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1990 4Runner V6 116k miles should I buy?

Discussion in '2nd Gen 4Runners (1990-1995)' started by bwise, May 8, 2025.

  1. May 8, 2025 at 5:16 AM
    #1
    bwise

    bwise [OP] New Member

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    Hi all new here. Recently stumbled across a 1990 model with the V6 with about 116k miles on it.

    I’m new to 4 runners so:
    - Would you look at it?
    - Other than frame rust and head gaskets what are the problems I should look at?
    - Is this thing too old?

    Asking around $8000 I hope to talk them down. This thing would probably be an off roading vehicle for me and only get driven once or twice a week on the weekends. I think it has a slight lift.

    What do you all think?
     
  2. May 8, 2025 at 6:07 AM
    #2
    Daddykool

    Daddykool Photography enthusiast

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    Not much info to go on. But if the truck is really nice enough to command a price like that, I certainly wouldn't beat it up off-roading it. I would treat that 35-year-old low-mileage truck gently and maintain its good condition, and get something else to off-road.
     
  3. May 8, 2025 at 6:26 AM
    #3
    Hungryhawk

    Hungryhawk New Member

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    A nice collectable if you like classics.
    Do you have garage space for it? Your insurance company will not value it that high. You can find a specialty auto insurance provider that you negotiate the value with and pay more to get more coverage representing your actual investment.
     
    icebear and Daddykool like this.
  4. May 8, 2025 at 6:36 AM
    #4
    Ironguy

    Ironguy Kind of New

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    New pine scent hanger, new sun shade
    Welcome from Arizona!
     
  5. May 8, 2025 at 7:37 AM
    #5
    bwise

    bwise [OP] New Member

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    I’m really not looking for a collectible. I just need something cheap for light off-roading to drive once or twice a week for the next two years
     
  6. May 11, 2025 at 8:54 AM
    #6
    trlhiker

    trlhiker Lazy Bum

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    Check for leaks and that all windows work. Take it to a mechanic if you don't trust yourself. Check all fluids to make sure they aren't old. How is the paint? Tires? Shocks?
     
  7. May 11, 2025 at 10:19 AM
    #7
    BS67

    BS67 8404 USMC Doc

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    Welcome
     
  8. May 11, 2025 at 10:46 AM
    #8
    icebear

    icebear Member

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    It’s a 35 year-old truck, all the usual used car purchases apply and whether you plan to tow it or drive it hours.
     
  9. May 11, 2025 at 3:21 PM
    #9
    Pentangler

    Pentangler Happy Member

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    Compression check...I think those V6's had a recall years ago. Good luck
     
    CygnusX-4 likes this.
  10. May 13, 2025 at 12:42 PM
    #10
    negusm

    negusm New Member

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    Do you wrench on cars? If you do not, this should be a hard pass for you. If you are excited to start wrenching on a project car, then all the above advice is very good.

    A 35 year old car is going to have stuff break all the time.
     
    icebear and Justthemechanic like this.
  11. May 13, 2025 at 12:48 PM
    #11
    Jennyjo14

    Jennyjo14 New Member

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    None
    Pictures please!
     
  12. May 13, 2025 at 8:34 PM
    #12
    bwise

    bwise [OP] New Member

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    Decided to pass on this one thanks all
     
    icebear likes this.
  13. May 13, 2025 at 8:37 PM
    #13
    CygnusX-4

    CygnusX-4 Member

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    You have chosen wisely.
     

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