Prices are Changing! FJ Cruiser Prices Are Plunging! What Happened?!?

The car market has changed, Again! FJ Cruisers are worth much less than a year ago. What happened? Is now a good time to buy this 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser? ➡️ Don't forget to check out @MrsWizardsWays for great content on her channel.
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#carrepair #carwizard #carmechanic #autorepairshop #automobile #cars #car #toyota #toyotalife #fj #fjcruiser #toyotafjcruiser

[@bjornegan6421]

I keep seeing videos from content creators that vehicle prices are plummeting. I've spent an extreme amount of time looking at car prices in my area and the surrounding, and the prices are not plummeting. I'll add that most of the used vehicles in my area that are not over 200k miles have 'rebuilt' titles and are still going for premiums.

[@grazz7865]

Probably a sales pitch to get people into the dealerships. It’s like putting a price tag of $90,000 then the following day, a big ad “65% PRICE REDUCTION!” and suckers fall for it.

[@lander3673]

I've been looking on and off for a year. Last week we noticed prices falling in our area (i'm also in the midwest). They will fall soon for you. Goodluck

[@rohitnijhawan5281]

I do see inventories building up. Gas-only powered cars are definitely down by a lot Honda / Toyota Hybrids are now available. Prices are coming down slowly But keep in mind, every OEM went apenuts with their MSRPs. Even this year for no reason, Honda jacked up the MSRP on their CR-Vs.

[@sodakproud]

Interest rates on used cars are high AF. who wants a 20 year old car at 10%

[@grazz7865]

@@sodakproud they’re still trying to recoup all the money they lost during the plandemic

[@snethss]

It's a great vehicle, as long as you dont mind zero visibility in all directions. The every view is a blind spot.

[@anonymissed3611]

Hmmm

[@Mityob67]

Blind spots galore...lots of bobbing and weaving checking mirrors and blind spots to make sure you don't run anyone off the road. Challenging for experienced drivers, novice drivers need not apply.

[@learjet45]

Have had mine since 07, there are NO blindspots on the FJ..... learn how to position your mirrors.

[@Mityob67]

@learjet45 Glad you're doing well with it. The comment section will have its say I assure you.

[@TRJ2525]

It's not bad at all. Maybe that's a driver problem....

[@cspencer3421]

I have a 2007 just shy of 300,000 miles. My mechanic says he has a man come in for general maintenance on his FJ just shy of 500,000. Definitely the best running car I've ever bought in my life

[@hummervs3278]

100,000 miles behind you with my 07. My Hummer eats the hard abuse and the fj is good for when wifey tags along off road. Can’t imagine what I would replace this with.

[@randyandrebecca]

Love my 08. About to turn 500K miles. Basic maintenance....time for another set of tires

[@kennethrhodes7143]

2004-07 Land Cruisers are the Best Ever! @@hummervs3278

[@juki6377]

my gen 2 prius passed 500 before i sold it and i have about 300 on the previa. i find the previa thristy but i believe the fj is even thirstier. the previa has great vision angles too

[@scottboettcher]

Got an '07 with 200k. Got a '98 4Runner with 300k. Great vehicles.

[@SuperSnakePlissken]

Good thing I sold mine three years ago for $8,000 over what I paid for it nine years prior. Great video.

[@hubertdeyette5070]

Tks for sharing

[@glengarbera7367]

Wild.

[@taylorc2542]

The GX is a better truck and costs less.

[@darrenleaguecity]

Ssssssssnake Plisken!

[@Back_door_bandit_98]

It’s not hard to find a sucker that doesn’t know up from down.

[@billjanke72]

I bought my 2012 FJ Cruiser in March of 2019. I paid $21,800 out the door and it was on their lot for 292 days. This was right before the boom of craziness. Mine was a one owner with all the records and maintenance schedule. Lady traded it in for a 4 Runner TRD because she wanted a true 4 door so her dog could stick it's head out the window. Total coincidence I was driving down the road one day and a lady pulled up to me in a 4 Runner TRD Pro. She asked where I got the vehicle and I told her. She goes "That's my old FJ!!!" I asked her why she traded it in and she told em the same story the salesperson said. She said she loved it but she needed 4 doors. You guessed it.....hanging out the back window was her dog. 🤣🤣🤣 I have 136K miles on it and a month ago the original Panasonic battery finally gave up the ghost. Surprisingly the local Toyota dealership had the cheapest replacement battery for $130. Other than that I've done the routine maintenance and it's been an amazing vehicle. Yes, I will be the first to admit the blindspots in it are a real thing and it is what it is. You just have to have a lot of situational awareness when you merge or pull out of areas. I know people get crap for "backing into parking spaces", but with an FJ it's just the smartest option. I will be replacing the tires again soon and probably going a little more aggressive as my last tires were basically road only.

[@borine777]

I've owned mine for 10 years and it's the best, most reliable vehicle ever! I can't imagine ever getting rid of it.

[@mikeholt3545]

If you ever did need to just know it's a 4runner so pretty easy to get that reliability again

[@timpeterson2738]

Spend the money to maintain her then.

[@american_chevy616]

@@mikeholt3545nothing but hybrids and electric now.

[@seanjones2456]

I recently needed to buy a 3rd car. I was looking for an fj cruiser and a tundra. I did not have any luck and then something miraculous happened! A woman was selling her scion fr-s because she was having a baby. She bought it new and took great care of it. Needless to say, it is by far the funnest car i have ever owned! I lucked out.

[@williamkelly1519]

I have a 2007 Voodoo Blue 116k well maintained/ great condition...we live at the beach maybe 2k miles more or less a year. We have 4 cars (2 more Toyota's) so miles are for fun and cruising. No complaints driving this FJ. No problem w/visibility in my experience.

[@troyscherr5054]

I have a 2012 TTE with 80k on the clock and I can't remember ever thinking about selling it. Still in love with it!! I don't have issues with the complaints about blind spots. I took the headrests off the back seat to open up the view over my shoulder..

[@heywood76]

Bought a 2007 in 2018 at the bottom for $10k, sold it in 2021 for $16k. Even though it was a great profit, I kind of wish I’d kept it. Loved that thing, and I don’t know if I’ll ever find one as clean.

[@axetrops]

I wanna trade mine in for a 4Runner but this FJ is already considered a “collectible”

[@plus790]

They got completely unreasonable.

[@sv650rider]

@@axetrops 4th gen V8 4runners are very hard to find but the Lexus GX470 is very good. I love mine. Bought pre pandemic for about $11k and 150k miles. I have watched the prices get stupid high and come back down over the course of the last 3 years.

[@crimesguy]

@@sv650rider I wanted one of them real bad in 2022, but all the examples on the east coast seemed to have horrible frames or outrageous prices. I'm just gonna hold out for the 460 at this point.

[@classof85hipchic]

​@sv650rider I have a 2008 toyota 4runner 4.7 V8. I love it. But, I'd trade it for a FJ in a heartbeat. I just love the way the FJ Cruiser looks!

[@ShiftyKen08]

Its always so satisfying to watch your attention to detail and hear your explanations of what you're doing while you work. Everything about your videos is very much appreciated. Keep up the great work!

[@littlejoey6341]

I been buying cars for over 20 years trust me prices are not changing these greedy dealers are selling vehicles 2500-3500 over MMR STILL

[@rolandthethompsongunner64]

That’s it ? Even if they reduced vehicles by that much I wouldn’t touch one 😂

[@littlejoey6341]

@@rolandthethompsongunner64 I’m talking about cars being over priced at the auction now dealerships with new cars that’s a different story completely they are straight out gouging your eye balls out here in nj

[@TinyGoHomes]

I went with the h3 06 because I got a deal for a decent one black on black. Had it many years and it just blew 3-4 gears on the tranny and it’s waiting for a decision on whether or not I will just swap the whole engine and trans. I’m 15g Canadian all in. I got 5k set of 5 rims and tires with 5 inch spikes and I’ve changed a ton of parts, added Stareo and subs, custom painted h3x ram bar and top rack. I also have a camping set up inside. She is at the point where she will eat many more grand this summer to be back running potentially with a diesel. I’ve had this vehicle over 6 years now so she earned it. She always been a hard working head turner.

[@Idtelos]

Exception to the price decrease are the special editions (Trail Teams, TRD, TTUE, etc) of these FJs. low miles examples still demand a pretty high premium.

[@Spadookie]

Any low mileage 2010-2014 is still high also.

[@hummervs3278]

07 with under 200k, Locker, ATrack, roof rack, suspension bump w/arms& shocks, both bumpers swapped & basic lights. I still turn down offers of $25k. Why? Even with bad paint there is zero rust. Most of them out there are rust buckets and you can’t fix that. Then the posers who can’t even get in a truck without hurting themselves talk like experts so the masses follow. I say let the REAL future owners get them a couple bucks off so they can understand why real offroading people love them. My 07 fj can’t do everything my hummer can- but it does most of it and some things like sand it does better.

[@Lowbrass64]

I bought a 2012 Trail Teams FJ for $35k brand new. That was the most expensive version. 2014, last model year, was just a bit more. I regret selling mine in 2014 back to the dealer for $30k!

[@Jeremya74]

So you drove it for 2 yrs and lost 5k..not bad all

[@ETr4d3]

We still got them brand new for sale here in our market, but they cost 75-85k$. Its still the same car with just 1 change - cars got a rearview mirror with a rearview cam as standard option.

[@LaurentiusTriarius]

​@@ETr4d3oooof I still would probably buy it if I could 😂

[@JeepCherokeeful]

Unless you replaced it with a new one it obviously wasn’t the vehicle for you.

[@Partsforscooters1]

I had a 12 FJ TT too... it's one of the few cars I regret letting go. The Radiant Red was the best.

[@maddie46479]

Appreciate the time and effort you put into these videos! 👍

[@eastcoastmountainbiking6428]

I replaced the overhead lights in with leds, really helps to see in the cabin at night.

[@murasakii1996]

What LED’s did you use? Been looking for good options.

[@peterbilt63]

Bought my 2nd one two months ago. 2012 with 75k miles and manual transmission, no rust/good frame. Best vehicle I’ve ever owned. $22k ! I wouldn’t sell it for $30k

[@stanceswitch6419]

Wow that’s a fantastic deal! What color is it? Clean title? Any previous accidents?

[@peterbilt63]

@@stanceswitch6419Iceberg. Clean title and no accidents. He was asking $30k. I saw it wasn’t selling then the price was lowered to $26k. I offered $22k and he took it. Never thought I would get it for that price

[@EmDub215]

I just saw one advertising at the Toyota dealership for around 30 with the same mileage. The manual transmission would have been better.

[@peterbilt63]

@@EmDub215If mine wasn’t a manual I wouldn’t have bought it. I only wanted a manual. I was looking for over a year and this one was 2 miles from my house.

[@EmDub215]

@@peterbilt63I agree. The manual version is the way to go.

[@NickVTA]

I picked up a 2008 FJ Cruiser 283000 miles had tons of modifications to it lifted, aftermarket rims, roof rack, tablet type radio put into where the old radio was, brush guard, winch, cool air intake, aftermarket skid plate, rebuilt motor, for $14,500

[@duanephillips2343]

We have a school bus yellow 2008 with almost 90K. Bought it back in 2010. My wife drives it as her main vehicle and loves it. We added small concave mirrors to the main mirrors to help her with lane changes as she is small and the sigh lines are tough. It is not huge on cargo space and only takes high octane gas but we think it is cool and the rear doors don't bother us. Unique!

[@encinobalboa]

I have a 4Runner with the same 4 liter V-6 and it runs like a champ on regular gas. There is no pinging or knocking.

[@reed785M]

The blind spots are ridiculous and it has zero power with terrible fuel economy. It’s not a great off-roader and it’s not a good daily.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

@@reed785M Still won't blow up randomly like most American or European equivalents - which also get terrible fuel economy and aren't fast. Really any kind of car in this class is a stupid choice for a daily driver - but people love them because people are stupid.

[@reed785M]

@@Beer_Dad1975 lmao, yea all the American engines just blow up 😂 you Toyota fan boys are hilarious

[@kinguin7]

​@@reed785Mthe modern ones? A lot of them seem to (not to say companies including Toyota aren't having issues now, just that this model doesn't). Speaking as someone with a couple older American big blocks, a small block, and a straight 6 right now.

[@OGTripleTriple]

A former friend of mine had this car back in 2009. It was a good one, and I got to drive it a few times. Lots of room. The protein farts just never dispersed. They were permanent residents of that car.

[@murasakii1996]

I love mine! Traded it across for roughly $12k, 200k miles. Frame is spotless, has some battle scars from brush and lots of paint chips on the hood from a lot of highway mileage. But it’s been totally solid, only had to do a few interior plastic fixes. They are great vehicles, but they are very prone to transmission shudder. Keep that in mind when buying a high mileage example with spotty service records.

[@hummervs3278]

Its a simple fix. Usually maintenance related but worth fixing. A couple hundred dollars for a couple hundred thousand miles is no biggie

[@stephenjackman6163]

My wife loves hers, bought it NEW & YELLOW in 2007. @ 214,000 miles it’s an amazing SUV! Service 5,000 mile oil services, serpentine belt and tensioner, Transmission fluid change 3 times after 185,000 miles. 2 sets of brakes. 3rd set of tires, new Borla dual exhaust. Rear shocks, and rear differential carrier bearings, Gas tank support straps. One battery. Thats everything, It is in perfect, like new condition better than the back one in the shop.

[@johnbarnes6832]

On the subject of knee-knockers my grandfathers' '59 Pontiac Catalina wagon was lethal-I don't know how many times I had a knee strike as a kid.

[@LilYeshua]

I always wanted one. I'm a 35 year concrete truck veteran so as long as I got decent mirrors and big convex spot mirrors then I'm good

[@nicklanfear4303]

Ditto, I drive city bus so it's not bad lol

[@FinesseForward69]

Yah visibility is not at bad as people say. They just never drove work trucks

[@67FORDTRUCKF250]

Yep, not sure why more people dont have the convex blind spot mirrors.....they are a game changer.

[@ericwhittington4133]

I have a 2014 and love it. It’s my daily driver. I’m 6’1” and have never hit my knee on anything getting in or out lol.

[@hummervs3278]

2007 & same

[@garrettbreedon9691]

6’1” isn’t tall lol

[@lawsonorsak8380]

I'm 6'6" and the FJ fits me better then 99% of vehicles. No way anyone is hitting their knee on the dash with the seat pushed back lol@@garrettbreedon9691

[@piotrplewa1889]

​@@garrettbreedon9691 its like 13% of the population

[@keagenmccartha7412]

​@@piotrplewa1889 in other words... 25% of men. which means, not special

[@picklerix6162]

I remember seeing a new 2WD FJ Cruiser for approx $20k at the local Toyota dealership. I asked the salesman about the FJ and he said nobody wanted the 2WD version plus gas prices had spiked, so everybody was trying to buy smaller vehicles with much better MPG. I think that was in 2008.

[@jysmtl]

I owned one for almost ten years. One of the best, most fun, and certainly most versatile vehicles I’ve ever owned (and I’ve owned many). The visibility issues many commenters keep raising aren’t really a problem. More importantly, to the point of the video, I don’t see prices on these taking such a huge drop. The $60k examples he talks about were outliers, super low mileage of special edition models. You could always find very good examples in the $20-30k range he mentions here. But I agree with his conclusion - buy one, you’ll love it.

[@mrpowell1011]

Top of the line Truck, for the 2007 please check the frame for excessive rust. Some Toyotas used dana frames which are poor quality. I was heart broken seeing a FJ go to scrap for a rusty frame.

[@hummervs3278]

Rust is the biggest difference in resale on these and he never mentioned it here

[@songzhihua]

I think the current prices you showed are more of the prices these FJs normally go, holding its value pretty high. The 07 FJ in your video for around $10k is a 2D, not a 4x4. Here in Colorado, a decent condition 4x4 FJ goes quickly on the dealer's lot, usually within 4-5 days. I have an 08 base and just purchased a 2012 Trail Teams. Just sitting in my FJs gives me smiles - a good day every day.

[@hummervs3278]

EZ: You want a car for blacktop driving and bought an offroad vehicle. Ateast you admit you hated it- most people that do this are posers and act like they love it. I love my 07 but also own a hummer. When I want luxury I drove my Escalade. The fj is for offroad and cruises to offroading events. Amazing at what they are meant for-

[@rz5129]

got a 07 FJ with 112k miles for $15k in 2016. Sold it in 2022 for $25k with 130k after building it out. great car with zero issues but i couldn't stand getting 12 mpg with 305s

[@babyneon]

I use that hood prop tool all the time. Customers see it and say they need one. I always tell them "once you get it you need to tie a string to it attached in your engine bay so you don't lose it".tbwy always say "that's a good idea!" Then I say "or just replace the struts and not worry about losing a tool you never needed in the first place" literally had that same convo over a dozen times.

[@grazz7865]

Best tool I ever had was a jack from a 1974 Cadillac. If that thing can lift and hold a 7,000lb car, it will hold anything. I kept that jack from car to car over the years. Still in my trunk.

[@RobsNeighbor]

A few around here the rust is really getting to them here in Wisconsin. Love the content Wizard

[@flight2k5]

Rust gets everything

[@lawsonorsak8380]

If you don't do preventative maintenance to protect the underside of a vehicle then salt will destroy it, period. Go to any snow state and look under cars in parking lots and they will all be rusty if they aren't new. No idea how people in snow states still don't know to do this kind of simple preventative maintenance by now.

[@TRJ2525]

Love mine. 2007 voodoo blue with 60,000 miles. Got a steal on it. You just can't beat em

[@timleung9726]

Congrats! How much did you pay? I’m looking at friends ‘07 in yellow with 51k miles. Might do cash and trade my pool table.

[@hummervs3278]

Wow- no miles. Go drive it. Get on the trail and live life man! Same year and color btw.

[@hummervs3278]

timleung9726 That low miles is insane. Make sure its real not rolled back or crashed. Heck, if it was crashed somwhat if it was fixed right. Grab that sucker! Over 160k on my 07. Fun on street, better off road.

[@timleung9726]

@@hummervs3278 it’s the real deal! My friend selling it, is a retired steel worker and takes good care of his toys. It’s all yellow including the custom roof tack. Lyk if goes thru🤙🏽🤙🏽

[@chrisbondra2090]

Mine is a 2wd 2008. I removed the roof rack and installed the delete kit with new seals because water was getting in and i never used the rack. I also removed the factory nurf bars because i don't need them to get in. Otherwise it's stock all around and gets me where I need to be. These don't need to be lifted unless you enjoy off-road trails. Otherwise they make good daily drivers.

[@moriwaki1105]

Got one in UK....not a skweek or rattle....feels so well built....and love the 3 wipers. Lol.

[@jackfinucan9785]

Most people think production ended in 2014. Toyota quit selling to the USA market in 2014 but kept selling to the rest of the world until December 2022 especially in the Middle East.

[@VideoArchiveGuy]

Doesn't matter, it's not like you can import one of those to the U.S.

[@DerrickOil]

Wait 25 years. 😂​@@VideoArchiveGuy

[@timkinley1779]

Who thinks that? I don't know anyone who knows FJs, that doesn't know they were not still being produced.

[@alexa5a]

@@VideoArchiveGuyit guarantees that you’ll still be able to get new Toyota oem parts for quite a few years to come

[@RedEyedITguy]

@@VideoArchiveGuyyou can import it but registration and insurance are a different story

[@williamkelley7654]

Man you guys in the US are lucky. Here in Ontario, Canada you have to have working trailer brakes for anything over 1500lbs.

[@johnossendorf9979]

I had an 07 6 speed manual Fulltime 4WD. It might have had less HP than later years but it was the fastest and most fun vehicle I ever owned. Second was my 98 5 speed manual TRD Offroad Tacoma, third is my 2010 6 speed manual TRD Offroad Tacoma which I plan to drive till the end of time.

[@Wynorrific]

I've owned a 2011 Trail Teams manual for about 5 years now. Has 70k miles, had 42k when I bought it, and it's insane how much it has appreciated in value. Paid $23k for mine and a similarly modified one with 100k miles and an automatic sold for $56k on Bring-a-Trailer

[@linuxsux41]

Hey Wizard, always like you going over used cars that enter the affordable end of the used market, but one thing you bring up a lot is that you should always get a pre-purchase inspection. My local shop charges $150/Hr and not many people have the cash to drop inspecting multiple vehicles if their first one they look at turns out to be junk, I agree that a pre-purchase inspection is very important when buying a used car but do you have any suggestions for things you can check that would automatically turn you away from a vehicle that can be checked without sending it to a shop to be gone over? Would be great to know if you have a list of things that can be easily checked to see if a car is even worth the inspection.

[@richardmarshall6751]

Here's my rules: 1) don't buy from roadside used car dealers, try to buy from 1st or 2nd private party owners 2) Require full service records 3) buy from homes with nice landscaping.... they'll have the money to perform the necessary maintenance. Not a guarantee of an honest deal, but the odds tilt in your favor.

[@tennysonjames2969]

gotta find a shop that will do a free inspection. i have a shop that is local to me that will inspect vehicles for me no charge.

[@jongib6096]

FJ are always a solid buy 📈

[@stormcruiser2245]

I actually got my FJ not too long before this video came out. It's a 2007 with 270K, 6-speed manual, and in very good condition for the mileage. I got mine for $11,500. Thus far it has been an absolute joy to drive and own. I understand the grievances Y'all ended up having with yours, Mine is a tad bit different, and those differences negate some of those issues (mine sits about the same ride height as the one presented in the video, and it was also the really bright, voodoo blue so that center dash is a really bright so working in the dark isn't bad at all). It's got plenty of room for my stuff, I love the manual transmission, and it's got an aftermarket stereo system which is an additional bonus. in terms of maintenance, I've obviously been doing basic stuff like oil and filters, but I've been slowly replacing alot of suspension parts. This is not necessarily because stuff is breaking, it's mostly preemptive considering the mileage. I plan to own this vehicle for at least 10-20 years, so I'm going through and freshening it up so that it's starting off in a good spot. once I finish suspension stuff, I'm going to be looking at rebuilding the motor and transmission. Once again, mostly preemptive, however the clutch throwout assembly is starting to make some noise (classic FJ issue) so I'll be replacing that as well as the clutch when I get to the rebuild stage. I'm absolutely in love with my FJ, she's taken me on some great offroad adventures already and it's definitely a head turner, I get questions about it in parking lots and gas stations, which generally makes my day.

[@charminbaer2323]

New FJ in the horizon is what happened.

[@yelapa999]

My lovely Element totaled itself in 2017 to save my wife's life. And I coveted the FJ. Found the one I really wanted, used. Perfect. Just what I wanted in that lovely blue color they made. Jumped in. Hated the cockpit. Hated the engine-probably just the throttle mapping. Anyway, ended up with a GX460. But I still love to see these.

[@inspire6837]

Agree, was tractor-like. Went with a 2006 LR3 that's been trouble free 3+ years now. Closest thing to a reliable product JLR made 😂

[@Flies2FLL]

Your Element totaled "itself"? Did it go to a bar, get drunk, and then wreck itself while you were asleep in bed? 😉

[@rolandthethompsongunner64]

Yeah. Like s fat girl fun to ride until someone sees you with her. 😂

[@DaveGringo]

Would you buy another Element? I have been thinking about one myself. I know they are getting long in the tooth now. So finding a great example isn't so easy. I would also like to find a good example of a Buick Park Avenue while it's not too late. Which it already is getting to be... I have been driving the same 99 Camry 4cyl since 2000 with 357k miles on it now. No issues, never screwed me, still runs and drives amazingly well and QUIET inside! I am spoiled by it's reliability and low cost of ownership, maintenance and ease of doing most of the work myself. So I would only seek out other Uber reliable, easy to service vehicles like it!

[@sv650rider]

@@inspire6837 could have looked into a GX470. same trans and AWD Torsen diff system as the FJ but with the UZ series V8.

[@MrWhitey0817]

In regards to the brake controller, you've got some bad info. The FJ is rated to tow 5,000lbs. Trailer brakes are a must have. Toyota recommends having functional trailer brakes at anything over I believe 1600lbs on the 5th gen 4Runner, without researching, I'd say it's the same with the FJ.

[@questioner1596]

Also, brakes can make any towing safer. I had an 02 Elantra that was rated for 1300 lbs without brakes or 1800 lbs with. I bought a 6x10 trailer and had some very stable towing and excellent braking. It was great for moving furniture or my motorcycle without needing a van or truck the rest of the year.

[@Nothingtoya]

I can't believe anyone would not recommend trailer brakes for towing, regardless of the weight.

[@silvernoob1603]

if you are towing 5000lbs with this vehicle you are going to have a very miserable drive, the engine can barely power the vehicle just by itself

[@hummervs3278]

I had a coleman pop up that needed axle swap. One I got had brakes and it was impressive difference even though it weighed nothing. And that was towing with my 1 ton chev or my Hummer. This guy is juts recommending removing a brake controller. NV law is all trailers braked if 1,500 lbs or more. I towed a 3,200 lbs trailer once with my 07 fj without brake controller- guys truck broke down offroad. It handled the trailer just fine but if I did it once a year the brake controller is worth it. 10,000 lbs trailer with this - wth is he talking about?!? Probably not smart to drive from USA to Australia underwater also. Smh

[@paulstandaert5709]

I haul around small trailers with my Suzuki SX4. The owners manual explicitly states that the vehicle is not designed to tow anything, so don't do it. A lot of these owners manual statements are there just to cover their hind end against idiots who have no business driving a vehicle WITHOUT a trailer.

[@appalachianpatriot1796]

Just picked up a black 4runner with some sun damage on the roof. I’m considering painting or wrapping it white to match the FJ color scheme. Any thoughts?

[@teresaalford5978]

I bought my FJ in 2014 new paid 35K, it is in MINT CONDITION with 75K miles, I call her my pavement princess, I get offers frequently to sell it. NEVER BEEN IN THE SNOW, I have never spent any money other than regular maintenance . I WILL NEVER SELL IT, not my daily drive but gets shitty gas mileage to say the least!!!

[@elliottbutts153]

I’m surprised you don’t have yours anymore. Just figured you still had it.

[@murasakii1996]

Yeah, didn’t he say he bought it to keep for the long run?

[@elmayimbe5094]

Time to buy was like 4 years ago. They are all over here in San Diego. I probably see like 5 of them a day. Go try and buy a used one here and the prices are like when they were new for a nice looking, lower mileage example.

[@JSFGuy]

Right, never mind they love fuel.

[@DaLizMs]

Bought my 2014TTUE in 2014 with 9k km for 37kCAN

[@Roberto-de8xv]

I'm also in SD if I'm buying a used car I'm going out of state. Everything is more expensive here.

[@burntnougat5341]

Places like cars and bids and bring a trailer have made the Cali market for any sort of enthusiast fun car riduculous. Californians huff more than just Tesla electrical smoke

[@Bonanzaking]

@@Roberto-de8xvfor out of state your best bet in Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico. Any other states you gotta start worrying about rust whether from snow or flooding.

[@albetherechillin]

When doing brakes on these is it safe to push back the pistons without opening the bleeder or does that really damage the abs system? Please and thank you.

[@RickEstrada]

Oh jeez no joke I just started looking last week lol guess you reassured me to pull the trigger if I find a good deal 👍🏻 thanks so much

[@Crispychicken4u]

Always like the fj cruiser . Wish they never discontinued it and the Honda element . But one reason is it had horrible gas mileage

[@amazingjason455]

Every FJ Cruiser ever made still seems to be on the road. I see them all the time.

[@1996FordBronco]

They have horrendous issues with rust and rot. The rust usually takes them out before any mechanical issues arise in my area. You can pick them up for short money but have rust in New England

[@1996FordBronco]

Granted, they do salt the roads in my area

[@fritty9927]

@@1996FordBroncoI was about to say what cars don’t rust in North East 😂😂😂

[@42luke93]

@@1996FordBronco New England? This this like in Great Britain?

[@juliogonzo2718]

@@42luke93 oh boy...

[@johnshuler1396]

Mrs. Wizard alot of pickup trucks have a door on the dash. The ones I have seen are always in the middle of the dash. Usually, it is a handy place to charge and store your phone.

[@MissMercedes]

Hey Wizard! The FJ Cruiser has a 5,000 pound tow rating, great for small campers or fishing boats. Many states require trailer brakes at certain weights, often at 3,000 pounds. You also wouldn't want the tow vehicle brakes to handle all of that weight, anyway!

[@hummervs3278]

Nv law is 1,500 lbs requires all axles braked. That fj is owned by a poser. Remove trailer controller means they never tow a pup trailer even. No decent tires, no brush scratches, no rim impacts from rocks- They should have bought a minivan or something similar. Not a 4wd they never go offroading in. Read through the comments- many of us own these and are north of 6’ and never hit our knees.

[@leecarroll1817]

Saw lots of FJ 60 in Kuwait. They like em a lot.

[@jjoshhooperr]

what do you think of the 4th gen 4runner? more specifically the v8 one? I have a v6 currently and looking to get a v8 this summer for the all time awd rather than having to drive on a flat surface and switch the 4h.

[@thebigguy8306]

Thank you, Wizard and Mrs. I also love the late FJ Cruiser, great design despite small windows = and huge blackout spots. But AGE is known for rusting frame. Why Toyota or buyers did not treat/coat the undercarriage is amazing

[@ultrablue2]

The FJ is the last of a specific breed- a simple, no frills, off-road capable vehicle. Toyota reliability is a most important part. Every other 4x4 is full of tech that is expensive to purchase and expensive to repair or some sort of crossover or hybrid. If Toyota decides to make a new one, it will most certainly be a much more complex vehicle, and doubtful it will even be body on frame. If you want the last of the authentic, go anywhere vehicles that are cheap and easy to fix, now is the time while there is a lull in the market. I’m never selling mine, that’s for sure.

[@Vincent-ke5zn]

I'm not crazy about the color, I see a gray one at work and he takes good care of it

[@mentelatl]

A friend of mine owned one of those back in Colorado and the only complaint I had was about windshield replacement and how steep they are from the room down to the hood, not so aerodynamic.

[@avid6186]

We have a 2011 Right hand drive. The box in the top of the dash and the airbag are simply the mirror version of that one.

[@saabreplay7553]

Because it’s a safety issue I won’t let my customers (not) replace hood struts. If a customer tells me they don’t want new hood struts. I tell them to go to a different shop.

[@russelljacob7955]

An excellent policy. Are cheap parts and easy to do. Often not even something worth charging labour for. I sometimes fight more with wiper blades. So if a customer wont spend that easy service, then they will just be more trouble than business is worth on more urgent and pricey issues.

[@jeast417]

Prices have been over inflated for a few years now due to the overland fad and people thinking the fj cruiser was collectable. The market is correcting and im loving how many people are loosing sooo much $ bc they bought a 8 year old vehicle with 50k miles $10k+ over msrp

[@grazz7865]

I agree. The “computer chip shortage “ allowed them to over inflate prices as an excuse to make the money back they lost during the plandemic. I didn’t buy the BS. My wife and I have two cars that are getting up there in age but we decided to wait and just fix whatever needs fixing and maintain the cars as best as possible until prices are more reasonable

[@jaredgreen5840]

I've had my 09 for about 12 years now and it's been the best vehicle I've ever owned. It has it's quirks but I've learned to live with them and it kinda just makes me love it more. I've thought about trading it in for a 4Runner from time to time, but I always go back to thinking if I ever did I would eventually miss it and I wouldn't be able to find another one.

[@slide7132]

Thank you David

[@mattlimberg5763]

Over 3500 lbs in most states requires trailer brakes.

[@jimandersen3003]

6000 pounds in Ca.

[@crstewart90]

Just bought mine about a month and a half ago. We absolutely love it.

[@jacobwalker6092]

Thanks so much Mr. Wizard. Now FJ prices are rising thanks to this video!

[@scubajackw1348]

Do you have a link to the hood strut removal tool that you mentioned in the video? I did not see it on the Amazon affiliate link. Great video.

[@stymiesnerdly771]

I just wish Toyota had optioned the 4.7 V8 that was available in the 4Runner, Sequoia, etc of the time. The 4.0 is a little lacking at times, but I still love my FJ. Just about 200k miles and zero idiot lights on the dash.

[@scootypuffjr.]

Amen. I'd gladly do a timing belt job every 90k for the 4.7V8

[@ultrablue2]

Supercharging is your friend.

[@culio544]

I had a 4runner with the 4.7 v8 and man that engine is a gem. It's got great low tourqe and is a very smooth engine

[@daniels2761]

Or just get a GX and cooled seats 😏

[@nothingtoseaheardammit]

Bought my 08 FJ Cruiser brand new off the dealer lot. Its got 172k on it. It's rusting away underneath and will need to replace it with a new GX this year. Never really understood the value of them honestly. I bought mine fully loaded for $23k. I don't know how on earth you hit your knee on that silver piece. I'm 6'6" and have never, ever hit my knee on the dash throughout my almost 16 years of ownership.

[@evolutionj]

Cool factor wise the FJ takes the cake. Nice choice with going for a GX. The Gx will knock it out the ball park for ride quality and still have plenty of aftermarket support.

[@hummervs3278]

You sound like a guy who would use a Hummer to hit a volvo full of teenage girls. You know you would have kelt the fj if it could tow your m998 and wasn’t rusty.

[@lawsonorsak8380]

I mean how can you not see the value in a super capable 4x4 that has bulletproof reliability and didn't originally cost people the absurd 60K - 100K prices we see for 4x4's today? You add all that to the unique styling so it actually stands out (unlike 99% of other cars) and you have a collectable hit. Rust wise, that's on you brother. You can't live in a snow state and just not take any preventative measures for road salt. Hope you treat the GX better because I guarantee it will meet the same fake if you don't take care of the underneath/frame. Doesn't matter the make or model, all vehicles will die a slow rusty frame death when road salt is involved.

[@Frank-sf1wh]

I have always been fond of the 70s model Toyota cruiser, especially after installing a small block V-8.

[@jjuarez83]

Bought a LX470 last year at a decent price, but the LC/LX prices have also been dropping.

[@wicky383]

Bought my 2007 in 2011 for 10k, sold it 2022 for 11K. Only gripe I had was I had to run premium.

[@d47000]

Driving a car for a decade and selling it for more than you paid is awesome. Toyota resale value ftw.

[@grandwizard9088]

Had an 07 C-package I sold at 330k, never once got a tank of premium 😂

[@SuperSnakePlissken]

Never ran premium in mine either.

[@stanceswitch6419]

The earlier models required premium whereas the later ones with the updated engine did not.

[@flight2k5]

You don’t have to run premium

[@DSC800]

In California trailer brakes are required over 1500#.

[@ronschwolsky1626]

Really?! That's news to me. No biggie, got rid of my boat... still got the FJ and it looks way cleaner than that one - CA car.

[@rhphotocdn]

I luv hood struts but in -39C/-38.5F they don't work. Hard to open up the hood when the struts are in the frozen down position.

[@michaelcanning7934]

Car Wizard T Y for the FJ Cruiser. Do you know if it can be flat towed (TOAD) behind an RV without modification to the drive gear? Thanks in advance for your answer. Love your channel.

[@innertube205]

I have a ‘12 FJB Edition that just turned over 188,000 miles yesterday. Absolutely love it. No issues with visibility as it did not come with rear seat noggin rests. If you know how to use your mirrors, you will be fine.

[@dhones23]

Where did you get a Fu-k Joe Biden edition? That’s awesome.

[@innertube205]

@@dhones23 Thanks! Drove from NW West Virginia to Raleigh to pick it up back in November of ‘22! Best used vehicle I’ve ever owned! Thanks for asking! 😉

[@Brutus_Kennedy_Rutherford_III]

​@@dhones23I have the 2016 Convicted fraudster and civilly liable r*p*st edition myself. Makes a constant whining sound though.

[@alexmack956]

@@Brutus_Kennedy_Rutherford_IIII see you’re a vaccinated and brainwashed MSM watcher.

[@march24-lp4pv]

Make up some words old timer. Younger generations are sick of your warmongering trash.​@@Brutus_Kennedy_Rutherford_III

[@timothyharrison8953]

I almost bought one for my wife a few years ago. It looked very good, low mileage, but underneath was a rust heap, and needed a new frame.

[@bigwhiskey83]

Do you know if these would have better gas mileage than a 1998 Chevrolet Silverado pickup?Could I put a 6ft 3in fishing pole in one of these?

[@sunbeam8866]

Along with the knee-basher dash and controls that disappear in the dark, I always hated the rear styling on these, with those dumb suicide half-doors, and massive blind-spot pillars!

[@scootypuffjr.]

The FJ Cruiser is rated for 5000lb towing. You would be a damn fool to tow at capacity with no trailer brakes. 5k with a 3/4 ton truck and no trailer brakes no problem. My 2008 FJ Cruiser was $28k new. Its still worth $20k all day long with 120k miles.

[@davidbeckenbaugh9598]

I have to agree though the extra safety = peace of mind. I towed a 6k lb trailer for the longest time with my 06 Cummins 3/4 ton and had the trailer brakes installed. A 6k trailer with a 7k tow vehicle...... Probably OK, but i think most people would want that extra braking. And I think the wheelbase on the FJ is too short to be safe without the brakes on anything over 3.5k. All personal opinion, of course, and I think I agree (mostly) with the 5k on a 3/4 ton IF it is the diesel that weighs so much. Blessings. Good post.

[@scootypuffjr.]

@davidbeckenbaugh9598 I have a 2500HD also, and I don't pull anything without trailer brakes with the exception of a single axle golf cart/garden tractor trailer.

[@bryanbrowning5746]

@@scootypuffjr.the other benefit of a quality brake controller is that if you begin to sway, you can use the slider on the controller to lightly engage only the trailer brakes and get it straightened out again. Pulled a 7000 pound, 30 foot travel trailer with a 2015 Tundra that has a Tekonsha electronic controller installed. I’ve used the technique I described to deal with wind induced swaying.

[@scootypuffjr.]

@bryanbrowning5746 I've done that. If the tongue weight is correct for the trailer weight I've found sway is not really an issue though.

[@igglybiggly6951]

As good as these are,can get the GX470 with the smooth V8 and all the Lexus niceties for similar money

[@littlerayofsunshine69]

Those niceties become a royal pain in the ass when the electronics start degrading and you're paying a shop thousands of dollars for weeks of work to figure out why your power windows are making your headlights go out intermittently and your check engine light go on.

[@Anomic-mo9ji]

​@@littlerayofsunshine69 Have your mechanic pull the transmission wiring harness on the drivers side (the harness with the pull handle to unlock it). If there is transmission oil present in the harness that is the source of your wiring gremlins, the transmission fluid can migrate through the ECU to mess up other sensors in the GX470

[@russelljacob7955]

Some places and trailers require trailer brakes. All trailers in my province require them, be it electric or hydraulic on the hitch itself. Little open aluminium trailer for motorcycle? It has brakes. Most trailers sold have them. 1000 lb trailer? Probably has em.

[@earthling1984]

In 2021 my 2012 FJ with 81k miles on it was quoted around 30k trade in. Now, with less than 5k more miles on it, it is more around 22k trade in. I didn't sell it then, I won't sell it now (probably lol). If it happens to go up crazy in the future because I have low miles and great condition I might. But really I plan to just keep it forever. 5 years ago I bought a Civic for a daily driver. So I've only put about 5k miles on the FJ in the past 5 years. I only drive it to get groceries a couple times a month to keep it moving, or during bad weather.

[@LionRunner]

100%, I'm a big fan on 2010+ 4L V6 1GRFE. From what I heard its better than 5.7V8 Land Cruiser/Tundra or 4.6V8 GX460 engine.

[@RJ-hv6fr]

.....if you don't mind low power.

[@LionRunner]

@@RJ-hv6fr has more hp & torque than Mustang's 4.3L V8.

[@rolandthethompsongunner64]

😂

[@rolandthethompsongunner64]

@@LionRunner Yeah and ?😂

[@rolandthethompsongunner64]

@@LionRunner BS. The Mustang 4 cyl ecotech puts out 310 hp.

[@fedoratheexplora7180]

Just paid 16k out the door with no tax for an 07 voodoo blue FJ with 175k miles. Came with relatively new beefy tires. I saw many others for a few grand cheaper but I wanted the blue one and it had a clean undercarriage. Very happy with my purchase.

[@hummervs3278]

Enjoy it. Go run it and learn the difference off road vs jeeps or pickups. Put 10,000 miles on it before changing anything, but try to hit that 10,000 before summer is over! Mine is Blue 07 , lift with better a arms& shocks, locker, ATrack, both bumpers swapped, bigger tires, light tune. Bucket-o-fun

[@user-ig4dj7xu5l]

Wizard, could you discuss rotors and brakes for an FJ, FRNR, Taco? I say OEM/OE for rotors. Is Akebono ok for pads? Thank you.

[@troleary]

Just arranged a pre purchase inspection on an FJ. Thanks Car Wizard.

[@jimmy-buffett]

I wrote the buy/sell guide on FJCruiserForums and help probably 2-3 dozen people each year inspect FJs for purchase. I think the reason that values are dropping is that there's a new crop of incoming Toyota 4x4's this year. The new Land Cruiser, Tacoma and Lexus GX have already been announced and reviewed, the new 4Runner will be announced shortly. The first section of the buyer's guide is "you should probably be looking at a Lexus GX instead", I added this because so many potential FJ buyers would ask about the GX when shopping FJ's and many of them ultimately ended up with the GX. Everything about it is nicer than the FJ, often for less miles and less money. FJ Cruisers are overpriced in my opinion. Great trucks, the most capable offroaders that Toyota has built in years, but for what most of us do (I'm in Colorado) a 4Runner or GX are just as good.

[@bobandy5515]

Thats what I did. I always loved the FJ and was finally in the position to buy a nice toyota 4x4 last year. It just made no sense to buy the FJ when I could get a GX for less money. Especially after driving both, the GX470 had better visibility, a V8, and of course more luxury.

[@hughbarton5743]

Always liked these. I was in the business for nearly 40 years, and I would bet that the market is approaching the bottom, but isn't quite done falling. I must admit, though, that there's a big difference between buying and selling cars professionally and getting a cool new ride for yourself. Which is why we car dealers existed at all, if you think about it.....if you can avoid falling in love with your inventory, you are way ahead of the game. If you are buying a car for yourself, go ahead and listen to your brain and your heart. Good luck!!!

[@smithjones1906]

IMO, current owners with decent incomes are looking to dump them for the redesigned, smaller Land Cruiser. Current potential buyers with decent income will pull out to see if they like/can afford the LC. I must dissent from Wizard.

[@RR137G]

IFC a ton of bind spots bad access for rear seat passengers fixed rear windows. No aftermarket parts. Almost forgot depending on where you live rust .

[@agrippa1234]

Plus I liked the British triwiper look

[@boredom.victim]

if you ever see one for sale, that's the time to buy 😊

[@Getitstraightyo]

POS with zero visibility

[@suthius85]

🤣🤣🤣 Shenanigans of Wizard and Mrs Wizard. Love it. Need more of it

[@cenccenc946]

My 2010 FJ, came with trailer breaking stock from the factory. My mechanic just installed the light harness on the bumper, and it was detected and the lights on the dash would indicate when it was activated as I activated the breaks. Never had a reason to move anything that bog, but it was there.

[@carmonaprime6297]

Hi there Wizard and Mrs Wizard. Would you swap your FJ over a 4Runner Limited? What are your thoughts on the new J250 Prado over there in the US?

[@Dochorahan]

Almost picked one up for $16k good condition about 5 years ago. Felt slower than the 2006 4runner I had at the time. Horrible visibility, and not a lot of space. I ended up with a newer limited 4wd 4runner instead and a JL Wrangler. A GX Lexus is also a good alternative.

[@encinobalboa]

Lexus GX is too tall for my garage. 4Runner is about 6 inches less tall which got her into the garage. I would have a GX460 were it not for my garage.

[@robdowns9339]

Bought a 4runner limited this year also. Love it.