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New to 4 runners, need advice on purchasing one

Old 07-25-2005, 11:40 AM
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New to 4 runners, need advice on purchasing one

I've always wanted to get a 4runner and finally my chance has arrived. I'm interested in this one. I've had a carfax run on it and no problems showed up. It was at one time(4 years ago), a corporate business car(not lease).

I am planning on test driving it wednesday(7/27) and would like your advice for any issues that I should pay extra special attention for.


thanx
Old 07-25-2005, 11:48 AM
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That looks pretty nice. Miles are a bit steep for that year, but if it was maintained well, it will go for a long time. I would demand maintenance records, or at least viable proof. Since it's a dealer, they expect you to low-ball them, therefore the price is inflated. Talk them down.

One thing I REALLY like is that it has the rear-locker option. Since you are new, you may not understand how cool this is. It allows you to lock the rear diff while off-roading to gain superior traction (in a nutshell). Some people want a rear locker so bad they buy a donor vehicle and swap the entire differential assembly over to their rig from the donor vehicle - oh wait, that was me!

You can see the rear locker switch in this picture. It is to the left of the steering wheel and has "RR diff lock" written on it. It only works in 4L.


I would also like to note that the idle looks a bit high given the engine temp. That could mean something too. Be sure to have a used car inspection done by a mechanic you trust.

Last edited by rimpainter.com; 07-25-2005 at 11:50 AM.
Old 07-25-2005, 12:07 PM
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Looks like a good deal. Like he said above, the mileage is a little high..but it is a Toyota. Definately try and get it for less as it is a dealer. Great way to start.
Old 07-25-2005, 12:14 PM
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thanx for the info guys

what is the normal idle, around 750?

is the idle computer controlled or able to be manually adjusted?
Old 07-25-2005, 12:16 PM
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Yeah,the miles are a tad high but as they say on this board "it's a Toyota". Plus it's a Highlander (Sport package -SCOOP,the Limited's wheels,etc.) and the diff lock is a big bonus if you hit the trails but like Christian said get it inspected and have piece of mind you are getting a sound vehicle.

You did notice the scoop,right??
Old 07-25-2005, 12:37 PM
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Originally Posted by Mason Dixon
thanx for the info guys

what is the normal idle, around 750?

is the idle computer controlled or able to be manually adjusted?
It is computer controlled, but a dirty throttle body, the AC on, improper throttle cable adjustment, etc. could effect it. Just keep it in mind when you drive it. It should be around 750 or 800 if I am not mistaken.

Good luck!
Old 07-25-2005, 01:50 PM
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Looks like a nice find. I would get it checked out by your OWN mechanic. If they wont let you, forget it, they should be able to stand behind their cars. I really dont think that mileage is bad, the mileage and an inspection prove that its not a lemon. I bought my truck at 101k miles, I would have never bought it if the dealer didnt let my mechanic check it out. I really dont think the idle is too high, they probably took the picture right after they started it, or had the ac on, again, your mechanic can tell if somethings wrong. Good luck!
Old 07-25-2005, 03:36 PM
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Does the scoop help the performance or is it just for looks?
Old 07-25-2005, 03:46 PM
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Originally Posted by Mason Dixon
Does the scoop help the performance or is it just for looks?
Just for looks. But trying telling that to the ricer next to you at the stop light
Old 07-25-2005, 04:13 PM
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Very pretty. As everyone else has already said, get the maint records, and get it checked by your own mechanic.
The idle, assuming that the AC is off, should be 700-900. If it's too high, you'll get surging when you step on the brake, but it can be adjusted at the throttle body.
That rear locker is a huge selling point, no doubt about it. The hood scoop is pretty much just "make-pretty", but it does look neat. I'd get better tires for it, if it were me...BFG AT's, if I were choosing.
Good "entry" vehicle, and welcome to Toyota World! You'll love every second of it.
Old 07-25-2005, 06:03 PM
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Originally Posted by 2ToyGuy
If it's too high, you'll get surging when you step on the brake, but it can be adjusted at the throttle body.
You sure about this? The 5VZ-FE is computer controlled - I have never heard of an idle adjustment screw on this motor's TB. I could be wrong though...
Old 07-27-2005, 07:10 PM
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Just picked it up today.....totally love it, so glad i was still able to get it!!!!
Old 07-27-2005, 07:36 PM
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Sweet!!!! They rock!
Old 07-27-2005, 07:48 PM
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Originally Posted by <96 Runner>
You sure about this? The 5VZ-FE is computer controlled - I have never heard of an idle adjustment screw on this motor's TB. I could be wrong though...
I could be too. I frequently am. I know much more about my 22RE, so...
Check the manual, or the FSM. That'll let you know for sure.
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