Used 4Runners: Tips, Look Outs, Etc.

Hey all, my girlfriend is looking to buy a used late model 4Runner here in the coming months. If anyone has any lookouts, tips on them, or experiences that’d be helpful in our search for one, it’d be much appreciated! She likely won’t be going nuts with it, just leveling it and putting different tires and wheels; and it’ll be her daily driver.

 

I have a 2018 TRD Off Road. It’s loaded with everything that I could get when I bought it. It has 110k on it and never been in the shop. Still have the original brakes. Never had any lights on the dash show up. It’s been the best vehicle we have ever had. The gas mileage stays right at 18-19. It’s not the best riding vehicle but it’s not terrible by any means. Be prepared to pay good money for one, the resale value is incredible.

 

The 4.0 is turning out to be a very long lasting engine. The 5spd auto of our 2014 Trail Premium (rip) wasn't the best with towing (in and out of OD lock a lot (annoyances probably exacerbated by the aftermarket CAI)), but there was not any situation I was not totally trusting this vehicle. Got lost in NM with it, bombed thru TX panhandle on a 'shortcut', brought us places in comfort, and protected us from a drunk driver. I agree with the 18-19mpg with easy driving.

My oldest is getting to that age where she will be driving soon. A 5th Gen 4runner is 2nd from the top of our 'auto trans' list (4th Gen leads). Easy to work on, aftermarket is strong, and holds value.

 

I had a 16 that I rolled off-roading, daughter has a 19 and wife has a 15, best friends have a 16 and a few co-workers with 4R's.

Other than a lack of technology (some improvements with the 20+ models) and mediocre MPG at best we all have zero complaints.

 

Can't say enough good stuff about my '17 4Runner. It a better vehicle for probably 75% of what I need but can't do the 25% I need my Tundra for.
Highly recommend if you are in snow country to seek out the Limited model as it comes with Toyota's full time 4wd system different then 4Auto.
It also has 4Hi and 4Low still if needed. The ride and handling are great.

 

We just joined the 4Runner fam as well. Picked up a lightly used 2014 Limited (48k miles). We’ve only had it a few days but it’s been fantastic!

 

Our 20 TRD Off Road Premium is pretty sweet except the headlights suck and the front end nose dives when braking, other than that I love that thing.