Oil control valve

Should I be leery of buying a 2009 4 runner 4.0 V6 that needed to have the oil control valve changed. Car fax shows the oil changed faithfully every 6,000 miles.

 

Wow, never came across this topic before. Are you referring to a componen in the engine that controls oil pressure and flow through the engine? It seems this component would be integral with the oil pump?

Engine lubricating oil is Critical to all the main bearings, rod bearings and cylinder walls. Plus all the valve train components under the valve covers.
You certainly do not want to purchase a vehicle where the engine is on its last legs before "exploding".
I suppose this could be one of those circumstances where a shop is trying to create business for itself by exaggerating a potential issue with a truck they have in the shop. It could amount to nothing.

 

https://www.4runners.com/threads/oil-control-valve-filter.39668/#post-649885

 

So I took a chance and ended up buying the 2009 4runner for 11000 out the door. Just had it to my mechanic. They changed the transmission fluid and filter, engine coolant and tranaxle fluid and hooked up their computer to it. They didn't find anything wrong with the engine or anything. Where what a relief. I very seldom buy a vehicle without pre mechanic inspection. Next I am going to drain the oil and replace the oil filter. Is there anything else you all would recommend checking or doing? Ohhh and they replaced the cabin air filter as well. I am going to also check the voltage of the battery with my scanner.

 

Brake fluid, rear differential (might be already done), transfer case and front differential + make sure it shifts into 4H, 4L, locks the center if 4WD and any driveshaft joints with a grease gun if applicable.

 

Welcome to the fotum.

At 16 years old it may be difficult to determine what could/may fail based on the prior history of the vehicle. The best you can do is what you have already started and begin with a clean slate.