I've been lurking around the yotatech forum for the past week trying to absorb as much information as I can. I'm looking to buy a 3rd generation 4runner as a second vehicle to get back and forth from work and give me something with offroad and adventure capability on the weekends.

Any advice you guys can provide on what to keep an eye out for as I'm checking over vehicles and even what preventative measures I should take when I get one, would be much appreciated!

My spending limit is $5,000 and I've found a few that meet the year mark in my price range. Obviously I'm looking for a 4x4 with the 3.4L V6. The headgasket problems with the 3vz and lack of power kind of turned me off of the 2nd gens.

So far I know the check for leaks, on the block and underneath as well as all the hoses, and the diffs.
Listen for knocking or valve chatter.
Look for oil in the antifreeze, air bubbles in the radiator.
Check for play in the steering, broken or damaged CV boots, gear slips, problems shifting into 4 wheel.
Check to see if they kept a maintenance record.
Look for rust on all the panels, firewall, underneath, exhaust.
Look for repair jobs, and check the Carfax.
Check the brakes for wear and leaks.
A/C, heat - now I'm getting into little stuff, but am I missing anything else major? For the price range I'm not expecting diamonds, but I want to make sure I get a solid platform to build off of. Eventually I want to swap out the engine and trans for re-manufactured, and do a couple of other tweaks.

 

i have one, my third third gen. only one to get! im doing engine swap see google darn motor swap... good luck and great for doggies too! ruff ruff