I am a new 4Runner buyer. Found one to look at tomorrow. 1995, V6 with 96,000 miles. Trailer hitch. Extremely clean on outside. Have not seein inside yet, dealer was closed. I know the dealer and he keeps nice rigs. He wants $11,500. Seems high to me. It is auto trans (probably wife will insist on this) and fairly well loaded.

What should I watch out for??? I have been told that early Toyota V6 engines had trouble, but I don't know how long that lasted. One friend said only buy the 4 cyl. I do also know there were some head gasket problems, but Toyota fixes that.

Thoughts??? I'm really in the dark here and have never owned a Toyota.

Thanks, Dennis

95 and 96k miles ask for $11,500? You must live in CA. If me, I take it not more than $7,000. Since they asked $11,500, don't offer them $7,000 because they will laugh at you. Take your time, look around, don't rush. You can estimate value of the car at kbb: http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/kw.kc.rl2?kbb&;suv&&Toyota
I recommend you buy 96 or newer, 96+ inside look better.
http://auto.consumerguide.com/auto/used/reviews/full/index.cfm/id/2243
I think I don't answer your question but give you few idea.
http://www.carsurvey.org/model_Toyota_4Runner.html

That vehicle may be worth $8000 - $8500.

A '95 is the best year for a 3.0L V6, since they ironed all the bugs out of it by then. It is underpowered if you compare it with a '96 - '02 4Runner with the 3.4L V6. If you are on the borderline (which you seem to be) I would definitely seek out a '96 or later V6. It is a bigger vehicle and has quite a bit more power. Since they just changed models in 2003, there are alot of creampuff '96 and later 4Runners in lots. I would hold out for one of them. Don't get one that has been used off-road. There are too many available to settle for one that has hard usage.

we purchased a 95 4 runner and i have to say it's a fun vehicle.
it had a couple minor problems when i got it. they were needed front brakes bad. brake fluid looked original, flushed that out! they work
sweet now. powersteering leak, line was loose. it didnt have a trailer hitch, i thought that was good considering nobody towed with it.
its not 4wd also good point only because less to worry about. it has
130,000 miles and it runs like brand new. unbelievable....
i paid from private owner 5,500 loaded leather power win/locks/sunroof
original enkie rims.


good luck/keep looking

I bought my 97' with 145,000k on ebay for 6,800. so 11,500 is about right, dont worry about the look, remember, its how it runs, and how long you plan to keep it. I would ask for 10,000 even if i were you