Common 4Runner Problems

[ak20202020]

Hi Gurus

I am planning on buying a 98 4Runner with 45k miles with no record at all. What are the common problems that you think that i should ask for. Do you think i should take a chance with this or do you think i should choose Honda Passport or Nissan Pathfinder instead.

I would appreciate any suggestions.

[Brian R.]

A clean '98 4Runner is definitely the best of the bunch. I don't know of any common problems with that model.

Stay away from the Passport. Engine is questionable.

4Runners are very reliable if they have the scheduled maintenance done and not beat off-road. Since they have changed the model, there are alot of them available so don't settle for anything less than a cream-puff. Don't buy one that has been obviously used off-road. That is really hard use.

Get a mechanic you trust to look at it before you buy it. That will minimize the money you have to spend afterward. If he says it's good and it drives smoothly (both engine and transmission shifts), it is probably a good truck. Keep an eye out for smoke from the exhaust (both immediately after starting and while running), check engine lights, smooth shifting by transmission, quiet engine, quiet driving in general (particularly over bumps). Make sure all the accessories work.

[ak20202020]

Thanks a lot, Brian.
1. This 4Runner looks little ugly in the interior. I can see lots of McD's and BKs in there. It seems to have been used a lot. No maintenance record. The guy showed me a CarFax report but i begin to think the carfax is nearly useless.
But the outside and the engine, Transmission, Brakes, Tires look good.

2. There is another model priced same but this one is a 2000 4Runner with 75k miles on it. Very clean car though. New tires and new timing belt.

3. My Last option is Lexus RX300 - 83k - wornout tires/squeaky door. I can see about $1k repair upfront. But even with that i think it is a good deal.

Which of the three do you suggest i should consider.
I feel 2,3,1 is a good order.
Also, Any idea how far these 4Runners might go before i get a $500+ repairs on these cars.

These are all priced about the same

[Brian R.]

I would go with the 2000 4Runner, but the engine/transmission and chassis condition are the most important factors. The Lexus is alot smaller.