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Buying first 4runner tomorrow, looking for tips

Discussion in '2nd Gen 4Runners (1990-1995)' started by childrenofthegrave, Dec 16, 2023.

  1. Dec 16, 2023 at 9:14 PM
    #1
    childrenofthegrave

    childrenofthegrave [OP] New Member

    Joined:
    Dec 16, 2023
    Member:
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    Hello everyone,
    I have long wanted a 4runner as a reliable method of getting around everyday. I am going to look and potentially purchase my first Toyota tomorrow and would like to know what to look out for and what questions I should be asking.
    Some preface, I am 19 years old currently attending fire academy, will be using the car to drive to school daily and work, with occasional backpacking trips. Probably will take the car up to the snow too, depending on capabilities.
    I don’t know much about cars, am not mechanically inclined, but I have constantly heard that these cars are reliable, easy to work on, and have parts everywhere.
    Here is a link to the car I’m eyeing:
    https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/d/mountain-view-162k-reliable-runner-sr5/7698452259.html
    Any advice/information would be much appreciated, I am pretty much a beginner when it comes to working on cars.
    I’ve linked some text messages between me and the owner to provide further info about the car.
    Thanks everyone for the help

    IMG_5100.png
     
  2. Dec 17, 2023 at 12:20 PM
    #2
    negusm

    negusm New Member

    Joined:
    Oct 22, 2019
    Member:
    #11745
    Messages:
    2,086
    Gender:
    Male
    Vehicle:
    2002 4Runner SR5 4WD
    I don't like the seller's hard sell.

    Regardless, I would never advise someone to buy a 25+ year old car if they require reliability. 3rd gen 4Runners are no exception.
     
    Last edited: Dec 17, 2023
    Well69 likes this.
  3. Dec 17, 2023 at 12:26 PM
    #3
    Well69

    Well69 New Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2022
    Member:
    #28550
    Messages:
    207
    Gender:
    Male
    Vehicle:
    2022 Limited 4Runner
    Buy this one.

    Or spend 3x the price for a newer one...

    I like the look/parts/mileage etc. it looks like a good deal and looks like the seller knows it's a good deal - because frankly it is.

    Used cars are a risk. This particular risk is best evaluated by a mechanic...

    At 19 $7500 might feel like a lot of money. You're in the ballpark and this looks solid to me.

    Now you have my two cents for what they're worth. Post pics after you buy it.
     

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