Essential Tips for Purchasing a Used Toyota 4Runner

May. 28,2025

Discover essential tips for buying a used Toyota 4Runner, highlighting its performance, features, safety, and pricing. Learn how to choose the right trim and ensure a smart purchase with expert advice. Perfect for adventure lovers seeking durability and off-road capability in a pre-owned SUV.

Essential Tips for Purchasing a Used Toyota 4Runner

Essential Tips for Purchasing a Used Toyota 4Runner

If you're seeking an SUV built for adventure, a pre-owned Toyota 4Runner is an excellent option. Known for its durability, performance, safety, and impressive longevity, the 4Runner is designed with a traditional body-on-frame structure that handles rough terrains effortlessly. It combines off-road capability with everyday convenience features, making it suitable for both thrill-seekers and daily drivers.

About Toyota

Manufactured by Toyota Motor Corporation, one of the world’s leading automakers, the brand is recognized for innovative and eco-friendly vehicles. Founded by Kiichiro Toyoda, the company quickly expanded its global footprint, even shipping cars to South America and beyond.

The 4Runner features a 4.0-liter V-6 engine producing 270 horsepower paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. While some may see it as dated, its performance matches competitors like the Dodge Durango V-6. Its sturdy build and high torque capacity of 5,000 pounds make it ideal for towing and off-road adventures.

Inside, the 4Runner offers a functional but somewhat outdated cabin, focusing on comfort and utility. Its spacious interior includes large storage compartments and a flexible cargo area. The rear seats fold flat for increased cargo space, and a pull-out deck facilitates handling heavy loads up to 440 pounds, doubling as a seating area.

Standard tech includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims add built-in navigation and a premium 15-speaker JBL audio system. The vehicle is equipped with multiple USB ports, ensuring connectivity for everyone onboard.

Safety features include fog lights, LED headlights, and eight airbags. Driver assistance includes automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Although adaptive cruise control is available, it performs poorly below 25 mph. The 4Runner holds a solid safety record, earning a four-star rating from NHTSA and scoring well in crash tests from IIHS.

Pricing for a used 4Runner varies based on condition, mileage, and features. Prices start around $10,000, with premium models exceeding $50,000. To secure the best deal, prospective buyers should conduct professional inspections and negotiate thoroughly. Available trims range from the economical SR5 Premium to the luxurious Limited, which excels off-road and overland capabilities, appealing to adventure enthusiasts.