2000 Toyota 4Runner buyers guide

[@paulpuljic5362]

First place to look for frame rust is the right rear box frame rail where it humps over the axle. The reason being is that the exhaust parallels the frame, and the heat from the exhaust warms up the box frame which creates condensation inside the frame. Rust starts on the inside of the frame then works outward.

[@mistermatsuda]

IMO the 3rd gen looks way better than the 4th although it's all subjective. Love that V8 though - 3rd gen definitely underpowered although very reliable.

[@jaymoar3561]

mistermatsuda it’s good enough. If you want a race car buy one. Imagine getting the 2.7

[@ZedZerps]

3rd gen all the way! They just need the supercharger for much needed power.

[@macariusfreestyle8521]

I have two 00' 4runner. It's power is decent but would say it is a bit underpowered. Everytime I go uphill with a 3.4 that thing struggles to get up. But I'm satisfied with its strond reliability.

[@jonasezequiel3298]

Not sure if you guys gives a shit but if you are stoned like me atm you can stream pretty much all the latest movies and series on InstaFlixxer. Have been binge watching with my gf for the last couple of weeks =)

[@jermainebaker6172]

@Jonas Ezequiel Yup, have been using instaflixxer for years myself =)

[@felixfelix3421]

This was a really great video. It was straight to the point and when you showed what all the buttons did inside the 4runner that was icing on the cake! Thank you

[@stewartxp2400]

That was a great price you got that for, especially for being the limited and 4WD.

[@HMNLT]

I agree, I havent found another one since.

[@techsavyy3182]

How much you got it for?

[@ibrahimadiallo7444]

@@techsavyy3182 $2700

[@dnationapocalypse]

@@ibrahimadiallo7444 ....😮

[@arislopes1924]

Yess that’s crazy we bought the same model the 00 limited 4wd with e locker same black color and 233k miles for $5k and thought it was a steal now for $2700 they gave it away lol But lucky for we live in Florida and so has the 4Runner for the past decade so rust wasn’t a issue but water & sun damage did their part on the paint job

[@u5T30]

check the rear axle seals for leaks and check for frame rust

[@HMNLT]

Yup, solid advice.

[@thomasburr9244]

hey man I got a package deal on a 97 and a 99 today both five-speed manuals one is so rusted out that it's only a parts vehicle but it has 400,000 mi and still runs like a beast LOL the other one has 160,000 mi and is not nearly as rusted I used your video as help before I went there and I got a really clean car with low miles and a parts vehicle to boot. Extremely happy

[@Nessal83]

Pretty sure that the OE ball joints do not have a grease nipple. Those are aftermarket and are trash and dangerous. Valve gasket leak is quite common on these and should be checked since it's very time consuming and all of the parts add up. Steering rack leaking is quite common and expensive to replace. Only go OEM. Aftermarket don't last. Steering reservoir screen should also be cleaned since it's almost guaranteed to be clogged with any mileage on them.

[@ding174]

Those 3rd gens were made in Japan. Bulletproof. 😁Except for the frame especially in the rust belt areas😬

[@HMNLT]

ding174 yes, Japanese engineering is in a league of its own.

[@jamesdean3606]

@@HMNLT except for the frame.

[@HMNLT]

@@jamesdean3606 lol

[@jamesdean3606]

@@HMNLT Today I'm buying a 2000 Limited 3rd gen with diff lock in mint condition with a brand new engine & tranny for $6,700, a little pricey but new engine/tranny makes the purchase worth it.

[@HMNLT]

@@jamesdean3606 that's a great deal provided you have proof of engine and trans and it's rust free

[@kf3en]

Here is a tip for you all, there is mud/dirt trapped behind all those plastic panels, and they may be hiding major body rust. I have just pulled all my panels off, except the mudflap. I think it looks pretty good, except for all the holes.

[@joelove1987]

Going to look at a 2000 4runner tomorrow 🤞. Thanks for just getting to the point about the specs of the vehicle without all the theatrics

[@khurramfakhar6281]

First video on 3rd Gen 4runner that is so much informative. Good effort 👍

[@PeterAzaah]

I love this car

[@nathanw4748]

I'm with you...best decision I've ever made

[@TheDopery]

awesome video man, very informative at the newbie level which is where im at! keep up the good work!

[@mattg8787]

Dont take advice from from someone whos only had a vehicle for 3 months this guy has no clue what hes talking about

[@tonyveliz6948]

I have a Jeep TJ and Prius to make up for the bad mileage.. looking to add a 2000 4Runner to the lineup 👍🏽

[@cjmixer99]

NIce video #hmnlt - I'm looking to pick up a 2002 Limited 4Runner, with 137k miles. Thanks for sharing the info on what to keep an eye out for. I will say, that it seems like 4Runners in Southern California sell for well above KBB value... At least the clean ones. I've test drove a couple, and the ones that sell at KBB value seem to be the high miles/dirty. Hope you're enjoying the 4th gen 4Runner! Looking forward to more of your videos.

[@brianc9036]

It's because you don't have all the rust and b.s. cars get in other parts of the country. Especially when a car is almost 20 years old.

[@johnaustin2276]

3rd gens are from 96 to 2001. I have a 97 limited and did all the things you mentioned.

[@Georvanovic]

96 to 2002

[@johnaustin2276]

@@Georvanovic just found that out a couple weeks ago so all this time I've been missing the 2002s on my pick a part app.

[@Georvanovic]

@@johnaustin2276 haha it happens man!

[@ashimoda9732]

Are these okay to purchase w/ high miles?

[@naboo3901]

@@ashimoda9732 Even though they are better built than pretty much ANYTHING on the road, you should still find one in nice condition. Nevertheless, both the 2.7 and 3.4 are indestructible - there's a 1999 SR5 4x4 with 610K on it near me - and it sold for $4500. So even if you don't like your high mileage 3rd gen, you can still get most of what you paid for

[@ZedZerps]

Original paint? looks darn good. My 2000 limited not so much. But I treat it like shit on the trails.

[@HMNLT]

Yup, all original. Except for the LBJs lol

[@nknasi]

just bought a 2000 sr5 4wd with 273k that i'm bringing back. it needs valve cover gaskets and both knock sensors (or the knock sensor harness). gotta remove the intake to get to those and the sensors are $200 each for oem. if you're gonna go that deep might as well get factory parts so you only have do it once.

[@jaysonsvisions5024]

Just saved me from buying a rusted out frame. Thanks sir.

[@thepitpatrol]

Best tip....if you find one buy it!

[@whocares4464]

I watched this eight months ago and now I finally have mine 😁 99 4runner two wheel drive. A grandma owner it and drove it 19 years it has 113,000 miles for $3500 I'm so happy with it. I still think I payed a little to much I wanted to pay $3000-3200 he was asking$3700 so he came off a little. It blew away all the other ones I was looking at and half the mileage so I jumped on it. Every works. I love Toyotas!

[@whocares4464]

I'm thinking about Goodyear wrangler's not sure since the tires are in really good shape

[@HMNLT]

First of all, Glad the video could help and that you found such a sweet deal. That car should last you a very long time and at 113k $3500 is a steal. Easily a $6500-7000 flip. If the tires are good leave em on, if you want a more aggressive look, good duratracs. 265/75:16

[@mikexlr8]

I bought by 2001 4Runner in October 2014 with 118k for only $ 4,200 and can confidently say it was the best auto purchase I’ve ever made from a value standpoint. The engine is bulletproof and the vehicle as a whole is very reliable. These are bargains even now in practically 2020. Parts on these are very reasonable for preventative maintenance. I’ve kept meticulous records of every maintenance & repairs I’ve done. I’ve had the 4Runner for 5 years now. Message me if you have any questions, I’m happy to try to help.

[@whocares4464]

Right on man I'm looking for a third gen right now I may have a few questions. I have several people looking I'm really wanting one of these. I love Toyotas

[@mikexlr8]

who cares I had a 370z before this and only sold the Z to focus on my plan of getting completely out of debt (Dave Ramsey method). My primary reason of choosing the 3rd gen 4Runner was due to their renown and proven reliability. The secondary reason was looks. I’ve always liked the look of the 3rd gen the best. I’ve owned vehicles from Acura, Nissan and even the new body style Tundra. I can say I like the 4Runner a lot! It’s suits my hobbies of camping, mountain biking and fishing. The only downside is gas but with the money you save on buying this truck cash vs. a car note, it greatly makes up for it.

[@bigmac22ify]

@@mikexlr8 you got many miles to go. I got 330k on mine I plan on keeping mine till 450k

[@mikexlr8]

bigmac22ify yup I’m planning on upgrading at 350 - 400k

[@myhealth-lifecoach5930]

Dirt Therapy Dave Ramsey method. Exactly what I’m doing. Looking for a used gen 3 now.

[@ChrichtonLeprechaun]

The rear locking differential SHOULD engage in 2H and 4H. If you had to put it in 4L to get it to engage, it wasn’t functioning properly. Sounds like the actuator needed to be rebuilt or replaced. Unfortunately, there are no milkshakes to let you know it’s bad or I’m sure you would have nailed it.

[@macariusfreestyle8521]

Whaaaaat!!?? How did you get this for $2,700, especially with a rear locker?!!! Wow...

[@HMNLT]

Shrewd negotiation!

[@hankgs]

Check the rear axle seals

[@Emoemmu]

2019, kinda nostalgic for being nearly the end of the world Y2K, not that 1999 BS new Years Eve practice rehearsal. If you only knew the chaos and financial hardship coming I think you would not be selling this beautiful machine. Now I haven't seen your gen 4, I could be mistaken not knowing what this sold for, and unsure of your affection to the new gen4, however, listing this today would start a bidding war for such clean, well preserved piece ofJapanese craftsmanship.

[@rondav41]

I am sticking with my 2000 limited, 271000, I looked at a 2008, very nice, I think the interior is a lot more attractive plus a 4.0 liter motor, with 221,000 mile.

[@brucecook6188]

third generation is entirely METAL the new ones have a lot of plastic, very expensive third is the best ever

[@rolldog82]

Toyota Tacoma 1st Gen has strawberry milkshake transmission problems you know, they have the same engine.

[@anthonygiordano3991]

This might be a longshot.. but this was one of the best videos I’ve seen and I’m considering buying one of these. But I have a few questions. Is there any way to contact you at all so I can get your opinion? I know it may not be possible.. but just thought I’d ask. You seem to know a lot about the 4Runner and I could use some good advice. Thanks.

[@77magnuss]

Multi magic with locker… nice. Don’t forget about looking for diff fluid leaking into wheel from worn out axle seals…

[@isaacfernandez4841]

I boight 2001 Limited like new with real 272 miles. I knew how good a 4x4 vehicule works after. Really happy so far. PD: finally knew the function of that button Over/Drive lol (:)

[@zschlecht08]

Very nice review, thanks. Find a 99 pretty much identical except no e-locker :( but only 128k miles one owner, for $5500. Don't like the lack of locker, but still very tempting. Any thoughts?

[@HMNLT]

Zachary Schlecht $5500 is a fair deal, but see if you can talk him down to $4700-4800. Cash talks, im a firm believer of if you have the money infront of them, they will take it.

[@zschlecht08]

@@HMNLT ya for sure. I messaged and they said there was a little wiggle room, not much. It's a dealer so that makes it a little tougher. Got some pics of underbody and it's a bit rusty too, hard to tell how bad though, I'm hard pressed to find one with no rust in southeast Michigan

[@HMNLT]

Zachary Schlecht I would not pull the trigger on something with rust. Keep looking, expand your search to 200 mile radius. Best cars are bought from owners, not dealers or wholesalers. I would hold off on the 128k mile one, it’s sounding far too good to be true.

[@fernandoban5050]

dis you fix the air condition buttons? where are the rear passenger vents for the ac?

[@jaymoar3561]

You don’t need to put the vehicle in 4low to lock the diff. It’ll work if it’s on 4high also.

[@jaymoar3561]

Michael Campbell I thought this vehicle had center diff, forgot the 2000 had the rear diff.

[@BanditBents]

@@jaymoar3561 Some 99 and 00 limited like this one have both center and rear lockers.

[@RigoStar1931]

Thanks for making the vid. You got a sub!

[@HMNLT]

Thank you!

[@chachacheng9380]

I love my 1999 Toyota 4 runner with Manuel transmission.

[@adriantrejo6696]

So do you pay Manuel with USD or Mexican pesos?

[@dnationapocalypse]

@@adriantrejo6696 ....Damn it!! 😒😂

[@ddemier]

In your guys opinion what is a green 3rd gen 4runner SR5 2wd with a new paint job and new timing belt and NGK spark plugs go for with 188,000 miles? I'm in the midwest no rust on the frame. It has a front black Safari grill guard and tail light guard and a touch screen radio in it . Very clean rig so let me know plz 1/16/22 I know prices are high during Covid times

[@giovannyrojas8010]

Also what would make the steering wheel hard and would make a wierd noise around the wheel ?

[@giovannyrojas8010]

What would make the locking door button switch doesnt work? On both sides but all window buttons and side mirrors work also just lock button not working on both sides what can it be??

[@franklinnovelo6456]

Thank you very much. You are very knowledgeable.

[@TheSaturnV]

Yo, some stole your fake wood grain from the dash and window switches. Thanks for going through and describing what all the buh-uns do.

[@ZedZerps]

LOL @ buh-uns!

[@uswr2848]

What screen is that on the 4runner

[@scotts4483]

Dude did you get your valve cover gaskets done, or did the bloke who bought it from you absorb that cost?

[@lawrencejames1856]

Oem ball joints dont gave grease fittings

[@shank28]

How much did you end up selling it for?

[@dominicbassis4462]

How much did you sell it for.

[@cianosorio9017]

Hey man I’m thinking about buying a 1999 4Runner for 2 owners 153k miles for $3400 what’s your take new belts headlights and spark plugs if I show up with cash how low can I buy it for?

[@HMNLT]

Cian Osorio depends on your location. I would take 3k with me and offer $2500 with reasons why. I.e i need to do these maintenance items.. tires, coolant flushed cause of known milkshake issue. And mention you brought the cash.

[@cianosorio9017]

HMNLT I live in the northern Utah area do you think it’d be wise to take it to a mechanic beforehand to get it checked out?

[@HMNLT]

Cian Osorio if you are somewhat mechanically savvy, theres is no need to hire a mechanic. Check the frame carefully. Check the coolant res tank, radiator, and transmission dipstick when engine is cold. If you find strawberry milkshake like fluid, run.

[@felipevalles8041]

Cian Osorio First thing to check is the rust,take your time,removing the 2 skid plates is a must,look inside the holes of the main frame that connects the rear long bars,I didn't inspect mine properly and now I have a huge problem with rust to the point that my runner is no longer safe to drive,most of the runner's frame rust from inside so what it looks fine outside is not so good from inside 😏trust me.

[@cianosorio9017]

FELIPE VALLES hey thanks man I ended up buying the 4Runner aside from a few minor repairs I love it I appreciate the input I’ll definitely need to take out the skid plates and check it out

[@elmer6ify]

Toyotas made in Japan run 4ever !!!!!!!!! I have mine 3rd gen 2001 4wd 295,000 miles on it same engine and transmission good machine ..... aso I do have the corolla 2003 ce version with 220,000 miles no problems im just got my first Nissan Sentra 2016 manual transmission will see how works

[@HMNLT]

elmer ostorga nissans are great also! Congrats and good luck with the new car!! 🚗

[@marklykens7450]

Where is the gen 4?

[@megaxboxx]

brother ! just bought one the exact same almost... but my windows are not working! not going up and down... what should I do?? i'd paypal you 50$ if you help me lol

[@HMNLT]

hmm hmm i would start with checking the fuses, if that is ok then move on to check your window regulator, behind the door panels.

[@genxiong2695]

Window regulator. Open the panel up

[@garymartin8619]

Mine done the same thing the wires in the door drivers wires broke it took bout a hour to repair good luck

[@courageous78]

The real question is...How much did you sell it for?

[@telegoose9905]

Exactly! Kinda left hanging...

[@HMNLT]

I sold it for $6000, I did not want to divulge too soon after the sale.

[@legambaz]

Please help me understand exactly why you love this car so much.

[@chadjarboe1665]

It is a Toyota thing you would understand obviously..Alofzico

[@HMNLT]

You need to drive one, you’ll understand immediately

[@Steve340]

They are incredibly reliable, ride good and awesome offroad

[@mitchboucher9991]

Thank you!

[@Adam_Newman]

Is the 3.4L good for 300000 maybe ?

[@OleBcy]

Adam Newman no, it’s good for 1,000,000+

[@naboo3901]

THere was a 99 SR5 4WD for sale with 615,200. It drove like a peach, and had the optional rear diff locker, which worked FLAWLESSLY. So yes

[@brauliogalvan8045]

Adam Newman definitely I got a 2wd sr5 same year with 340k miles and still running

[@veronicab.4200]

Mines at 293,000 miles...she's a beauty to!

[@emilioreyes9983]

La tercera generación tiene, el motor 3,400 V6 que un motor potente

[@rondav41]

I just checked toyota for climate control unit, $761.00. Refurbished are about 250 with the old unit returned to the refurbisher. Common problem with toyota's.

[@franciscoelideni1376]

Quanto custa um carro desse desse mesmo ano aí em seu paiz

[@j.a.8970]

I want one soooo bad.

[@HMNLT]

Been searching for another one, not many to be had left

[@rcx2699]

are repairs expensive?

[@HMNLT]

Typically no, unless you bring it to a dealer.

[@Brooklyn_Powers]

Repairs are only expensive if you don’t do them yourself...Buying a used vehicle, any make, will most likely need repairs. To what degree depends on how the vehicle was maintained by previous owners.

[@jaimeobando7933]

Why would you sell it??????

[@HMNLT]

Gotta keep growing the channel

[@lilramborambo4399]

Very nice😉👍

[@HMNLT]

Thank you 👍

[@lilramborambo4399]

@@HMNLT 😉👍🏆

[@JLeeChron]

Nice job

[@TheJosephReyes]

$2,700 in 2019? This is impossible today in 2024

[@thepitpatrol]

Buyers guide...if you can find one buy it.

[@666myname666]

1984 forerunner folks hhehe . Now we are talking.

[@GusgusA1]

too bad the limited was only auto

[@arislopes1924]

Who ever sold you this truck for 2700 with all those features & the rear axle l locker was DUMB We recently purchased this model same 00 4runner limited 4wd with e locker for $5k with 233k miles and my dad and i thought it was a steal considering the specs and condition now for $2700 they just have it away to you lol

[@HMNLT]

I bought this a while ago, you would never find this deal today

[@mohammadhosseinsadegh5304]

The car seems rusty I think that’s why you got it good deal and also you in different State

[@HMNLT]

A 4runner without rust is like a beach without sand

[@mohammadhosseinsadegh5304]

I didn’t even subscribe why would I waste my time here 😂

[@ToyotaNutjob]

@@mohammadhosseinsadegh5304 your cringe

[@Steve340]

You sold it way too cheap Awesome trucks Mine has 308,000 and still no problems

[@solidtron1965]

What oil do you use on your 4runner?

[@Steve340]

Castrol GTX 10/30

[@solidtron1965]

@@Steve340 That's actually what my old mechanic told me to start using. I definitely see a big difference in performance. I do not know much about cars, but I do know the basics. I have had people tell me synthetic oil can mess up the engine in this 4 runner, so they prefer to use just regular motor oil . I have high mileage. Is there any particular reason for this?

[@Steve340]

I heard good things a million years ago. And run it in everything except my 14 SS Camaro which takes synthetic. Every 3000 oil and filter. And timing belt set every 150. She has less wrong than the Camaro. Awesome vehicles

[@brandonknight7240]

96- 02

[@jaymoar3561]

Buy a car and put money in it to keep it for 2 months. We see how you’re good with money. NOT

[@mattg8787]

He has no clue what hes talking about

[@prestemon]

He bought it for 2700 and said in the comments he sold it for 6000 he might be better with money than you are giving credit lol

[@sebastianromero420]

Flipper