When Toyota decided to redesign the 4Runner for 2003, I was sceptical about whether or not the high price tag was worth it. I liked the new sleek, sporty look of the 03, and after reading Consumer Reports reviews I knew it was a vehicle I should seriously consider, but again that high price tag without an incentive or discount in sight.

In my current search to replace an older GMC suv, I test drove a 4wd, V6 2003 Limited 4Runner. I loved its quiet ride and stable platform. The tight turning radius was a dream come true for parallel parking, and the additional width to the cabin made the front seats more comfortable and the overall feel of the interior more spacious.

The problem... the pricetag: 38K on the limited. They had two base model SR5's (used) without ANY ammenities, and they were still asking 30K for them... and getting it. I decided to keep looking.

I was lucky enough to have a friend with a car dealer's license who took me to an auto auction in California earlier this week. On a 10 acre lot, I found ONE 2wd V8 SR5 2003 Toyota 4Runner in white, with dark grey body cladding. A dealer buyback due to a recurring problem with a light that reads "Maint" (more on that later). With 16K on it, and looking brand new inside and out... I decided to look it over more seriously and see if it was worth a bid.

Moonroof, roof rack, running boards, spoiler, window tint, remote keyless entry, security system, CD/Cassette/FM/AM 6 speaker, towing package, grey cloth interior, double decker cargo, cargo cover, rear AC, fog lights, cruise, tilt, telescoping wheel, 17" Aluminum wheels... 2WD and V8. This SR5 had all the bells and whistles I was looking for, and was in fantastic condition.

The vehicle did not sell at auction, so after the auction I made an offer to the seller. He accepted it... and for 22K I got one great 4Runner!

I drove it home; 300 miles, and found that the 23 gallon tank does take a bite out of the pocketbook at $2.35 a gallon, but according to the trip computer (a lovely addition in the center of the dashboard that also tells you the outside temp, time, average speed and what's going on with your AC...) I got 19mpg on the trip.

The ride is still trucklike, but very well controlled. Steering is responsive, and turns are tight and stable with very little body roll. I had a bit of wind noise, but I think it was due to the after market add on of wind deflectors around the front and passenger windows. Road noise is significant in comparision to a luxury sedan, but much less than most suv's. Seating position is comfortable, but takes some adjusting with the tilt and telescopic to get it just right. Radio volume, scan and mode controls are on this model's steering wheel, and are great once you get used to using them! There are lots of storage compartments around the driver's seat; 4 in the center with some in the door. Two cup holders in the center are adjustable for various sizes of cups. Lighted vanities on each side, as well as dual front side airbags and side curtain airbags came with this model.

The V8 engine is VERY quiet. The first time I turned it over, I wasn't sure if it had continued to run! The cruise control engages easily, and runs flawlessly and with ease. There is a slight lag between the cruise being turned off, and the manual depression of the accelerator. Hills were climbed effortlessly, and passing is never a worry, nor is merging into traffic. The 2WD makes this version slightly lighter, and the V8 will throw you back into your seat if you let it.

The brakes appear to be excellent as well. While backing you have two interior mirrors that are placed on each of the back posts surrounding the back window. They give you a look at what's on either side of the vehicle from the back. So if you are in a tight parking spot and can't see a car coming from your side or rear view mirrors, look to these to help you out. They are a bit small, and hard to remember that they are there... but they do work, and I'm certain will be used at the mall!

17" wheels make it a slight jump up for my 5'6" frame, however it is not uncomfortably high. The suspension makes this vehicle sit with the back end slightly higher than the front (at least visually), and on some models the suspension is adjustable with the touch of a button. Mine does not have this feature. Power door locks engage when the car is placed into drive and power windows are all around. A switch for the rear window is within arms reach from the driver and 115V outlet is in the cargo area.

The back seat is as comfortable as the front. Rear air conditioning works well, and there is a pull down arm rest in the rear center that has two cup holders and a pull out tray. All of the roominess of the front cabin continues on to the back with head and legroom being excellent. Door openings for the back are adequate, but not large, however the running boards help in getting in and out so this is not too noticeable.

The rear cargo area is slightly smaller than other suv's in it's class, but the cargo separator is a nice touch for those of us who spend more time at the market and less at the mountain. Hooks for shopping bags and a cargo cover are also nice touches. The two rear side windows (cargo area windows) and rear window, all have defogging technology. The rear window will go up and down with the press of a button as in all earlier 4Runners, and the rear hatch can be easily opened with hydrolic assist and closing. The rear is a bit high, and the hatch goes up quite high, so some people may find that uncomfortable and prefer the Highlander's size. Towing package is included, as are towing loops.

Dark grey cladding is all around this model. I wasn't sure I'd like it, but after someone opened their car door into it and I received not a scuff on my 4Runner... I loved it! This vehicle was built in October of 2002 in Japan, and Toyota has since started building 4Runners with color coded siding.

I encountered fog on the way home too... and got to use the fog lights. Very effective, but tough to locate on the light controls. I've since read the Toyota book, and although I understand more about the vehicle, I'll have to practice with the lights. (READ the book!! It helps.)

When I purchased this I received one key... and no keyless fob. I have since learned that if you buy used, be sure to check and see what comes with it in the way of keys.

A computer chip is in the key, and in the car... and if you use the wrong key... it immobilizes the car. A very expensive fix.... so use the right key, and carefully.

The key I received is a valet key. This can open everything except the glovebox. The problem... I went to have a second key made and I didn't have the keycode or the master key. The previous owner had cleared the code from whatever system they retrieve this information, and now I will have to have new keys made and the computer reprogrammed. For two sets of keys, two remotes and the reprogramming, it will cost approximately $550. Not exactly cheap, but it will make this 'used' vehicle secure again. The engine was not immobilized... this would have been between $4000 and $5000 to fix according to the dealer.

RE: the "Maint" light.
This light comes on at 7200 mile intervals to let the owner know that it's time to change the oil in the vehicle. When the seller told me that they had been unsucessful in turning this light off, I thought it odd and took it to my local Toyota dealer (this vehicle is still under the 3yr/36K factory warranty). They showed me how to hold the reset button that is near the speedometer (making sure the readout is on the mileage and not the trip computer), then turn the key to the on position. When doing so, the 'Maint' light comes on and flashes for a few seconds, then goes off. It's reset. I no longer see the "Maint" light, and all is running fine, but this is the light that the previous owner couldn't get to go out... and the reason for the buyback. Obviously the other Toyota dealer should have read the shop manual and hit the reset button!

My experience with other Toyota products has been limited, however I've always taken note (particularly in recent years) of Toyota reliability, craftsmanship, and owner satisfaction. After less than 500 miles of driving, I am confident that all of these positive reviews are reflected in this vehicle.

I bought this vehicle for its size, looks and reliable Toyota name. I was uncertain that a V8 would be quiet and smooth, but this engine is both. The interior and exterior build quality is excellent, and driving it is a pleasure. I love that the back window can go down for added ventilation or to accomodate a long item. I also appreciate that the back seat can be laid completely flat and is easy to put up and down.

Of course I'd love to have better gas mileage, more comfortable seats (these seem to be slightly lower than I am used to, but would be ideal for someone 5'8"-6'), and an even quieter cabin, but then it wouldn't be an suv. Also,it's a small thing, but I didn't like the fact that the only door with a key slot is the driver side door. If you have a keyless entry remote that's working... and with you... it's no problem. But if you only have a key, it's a real pain to have your hands full and go to the passenger side to load your kids and then realize that you can't unlock the door!

Ultimately though, after driving this 4Runner, I am convinced that Toyota quality is indeed worth the extra money, and Consumer Reports rave reviews of the V8 reliablility just make me smile!


Amount Paid (US$): 22,000
Condition: Used
Model Year: 2003
Model and Options: 2WD SR5 V8 4Runner, 5sp Auto w/ moonroof, rack, running board, spoiler