Hello all! I have always wanted a second gen 4 runner and am finally in a position where I can afford to get one. This will be a second vehicle for me, used for short commutes around my small town or very light off-roading, camping trips, etc.

I found a 95 that I am very interested in close by, but wanted to get opinions on the price, as well as any other advice that would suit me for when I look at it next week.

I have read varying opinions on the 3.0 6 cylinder, could anyone that owns one give me an honest rundown of its reliability and anything I should have my eye on for the mileage this vehicle is sitting at? I know everyone talks about the head gasket issue, which makes me nervous. From talking with the owner, the vehicle seems it has been very well maintained.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/835139714973095/

 

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/835139714973095/

 

The second gen 4Runner was one of the few times Toyotas didn't really progress the vehicle from the previous gen. imho
It was nicer on the inside with a bit more comfort, but the additional horsepower of the V6 was lost after all the weight was added.
But overall, the 3.0 3vze was a decent engine once Toyota got the gasket issue resolved.

The headgasket was never a strong suit for Toyota on any model. But most Toyotas went 100K+ before the headgasket would start showing signs, either leaking down the outside of the block (Camrys liked to do this) or blowing internally. The 3vze engine with the original head gaskets gaskets were blowing at 40K. Once they got replaced with the revised design/material they tended to last like all the others. The prospect of buying a 3vze today with original head gaskets seems highly unlikely.

The 5vze was a godsend when it hit the dealers. It immediately fixed all the underpower woes of the 3vze.
If i were to nit pick the 1996 and newer 5vze 4Runner it was the loss of a tailgate over the lift gate. i really liked the tailgate, and it served many purposes once you reached your destination.

I can't and won't, talk price. You just need to do your homework.
I will say that that you're looking to buy a 30ish year old vehicle. Be prepared to invest. If you can't do a lot of the work yourself the cost of repairs can become an issue if you need to hire out.
When out looking at one for sale, I'd focus hard on the stuff that is a nightmare to fix. Engines and transmissions are actually pretty easy. But undoing and repairing bad body work, serious frame and body rust, etc, is not easy. Or cheap. ( a mil gauge meter can be a worthy investment for uncovering hidden body issues)
I wouldn't look at 4Runners that have been heavily modified if it were me. The more stock the better.
And plan on getting factory repair manuals and factory EWD manual. Well worth the investment.

 

Congratulations on finding a second-gen 4Runner! Given the 3.0L V6's head gasket concerns, carefully inspect for coolant issues. Check maintenance records and overall condition. Ensure the frame is rust-free, and the 4WD system functions well.