Buying a 4Runner for the first time. Help!

Hey everyone! So my dream car is a 4Runner, which I have the chance to buy now that I'm selling my Xterra. I live in the mountains in NC so it has to be 4WD, and an automatic. But I just wanted to get some HONEST opinions about the 4Runner and not what some dealers might try to get me to believe.

I'm looking at between a 1998-2002 under $7000. Is it true that you really only have to worry about changing the timing belt every 90,000 miles and getting the oil changed regularly for it to run forever? Please let me know any tips, tricks, things I should look out for! Thanks so much for any help you can give me.

 

Usually as long as they are maintained regularly, they last for quite a long time.

 

Looks like you are off to a good start and understanding on what you are buying or want to buy. The timing belt thing is true but I have had them in my shop at over 200k on a original t-belt. Now the good thing is if it dose go the engine will not hurt its self because it's what is called an non interference engine. So worst thing is it will just die on the side of the road and t-belt will need replaced and re timed.

Now as far as price wise you should be able to find a really nice 3rd Gen for that price. I would tell you too look WEST young lady and have it shipped. The area you live in is prone to rust issues. The best truck for what you are looking for is going to be a 99-00 Limited 4Runner with Mulit Mode and a Locker. I have one and I LOVE IT!!!! It's about the best of everything you can wish for. AWD and 4x4 in the same truck. With the rear locker its just icing on the cake. You can find clean ones for around 5500. That will leave you with money left over.

Blue

 

I definitely know about the rust in this area, we're known for our salt during the winter! I was planning on heading down the mountain where it snows a lot less. I've always heard having cars shipped was a scam so I've never considered going that route. Thank you so much for all your help! I really appreciate it!

 

If you get it shipped from CA it will run you about a grand or so. That is money well spent and not having to do the Maint. to fix all the rust issues. One way or another you will spend it at some point. See where I'm coming from.

Best of luck.

Blue