I am about to buy a 4runner for myself, and have decided on a 2003-2004 limited model. I have found a few, but I was wondering if anyone had any advice or comments. I test drove a '03 2WD V6 dark gray one today, which has 57000 miles. The asking price is 17900. I have also found about 4 within a 100 mile radius, 3 of them being V8 4WD models, with mileage ranging from 71000 to 99000. The price on those models is considerably lower (ranging from 12999 to 14900). There is also a v6 4WD model with 82k miles for 13500. I used to own a '90 4WD 4runner and loved it, so I really want another 4wd, but it's not the ultimate deciding factor. My question is... Why such a price difference in the 4WD models? Or is this dealer just wanting too much for the one I drove today? Anyone with opinions on what I should do?

 

I have seen a LTD 03 v8 for 13,750 (94K)
SPoRT 04 V8 14,900 (75K)
05 V6 14,000 (74K)

all 4X4 so....too much for the 2wd 03 you drove.

So I think a 03 or 04 Ltd should be found for 12-16K depend on miles...

 

Have you ever checked out edmunds.com?? It really helped me out during my recent search for a 4Runner. Go to the main page and click the "appraise your car" link in the Used Cars section. You'll have the option to tell it everything about the car you're considering including options, color, and mileage and it'll spit out the average true market value price in your area excluding document fees and taxes. I think it's an outstanding resource to give you a basic idea of what a used car is actually worth.

John

 

Have you tried CarMax or something like that?
I bought a used 2004 a few years ago. The good thing is they check them and you get a warranty for something like 30 days.
You may pay more but the guarantee and testing could be worth it.

I had a 92 4WD 5 speed and didn't use the 4WD that much and the maintenance for the 4WD parts was expensive.

So, I wanted a 2WD Auto and searched on Carmax for a month or so. I got a v8, auto, tow package, sun roof, cloth interior wi 26k miles. Well, well worth the wait.

 

If you do the maintenance yourself its very easy, and saves lots of money.

The 4.0 and 4.7's in the new 4Runner's are pretty bulletproof, so don't always go with the miles. To be honest I recommend a 4WD, because you WILL be kicking yourself for not having it when needed. The MPG difference between 4WD vs. 2WD and V8 vs. V6 has been debated about alot, but the main conclusion is that its all about that same.

 

I just went through this as well. I think you are spending too much for that 2wd. Decide what you want; in my case it was 03-05, v8, 4wd, >80K miles, $15K-$17K. Other than those requirements I was pretty flexible. I found that sites like Autotrader, Vehix, weren't reliable. Found a few nice rigs priced right, go to the dealer and "they had been sold, but we have this other crappier one that we'll make you a deal on." It's called bait and switch and it happened at a few places.

Then I called an auto broker and gave him a list of my requirements. Two days later he called me back with an 03 for me to look at; 03 4wd, v8, 74K priced at 14900. It was in perfect condition and I bought it no hassles, no negotiating, best auto buying experience ever. So my advice is to list your requirements, find a broker and let them do the work for you. I located the broker I used through a credit union (they often work hand in hand).