New here, about to buy a 2001 looking for rust advice

Hello all, I am looking at a 2001 4runner on Monday and was hoping someone could help me out with deciding if the rust on it is too bad to risk. I will definitely poke around under when inspecting it but are the pics enough to tell if its worthwhile? It also has 174k miles and doesn't sound like lower ball joints have been done yet, would that have to be replaced right away or does it depend on wear?

 

As someone living in a snow belt who has seen his share of rusty vehicles that one looks pretty good based on the limited photos. Especially for a 19 year old vehicle.

 

For me...I would just go south and drive one back...but I live here (NC).

I would not buy that car. Rust just gets worse over time.

 

These vehicles frames are notorious for rusting from the inside out, just sayin.

 

depending on how much time you have..and how deep your pockets are, will pretty much point you in the direction of buying..or not.
Rust on many 2nd and 3rd gen 4 Runners, can be a problem..and it's a ongoing ordeal..the first generation Isuzu Troopers, (1984-1991) also had severe rust issues...especially the floors and FRAME...SO look it over..probe it. and decide...myself, I would probably pass on that ride...due to rust issues. Unless, you get a heck of an deal.....eventually, another 4runner will turn up.

 

Its not bad but its not good either. Rust removal on that scale requires power tools. Look through the holes on the frame, if you can see rust- avoid it. Unless its a low price I normally say save your money and buy something that wont be a guaranteed project from the start.