I'm still in search of a vehicle to use as a daily driver. I've found a 97 4runne with 180k miles. Everything is in great shape, except for a blown headgasket. I'm really thinking about picking it up ($2000) and having it repaired. The only downside is that I can't do any of the work myself. What should I expect to pay to have someone replace the headgasket (and anything else that I should have him do what he's in there)? Thanks!

 

Price sounds a little high to me for a non-driveable vehicle. It all depends on the extent of the blown HG, did the coolant mix with the oil? If so, it could need major engine work, especially if the coolant/oil mix stayed in the engine for very long. Only way to know the extent of the damage is to tear it down. Although an inspection scope might tell you alot. I'd at least plan on a valve job at that mileage. You might also have a cracked head. I wouldn't buy it for over $1000 myself, but thats just me.

 

I agree with mt. goat and i will add, even if it is JUST a head gasket with no other engine troubles, paying someone to do it is going to be outrageous. My guess would be over 2000 for labor (v-6 takes a long time)

 

For a headgasket repair, sometimes it is cheaper to buy a whole other engine and swap it out. One with less miles maybe. A lot of times the engines in Japan get swaped out after 30-35k miles. I know with Hondas they send them over here for swap outs. Here is a 5vz-fe for $750 110K miles on ebay. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Toyot...Q5fAccessories

 

I wasn't sure how big of a deal the head gaskets were, but if it's gonna run into that much money then that 4runner's not even an option. Thanks a lot!

 

I just had my headgasket done. I had the timing belt, water pump, and thermostat changed as well. All that with a cracked head it ran me $3500.