Best year and less problem 4runner?

What is the best year 4runner 4x4 with low manufacturer and parts problems and with great reliability?

 

3rd gens are really good in terms of reliability, not many problems that I'm aware of. 4th gens are more powerful and more comfortable but the maintenance costs can be higher. v6's have HG problems although some have gone over 300k without issue, and v8's have had manifold problems but many have high miles and no problems. all depends on your budget

 

only issues with 4th gens are the timing belts for the v8 and then the head gaskets on the v6. Otherwise they're fairly bulletproof as long as you check all 4wd operations before purchasing.

I dont have any knowledge on the previous or newer generations.

 

Beware of frame rust problems!

 

3rd gens are awesome i love mine. Never really have issues, cheap parts. I wish I had the front hubs of the 4th and up gens. Doing barrings and front up work sucks. But im going SAS soon so...yeah.

 

This frame rot and rust I feel is a bunch a BS. If it from a place that uses Salt in the winter it going to have issues if it is not cared for. If you buy a rig from the South West then you will not have Issues because of the dry air. Just look at what you are buying and if you are not sure have someone look at it who dose. I'm a fan of the 3rd Gens (I have two of them) The 4th Gen is also a solid set up for most people and having that v8 option is really nice in them. I wish my 3rd Gens have a V8 power plant just for the low end torque. I guess if I got crazy and really wanted a project I could drop a newer 5.7 in it but that is just so much work I'm not wanting to undertake.

Blue

 

2nd gen 3.0 V-6 bad engine. 3rd gen 3.4 V-6 good engine.