Car Mizer Overall Verdict
🟢 GREEN: SOLID BUY / LEGENDARY 4TH-GEN OFF-ROAD ICON
🟢 GREEN: SOLID BUY / LEGENDARY 4TH-GEN OFF-ROAD ICON
2008 Toyota 4Runner 4WD (4.0L V6 / 4.7L V8)
💵 Target Price: $9,500 – $14,500
🛣️ Sweet Spot Mileage: 130k – 180k miles
The Bottom Line: The 2008 4Runner 4WD earns a top-tier Green Rating. Benefiting from late-4th-gen factory upgrades, both engine options—the timing-chain 4.0L V6 and the iron-block 4.7L V8—are legendary for 300,000+ mile longevity. It remains one of the absolute best pre-owned 4×4 values under $15k, provided the chassis frame passes a strict rust check.
🟢 GREEN LIGHTS (Bulletproof Components)
- 4.0L 1GR-FE V6 & 4.7L 2UZ-FE V8 Powertrains: The 4.0L V6 uses dual timing chains and redesigned head gaskets (eliminating early 03–05 gasket leaks). The 4.7L V8 features iron-block construction and VVT-i (260 hp) for effortless towing.
- A750E / A750F 5-Speed Automatic Transmission: Heavy-duty, smooth-shifting torque-converter automatic engineered to handle extreme heat and off-road strain.
- Advanced Torsen Center Differential 4WD System: Multi-Mode 4WD (V6) or Full-Time 4WD (V8) with lockable center differential provides class-leading all-weather traction and off-road capability.
🟡 YELLOW CAUTIONS (Maintenance Watchouts & Specific Wear Items)
- V8 Timing Belt & Water Pump Maintenance (4.7L Engine): The 4.7L V8 is an interference engine requiring timing belt and water pump service every 90,000 miles or 9 years ($800–$1,200 service). The V6 uses a lifetime chain.
- 4WD Actuator Seizing: Transfer case electronic shift actuators can freeze if previous owners rarely engaged 4LO or locked the center differential (test 4HI, 4LO, and Center Lock during test drive).
- Frozen Front Brake Calipers: Factory 4-piston front brake calipers develop stuck pistons over time due to road salt and moisture, causing uneven pad wear or brake pull.
🔴 RED ALERTS (Major Dealbreakers & Severe Corrosion Risks)
- Severe Boxed Frame Corrosion: Like the Tacoma and Tundra, 4th-Gen 4Runner frames are vulnerable to severe rust near the rear lower control arm mounts, spare tire crossmember, and front radiator support. Scale rust or frame perforation is an instant dealbreaker.
- Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure (V8 Models): Moisture inside the cold-start smog pump causes stuck valves, throwing limp-mode codes ($1,000+ repair or Hewitt Gen-Tech bypass kit fix).
⚡ Common OBD-II Trouble Codes to Scan For
Pre-Purchase Scan Targets
Pre-Purchase Scan Targets
P2440 / P2442: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve Stuck Open (V8 models; triggers VSC/TRAC lights and engine power limp mode).
P0011 / P0021: Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced (Indicates low oil levels, VVT-i solenoid clogging, or dirty oil).
P0441 / P0455: EVAP System Incorrect Purge Flow / Gross Leak (Usually a loose/aging gas cap seal or failing purge valve).