Timestamps Major issues Frame rust 00:54 Transmission fluid (Pink milkshake) 2:20 Radiator 3:36 Transmission dipstick 4:40 Valve cover oil leak 5:20 Timing belt 7:14 Lower ball joints 10:04 Rear-axle oil leak (differential breather) 11:36 Minor issues 14:20 Rotor warp 14:37 Tire balancing 16:29 Steering rack 18:05 Steering rack bushings 19:00 Antenna 19:42 Door checks 21:02 Rear suspension springs 22:03 Water leaks (Moon roof) 22:41 Water leak (Driver's door jam) 23:17 Driver's seat bolt rusted through 24:01 Gear shifter wobble 24:35 Clock not working 24:49 Dashboard lights not working 25:23 Faulty gas gauge 26:06 Rear differential locker button 27:58 Instrument panel lights 29:50 OBD2 port check for codes 30:18

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, WILL PIN YOU!

@Mike_44

3 жыл бұрын

Great idea. Thanks!

@El16100

3 жыл бұрын

Mines leaking from the valve cover.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

@@El16100 same lol. well it's a seap but no oil loss yet.

@larryhorton9534

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Ben-very thoughtful and helpful! This video is worth keeping around.

This is the most comprehensive 3rd gen buyers guide out there. Nice work!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks!!

@fhgwdads05

3 жыл бұрын

Agreed. Looking at 3rd gen 4runners right now, very happy to have come across this. I need 4x4 with a bit more than what a 3rd gen rav4 was gonna offer me, and the 3rd gen 4runner looks like it might be my ticket.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

It’s a nice vehicle!!

@fhgwdads05

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner it really looks that way, thanks for this awesome source of experience and knowledge. I'm gonna be rewatching a bit and taking notes!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching

i was just nodding my head checking off all the issues that mine has that you talked about lmao

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Lol fortunately, I haven’t had too many of these

@allyt2933

3 жыл бұрын

Same. I’m like. is this a sign to fix them. maybe.

Your video is great with the insert pics of what a bad part would look like. Most KZread videos are not as useful, detailed and clear as yours. Thank you.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Glad you like it!!

Great info! Just hit 345K on my 99 4runner. Still original drivetrain and runs like a top. Stay on top of regular maint. and be proactive with lower ball joints, radiator replacement and fluids. Use factory Toyota parts when time to replace stuff. These are great vehicles!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Yup!!

@michaelfinney3038

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the info, i just purchased a 2000 4runner with 300,000 on it and it runs great. glad to see I am on to something....

@anthonygiordano3991

Жыл бұрын

I’m looking at a ‘99 4Runner with 218K miles listed for $15,500. They replaced the timing belt, water pump and put a lift and new wheels/tires on it. You think that’s too high for that year/mileage? Not sure if it’s worth it or not.

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

Nope. Wait for market to turn around. 15k is cray cray

@anthonygiordano3991

Жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner - Cray Cray.. lol. I know, but this truck is super clean and checked out all clear by a local Toyota mechanic. They put a lot into it to make it look like new. So, I’m tempted but I’m holding off to see if I can get him to lower the price but we’ll see. Of course, now that I start shopping for a 4Runner.. they are priced crazy! 🙄

Most People posting these 'common problems' videos are just regurgitating things they have heard elsewhere. Cudos to you for posting this fantastic first hand information, about real experiences. This is the Best 'common problems' on You tube..

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

I’m doing the same haha. But I did encounter many of the issues. I surely hope no one has all these problems!!

Bro I’ve been so bored during quarantine. I actually found time to work on my 2000 Toyota 4Runner Limitied and I’m falling in love with this bad boy. Thanks for the informative video!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Awesome!

@galeaiken3841

2 жыл бұрын

Working on your 4Runner ? Must be time for brake pads lol. 97 325 k and a 99 225k both run drive perfectly and only basic maintenance fluid changes rotors and pads. Was tech in shop we hated 3rd gen 4Runners they never need anything but basic maintenance. Love both of mine till death do us part.

I’m vietnamese. I love Pho. Been thinking get a license plate “PHO RUNR”

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Lol I was thinking that same thing

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

It’s a Vietnamese noodle dish and I’m Vietnamese. Pho also sounds a 4 so phorunner. Lol

@spfconcept324

3 жыл бұрын

Oh.. that's pho king gud!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Lol

@Orod5694

3 жыл бұрын

Do it

I just picked up a center lock 01' 3rd gen and was able to get 1200 dollars off of the "firm" asking price using your guide as my reference, BY FAR the most extensive guide for anyone! Thanks PhoRunner!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

nice!! the seller will give me a thumbs down now lol :)

A year ago I watched this video and subbed to the channel. Fast forward to now, I just picked up a 2000 4runner 4x4 with a locking rear diff! Thank you so much for the information, it came in very handy when looking for a 4runner to buy. I had to have a '99/'00 body and it had to have the locking rear diff. It was well worth the wait, I bought it stock with receipts for timing belt, water pump, misc seals, and ball joints done 3k miles ago. I'm excited for my 1st 4x4 and all the time I'll spend with it. Thanks again!

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

It’s an amazing vehicle and happy exploring! I love mine for that reason alone lol

My 96 4Runner has 278k on it and I'm not gonna lie.....I haven't checked a single one of these lol. Runs great, but now you've inspired me to go through it once I get off work lol. Thank you sir!

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

Radiator and lbj are most critical!

Honestly one of the best buyers guides I’ve ever seen by far! Good work man

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

Thanks

Great video. I was lucky enough to purchase my parent's 3rd gen for a really good price. 80k miles only and their first brand new car. Helped me with some of the things wrong, starting to go bad with the car, or preventive things. Video was level 10,000 for sure!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Right on. welcome to the 3rd gen crew!

Lol I started laughing as you were re-inserting the trans dipstick and cut the scene. Not an easy task on a 3rd gen 😂

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

2 hand ordeal lol. For some reason mine is pretty easy to put in lol. But yeah I know the struggle

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

@CharlesTron108 lol. Use 2 hands and shove it in there

@dankoldenhoven4997

4 жыл бұрын

I don't have a transmission dipstick..... #5speedproblems

@jaxknet

4 жыл бұрын

I went and looked at a used 3rd gen today, and I had no idea. Felt like an idiot in front of the owner! Finally got it back in after a few minutes

@LiloUkulele

3 жыл бұрын

So true!!!!

PhoRunner and Timmy the Toolman are responsible for me owning three 3rd gen 4runner now: two 2x4 and one 4x4. My wife cannot understand why I like these old cars.

@PhoRunner

10 ай бұрын

Tell your wife I’m sorry

This video rocks! Thanks for such a comprehensive breakdown. I’ve definitely got some parts to watch now.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Cool yeah been gathering notes for a while for this video haha. Also reading constant problems on 3rd gen 4runner mafia group

Man I love this video. I sat and watched it in my 3rd Gen the whole time lol. Learned a lot and inspired me to fix a lot of things I slept on. Now I have a check list to work with for repairs and upgrades. Thank you!

Very informative, I learn a few things I didn’t know , this being my first 4 runner limited I will check some of the items you mentioned , I’m subscribed and look forward to all of your post !

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Good I could help!!

Great video man, keep it up This video should be saved in the 4Runner forum.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks. They have a nice write up on some of these! But a video is always better than reading!

Incredibly thorough and detailed buying guide. Thank you for taking the time to do this.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

No problem! Glad it is helping so many

This video is 🔥🔥🔥! Thanks for putting this together! About to go look at my (hopefully) new rig tomorrow morning and this gave me a lot to work with. Hopefully I won't find any problems.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Good luck my man.

To echo many others on here, thanks a million for posting this video. I began my 3rd Gen 4Runner search a few months ago and came across your video, and it helped a ton. I walked away from two of 4Runners because they had many of the issues you've mentioned on here. Finally found a '98 for which the owner had recently addressed these (and had done some nice upgrades as well). Very cool that you reply to everyone's comments on here as well. Thanks for sharing your knowledge! Look forward to seeing some of your other postings.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Nice! Glad I was able to help you in your search!!

Awesome video! Looking at 3rd gen 4runners and this is exactly what I need.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Nice!!

ive been searching for over 2 years for a decent runner in New England area and ive dug deep into what to look for but you taught me some new stuff to look for. great video man!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Glad you like it!

Excellent video. I like the fact that you include pictures of what to look for normal vs abnormal. Especially the strawberry shake. Glad I watched this video before buying a 3rd Gen vs having just purchased one with my fingers crossed and go through your check list.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

No problem man!! Glad it was helpful for you!

Just bought a 2000 Sr5 tonight and this video took a lot of stress out of it, thank you for providing so much information and showing what to look for!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

No problem !!

Great video! You seem to have a lot of knowledge, thanks for sharing it with us!

Awesome video! Thank you for the tips, I feel a lot more confident with my search 😁

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Awesome man!

Hell yes dude!! I'm looking for a project 4runner. I needed this

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Make sure that frame is good!!

@JohnGrit

4 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner thanks! Sell me yours??!?!😁

Hey man thanks so much for the info! I'm currently debating on buying one here soon and this was very helpful so I know what to keep an eye out for

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

No problem man. Glad I could help y’all out

just wanna say i bought a gen 3 4runner 2002 a couple days ago and i cant thank you enough for the maintence videos you make, also love the name of your channel

Thank you, I bought a 2wd and now I'm shopping for a 4wd. You really gave me a lot to look for thanks again, cheers 🍻

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Anytime!

I just looked a 01 today and I’m so glad I found this video before I decided to buy! Thank you!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Glad I could help and thanks for making those timestamps lol

Thank you for such a detailed video. Just picked one up this weekend and this was really helpful for me to determine if it was in good shape. Thanks!

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Nice!!!

Thanks for deep inspection run through, you did everyone a great service .

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

I problem!

I’m finally going to buy a 3rd gen 4Runner…thank you so much for all this information!!!

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Anytime!

Incredible man. Super great coverage and information. I walked away REAL fast from a 4runner I had my eye on, thanks for saving me several thousand dollars!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

No problem!! Glad I could help!

I loved how well you explained everything in your video. It has helped me to decide if I wanted to keep mine or not. Thank you 😊

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

You are so welcome!! It can become a money pit quick. It's only cheap to own if things are in great shape and if you can do some of the work yourself.

I've recently started looking at 3rd gens. This video is super informative and is definitely going to shape how I make my purchase! Thanks!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Great! Good luck finding a great truck!

Thanks for taking the time to post this informative video. I'm working on my sons gen 3 and no nothing about them I'm grateful for KZread and not having too learn by hard knocks.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

No prob

Wow this is really involved and helpful to owners of these greater vehicles! I will add one thing I noticed that’s common: the oil around the rear of the valve cover can also be the rear camshaft plugs. For those wondering, clean the engine of all oil with degreaser...use a plastic pool when rinsing:)..then put die in the oil and check for leaks back there with a UV flashlight and mirror

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the addition! Those are the ones you have to reseal with fipg? Half moons?

@toddjohnson8805

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner Nope. The passenger and driver heads are the same cast, just flipped...so they had to plug the back end where the opposite side camshaft sticks out...they plugged them with a sealed disk...they often leak and the rubber seal is attached to the disk when you purchase a new one...took me SO LONG to finally figure this out

GREAT JOB on all issues. My ‘97 has almost 310K (miles) and runs like a fine watch. Purchased it in ‘99 with 27K. Highly recommend

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Very nice. Good to know it’ll go 300 no problem hehe

Your videos are awesome! I'm going to look at a 2000 limited 4x4 in the morning. I feel so well prepared now. Thanks!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Nice man! Good luck. Make sure to check for a locker since limited models have those!

@henryesp9284

3 жыл бұрын

How it go?

Very informative and a lot of details THANK YOU ! Just “inherited” a 2000 4Runner and I can’t wait to get it going !

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Nice!

As a professional auto technician I approve of this video!

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

Thanks sir

Great channel! Just picked up a gen 3 and will be watching your vids!!! Thank you!

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Welcome lol

Your video was very informative and helpful. I'm looking to purchase a 2000 4 Runner this coming Sunday. Thanks for all the information

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

You are welcome. Good luck

GREAT video. Looking at a 2000 Limited 4X4 tonight, thank you SO much. You really know your stuff and it shows👍

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

Lol thanks. I had to fix all these issues haha

Dude, can you do more reviews like this on other vehicles? You are so detail oriented and very informative. I pho king love it!!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

I wish I knew more info about other vehicles lol

These older Toyotas were and are still solid, man! But, yeah, these days you just need to know what to look out for because a lot of these now have some sort of damage or defect going on because as time passes, so do people and material things.

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Love my yota! Wouldn’t trade her for a 5th gen unless it was free!!

Thank you for all your videos. Just bought 4runner and doing maintenance now. Your videos have been tremendously helpful! I appreciate your effort.

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

No problem bud

I bought one with 300k and my ball joint broke w the cv as well within a month of having it. I’m about to buy my second 3rd gen today thanks for the video!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

No problem! Hopefully everyone is safe!

I just bought mine 1999 sr5 3 weeks ago and i wish i saw this video sooner! thankfully i dont have any of these issues. Great video! Look forward to more.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the watch and glad you got a great runner for years to come!

@edkar7604

3 жыл бұрын

Dude I’m about to buy a manual supercharged ‘99 in a bidding war I hope I get lucky! 18 hours left!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Nice!! Gem!!

@Saint-Bedo

3 жыл бұрын

@@edkar7604 you end up getting it?

Thanks to this video you just saved me from buying a car that must have suffered from the milkshake issue, that the seller apparently tried to hide. Other than that, the car was in mint condition. Thank you! 🙏

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Glad it helped!! Keep searching!

It was a pleasure to watch. A lot of helpful advices. Thanks man!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Glad it helped!!

dude this is by far the best video I've come across. I just bought my first car (1994 4runner SR5) a few days ago and was looking for videos like this. Of course I only come across it AFTER I buy it XD.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Lol sorry! Maybe in the future!

96 SR5 rebuilt over here! Got her for free and she's been great!!! Arizona kept her whole life and she's my daily. ❤️ Had to do tires, timing belt kit, fuel pump (sedement from sitting), sealed that canister and swapped the PCV. She's been great and I love her so much!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Nice find!

Manny thanks for this clip. I learnt a lot from it. I will share with my Dad who is using it at the moment to know what to look up for around the vehicle.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Nice!

My man! Thanks so much, just learned a bunch of key info about my truck- gratitude!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Np!

Thanks a ton for taking the time to make this video! This is extremely helpful I’m glad I watched this before buying a 4runner. Super excited!

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

No worries at all! Didn’t think it’d be so popular so glad I could help! I made it because my brother was asking me to look for one for him hehe

@mikeypotts4732

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner Oh man you did a wonderful job. You're a great brother haha. While I'm replying I have a question if you don't mind answering. I'm debating whether to get 4wd or 2wd. Only reason I'd go with 2wd is less maintenance costs, but would it really be that much more to maintain a 4wd? All I can think of assuming nothing breaks is maintenance on transfer case. I know basically nothing though haha. Any input is appreciated. Thanks again!!

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Not much more at this age. Just transfer case fluid and front diff fluid. Those are cheap maintenance. Perhaps cv axle leaking but only happens if lifted. I would ONLY consider a 4wd for these trucks. It’ll hold its value for what you will pay and give you a lot more joy!. 2wd for $2000 or less maybe only but nope..

@mikeypotts4732

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner Sweet thank you so much! I would have thought there'd be more to it. That doesn't sound bad at all. I'll def go with 4wd then. I really appreciate the responses! If and when I end up snagging a 4wd I'll come back to share the treasure and thank you again! haha. Take care thanks again!

Awesome video, I’m so glad I got to see this before buying. Lots of good info.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!!

THANK YOU! I'm about to go look at one today, and this is so helpful! Much appreciated 🙏

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

No problem! How did it go?

ONe of the best 4runner videos. could not have asked for anything better. I just got a 4runner, I have only ever worked on GMC / Ford trucks and this is very informative.

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Welcome!!! Thanks for the compliment

So much detail. Awesome video my friend!

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

Thank you. That was exactly what I was looking for because I didn't know any of this information and without knowing I'm sure to get burned. I had already noticed some of them were sagging in the back but they don't have air shocks so I didn't know what the deal was. Thank you again. I wish more people would explain things that they may think is simple but someone else doesn't know anything about. Like putting the 4Runner into 4wheel drive, and the button on the shifter and the one on the dash that locks the rear. I know that they're there but I don't know how they work or when to work them.

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

No problem at all! There’s a little placard in the visor that shows all the 4wd stuff. Have a read!

Awesome video! Looking into buying one and these tips helped out a lot.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome

Nice, definitely a great video to watch before purchasing a 3rd gen. Clean ride man!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks

Thanks brother for the awesome informative video! I'm also looking for one and this video made me come up with an checklist 😂👍also after watching this video man.. so.. much work.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

it's not that bad! haha.

I didn’t see this until after I bought mine but I’m glad that you share this info. You’re the best!

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

No problem. Can still be used to look for common issues for current owners

@joegrist1108

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner I literally followed everything you said doing just that 😂

I'm actually glad I found this video because I'm currently interested in looking for a 2nd or 3rd gen 4runner

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

3rd gen for the win!!

Excellent 👌 educational video. Exceptionally good. Thanks for sharing your experience with the rest of the world.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

No problem. Just gathered that info and put it in one place :)

Thank you so much very good information I just bought my 4 runner it has almost 300 ,000 miles but it runs not perfect but fairly good you gave me some very useful info to work with

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Cool! Welcome!

I have a 3rd gen 4runner all I replaced is front end suspension Rack and pinion All belts Steering pump Valve cover gasket Spark plugs Wire for spark plugs Braking systems It runs like new! love my Toyota!

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Nice

@dmironyuk

2 ай бұрын

PCV valve?? That's a big one...

Very thorough. Going to look at one tomorrow.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Good luck!

Good work, man. I'm in Australia and have owned two 90 series Prados which are basically the same as your 3rd Gens bar the diesel engine in both of mine. You have pointed out all the weaknesses in particular the LBJs. In my opinion, these are the weakest component of the vehicles and can leave you, at best, stranded on the side of the road. The only issue that you didn't mention, that I found in both of my vehicles, is aftermarket suspension developing a slight lean to the driver's side. Easily fixed though, with a spacer in the rear coil. Keep up the good work!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

yes you are right about that lean!! I have a small spacer on the strut on the driver side.

Thanks, great video. I've got a 97 with 308000 kms. I think I'll keep it! Walking through the video and the truck, let me understand the actual condition of what I'm driving. Thanks again.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Cool!!

I have a 96 4runner changed radiator twice, also the steering rack. The bottom ball joint failed on me leaving my house, I was lucky. 4runners rock. Things start to fail the older the vehicle for sure. Awesome video.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Get some quality oem parts! It will last a long time hopefully!!!

I noticed this was posted two years ago. It would be interesting to talk best prices now as the market for these has skyrocketed. Overall great video. It was very helpful

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

7000-10000 is likely what you’ll be looking at now. I think all prices have inflated by 1000-2000$

Tremendously useful! I'm considering buying a high mileage 3rd gen, and this makes me feel much more confident before I take it to the dealership for a more thorough look.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Awesome. These are reliable trucks even with all that said so don’t be afraid of high mileage or anything like that.

@MarkRose1337

4 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner I'm looking at a 2001 with nearly 500k km. So about 310k miles. Seems middle aged for these things from what I can tell.

@BasicPremium

4 жыл бұрын

Subtegral mine is approaching 300,000 miles. My wife got it at 170,000 and the timing belt hasn’t been replaced since. I just changed the spark plugs and fuel filter to fix a misfire but do you think I should go ahead and get these things you listed done too?

Thanks Just got my 1st 4 runner This helped alot!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Excellent! Welcome to the 4runner crew!

Great video man! For Sale!! I'm the original owner of a 1996 Limited 4Runner, new/rebuilt OEM engine, 4WD. with lock, California, no rust, garaged since purchase. For Sale!!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Cool that’s a nice one

@dumbeezy5480

Жыл бұрын

how much

I had a 4Runner many many years ago. I’m now a widowed, great-grandma. I had to sell my CRV when, due to dr bills, I could no longer make the payments. Now that I am carless, I’ve been looking for another old 4Runner. Now I’m scared, after watching your video. Will you go with me, when I find one? LOL, I’m in NC 😉

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

I’ll be there in spirit or on your smartphone!!!

@thymenabottle2515

2 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner honey you better be watching for my contacting you lol.

Like he said look for for those major issues. My Runner was listed for $4,800. Rotor warp, shifter rattles, misfire code(i brought my obd2 reader to check it myself), valve cover leaks.. Bought it for $2,800 w/ a locker hehe.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Wow. Lucky

@3rdgenbestgen21

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner I know lol. I had a 1st gen Tacoma before my Runner so i knew exactly what to look for lol

Great video. I have a 99 SR5. Very true on the rotors being undersized especially for mountain driving.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah.. I didn’t feel safe before even with stock tires

Trying to find a 3rd gen manual for 6000 or less. Im almost gonna give up on manual because it is taking forever. Ill just get a 4wd automatic...... but thank you! this is a GREAT buyers guide. From now on, I will try to consider all of this and negotiate pricing.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Nice yes manuals are rare!!!

@Peytonwitt

3 жыл бұрын

PhoRunner Channel I have learned the hard way the past month.... I’m going to look for a 4500$ automatic with 200k

Thanks for posting this video - very inlightening. I was hoping to get a 4R but probably will not now.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Don’t let it scare you!!

Very informative just subscribed to channel. These 3rd gen 4runners are well built and bullet proof. I have an 02 4runner 2wd and looking for another 3rd gen but in 4wd as a project.🤙🏽

Thank you so much for putting this up!! Not only is this helpful for buyers, but it also can be used for new owners as well. I'm 22, and I'm saving up to buy my parents' 2002 4 Runner SR5 from them, which is currently at almost 250k miles and has had intensive use as our family car for a good 10 years of my life. (Which they have very kindly let me use as my first car.) I've been looking everywhere for major things to check on it since it's 18 years old, and now I know! :D

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Nice! Treat it well and you’ll get at least another 5-10 years from it.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

I also wasn’t sure what to name the video but I figure a buyers guide would be better and more searched :)

@RexofSteel

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner Thats the plan!! I want to make sure she at least makes the 300k - 400k mile mark before she dies. Won't complain if it's more. :)

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

The engine easily goes that long. Change out those ball joints lol

Lots of good info here. Thank-you

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Anytime!

While informative, thorough and for the most part spot on there are a few issues here and other items to check. Also there are options available to potential buyers. 1. Just because the engine is non-interference it doesn't mean you'll be "fine". Snapped belts commonly wipe out idlers, water pumps and I have even seen damaged camshafts and cam pulleys. Replacement of the cam and crank seals is also recommended. 2. Driveshafts are easily rebuilt if there are issues there so replacing the shaft is not necessary. A common upgrade in the community is to replace the male side of the driveshaft's U-joint with the Double Cardan from a 4Runner or Tacoma front driveshaft. I had this work done by a reputable driveshaft shop along with, balancing and replacing the remaining U-joint for around 350$ including the purchase of the pick a part front driveshaft. The only thing to remember is to flip the driveshaft around so the Double Cardan is at the differential side. This works great for people who run a lift or long travel setups. 3. The idea of using Tundra brake components is a novel and worthwhile solution for those with heavier duty needs but 4Runner brake issues are not due to undersized rotors. The most common issue is rotor warpage due to the pad "quenching" the rotor's heat in a particular area after coming to a stop resulting in rotor warpage. It is a function of both the rotor material and driving habits. There are ways to work around this by running different compound pads, using high carbon rotors or changing driving habits. 4. Steering wheel shake is more commonly related to tire balance, worn tie rod ends and/or ball joints (which you astutely mentioned as a weak point). 5. Valve covers are a very easy job. Great way to talk a seller down on price. Just remember to replace the spark plug tube seals and grommets at the same time. 6. Any 4Runner of this vintage is probably on its 2nd or 3rd power steering rack and if its not it will need one sooner than later. There are a number of aftermarket remanufactured units available much cheaper that use OEM parts and/or offer warranties similar if not better warranties than OE. This is a negotiating point, not a deal breaker if the rest of the vehicle is solid. 7. Any discussion of the rear axle should include information about the rear axle recalls that affected early model 3rd gens. There were a host of changes and a surprising number of early 3rd gens still run around without the recall being done. 8. There are a number of common manual transmission issues that should be looked for. Cracked Firewalls around the Clutch Master cylinder can be fixed in most cases with a trimmed T100 reinforcement plate (part # 55113-34010). The part is cheap, approximately 9$. Also popping out of gear is usually down to the shifter cup or the bushing at the bottom of the lever. Any clutch job should include replacing those at high mileage. For not much money the trans will feel like new. 9. Buyers should beware of sellers running oil based air filters (such as K&N). Oil deposits that get sucked through the filter and can attach to the heated wire in the airflow meter leading to improper airflow meter readings and poor engine performance.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the contribution!!

@jamesgoldner1126

3 жыл бұрын

What was the rear axle re call..i have something going on back there..i can't fond it neither can the dealers..can you let me in on this .

@toddjohnson8805

3 жыл бұрын

Wow this is really involved and helpful to owners of these greater vehicles! I will add one thing I noticed that’s common: the oil around the rear of the valve cover can also be the rear camshaft plugs. For those wondering, clean the engine of all oil with degreaser...use a plastic pool when rinsing:)..then put die in the oil and check for leaks back there with a UV flashlight and mirror

You were really thorough. Thanks for the great video!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. Glad I could help

Great guide. Just snagged a '99 Limited w/ e-locker this week. One-owner, mechanically flawless. It's gonna take me everywhere.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Nice!!!!!

@thatoneotherotherguy

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner It doesn't appear the radiator was ever replaced on mine, with 203k miles. I've now freaked myself out into thinking I'll blow a transmission tomorrow if I don't replace it.

Thanks for the video man! So much helpful info.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

No problem man!

Gonna check out a 2001 forerunner this weekend so this helps me know what to look at going in, Thanks!

@PhoRunner

2 жыл бұрын

Pho sure!

Great video. I’ve got a ‘99 limited w/270k that just recently has misfires. I’ve changed everything but the injectors. It’s one other thing to add to the list of common issues. It seems like a big job but it’s pretty simple if you can find injectors rebuilt cheap.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Hmm I know there’s a place in Cali that sells rebuilds for a reasonable price

The roof leaking can also be caused from the drain vent tubes being clogged up. Used weedeater line to clear them out and compressed air

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Nice tip

@tylerbaggett5058

3 жыл бұрын

@@PhoRunner thanks! Loved your video very thorough!

@judgegarry

11 ай бұрын

Be careful with the compressed air so you don't blow the connection apart

Fantastic video! Very thorough.

@PhoRunner

4 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

Thank you for sharing ! I wouldn’t have known to check those area. Keep up the good work. Mahalo! 🤙🏾

@PhoRunner

Жыл бұрын

Anytime!

Thank you! So incredibly helpful. We are looking at a 2001 (with 166k miles) and wondering if its worth the price... you have given us all the info on what to ask and look for. So grateful.

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Nice and good luck! I’m loving mine still!!

@rm617

3 жыл бұрын

How much

Thanks so much for your very informative video for people considering this vehicle. I think you deserve a "Scotty Kilmer Academy Award" in the 4Runner category!!!

@PhoRunner

3 жыл бұрын

Lol thanks. I love Toyota’s too!!!