30k could be 2 years or more, so I don't think that is suspicious. I have sold cars and trucks in less time and with less miles.

 

he only had it for 19K, but who knows maybe the wife wanted something newer.

Anyhow, why not wait with buying a 4runner until you are done with school, this one has more miles than you own runner (according to you sig)

 

Here's a pic of the rust. What do you guys think?



The only reason I'm hesitant is the mileage because I want my next purchase to last me at least a few more years. I also would like to have a 5-speed. But I like the way the limiteds look and definitely like the locker.

Please give me some help. I know this would be a good deal even if I have to spend another $500 going to get it.

Thanks

 

From that picture, you really can't tell if it's surface rust or if it is starting to errode deeper into the frame. Obviously, if there is frame damage due to rust it would be a bad value to buy it at almost any price. It's rare that the kind of rust you're looking at is any more than surface, though. Rust would errode the quater panels and bumper much quicker than the frame or differential housing. How do those areas look? If rusted, then factor than into the equation for how much the vehicle is worth. If it's rusted really bad, it probably isn't the vehicle you're looking for, but as a college student I'd be much more interested in how it runs. If it's running good, and the rust is just cosmetic and mainly on the surface, use that to talk him down even more to get a better deal.

Ed

 

I agree with Ed, but rust is a big red flag in my book - even if it is superficial. You are putting yourself in a tough situation if you did have to turn and sell it (for whatever reason). Most people, whether they know anything about cars or not, will take a look under the rear bumper out of habit before buying a car. I don't know why, but every vehicle I have sold (and I have sold a lot) have always involved the prospective buyer looking under the rear bumper. It's the strangest thing, but smart.

At $7K with that mileage and rust, I might take a rain check.

 

it's just one pic, but to me, it looks like superficial rust. I would think that is normal for winter/snow areas. Out here in the west, it would be unusual.

I agree w/ Christian, it's certainly something to look into but the muffler and gas tank further down look very clean-- it *seems* like just superficial stuff at the rear- probably same at the front... def. check it out

what would concern me more is the high mileage and making sure all the maintence/timing belt/etc are up to snuff and the engine has good compression. Looks like a typical soccer-mom circuit 4Runner - looks clean

 

have you asked why he selling only after 20k miles of owning it? and why it has tundra wheels on it?
I'd do a car fax on that truck....

 

His wife drove it and now they are having another child so he got a minivan for her. It has Tundra wheels because he had two sets lying around.

I think I'm going to pass on this one. I'd rather have a 5-speed with less miles.

 

AgRunner06: giving up on your 2nd gen?!!

 

I think the Tundra wheels might be just an "upgrade" and that shouldn't be a major concern but it doesn't hurt to ask.

 

Yeah man, if you're in Texas (Lone Star) I'd avoid a northern truck. I grew up in Cleveland and know firsthand that the elements will tear a vehicle up faster than anything else, and contribute to maintenance issues sooner. Don't lose any sleep over that one.

Two things of note: My dad used to fly south to buy used vehicles for our family. We had more than a few cars (and trucks) from Texas, actually. Helped that he worked for an airline though. Also, I don't think rolling with 8 or 10k cash is that big of a deal, as long as you aren't wearing a sign or announcing it. Gives you a *little* more bargaining flexibility than a preprinted check. And someone mentioned packing - I'm pretty sure that was a joke - not a good idea across state lines especially if flying.

 

Here's the guys eBay auction if anyone is interested

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1997-...QQcmdZViewItem

He'll take $7K for it but won't go any lower.