what to check when buying a used car 2003 4runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a legendary offroader that has been with us for years. It first entered the The states market place in the '80s and has stuck by ever since. The 4Runner has a solid reputation for offroading and reliability.
Only, this doesn't hateful information technology's a perfect auto. So, before you lot buy i, it's best to know what some of the common issues are. In this commodity, nosotros'll talk near what y'all should await for in a used Toyota 4Runner.
What to await for in a used Toyota 4Runner?
If you're buying a used Toyota 4Runner, yous should expect for rust, transmission, and braking problems. Some of these bug are mutual in several generations, while others correspond to simply a specific year.
It's important to say that Toyotas are usually very dependable, just the 4Runner has faced some reliability problems.
The first-generation Toyota 4Runner entered the US market in 1984 with a barebones arroyo. It was basic, reliable, and rough. Driving this vehicle on the road wasn't a gratifying feel, that'south for certain.
Though it was underpowered, information technology was rough. The Toyota 4Runner tackled the most challenging terrain with ease and went for hundreds of thousands of miles.
Since near bought it used the 4Runner for difficult piece of work, it's hard to observe these earliest models in expert weather condition.
With the 2d generation, the Toyota 4Runner improved considerably. Aspects like suspension and braking went through upgrades, plus the interior was now less barren. Also, powerplants increased slightly in ability and reliability.
This generation went through some aesthetic upgrades and included an improved manual. But these improvements didn't save them from a bad reputation with regards to safety.
In the U.s., they weren't deemed as safe, ranking low in crash tests.
Toyota worked hard to meliorate on their rugged SUV with the 3rd generation. This Toyota 4Runner came with more powerful engines, an inline-iv cylinder, and a V6, with respectable operation.
Mechanical improvements included electronic locking rear differentials, airbags. Later on, Toyota added an improved automatic transmission.
Think of it equally a tractor wearing a suit. Withal, unfortunately, treatment wasn't the all-time. Yes, it had improved, simply other SUVs, more geared towards luxury, handled better.
The 3rd-generation 4Runner was a pop model. It saw some of the highest sales in history.
When the 4th generation came forth, the improvements were considerable. Toyota worked hard to improve on the chassis, and we'll explain why later. But, near interestingly, this version came with a 4.7L V8 engine that came with other, bigger Toyota SUVs.
Features included rear air suspension, a lockable differential, descent control, and commuter aids. With so many improvements, this was a pop option for run a risk seekers all over. Merely, underneath, this vehicle remained similar to previous models.
Information technology still included a solid beam and an old automated transmission. While these features make it peachy for offroading, it's non the best for everyday apply.
The fifth generation was a significant advocacy in aesthetic aspects. With its indigestible design, the 4Runner looked great. However, underneath, they dropped the V8 and stuck with the reliable but old 4.0L V6 and a 5-speed automatic transmission.
So, Toyota stuck to an equation for worked, for them. Only, this is as well something that owners need to await out for. With such few mechanical improvements over the years, a problem tin can persist. And that's what we'll cover in the following sections.
Mutual Toyota 4Runner issues
The Toyota 4Runner maintained several mechanical aspects throughout several generations. This situation translates to a carryover of some issues. Only, so, at that place's the engine, which is reliable just old.
Information technology's also important to highlight that the first two generations came into the marketplace decades ago. Equally a issue, almost older models are worn down, and finding one in practiced condition is very hard.
Adding to this, the 4Runner wasn't safe to drive, co-ordinate to authorities. So, unless you want a special project motorcar, ownership these every bit daily drivers is non advisable.
We will still include some of their issues in this article. But, we will mainly focus on afterward generations. And, we start with the most mutual problem the Toyota 4Runner has.
Rust Issues
The Toyota 4Runner has significant rust issues, and it's been consistent throughout the years. According to websites like Automobile Complaints, information technology's amongst the most frequent complaint in these vehicles.
Rust becomes noticeable at about 120,000 miles. Only, with corrosion, this is usually bad. So, while you might consider that this mileage is loftier, information technology means that information technology started many miles before.
This problem is common in fourth-generation 4Runners, peculiarly in models from 2003 to 2006.
Unfortunately, users have highlighted that they noticed the problem just afterwards a service. In fact, the problem was then common that Toyota had to consequence a recall to fix the affected vehicles.
Simply, at that place are still some out there with no treatment.
While there are protection methods, like specialized coating, it's difficult to fight dorsum rust once it has started. In addition, common fixes cost $1,800 or more than.
Automatic Manual Issues
While the 5-speed automatic manual is generally robust, it can present issues in one particular attribute. Many users highlighted that the 4Runner got stuck in one gear or wouldn't shift into drive. The well-nigh common symptom is rough shifting or a general loss of power.
Like we said before, this manual is standard beyond multiple generations, so this problem tin occur in 4Runners from 1990 up to 2016.
Unfortunately, the mileage isn't consistent. Some users reported having troubles at 45,000 miles while others at 150,000 miles.
The leading cause for this problem is either a solenoid or a throttle position sensor. Therefore, you should expect that latter to occur in the newer generations.
Toyota mechanics know about this event, and some go as far as recommending a complete manual overhaul. However, this isn't necessary in virtually cases, every bit replacing these faulty parts is plenty.
Airbag Recall
Toyota used airbags from a particular manufacturer, Takata, in the fifth generation 4Runner. This brand was problematic to a catastrophic point. The main symptom was concerning, as some airbags deployed without warning.
The company provided replacement airbags for several of the latest generation 4Runners. Merely the critical year was 2015. And so, yous must bank check whatsoever models that were produced in 2015, plus 2014 and 2013.
Toyota issued a think, merely non all owners took theirs to the dealership. If you're considering a 2015 Toyota 4Runner, y'all should have it mechanically checked for this issue. Ask for service records and all information regarding recalls.
Croaky or melted dashboards
This item problem affected the 2003 and 2004 vehicles specifically. In fact, according to Car Complaints, it's the most mutual outcome across all 4Runners. This twelvemonth saw 809 complaints, virtually of them centering around the interior.
In sunny areas, users reported melted, pasty, or cracked dashboards. Now, some people might consider this only an aesthetic issue, but information technology'south more severe than that. The damaged surface can lead to faulty airbag deployment.
As the company did with other problems, information technology recalled those afflicted vehicles and reimbursed others who had repaired the function.
Misfires and lack of power
Some users reported a lack of power, misfires, irregular fuel consumption, and poor performance. Years include the 1996-2002 models and 2011-2012.
The problem is a faulty mass airflow sensor. Fortunately, information technology isn't catastrophic. Replacing or cleaning the sensor will gear up users back at most $300. Simply, it's vital that you fix it, as losing power on the highway is dangerous.
Braking issues
2017 Toyota 4Runners accept had braking problems. These include locking, premature wear, and weakened stopping power. Some users in 2014 and 2015 models accept also reported these problems.
While there isn't a defined cause, nor has Toyota issued a recall, information technology's due to low-quality components like the master cylinder and rotors.
Since braking is so important, you should have a specialized mechanic go over the unabridged system.
Sagging
This problem is quite mutual with second-generation 4Runners. Back so, Toyota replaced the leaf spring arrangement to meliorate the ride and installed a whorl rear suspension. Only it proved weak in quality, causing most of the later on second-generation 4Runners to sag.
While these are older vehicles, if you buy one, check and install more robust aftermarket components. A sagging car tin atomic number 82 to instability and braking issues.
As we've seen, in that location are some of these problems that can be pretty serious. But, interestingly, the 4Runner is amongst the about reliable SUVs out there. So, what are some of the all-time models to buy?
We'll find out in the next department.
All-time Toyota 4runners to purchase used
Near all vehicles under the Toyota and Lexus brands hold upward their value quite well. In the 2020 iSeeCars written report, results showed that Toyota is one of the brands that depreciate the to the lowest degree.
Interestingly, the 4Runner is amongst those that hold value.
This study also looked to observe out which model is more probable to surpass the famed 200,000-mile marketplace. Once more, the 4Runner excelled, ranking as the best midsize SUV in this category.
Effectually four% of all of those on the streets surpass this achievement.
So, there are a lot of 4Runners out there that are reliable and worth a look. The models on this list are some of the better-used models out at that place.
Fifth-generation 2010-2013
These years offer a skilful residual between a lower price and fewer mechanical issues than other models amongst the 5th generation. Plus, as they are relatively new, you tin can nonetheless find some with decent mileage.
Fifth-generation 2017-2019
These are more expensive options, merely they have lower mileage, some depreciation, and you can find some of them in excellent conditions. Also, they are amidst the least problematic fifth-generation 4Runners.
4th-generation 2006-2008
As we saw before, 4Runners in these years have had corrosion issues. But they're also the but models with a V8.
And so, if you lot want a bigger engine, yous tin await for the later models, which included the upgraded 4.7L powerplant. Merely, once again, be sure to perform a rigorous check to find any rust bug.
These are some of the meliorate 4Runners to buy. But, equally with any used automobile, yous have to check all the problem aspects with care. Otherwise, yous might observe a lemon that will suck your finances dry.
So, to avoid that, let'south run across some of the worst Toyota 4Runners to purchase.
Worst Toyota 4runners to purchase used
Just every bit some generations are reliable, other 4Runners don't perform well. The master issue is rust, simply other problems might accumulate. The following list contains the near troublesome years and, it's best to avert them.
Whatever modified 4Runner
Unless you want a 4Runner to do some extreme offroading, modified vehicles volition come with a flurry of issues. They've been through some of the most challenging terrains and accept had to go out of it.
So, the transmission, differentials, and engine accept all suffered.
Buying modified vehicles also carries uncertainty. Since you do not know what the labor quality is behind them, information technology'southward a guessing game.
Add together to these rust problems, and you have the perfect recipe for a abysmal money pit.
4th-generation, 2004
I of the worst 4Runners out there is the 2004 model, which has the most complaints and issues.
This vehicle had rust issues, cracked dashboards, and transmission problems.
5th-generation, 2015
This model was plagued with airbag, braking, and interior issues. The 2015 4Runner was particularly bad. Though it might hold its value, it's best to avoid this year, every bit many of the issues involved recalls and significant repairs.
Commencement and second-generation models
At present, this point should deport an asterisk, and, well, it does. The showtime and second-generation 4Runners are basic. They practice not have basic safety features and can be pretty unstable in highway weather condition.
Plus, due to their age, some states might not permit them on the streets. And so, if you're looking for an older model for a daily driver, then the 4Runner isn't ideal.
Only, if you lot're looking for an exciting piece of 4×four history, then finding a well-maintained model is interesting.
Endmost thoughts
The Toyota 4Runner has been with us since 1984. Information technology'southward basic and rough. But, the primeval models might exist too primitive for everyday use.
It holds its value better than other brands and has first-class reliability and reputation. Then, it'southward a tempting option for a rugged 4×four. This article aims to answer all the questions y'all might have about buying a used Toyota 4Runner.
The principal issue is rust, and information technology has plagued the 4Runner since 1996 and up until the fifth generation. So, whichever model y'all're ownership, be sure to check it for signs of damage. Too, ask for service history and retrieve information.
The 4Runner has an excellent combination for offroading.
It comes with body-on-frame structure, a rugged manual, and a reliable engine. Merely, this means that the issues carry over through the generations.
Automatic transmissions have shown issues throughout the years, and so have them checked. Drive the 4Runner and feel the shifting, acceleration, and power. Any irregular beliefs should raise red flags.
Since the 4Runner is ideal for offroading, some of the models out there will have gone through tough times. So, any modified vehicle can carry excessive damage that is hard to detect. Ideally, you should avoid highly modified 4Runners.
If you lot're looking for a used four×4 that can bring you toughness and practicality, the 4Runner is an interesting selection. Hopefully, with this commodity, you have enough information to brand an educated decision.
Source: https://fourwheeltrends.com/what-to-look-for-in-a-used-toyota-4runner/#:~:text=If%20you're%20buying%20a,to%20just%20a%20specific%20year.
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