Hi, I am going to look at a 97 4runner this morning, 210k

are these pretty good units?

 

Used 4Runners can be tough as nails, but 210K is a lot of miles, even for one of those. Don't let them screw you on the price...and, if possible, get a Carfax report.

Kelly Blue book www.kbb.com is a good web-site to check out the approxomate value of used cars.

 

if it doesn't have decent maintenance records I would pass on something with that many miles.

 

They really are bullet proof. And those motors are really easy to work on and so is the rest of the truck. If you can get a steal on one, I wouldn't hesitate.

They had head gasket issues on early 97 models. See if you can get the VIN on it, call a Toyota dealership and check status of it. If it has been done, look for signs of it being bad again. Remove the oil cap and look for any milky build-up under it. See if the car smokes from teh tailpipe, etc.

 

I've always loved that style 4Runner.
210K miles is a lot of miles,though.

 

with 210k what is the asking price, check the underbody, if it came from a snow belt area it could have rust and corrosion issues

 

It has been in one family for 10 years (texas car) I am paying 3500$ and have the carfax report. will get the maintenance records also, It is a Limited, but the leather seats are showing wear.. will other years fit this, they are power seats...

 

I think seats from '96-2002 will fit. I had an '01 Sport Edition. I put over 180K miles on it. The only issue I had was a oxygen sensor, and a $30 evap solenoid and a blown fog light.

 

They are solid SUV's. But keep in mind MPG's will really break the bank.

 

My friend has one and got 270k miles on it, and he said he never have to put in anything other than maintanance.

 

These things are real solid, the engine AND the transmission are solid, to be honest, i feel its more reliable then a ls400. I absolutely love these, but gas mileage and rust kills my want to get one where i am in New York. For the condition and what i see, the price seems like a pretty solid deal.

 

I just bought my wife a 2002 and she loves it. Great vehicles IMO.

 

Also, my buddy has a 97 I believe with about 240k on it and all he has ever done is routine maintenence.

 

Last post I promise, haha. I just got rid of my Hummer H2 so for me the gas mileage is awesome for an SUV. Good luck with your purchase!

 

4Runner's are definitely very reliable cars. One of the shinning examples of how reliable Toyota's are, IMO. But at 210k it better be a super good deal, otherwise just look for a lower mileage one. I see some with around 150k or less that are selling at good prices. If they are well maintained (and the owner has proof) you shouldn't have any major issues with them.