Rebuilding a 2021 4runner SR5 Premium

I haven't been posting any updates as there's wasn't much that were doing. However, the project has been completed for a few weeks now! We were able to the safety inspection and title work done mid November. From there it was tires and alignment. Wife picked Black Rhino Kelsos in 17x9 with a 33" Toyo AT3. Finally, we got the scratches in the driver door fixed last week. Now it's up to my wife if she wants any mods.

 

Looks good!

 

So, I'm curious, was it cost effective? Purchase price plus parts versus just buying a non-damaged example. Also considering the diminished value due to the reconstructed title. The times I've thought of doing this, it never added up, especially when you add in your labor.

 

I think is, but I know it's not for everyone. My wife and me have been rebuilding and driving Toyota trucks for 25 years.

The financing of wrecked vehicle is not easy. If you don't have the cash to buy the wreck and pay in full, you really can't go this route.

I don't add in my labor. I consider it a hobby, so if you don't enjoy working on cars, you won't enjoy rebuilding a wreck.

We drive our vehicles for 300,000 miles. The salvage title doesn't seem to bother buyers when we go to sell. The salvage title doesn't bother us at all.

If you think you can rebuild it then sell it or trade it in after a few years, you are going to be disappointed.

Those are the things I can quickly come up with.

 

Great job! Also, well said.

 

I agree with @koditten we don't count our time as "labor" it's not my job and we enjoy it. Father in law and Brother in law have way more experience with this process and it's a hobby of theirs as well.

I will say it was cheaper than buying a comparable non salvaged 4runner. But we don't plan on trading or selling it any time soon. It has 30k miles and is 3 years old. My wife's last car was a salvaged Hydunai Genesis that her father rebuilt and has been her commuter for the last 8 years. Still runs great too but she wanted something with more room.