Buying 3rd gen

Hey guys.

I’m new to the 4Runner gang. I’m buying a 2000 SR5 with 160K miles and I was wondering what do I need to inspect? I’ve heard ball joints and frame. Anything else you guys know of to make sure I’m being intentional in my inspection? Thanks!

 

Radiator, valve cover gaskets, and signs of the pink milkshake. Welcome to the forum.

 

Things I would check:

All fluid colors: Coolant (pink milkshake), Oil, Transmission.

Make sure the AC works.

Make sure the 4 wheel drive works.

Check if rear seals leaking on the differential. Look at the backs of the brake drums for oil. People off-road these things, go through deep water, and the diff vents suck up water and blow out the axle seals.

Take a code reader and pull engine codes. Sellers will yank the light for the CEL.

Test drive the car. Going over bumps, does it feel tight? If not, then shocks/ball joints are probably needed.

Jack the front wheels up and check for play in the wheel.

Get a Carfax. I wouldn't touch any car north of Virginia or was in a major accident. Rust is no longer an option for me.

Pull the spare tire and look at the crumple zones front and back.

When was the last time the engine had timing belt?

Of course...whether any of these are deal breakers depends on the price and how far you've already fallen in love.

Remember, this is a 20 year old car. It's going to need something. Luckily 160k miles is not a ton. All that went bad by that time on mine was my radiator and an AF sensor in the exhaust.