4th Gen Best Years for first time buyer???

I am going to purchase a 4th gen 4runner 4x4 in the next few weeks. I decided that I want to get the v6 (please dont hate on me). I know the v8 is a GREAT engine but I want to go with the v6 for the timing chain and the v6 will be plenty of power for my needs. Furthermore, the little extra mpg will be much appreciated. That being said, What years would you guys recommend? Please tell me why. Also, are there any years to avoid? Again, please tell me why..

Thank you all so very much.

TJ

 

Welcome aboard.

Avoid 03-04 years as some early v6 models had head gasket issues.

The body style is a little different between the 03-05 and the 06-09, so go with which you prefer in that regard. The grille, front bumper, fender flares, rear bumper, and tail lights are a little different between the 03-05 and 06-09.

 

That is helpful thank you!

 

Depends, I’d get as late as I could all else equal - emphasis on all else equal, which won’t really be the case.

2008, 2009 gets standard side airbags which I would want without the sunroof eating my headroom. My personal opinion naturally, but the struggle would be finding a 2008-2009 4Runner as they didn’t make/sell many and I’m sure folks are clinging to theirs.

Figure out what you will and won’t compromise on and line that up with what’s available. I was looking at 4th gen’s 1.5 years ago (V6 also for the better range/economy) but decided to spring for a much newer 5th gen instead.

 

A V6 fourth gen. 4Runner is about 240 lbs. lighter overall than a V8 (depending on trim) so the V8 isn't that big of a deal except for the sound. I'm biased, but if you can live without heated seats and a sunroof, I'd strongly recommend a '06-'09 SR5 V6 (non-Sport). SR5s came from the factory with good, ordinary Tokico struts and shocks -- no X-REAS. A V6 SR5 is the least expensive to own and maintain because of fewer things to fail.

 

Thank you very much. I appreciate the input you've given. Hopefully I can find something quicker than a year and a half. LOL

 

My advice is essentially the same as @icebear. I would add that I found a 2007 Sport V6 4WD that has been perfect for everything I have wanted to do over the 10 years I’ve owned it. Now at 269K miles.

 

2007-2009 are less likely to have head gasket leaks.

XREAS or no XREAS doesn't really matter when the vehicle is 16-18 years old - shocks would've needed replacement twice over.

 

06-09

 

288k on my v6, could not be more satisfied.

 

Check out this page detailing the specs and changes between all the 4th Gen years. I would try to get an 06-09 V8, but thats just me.
https://www.top4runners.com/runhist/index.html

 

The one without frame rust. There are fewer and fewer of these in good condition and fairly priced, so personally I wouldn't narrow it down by year (except agree to look past the head gasket years).

And I know you may have reasons for looking for a 4th gen specifically, but I've also noticed the used inventory for FJs has seemed to jump up recently (at least in my area, NC). So there are a few similar models out there to cross-shop.

 

I have one 08 sr5 245k miles. Not a single issue, running like a champ, not burning oil at all. Oil change every 5k, Transition oil, steering fluid and cooling fluid every 30k miles. Not a single rust spot, the paint is like new, garage kept.
Airlift bags, 36" light bar and rear view camera.
If you give me right price it is yours.

 

Whatever year you buy, make sure to look under the truck. The rust is very common and very dangerous on these

 

What is the price?

 

Among many other factors, year 05-09 had much better safety features than before with ABS, traction control, and better airbags. Depending on if you like 05 or 06-09 looks better, there isn’t much of a difference. In 06 onwards, the frame was slightly thicker/stronger and the airbags were automatically adjustable based on passenger weight, but they are practically the same through 05-09. In my opinion, go for 06-09 for best safety features.

 

It is in my post