 

Look for warped rotors, blown rear axle seals, proof of maintenance/service, bad starter contacts (will click occasionally instead of start), worn steering rack bushings (the rack will move excessively if bad as you move the steering wheel back and forth), and all the other usual used-car stuff. I highly recommend having a mechanic check it out unless you know what you are doing.

And of course, run a CARFAX on it.