Happy New Year ! new member in GA looking to buy a used 4Runner!

Happy New year all!

Hoping to get some advise on buying a used 4Runner. We are new to the 4RUNNER FAMILY
We are currently looking at a 2012 4Runner Limited w 63K miles, single owner , w 3 minor accidents reported.
We took it for a test drive yesterday and loved it but have a few concerns the dealership is looking into.
I'd appreciate any advice.
1. The check engine light was on
2. The 4LO light was flashing
3. 3 minor accidents reported( we are tying to get more info on these)

Would we be better off looking for a newer year with more miles and a cleaner history ?
We realize it takes time and a great deal of searching to find a good deal on this AMAZING car!

Thank you in advance for any tips and advise.
Happy New Year BIGE 55

 

Yeah, sounds like that rig was thrashed with all that I’ve just read. I’d look for a 2016+ due to the upgraded engine. Don’t let mileage scare you off, with proper maintenance these things go out to 300-500k. Don’t go to a dealership, use Facebook Marketplace and alike. Welcome to the forum!

 

Thank you! I am apprehensive about the age and the warning lights going off!!
We shall continue our search.
Cheers

 

Welcome to the forum, If this was at a Toyota Dealership, That 4runner should have never been out to test drive with the issues you noted.

Makes one wonder if after someone showed some interest, They pulled it off the auction line in an attempt to possibly get it moved quicker than later.

Would make me look a little deeper at this dealer and motives.

 

Welcome. Your instincts are telling you to move on and you should listen to them.

 

welcome

 

1. CEL can be anything, if the dealer didn't bother fixing that before you saw it I don't think it's a good sign.
2. I assume you shifted into neutral when attempting 4LO? If you just turn the knob it'll flash until it's left in neutral to complete the shift.
3. Eh, if you have an idea of where it was I would just look for signs of shoddy repair work like mismatched paint, overspray, etc. That's all that was reported anyway so it may or may not be comprehensive. I don't think you'll be able to get much more info than what's there and the condition of the vehicle. If the issues are cleared up get a mechanic to inspect it prior to purchase but so far it's not looking terrific.

 

welcome

 

Welcome from Arizona!

 

Have your trusted mechanic take a look at it. If the price is right, it might be worth buying as long as the frame is not rusted out and the minor accidents doesn’t mean salvage title. Check the Carfax

Check engine lights can be a simple loose fuel cap, 4lo light could be an actuator seized.

 

Thank you for your info!
I thought the same about the CEL. Even if it’s at Carmax!
Thank you on to our searching!