BajaNomad - I Shouldn't Have Asked - Toyota

I Shouldn't Have Asked - Toyota

Diver - 12-18-2009 at 09:16 PM

Unfortunately, Mrs Diver rolled our Explorer after hitting a patch of ice a few weeks ago. She is fine and the Explorer kept her safe but is totalled so we need to find a replacement.

In addition to another Explorer, we are considering a 4Runner and I was hoping to get some feedback from some of you Toyota guys.
Best years ? Best motor ? Other considerations ?
Say 2000 or newer ?

[Edited on 12-21-2009 by Diver]

Bajaboy - 12-18-2009 at 09:29 PM

Glad to hear Ms. Diver is okay.

Steve&Debby - 12-18-2009 at 09:34 PM

Diver,I had a 1994(I think that was the year) 4runner and we put over 100,000 miles on it,had no problems with it until it started overheating.I can't remember the exact mileage. We took it in to the Toyota dealer they found it had a bad head gasket( V6).I thougth this was going to be expensive.The dealer checked with Toyota and found there was a recall on this problem and they put a brand new engine in it at no charge.I never expected that.
Glad to here no one was hurt in the roll over.

doradodan - 12-18-2009 at 09:37 PM

same thing happened with my 96 t-100 replaced the motor at 50k due to rcalled head gasket. Same motor as the forerunner, i have 278,000 on that thing and it still running like a champ. Toyota over ford any day.

TheColoradoDude - 12-18-2009 at 10:17 PM

If your looking for reliability. Look no further! Toyota! The 80 series land cruisers are pretty awesome too!!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Land_Cruiser

[Edited on 12-19-2009 by TheColoradoDude]

ElFaro - 12-18-2009 at 10:28 PM

Hey ColoradoDude...your one of the few that understand the "FJ" series benefits. A lot of people may not know is the FJ-80 was the last Landcruiser with the "straight 6" cast iron engine and the solid front axles. And those are forged one-piece axle housings...not this "press fit" crap so common on American vehicles. I own a '87 FL-60...the last Landcruiser that was carbureted and stick shift. I took off the shift bracket on my transfer case and now I have not ony 4WD Lo and 4WD Hi but also 2WD Lo and 2WD Hi. Still need to get a UNIMOG for Baja with a front and back NATO winch.

Hook - 12-19-2009 at 07:14 AM

If reliability is your main requirement, why not call around to your local libraries and see if they have this and past years Consumer's Report Buying Guide. The last three years editions should cover any vehicles you might be considering. It is the most comprehensive compilation of INDEPENDENT data on used cars.

Let's hope she doesnt ever roll a Japanese vehicle. IMO, there is a big difference in the metal used by Japanese mfgrs and American mfgrs, especially Ford.

Bob H - 12-19-2009 at 08:02 AM

I'm very happy to hear that Mrs. Diver is OK!

The question to ask yourself... what is the difference between a rollover in an Explorer as opposed to a rollover in a Toy! I'd much rather have that big Ford if you ask me. Just my opinion. But, then again, I am a Ford man.
Bob H

[Edited on 12-19-2009 by Bob H]

mulegemichael - 12-19-2009 at 08:09 AM

we absolutely love our 4runner!...it's the best rig we've ever had in terms of reliability, durability and get up and go...ours is a 2005 with a v-8 so the mileage isn't exactly super,(15-17mpg), but boy does it ride nice and it flat takes off!...smooth ride, back supports, air assist brakes, and all the other bells and whistles....no comparison!

k-rico - 12-19-2009 at 08:09 AM

Sounds like if you buy a used Toyota you need to make sure it blew a head gasket and the motor has been replaced.

Buy American. The used Ford seller will probably buy a new one.

[Edited on 12-19-2009 by k-rico]

Bob H - 12-19-2009 at 08:35 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by k-rico
Sounds like if you buy a used Toyota you need to make sure it blew a head gasket and the motor has been replaced.

Buy American. The used Ford seller will probably buy a new one.

[Edited on 12-19-2009 by k-rico]

Buy American! Love it.
Bob H

bigboy - 12-19-2009 at 08:50 AM

Love my Ford's. I leave my 89' Bronco at my Baja house, 238,000 miles and no problems and drive my 95' Bronco to my Baja house and it has 203,000 miles.

I also have a V10 Excursion that I use to tow my fleet of boats. I have two that weigh over 7,000# and again no problems!

I never had a blown head gasket that would leave me stranded in the middle of Baja!

wessongroup - 12-19-2009 at 08:50 AM

How about a Bronco?

TMW - 12-19-2009 at 09:11 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Diver
Unfortunately, Mrs Diver rolled our Explorer after hitting a patch of ice a few weeks ago. She is fine and the Explorer kept her safe but is totalled so we need to find a replacement.

In addition to another Explorer, we are considering a 4Runner and I was hoping to get some feedback from some of you Toyota guys.
Best years ? Best motor ? Other considerations ?
Say 2000 or newer ?

[Edited on 12-19-2009 by Diver]

I believe the available engines in a 2000 to about 2004 or 2005 was a 2.4L 4 and a 3.4 V6, both good engines especially the 2.4L but not a lot of power if hooked to an automatic, the V6 would be much better. Not sure when they offered the 4.7L V8 maybe about when the 4L V6 which I think was 2005. That's when the Tacoma got it. You don't need more power than that has. It will accelerate and top off with most V8s. I'm assuming your looking for a two wheel drive version and there are lots of them out there. Along about that same time period the made it larger like the Tacoma is now, from a mini to midsize. You may also want to look at the Toyota Highlander, they seem to have high marks from the people I have talked too.

Just a personal note, the 4Runner has coil springs on the rear and that's gets a little more complicated if you want to beef it up, unlike leaf springs where you can just add a leaf installed for under $150. The 4Runner is an excellent vehicle and everyone I know that has owned one really liked it.

Also expect to pay more for the 4Runner than a similar year Explorer.

bajabass - 12-19-2009 at 09:13 AM

I have owned my own automotive shop in O.C. for over 20 years. The only benifit of buying a Explorer or other small Ford over a Toyota is the initial cost. The Ford dealers will give them away if you push real hard. Toyota, not so much. Ford and Gm trucks have made me a great living until the economy fell apart. I bought a 2000 2wd Tundra. Great truck. Decided I needed a 4x4, got a 2002 Tundra 4x4. Even better truck. The 4.7 V-8 is a great motor, and the trucks and 4-Runners are very reliable. For my 50th birthday, I gave myself a 2009 Tundra 4x4 TRD. Awesome truck. If you have a heavy trailer, you need a diesel, then the Fords, GM, Dodges are the best option. Just be prepared for big repair bills. I don't make money working on my own vehicles, I drive a Tundra, the wife drives a Honda Element, end of story! I truly believe the 4-Runner is a better vehicle hands down.

k-rico - 12-19-2009 at 09:13 AM

My '91 302 F-150, loaded with a camper, takes a lickin' and keeps on tickin'.

DianaT - 12-19-2009 at 09:14 AM

Knowing Mrs. Diver and her capabilities and energy, I am surprised she did not turn the car upright, pound out all the dents and get everything fixed before you even knew about it. :yes:

Seriously, we hope she is not injured in any way at all---give her our best and good luck car shopping.

Diane and John

bajabass - 12-19-2009 at 09:28 AM

Not sure of the year break, but newer Explorers are independant rear suspension with coil springs also. The 4-Runner is a solid rear differential, much stronger.

David K - 12-19-2009 at 10:55 AM

In 2005 (for the Tacomas at least) the engines went from a 3.4 to a 4.0 litre... when the Tacoma increased in size. I had a 2001 and a 2005... (3.4 and 4.0), both automatic (4 speed on the '01 and 5 speed on the '05) transmissions.

If you could swing it, the newest models have VSC (Vehicle Stability Control, developed by Bosch in Germany) and TRAC (using limited slip differntials)... making sliding out-of-control on slippery roads a thing of the past...

Watch this 2 1/2 minute video on Toyota/ Bosch VSC: http://video.yahoo.com/watch/206114/689691

MitchMan - 12-19-2009 at 11:05 AM

How about the older 4x4 4 cyl Tacomas? Alot of the pangueros and even police have them. The pangueros beach launch their 23 foot pangas with them. They say that they get really good gas mileage and great durability/reliability. Got lost and stuck in the sand this year with my small '84 chevy blazer 4x4. The police came and pulled my out with their 4x4 4 cyl Tacoma with absolutely no problem. Sold me. That's definitely going to be my next vehicle.

[Edited on 12-19-2009 by MitchMan]

David K - 12-19-2009 at 11:15 AM

When asked... the local ranchers and fishermen will call Toyota #1.

There has been more than one time when passing a local on a backroad and asking about the road ahead... will get a 'muy malo' answer... but after glancing at my Tacoma will say " no problemo por Toyota " !

grace59 - 12-19-2009 at 12:12 PM

Last year my 1997 Ford F150 broke down and had to be towed twice in one week (for two different reasons). I told my husband that I was through with that truck and wanted something new. I got the Toyota FJ Crusier that I'd had my eye on since they were reintroduced. I absolutely love it. I wanted it originally as a Baja Rig, but living here in Washinton it has been so handy for snow, ice and a few flooded roads. It is very stable, has a 5 star impact rating, drives and rides quite nicely. It came with roof rack, rock rails, skid plate, VSC, locking rear diff., ..on and on...with the economy the way it is my husband was able to get a good deal on it, too. The only thing it was missing was my BajaNomad sticker and the "Lower the latitude, Better the attitude" licence plate frame, but I've taken care of that. I wouldn't trade my Toyota in for anything else. I love, love, love it!

Oso - 12-19-2009 at 12:18 PM

I am very happy with the '04 Taco v6 I bought from Max a couple years ago.

woody with a view - 12-19-2009 at 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
In 2005 (for the Tacomas at least) the engines went from a 3.4 to a 4.0 litre... when the Tacoma increased in size. I had a 2001 and a 2005... (3.4 and 4.0), both automatic (4 speed on the '01 and 5 speed on the '05) transmissions.

If you could swing it, the newest models have VSC (Vehicle Stability Control, developed by Bosch in Germany) and TRAC (using limited slip differntials)... making sliding out-of-control on slippery roads a thing of the past...

Watch this 2 1/2 minute video on Toyota/ Bosch VSC:
http://video.yahoo.com/watch/206114/68969

There are more fetures in traction control on the new Toyotaa, but safety sounds like the beiggest concern.

:?:

[Edited on 12-19-2009 by woody in ob]

BooJumMan - 12-19-2009 at 03:01 PM

I've only owned Toyotas my whole life. Right now I've got a 1996 Toyota 4runner and a 1966 FJ-40.

The 1996-2003's have a 2.7L I-4 or 3.4L V6. The V6 is far superior than the previous 3.0L V6 that ran from 1989 to 1995.

Also, the 3rd generation (1996-2003) 4runners come with a factory electric differential locker. This, if you do not know is what real offroad trucks use...locks the rear end to prevent ANY slipping from either wheel...

I run 35" tires on my 4runner with 5" of lift. A lot of guys can run a 33" tire with a 2-3" lift. Coils are easy and far superior than leafs in my opinion. You can get beefier coils for about $200, and dont require tools to remove and replace. The front of course is more involved but shares the same front end as a Tacoma.

Also there is a ton of aftermarket parts for the 4runner and Tacoma, (which are almost identical except for the obvious).

Check out websites like yotatech.com for tons of information. Toyota is the way to go for sure. My old 1989 4runner had 300,000 miles on it and was still running strong!

FJ Cruiser

TheColoradoDude - 12-19-2009 at 03:12 PM

Yeah I would have to say that I love the FJ Cruiser too. Whether camping in Baja or exploring a mountain pass in Colorado.

woody with a view - 12-19-2009 at 05:20 PM

Patch

it's coming. google it!

edit: http://image.dieselpowermag.com/f/8226359/0804dp_01_z+2008_t...

that thing gets my chubby up!

[Edited on 12-20-2009 by woody in ob]

[Edited on 12-20-2009 by woody in ob]

[Edited on 12-20-2009 by BajaNomad]

TheColoradoDude - 12-19-2009 at 05:46 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by soulpatch
Beautiful pic. Where is that second one?
I just wish you could buy the Toyota with a diesel here......darn it!

that is Black Bear Pass overlooking the town of Telluride.

Pescador - 12-20-2009 at 08:25 AM

Well, the old arguments continue over which vehicle is the best, but the strongest indicator what consumers really think is reflected in the price of used cars. Toyotas hold their value and represent a better value to the consumer than Dodge, Ford, or Chevy, and certainly outdistance the other foreign vehicles like Mazda, Nissan, and Honda.
You can fool some of the people some of the time, but ..........

Wingnut - 12-20-2009 at 11:16 AM

So like everybody says a lot boils down to your personal choice and intended use for the vehicle. I used to be a Ford guy all the way until I bought my Toyota Tundra. For years I had Ford vehicles, F-150, F-250 and the Ford Explorer, my last Ford product. My explorer was 1993 and I must have had one of the good ones, no repairs outside of normal wear and tear, but I really needed more hauling room for camping trips and frankly missed having a pickup truck.

I traded in the Explorer on a 2003 Toyota Tundra TRD with 4 wheel drive and the trailer towing package. It's a V8 and I have never had a smoother ride or a vehicle that handles off road as well as it does. To date, only repairs have been brakes, tires and fluid changes. What makes it great is the Bilstein off road shocks that came standard on it.

I have a friend who is a total Ford nut. He has a 97 Bronco that he loves and it handles Baja just fine. So it really matters what you individually want out of the vehicle.

Just for the record, since Toyota pushed to size up on the new Tundra's, I really am not in favor of that huge truck, but the advantage of the resizing is in the new Tacoma's. They are now a full size truck and compare quite well with my older Tundra. For ease of handling, hauling and long trips, I would look at the full size Tacoma before the 4-Runner. But as I said earlier, it's a personal choice. I believe that if you spend a lot of time in Baja, you are going to be better off with a Toyota than a Ford.

Iflyfish - 12-20-2009 at 11:29 AM

Our care and regards to you and MrsDiver. Glad she is ok. Scarey!

Iflyfish

woody with a view - 12-20-2009 at 12:49 PM

Quote:

Just for the record, since Toyota pushed to size up on the new Tundra's, I really am not in favor of that huge truck, but the advantage of the resizing is in the new Tacoma's. They are now a full size truck and compare quite well with my older Tundra.

agreed! i got the same TRD as you do and LOVE it!

David K - 12-20-2009 at 05:44 PM

Ummm, a lot of full size truck owners might not agree with that statement about the second generation Tacomas.

The new (2005 +), larger Tacomas are not 'full size', but better described as 'mid-size' trucks. However, the new Tundra is indeed full size (now), and the Tacoma is close to the size of the first generation, smaller (pre 2007) Tundra.

The Nissan Titan is also a full size truck... all made to compete against American brand full size trucks... People wanted the quality of Japanese brands available in true, full size trucks.

The Tacoma has a 4.0 litre V-6 and puts out something like 240 horsepower. The Tundras have two V-8 engines available... Check out Toyota.com for the specifics.

Whatever you decide, I hope you are happy with it and that it proves to be a safer drive for Mrs. Driver!

k-rico - 12-20-2009 at 06:10 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
However, the new Tundra is indeed full size (now)

The Nissan Titan is also a full size truck...

Do you mean a 4 x 8 foot sheet of plywood lies flat in the bed? In my book that defines a full size pickup and is a requirement.

[Edited on 12-21-2009 by k-rico]

Paladin - 12-20-2009 at 06:24 PM

1996 Toy started with 3.4 and dumped the 3.0 which had all the headgasket problems.

I have a 93 4runner...blown 4 gaskets...toy fixed the first 3
I just poured in "glue" in last time
still going great.

David K - 12-20-2009 at 06:24 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by k-rico

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
However, the new Tundra is indeed full size (now)

The Nissan Titan is also a full size truck...

Do you mean a 4 x 8 foot sheet of plywood lies flat in the bed? In my book that defines a full size pickup and is a requirement.

[Edited on 12-21-2009 by k-rico]

4X8 plywood...

Well, 4' is 48" and the Tundra is 50" between the wheel wells. 8' is 96" and the Tundra is 97.6"

Here are the specs on the long bed and short bed Tundra...

DIMENSIONS

Exterior dimensions (in.):
Overall height 76.2
Overall width 79.9
Overall length (Standard Bed/Long Bed) (Short Bed on CrewMax) 228.7
Wheelbase (Standard Bed/Long Bed) (Short Bed on CrewMax) 145.7
Inside bed length (Standard Bed/Long Bed) (Short Bed on CrewMax) 97.6
Inside bed depth 22.2
Inside bed width at tailgate 66.4
Inside bed width between wheelwells 50
Track (front and rear) 67.9
Ground clearance 10.6
Maximum load height 35.4

Exterior dimensions (in.):
Overall height 76
Overall width 79.9
Overall length (Standard Bed/Long Bed) (Short Bed on CrewMax) 228.7
Wheelbase (Standard Bed/Long Bed) (Short Bed on CrewMax) 145.7
Inside bed length (Standard Bed/Long Bed) (Short Bed on CrewMax) 78.7
Inside bed depth 22.2
Inside bed width at tailgate 66.4
Inside bed width between wheelwells 50
Track (front and rear) 67.9
Ground clearance 10.4

k-rico - 12-20-2009 at 06:31 PM

Then the answer is yes.

Finally. Took 'em long enough.

David K - 12-20-2009 at 06:32 PM

This is nothing new... and I am not sure what the bed size was of the 2006 and earlier Tundras.

k-rico - 12-20-2009 at 07:09 PM

2006 is like yesterday to me. I'm driving a 1991 Ford and hopefully it will see its 25th birthday in my driveway.

Barry A. - 12-20-2009 at 07:38 PM

Just to muddy the water---------For your additional consideration, take a look at the Nissan X-Terra. Tho certainly not a pickup, I think it compares very favorably to the Toy 4-runner and the Toy FJ. In fact I was so impressed I bought one. (2007) We love it!!!! It is the same chassis, I believe, as the Frontier which IS a pickup------also impressive.

We did have to beef up the suspension (it was really woosy), but now it is near perfect. Look at the "off road" model and the specs---------VERY impressive. (elec lockers, bilstein shocks, and other goodies come stock)

Barry

David K - 12-21-2009 at 08:25 AM

Barry, I think Mision Santa Maria this February would be an awesome trip for you and that Nissan!

You could continue on to other places after, since you are coming from so far away!

Baja is calling!

Diver - 12-21-2009 at 08:32 AM

I Shouldn't Have Asked !!!

43 replies so far and other than a few well-wishing friends, only one reply addressed my actual questions.

Thanks TW !!

And I hope the rest of you had fun.

Steve&Debby - 12-21-2009 at 09:21 AM

WELL EXCUSE ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

tripledigitken - 12-21-2009 at 10:02 AM

Diver,

Just stay away from the earlier engine. I can speak from personal experience on that issue!

I shopped for one a few years ago and test drove the V8 model. Very impressive and at that time was only 1 mpg less than the V6. Can't say if that translates to the real world driving though. Very good choice of Baja Rigs.

Ken

PS I bought the Xterra in 2005 and have 60,000 trouble free miles. It suited our needs better than the Toy.

k-rico - 12-21-2009 at 10:50 AM

Help out the millions of Americans who own the Ford Motor Company.

Buy American!!!!!!!!!

mtgoat666 - 12-21-2009 at 01:43 PM

Quote:

yes, 4runner is good, reliable vehicle. get a 2003 or newer. mine is v-6 and has plenty of get up and go. if you are over 6'2" tall, don't get sunroof, but you may find it hard to find a unit without sunrooof.

pacside - 12-21-2009 at 02:09 PM

Depends on how much money you want to spend. I would go with a 2006 or newer. I have a 1998 v6 4runner limited and have had zero problems...bought it used in 2000. Currently has 130k miles on it.

Also own a 2006 (purchased in 2008) v8 4runner limited 4x4 and love it with no problems. I did research and v8 only has about 1-2 less mpg than a v6.

FYI just read the 2010 4runner will not come in a v8 model but the v6 will have more horsepower.

For more info
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/

pacside