So my GMC Yukon just rolled over 206,000 miles. Been a good truck but I’m out to replace it. I was thinking of the 1st generation 4Runner but after looking at a lot of them they are either in bad shape and overpriced or decent shape and overpriced. I will say I’m amazed at how they hold value. I found a 1997 that was clean, lifted, roof rack etc etc with 363000 miles on it. Still ran silky smooth. Says a lot about them. I’ve decided I didn’t need another project to work on so we decided to go ahead and get a newer model, 2012-2014 trail edition preferably. I’ve found a couple of good deals on some but after looking a little harder at them they are northern trucks with significant rust underneath. So the search continues.... Any of you guys that know 4Runners have any buying advice or things I need to look for or avoid?
Buy one. Thats all the advice ive got. Diff breather the rear if you do water crossings. Dont buy the 2wd.
They're solid vehicles. We really like ours. It won't have the same get-up/hp or towing power that the Yukon has, but it'll last forever and it retains value like you said. It'll be able to go places the Yukon couldn't touch, too.
I’ve missed out on a few adventures because of the Yukon’s lack of 4WD. So the 4WD is a must for sure.
Just know the vehicle is the cheapest part of owning a 4Runner. By the time you get through with adding all the accessories you will be so far in debt that you will never dig your way out.
When we first bought ours last year, I would snoop around the 4Runner forum, and some of the builds on there are pretty amazing. It highlights the point you're making about the vehicle being the cheapest part of ownership. I've resisted making modifications thus far, but there are things I'd like to do eventually.
I think I’d like to keep it fairly stock for the most part. (Famous last words.) Bigger tires, RTT with an annex, a badass LED light bar of course. I really don’t plan on doing any major off-roading. Just want a reliable, capable 4x4 that I can use for family adventures.
@RedEyedHog, you can use the site below to check for any service records that are available. All you need to do is sign up and put in the VIN of the vehicle. https://www.toyota.com/owners/parts-service/history
well, if you need to know how to disassemble the interior panels I can probably help with that. Had to take all of mine off to run the 2 meter antenna coax. After next week I can tell you how to take off the front bumper also.
Got one I’m supposed to pick up on Friday. Drove it last weekend but decided to think on it. It’s the best I’ve one I’ve found for the price. 2012 4WD SR5.
Have you done a once over underneath (of course you have). Some of those were specials from southeast Toyota complete with HP Bilsteins and offset wheels. Good deal if you can find one because most people don't even notice.