Phisherman

My fiance and I are looking to buy my friend's '93 4Runner, but I'm not really sure about it yet. He bought it from another friend about 2 years ago, and hasn't driven it too much since then. The only reason the second friend decided to sell it was because he was offered $10k for it. It is a 2wd, V6 with app. 135,000 miles. During the last year a new 3.0 was put in but I'm not sure how many miles are on it. If the VIN # was searched to see about the headgasket recall, would they honor it if it's a new engine? The recall wasn't performed on the old one.

What should I look for? I know a few minor things it needs, but I've never checked out a car mechanically before buying it.

Thanks guys,
Jim

Forgot to add that I might be able to get it for under $3k. I'm pretty sure he thinks there is a lot wrong with it, but I think he doesn't know what he's talking about!

AznSky

Other than the normal stuff, like rust, engine wear, body damage, look underneath to see if it's been off-roaded a lot.

My best advice would to be to find someone on the boards that's close to you, and maybe ask them if they could spare an hour or two to help you check it out.

amorphous

jim-

honestly - if you guys can strech your budget a bit....I'd go for a 3rd gen 4runner (96 and newer). I was seriously considering buying a 2nd gen....but in hindsight....I'm SO glad I jumped up and bought a 3rd gen. The v6's are a WORLD better, and they are much more mod-able! PLUS, the insurance was LESS money because they are safer trucks!
Check the blue book and Edmunds guides on the value as well.
also, be sure to think long and hard into IF you'll need 4wd.

And about the headgasket recall on a switched motor, I *highly* doubt they would honor that.

~aaron

Phisherman

Not only are we hindered by $$$ (I'm 20), but she wants a 2nd Gen., regardless of what I tell her. She thinks they look sporty. I don't want to get 4wd because she'll never use it, I'll be jealous, and I'll be the one that pays for something breaking. I'll probably check it out tonight and see what figures we can come up with.

Victor

I got my 2nd gen 3 years ago for $9200 and it is 4wd. At the time it had 125k or so miles. You should easily find a 94 or 95 for less than $8000.

Some points:

1. Make sure the truck has had the head gasket V06 program done (its free from toyota). Oops has new engine so this is moot. I doubt Toyota will do it if they detect that it is a new engine.
2. In wet climates the rear tailgate can rust from water getting in past the seal on the window
3. The rear will sag no matter what on a stock 2nd gen. Plan on getting better springs
4. The 3.0 is underpowered so a 5 speed is a good idea
5. Look at the front CV joints. The boots may be torn. This is from the ADD system always turning them. Replacing them is quite easy. I'd invest in manual hubs to save wear and you get slightly better MPG for it too. With the hubs unlocked it is just like any 2wd 4runner. Wouldn't you like to try it offroad a little?
6. Enjoy the hell out of it

Hope this helps.