Things to look for...

Hi all.. I'm new to this site so for my first post I would like to ask about a potential purchase of a 1992 4 runner with a automatic. the car is in good shape (no dents or rust), but the owner said it needs a water pump. I know very little about these cars. what weak links should I be looking for? (engine, trans, electrical) Any advice would be a great help. Thanks!

 

If it's a V6, skip it. It's probably got a blown head gasket. They're known to go out on that motor and sometimes when they do it isn't catastrophic, just overheats a little and looks like a bad water pump or thermostat.

I'd stay away from the automatic trans in general, it's very reliable but gives new meaning to the term "slushbox". Sucks all your power and leaves you thinking your motor is gutless.