The Car Care Nut is possibly the only channel on TH-cam where every single video is great. Ahmed, I love your enthusiasm, please keep up your excellent work.
@@dr.emilschaffhausen4683 that’s awesome! A couple questions…how often do you change transmission fluid and have you ever changed the metal mesh transmission fluid filter?
@@LACEVH Sadly, I've never changed the mesh filter, and I've only done one drain and fill when it seemed to want to slip t neutral. I feel bad that I neglected the tranny fluid. I did everything else according to the book, but thankfully the transmission still runs like new now.
@@dr.emilschaffhausen4683 thanks for the info that helps. I’m right at 200,000 miles and have been pretty good about drain and fills on tranny fluid but have heard really no need to change the filter. These trucks are bulletproof, hope you get another 300k+👍🏼
The fact that i am a greek guy, currently living at UK whaching a random car youtube video about a car that had a life in Greece, and the 1st picture is from my small hometown, called Xanthi, is crazy! nice video!
I can relate! I bought a new 2006 Toyota 4Runner V8 Sport Edition in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I shipped it to my vacation home in Costa Rica.🏖 It still has 51, 500 original miles. Drove it in the Rain Forest, Beaches and rural dirt roads. So far, 4 new tires, 2 new batteries, windshield wiper blades, fog light bulbs, and passenger side wheel bearings. I also only use synthetic oil ever 5,000 miles.
You are doing very well with the car! Keep up the great work. I once knew a person who would drive from Florida to Costa Rica and points south of Costa Rica. It was a long time ago -- back in the 1970s. He had a huge old Lincoln vehicle and he would go off for months at a time and return when he felt like it.
Ahmed, I am an old mechanic 80 years old, and must say listening to you it’s the most relaxing time that I can have. It beats all the Tv shows and crappy news. The best show in town. From Australia 🇦🇺 🦘👍👍👍👍👍
The difference weather conditions and humidity play on the life of a vehicle is amazing. Vehicles in southern europe look so new despite their age, its amazing
I live in Ontario where the roads are often salted from November to April. My 19 year old car has no rust because it has been properly rustproofed on an annual basis. A rusty car is a neglected car. I actually sent AMD a video of the underside of my car to prove the veracity of my statement.
@@rightlanehog3151 I live in SW Ontario and I can tell you're lying - the "rustproofing" delays rust a bit yes, but 19 y/o car would be a rust bucket anyways.
I was blessed to have brought my 01 limited 4runner to the TCCN shop last year. Back then, it wasn't as busy as now, but still, you need to schedule at least 1 month in advance. AMD listed all the parts(w/ parts#) and labor costs needed for the service and gave all his recommendations to me.
I've completely fallen in love with the 4Runner! After watching the videos, I'm feeling so motivated that I'm eager to find a workshop nearby and start volunteering. That's how much I love the 4Runner now!
By researching CCN, my wife and I bought a 2018 RX350, Japan made, AWD, 49k miles super clean. My mechanic checked it out . "If you don't buy it, I will. " He scoped it, used a fancy paint scan tool to look for accident issues. Put it on the lift , no rust, leaks- nothing. It looks great sitting next to my second gen , 2011 Tacoma. They both hum like sewing machines. "Life is good!".
Your Toyota Harrier was made in Canada, all fake luxury Camry based Lexus RXs are made in Canada for North American consumption.A few countries the Toyota Harrier gets the fake luxury brand name slapped on it.
I am excited to see a Greek car in your Garage!!! I am a Greek Cypriot and I frequently watch your videos! I must confess that I admire your knowledge and especially your love for Toyota cars. All my three cars are Toyota. :)
I was lucky enough to have my ‘02 4Runner in recently at TCCN to have timing belt and several other maintenance items done. Such quality work, it runs like new!
Your love for the older Toyota's is awesome. Simple. Clean. Dependable. It's too bad they rust so bad in the midwest. I love the Toyota vehicles from the 80's to early 2000's. Keep up the great work! 🙏
STOP ! You are making me miss that wonderfully simple 2003 I had ! These were so cool because the engineering was elegant. The most simple solution was the best solution. It still is. I love watching the respect you pay to these wonderful cars.
Thanks AMD. This happens to be my favorite body-style 4Runner. The vehicle condition speaks for itself. I'm glad to know of the family's plans to keep it away from road salt. It merits the extra-special care.
@@jimmurray8483barely over 200k miles is low for an SUV that's 22 to 29 years old. 12,000 miles a year is average annual miles. So wanting $10,000 for it really isn't too.. wild.
Some paint correction and a solid ceramic coating would definitely help preserve the paint. Dry ice blast the underside, undercoat it to keep any rust and salt away and you got yourself a keeper for sure!
I have a 2001 with 228k on it. It is almost as clean as this one. I used to have a 2002 Tacoma for 15 years. Best vehicle I ever seen. These 2000's Toyotas are the Pinnacle of quality vehicles.
Kudos to you Ahmed. You love these cars and we can see and feel it every minute of your video. I have two 4Runners now, and with great regret I need to sell my mighty 2004 V8 with offroad upgrades. Funny story, this 4Runner was sold after ONE user with 180k on meter, on auction in USA around 2014 and brought to Europe (Toyota never sold 4Gen in EU). No rust, looked like new underneath, used in southern USA I remember. I bought it for offroad trips. It went with me to Montenegro, Albania, Romania, Serbia, Bulgaria and what not, and many many trips in Poland. When I emigrated to USA, I brought it BACK! Now it is 240k miles and runs like a new. I regret, but I have too many cars and my 5gen is waiting for offroad upgrades to replace the old great one. If I cant sell it for good price, I will bring it to Ahmed for good maintenance and rebuild....
@@worldhello1234 No but due to different part of the US some area see lots of snow and we salt the roads for traction, and so frames and under parts of the car tend to rust. Other areas do not salt the roads and those cars never see rust or just see surface rust.
I had a 3rd gen 4Runner they are a tank. Purchased it new and put 280k miles, it worked great for 22 years until we sold it a few months ago. Yes, the 3.4L V6 was a dream. I would be sad, but we replaced it with a 5th Gen 4Runner.
Dear AMD watching your Tube episodes is a pleasure and makes me appreciate that there are still people who love there work and well built Vehicles. Vince From Melbourne Australia
The government. Believe it or not if a manufacturer try’s to make the weight less they will be required to improve the gas mileage. The heavier it is the less MPG it can have. So they make them heavy and not have to deal with CAFE and that makes them use even more gas.
This was peak Toyota I think. I learn so much from your videos. Your expertise is priceless. I have a '98 Tacoma with this engine (at 319,000 miles) and today I learned why the parking brake acts weird, and I will be cleaning my MAF sensor and chasing down mysterious coolant usage. Thanks AMD!
@@subtegral could be a head gasket, I doubt it's the head. At least I hope it's not. I get coolant drips back on the bell housing/ trans pan after driving. It doesn't leak when the engine is off. Going to pull the intake plenum off and see if I can see anything. I did just verify it's not the lower radiator hose though.
@@mattandshelleymccool4753 do a block test yourself (detects carbon monoxide in the cooling system) carbon monoxide meaning exhaust gases. If the blue fluid turns yellow you're screwed.
@@subtegral The tool isn't expensive, it will save you a lot of time. Either it will be the head gasket or you can rule that out. Please make sure you're not leaking coolant into the trans via the radiator. That's a real serious problem. As CCN said, it's best to replace the radiator long before it fails.
@@mattandshelleymccool4753 and passing the block test doesn't rule out a cracked head or blown head gasket. It's only a 50% happy moment if you pass that test. To go the full mile you need to perform a cooling system pressure test. Order a pressure tester and follow the directions. And don't break the bank on it. 80 for one is enough.
I had this exact model in lavender steele, brand new, stacking CD in the boot and upgraded alloys. this is the era when Toyota engineered their cars so well. happy days, I would love to own this one, but as long as the owner can drive it, don't sell it, there is nothing better on the road. Good find CCN, a classic.
96 and 97 4Runners with a Lavender Steel Metallic paint job were somewhat rare (or for 98 models, renamed Cool Steel Metallic) After 98 models they discontinued that paint code. I like that color so I had my front and rear bumpers repainted from their original dark gray to Lavender Steel Metallic.
@@subtegral I had no choice with the colour or spec as it was the only one they had arriving that wasn't pre sold, at Mr Toyota in Dallas. But it was a beautiful colour, I remember at the time everyone wanted the desert dune.
Cool 4Runner. I own an 86 4Runner SR5 similar to this one. Mine in a one owner SR5 5 Speed manual with the 22RE and Factory AC (still on R12), all power options, cruise etc. I've got 107k miles on it. Garage kept since new. Nothing has been done to it other than oil changes and timing upgrade on the 22RE, and a couple of tire changes/batteries. Original paint, decals, interior. It is a rare find these days. Mint shape! I hope I can show it to you one day AMD. I'm in Florida now, but my 4Runner spent all of it's life in Sacramento, CA until earlier this year. Not an ounce of rust on her.
@@subtegralwell, I have a crappy 4 Gen I can drive behind the first Gen, we need the other Generations and we have a Tour. What Crappy 4runner you drive?
@@subtegral You were impressed enough to reply. BTW, you're Mommy is calling you Skippy. It's time to take out the trash, or your Mommy will take away your PlayStation.
If the owners drive it during the winter, they should consider using fluid film or a similar product under the undercarriage and frame. That should prevent rust issues that 4Runners are so well known for.
100% I agree. Up in Canada we have a product called Krown that's very similar. Always oil spray, and avoid any undercoating. Oil spray it every year and it will be fine.
Cars like this are extremely rare to find... 42K miles on a 17 year-old beast of a car? It'll last 50 years easily! Wish I had one of these for my travels! 🤩
What a beautiful TRUE STORY! AMD>>You are the BEST! Thank You for sharing this! You were BORN to be a TEACHER! So good & clear! THANK YOU! I had a 1997 4Runner with 5-speed, Factory rear locker and 4 x 4. What a dream car! I towed it perhaps 30,000 miles behind my Motorhome & it was ALWAYS ready to rock & roll the minute we got to our destination. Never ever gave me any problem. Back in those days, I did all my own fluid changes; engine, gear box, differentials, PS. Never a leak, never a CV boot, no PS problems>>You said it> A TANK! It was MY TANK! May The Good Lord Bless and Keep you & you have yourself a WONDERFUL day, Ahmed!
I love my 3rd gen 4runner. I runs and drives like it's brand new. I took it on a major road trip this summer to Alaska. 11,500 round trip from NY. Not one problem, except dirt from off-roading clogged up the power antenna.
Toyotas from the 2000s and up have a special place in my heart, specifically this generation 4runner. My father had a 2001 4runner SR5 which he bought new exactly like the one in the video but in the champagne gold color. As the family grew, he traded it in for a 2004 Toyota Sienna LE in the navy blue color which currently sits at 228K miles. He passed away last year and I still have his Sienna. It still runs even tho it has some battle scars and needs some engine maintenance. It currently needs an alternator, which is a simple fix plus some suspension parts. It's not my primary car, so I'm not in a rush to get it fixed but overall it still runs. I can never get rid of it, whether selling or junking it. It's been in the family for 20 years and many memories with it. I still can remember the new car smell in both the 4runner and Sienna. My father was a very clean person, who never smoked. He never ate food in his cars. He occasionally wore cologne. Everytime I open the doors to his van, it still has a very slight new car smell like the day he got it new. I always wonder where his 4runner ended up. I wonder if it's still on the road or ever got into a serious accident where insurance junked the vehicle. I would love a 4runner from that generation in the same champagne gold color my father's 4runner was, but they're very hard to find with no rust. I'm not really concerned with mileage cause most 4runners from that time if driven by the average American, will have roughly 200-250k miles. Overall they're great vehicles and any Toyota from the 2000s, even the 80-90s are amazing. The reliability, quality, how simple they are and built in Japan is what makes Toyota the best. My father had the 4runner, Sienna and my older sister had a 2004 Corolla LE. I currently have a 2008 Ford Crown Victoria P71 police interceptor with 227k miles and still running. One of the few cars Ford engineered that can get up to a Toyota in terms of reliability but the day her wheels fall off, best believe a Toyota from that generation will be my next car, besides still owning my father's 04 Sienna.
That is an amazing 4 Runner and with only 42K that is unheard of. I would love to own it . And after reading some of the comments I agree with you guys Amd is one of a kind ! I love watching his videos ! I have learned so much from them . He truly is a God sent to us car buffs . As I stated in the pasts I wish I lived near to his shop he would be the only one to work on my Toyota trucks . Amd God bless you and your business!! 🙏🙏
I love cars from that era, but this 4Runner Generation is my dream. I did not believe there is a possibility to find a car like this. I have seen many of them, even looking to buy one, but you do not see something like this anymore. If I found this car on sale, I buy it, period. I will make sure it will keep this same condition for another 24 years. Love it. Thank you for this great video, like all the other in your channel.
Ah! my first 4Runner was a 2000. It was black just like this one, but 4-cylinder and 5-speed manual. I drove it all over western US states and sold it with 400K miles. Great memories.
I've owned my 1997 gen 3 for 23 years. 158k on it and after it was done being kid hauler, it's a garage queen that gets out for about 1k miles per year. Still untouched by a mechanic. But the power steering rack leaks a little bit... I'm keeping it to drive when I retire.
I can watch as much of your content as I want and one of the things that stands out is every move you make with a car, even something as simple as lifting the hood and installing the prop rod is done with care and patience. I feel I could trust you with literally anything and I know it would be done to the very best of your ability.
Hello from Greece. This white stuff you see is dust mixed with sea salt from staying near the sea a lot. That is why it also has SOME surface rust. I have a 2001 MR2 with 50k miles and since it does not park near the sea, it looks even better underneath. Some of our cars are desirable from collectors from northern Europe since they struggle to find rust free examples.
Long term Toyota's do tend to become part of the family. And because of the importance of this one to the family that owns it, they took it to the best car doctor around to give it a check up- because they knew he appreciates it as much as they do. Great video.
We got a 2006 diesel land cruiser that we use for summer vacations. Not in Greece but on the other side of the Aegean Sea, in Turkey. I love this episode.
Brings back memories. in 2000 I bought my first toyota and first new car. I was 21. a reg Cab Tacoma 5speed and I remember the 4runners in 2000 the one model had a scooped hood and I always wanted to put that hood on my tacoma but it was slightly different and wouldnt fit.
Ahmed, Fantastic video. I enjoyed every minute. These silly trucks are special to me - I purchased my '01 new, have done all maintenance & repairs myself since day one, and now have 568,000 miles on it. Original engine, transmission, starter & injectors. Love it.
I have one 4Runner 2000 diesel(1KZT-E motor) in Brazil for 6 years i bought it in 2009 with 100 k miles and sold it 5 years later with 200 k miles, just keep the maintenance in track, oil filters etc..... never broke, i miss it so much, what lovely SUV. I bought another Toyota truck after it, an Fortuner diesel 2010, unfortunately Toyota don't bring it to America, this is another precious stone, I keep it there in Brazil on my older brother house, maybe in 6 years i can bring it to my house in America. Congrats Ahmed for the beautiful job !!!!!!
I've been watching you a lot of time and you are a joy to watch and learn. As I am from Greece I have to make some points here. These cars never been sold in Greece and probably the parts needed for a correct timing belt change (especially is some island that may the owner had the car) are not easily available. So let me make an assumption here. They changed the timing belt (that they probably ordered some time before the actual maintenance) and the fact that they didn't put a metal gasket on the pump is because they removed it with sealant and they put it back as Toyota has assembled it with sealant. Also noone knew that a radiator need to be changed and guess what? There wasn't any available radiator for this model anyway, So probably the timing belt was changed and the weather factor proves it more as the summer heat takes a lot of the timing belt's life in Greece and probably it would have cracked being there all these years.
You have a passion for cars like a true car nut. I'll sit here and watch you talk about ANY car. My dad has an '83 Mercedes 200 with a carburetor and 4-speed manual (W123 chassis) with about 36,000 km on it. I take good care of it during lazy times on vacation when bored. An oil change here, a coolant change there. We don't drive it much, but just can't part with it. The garage would be so empty.
Someday my 22 PRO will be on your show. Mark my word, lol. Over 2 years and 7 months, it just clocked over 2k miles. At this rate, 24 years later, it will be less than 30k miles and be all original, along with original paper work, seat plastic wrapped and all the Japanese tags
Hello from Greece! I dont expect many people from US know where Greece even is but its ok :) yes its true that our cars are rust free because of the climate here . an other great video . take care
Hello from Thessaloniki, Greece. Rust is not an issue in most parts of my country, apart from the mountainous regions of northern Greece such as Pindos mountain range . What i find strange is the amazing condition of the car's paint, it is perfect for a 24 - year old car. It was probably kept in a closed garage. Greece is a country full of sunshine and most cars of this age have their paintwork faded away. The sand in the undercarriage is probably a remnant of many visits to the numerous beaches of my country!!
@@broseph7-7-06 Thanks for asking. My Matrix-in-disguise Pontiac Vibe agrees. After more than 19 years, it is in tremendous condition because it is always parked in a garage and it receives an annual application of high quality rustproofing.
7 monts ago I find the same condition 200K kms Rav4 Mk1, short WB automatic! Every sticker on it from the factory is on its place ! Purchased imediatly !
Just discovered your channel, due to the title of this video. I like your calm and clear way of speaking. Subscribed...and I have plenty of time to watch all your previous video Greetings from Crete, Greece!
I am Greek American and have been to Greece several times. Greece is surrounded by Mediterranean and Adriatic Sea, which consists of salt water and most of the major cities in Greece are located along one of these two seas. I think a lot of this white stuff is dried salt.
it's usually pretty dry in terms of climate there, so even w/ salt it won't immediately rust. i also think that the "dust" is made up of salt or similar mineral
I'm surprised how many Greeks follow this channel 👋
Greetings from Greece.
Many…
Τι λέει παιδιά 😂
@@cybernaut667καλά φίλε εσυ;😅
Όλοι μια παρέα...χαχα
Οne more
I used to drive a runner in the greek army , absolute beast!
Whereas all the lesser people had to make do with Mercedes G, that's unfair 😃
To ksekoliases e? hahahaha
Yes, that 4Runner is amazing but the way you keep your garage so immaculate is just as amazing! Shows you take pride in all aspect of your work.
Thats a serious professional right there.
More like he has too much time on his hands. Stop glazing. 😅
I never thought a germophobe would be a mechanic.😅
Was trying to show my boss about this beautiful Toyota and he goes you need to mop the floor🤷♂️😎. If he can do it, you can do it.😂
@@worldhello1234He takes pride in his workplace. Why hate?
Everyone needs a person who talks and thinks as highly of them as this man of this old Toyota. Its beautiful.
@@KingHisss a car for me is like my wife treat them nice and with care. 💯🫡
Hello from Greece!
Hello from Canada.
Hello , 💙 , I want to visit Greece. Lovely Country.
σκασε
The Car Care Nut is possibly the only channel on TH-cam where every single video is great. Ahmed, I love your enthusiasm, please keep up your excellent work.
Agreed!!!
My 1998 is still a daily driver with 360K miles. Same interior and seats. It's amazing how well those cloth seats hold up.
@@dr.emilschaffhausen4683 that’s awesome! A couple questions…how often do you change transmission fluid and have you ever changed the metal mesh transmission fluid filter?
@@LACEVH Sadly, I've never changed the mesh filter, and I've only done one drain and fill when it seemed to want to slip t neutral. I feel bad that I neglected the tranny fluid. I did everything else according to the book, but thankfully the transmission still runs like new now.
@@dr.emilschaffhausen4683 thanks for the info that helps. I’m right at 200,000 miles and have been pretty good about drain and fills on tranny fluid but have heard really no need to change the filter. These trucks are bulletproof, hope you get another 300k+👍🏼
Greetings from Greece!!!
The fact that i am a greek guy, currently living at UK whaching a random car youtube video about a car that had a life in Greece, and the 1st picture is from my small hometown, called Xanthi, is crazy! nice video!
This gentleman seems like one of the coolest car guys on TH-cam.
I have had all 3 of my Toyotas serviced by Ahmed. “Seems like” doesn’t do him justice. He is a genuine superbly nice man.
He is!
He’s the best!
He is.. 🙂
Now thats Toyota Quality. The owner needs an Award. Now that's a
properly maintained Vehicle. Wow. Im in shocks. Goosebumps
This car's been in Greece its entire lifetime with pretty much zero maintenance... in Greece they get more than 308 days of warm weather.
@@fredpildepends on where you live in the country. Northernn Greece gets a lot of snow but I suppose this one was stationed somewhere sunny.
From what I saw this car belonged to the Greek Army? Because the license plates reminds me a lot to these kind of vehicles...
Hi from Greece!!! I wish the best for all!!!
As a 4Runner owner, I have learned so much from your videos. God bless and thank you.
Another Greek from Chicago! OPA !!!!!
Nafpaktos Missouri
@ do you go to Nafpaktos often?
I can relate! I bought a new 2006 Toyota 4Runner V8 Sport Edition in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I shipped it to my vacation home in Costa Rica.🏖 It still has 51, 500 original miles. Drove it in the Rain Forest, Beaches and rural dirt roads. So far, 4 new tires, 2 new batteries, windshield wiper blades, fog light bulbs, and passenger side wheel bearings. I also only use synthetic oil ever 5,000 miles.
Way overdue for a timing belt. Might want to get on that.
@@RickysHPit's 24 Years old
You are doing very well with the car! Keep up the great work. I once knew a person who would drive from Florida to Costa Rica and points south of Costa Rica. It was a long time ago -- back in the 1970s. He had a huge old Lincoln vehicle and he would go off for months at a time and return when he felt like it.
Ahmed, I am an old mechanic 80 years old, and must say listening to you it’s the most relaxing time that I can have. It beats all the Tv shows and crappy news. The best show in town. From Australia 🇦🇺 🦘👍👍👍👍👍
I agree,from New York !
The difference weather conditions and humidity play on the life of a vehicle is amazing. Vehicles in southern europe look so new despite their age, its amazing
We are very fortunate in the American south and southwest weather-road conditions wise.
california have the same weather but US paint quality are pretty awful lol
I live in Ontario where the roads are often salted from November to April. My 19 year old car has no rust because it has been properly rustproofed on an annual basis.
A rusty car is a neglected car. I actually sent AMD a video of the underside of my car to prove the veracity of my statement.
@@rightlanehog3151 I live in SW Ontario and I can tell you're lying - the "rustproofing" delays rust a bit yes, but 19 y/o car would be a rust bucket anyways.
@@justinandout No I am in Ontario and have used Rust Check on my car A 1999 Lexus ES300, and have no rust!!!
I was blessed to have brought my 01 limited 4runner to the TCCN shop last year. Back then, it wasn't as busy as now, but still, you need to schedule at least 1 month in advance. AMD listed all the parts(w/ parts#) and labor costs needed for the service and gave all his recommendations to me.
I've completely fallen in love with the 4Runner! After watching the videos, I'm feeling so motivated that I'm eager to find a workshop nearby and start volunteering. That's how much I love the 4Runner now!
By researching CCN, my wife and I bought a 2018 RX350, Japan made, AWD, 49k miles super clean. My mechanic checked it out . "If you don't buy it, I will. " He scoped it, used a fancy paint scan tool to look for accident issues. Put it on the lift , no rust, leaks- nothing. It looks great sitting next to my second gen , 2011 Tacoma. They both hum like sewing machines. "Life is good!".
Cool how much did you pay?
Where do you live and who is your mechanic? I'm always looking for mechanic recommendations.
Your Toyota Harrier was made in Canada, all fake luxury Camry based Lexus RXs are made in Canada for North American consumption.A few countries the Toyota Harrier gets the fake luxury brand name slapped on it.
That's awesome! I have a pristene 14 RX and an 18 GS F-Sport, I spend half my life keeping them maintained and detailed. I'm a regular at Amd's shop.
What is CCN?
I am excited to see a Greek car in your Garage!!! I am a Greek Cypriot and I frequently watch your videos! I must confess that I admire your knowledge and especially your love for Toyota cars. All my three cars are Toyota. :)
Χαιρετε, κι' εγω ελληνοκυπριος ειμαι και παρακολουθω τακτικα το καναλι. Εξαιρετικος μηχανικος, οπως εξαιρετικα και τα Toyota.
@@andreasalpha9570 Καλή σου μέρα φίλε μου!!! Χαίρομαι ιδιαίτερα να βλέπω Έλληνες (Ελλαδίτες και Κύπριους) σε παγκόσμια κανάλια σαν αυτό!!!
I was lucky enough to have my ‘02 4Runner in recently at TCCN to have timing belt and several other maintenance items done. Such quality work, it runs like new!
Your love for the older Toyota's is awesome. Simple. Clean. Dependable. It's too bad they rust so bad in the midwest. I love the Toyota vehicles from the 80's to early 2000's. Keep up the great work! 🙏
STOP ! You are making me miss that wonderfully simple 2003 I had ! These were so cool because the engineering was elegant. The most simple solution was the best solution. It still is.
I love watching the respect you pay to these wonderful cars.
Wow! What a treasure. I hope the Illinois winters don’t damage that beautiful 4Runner. Thank you for sharing
I was relieved near the end of the video when he said the family plans to keep it away from salt.
It looks like they live in Southern California now……..
Best mechanic on this side of Haven.
Not a mechanic. He has shown enough to earn the title Doctor of Lexus/Toyota
Thanks AMD. This happens to be my favorite body-style 4Runner. The vehicle condition speaks for itself. I'm glad to know of the family's plans to keep it away from road salt. It merits the extra-special care.
I saw one on Facebook marketplace, same year for like 10 grand. Over 200k miles.... wild
@@jimmurray8483barely over 200k miles is low for an SUV that's 22 to 29 years old. 12,000 miles a year is average annual miles. So wanting $10,000 for it really isn't too.. wild.
Had one of these in Nuuk Greenland imported from Germany - best car I’ve ever had. Rugged, simple, comfortable and reliable in any weather.
Some paint correction and a solid ceramic coating would definitely help preserve the paint. Dry ice blast the underside, undercoat it to keep any rust and salt away and you got yourself a keeper for sure!
Seeing this makes me smile. I had two. Miss those 4runners. This one is a lot nicer than mine. Ours were basic sr5's. Thank you!
This one is also an SR5. Not basic, mid-tier.
ITS A SR5 TOO!
Nothing better than a basic 2000s car.
I concur
I have a 2001 with 228k on it. It is almost as clean as this one. I used to have a 2002 Tacoma for 15 years. Best vehicle I ever seen. These 2000's Toyotas are the Pinnacle of quality vehicles.
I am from Greece and I have a Toyota Corolla 2008 model which works perfectly and without problems. It is so strong that it is like a dog I would say!
I have a 2000 tundra 99K miles. No rust. Runs perfect.
Kudos to you Ahmed. You love these cars and we can see and feel it every minute of your video. I have two 4Runners now, and with great regret I need to sell my mighty 2004 V8 with offroad upgrades. Funny story, this 4Runner was sold after ONE user with 180k on meter, on auction in USA around 2014 and brought to Europe (Toyota never sold 4Gen in EU). No rust, looked like new underneath, used in southern USA I remember. I bought it for offroad trips. It went with me to Montenegro, Albania, Romania, Serbia, Bulgaria and what not, and many many trips in Poland. When I emigrated to USA, I brought it BACK! Now it is 240k miles and runs like a new. I regret, but I have too many cars and my 5gen is waiting for offroad upgrades to replace the old great one. If I cant sell it for good price, I will bring it to Ahmed for good maintenance and rebuild....
What a great customer to take such good care of this 4runner.
Do Americans usually trash their cars?
@@worldhello1234 No but due to different part of the US some area see lots of snow and we salt the roads for traction, and so frames and under parts of the car tend to rust. Other areas do not salt the roads and those cars never see rust or just see surface rust.
They actually didn't
@@DylanL69 why do you feel this 4Runner is not in great shape?
@@ChrisVargasrpht2000chris I didn't say it wasn't but letting it sit like that means it wasn't maintained or really loved
I had a 3rd gen 4Runner they are a tank. Purchased it new and put 280k miles, it worked great for 22 years until we sold it a few months ago. Yes, the 3.4L V6 was a dream. I would be sad, but we replaced it with a 5th Gen 4Runner.
@LarryBenson Best of luck with the new one.
1985 i had my 1st son nice truck the last time toyota really made perfect car's. My 1978 toyota corolla is still alive and running.
Congrats. I once owned both a '77 and '80 Corolla SR5 liftback. I do miss them both.
That immaculate rear steel bumper 😮
Too bad it’s in Illinois. I wouldn’t get it out in the salt.
Dear AMD watching your Tube episodes is a pleasure and makes me appreciate that there are still people who love there work and well built Vehicles.
Vince From Melbourne Australia
Greetings from Greece! 🇬🇷 🇺🇸
Awesome car, Absolutely like new!🇯🇵
One wonders, why they can't make cars like this anymore? So simple, yet so reliable and sturdy
Greed. Thus cheaper parts.
Government intervention too. Mandatory features and CAFE standards don't help.
The government. Believe it or not if a manufacturer try’s to make the weight less they will be required to improve the gas mileage. The heavier it is the less MPG it can have. So they make them heavy and not have to deal with CAFE and that makes them use even more gas.
@@Rick_Kn only way for the government to make money in the name of global warming/ climate change
Because nobody would buy them. Not enough screens.
This was peak Toyota I think. I learn so much from your videos. Your expertise is priceless. I have a '98 Tacoma with this engine (at 319,000 miles) and today I learned why the parking brake acts weird, and I will be cleaning my MAF sensor and chasing down mysterious coolant usage. Thanks AMD!
Oh crap. A blown head gasket or cracked cylinder head. 😢
@@subtegral could be a head gasket, I doubt it's the head. At least I hope it's not. I get coolant drips back on the bell housing/ trans pan after driving. It doesn't leak when the engine is off. Going to pull the intake plenum off and see if I can see anything. I did just verify it's not the lower radiator hose though.
@@mattandshelleymccool4753 do a block test yourself (detects carbon monoxide in the cooling system) carbon monoxide meaning exhaust gases.
If the blue fluid turns yellow you're screwed.
@@subtegral The tool isn't expensive, it will save you a lot of time. Either it will be the head gasket or you can rule that out. Please make sure you're not leaking coolant into the trans via the radiator. That's a real serious problem. As CCN said, it's best to replace the radiator long before it fails.
@@mattandshelleymccool4753
and passing the block test doesn't rule out a cracked head or blown head gasket. It's only a 50% happy moment if you pass that test. To go the full mile you need to perform a cooling system pressure test. Order a pressure tester and follow the directions. And don't break the bank on it. 80 for one is enough.
I had this exact model in lavender steele, brand new, stacking CD in the boot and upgraded alloys. this is the era when Toyota engineered their cars so well. happy days, I would love to own this one, but as long as the owner can drive it, don't sell it, there is nothing better on the road.
Good find CCN, a classic.
96 and 97 4Runners with a Lavender Steel Metallic paint job were somewhat rare (or for 98 models, renamed Cool Steel Metallic) After 98 models they discontinued that paint code.
I like that color so I had my front and rear bumpers repainted from their original dark gray to Lavender Steel Metallic.
@@subtegral I had no choice with the colour or spec as it was the only one they had arriving that wasn't pre sold, at Mr Toyota in Dallas. But it was a beautiful colour, I remember at the time everyone wanted the desert dune.
@@james-t1l3e haha. That's what mine is. Desert Dune Metallic paint with Lavender Steel Metallic painted bumpers.
love my 2000 4runner...114,000 miles.
Hi from South West Missouri! I bought a Camry because of you. Keep up the Great Work!
Cool 4Runner. I own an 86 4Runner SR5 similar to this one. Mine in a one owner SR5 5 Speed manual with the 22RE and Factory AC (still on R12), all power options, cruise etc. I've got 107k miles on it. Garage kept since new. Nothing has been done to it other than oil changes and timing upgrade on the 22RE, and a couple of tire changes/batteries. Original paint, decals, interior. It is a rare find these days. Mint shape! I hope I can show it to you one day AMD. I'm in Florida now, but my 4Runner spent all of it's life in Sacramento, CA until earlier this year. Not an ounce of rust on her.
Please do it. If you need a co pilot. I’m in 😂
@@roger38888 I certainly should call AMD, and plan a road trip with 86 4Runner up to his shop in the Chicago area. Maybe next summer.
Ahmed won't be impressed by your crappy old 1st gen 4Runner.
@@subtegralwell, I have a crappy 4 Gen I can drive behind the first Gen, we need the other Generations and we have a Tour. What Crappy 4runner you drive?
@@subtegral You were impressed enough to reply. BTW, you're Mommy is calling you Skippy. It's time to take out the trash, or your Mommy will take away your PlayStation.
If the owners drive it during the winter, they should consider using fluid film or a similar product under the undercarriage and frame. That should prevent rust issues that 4Runners are so well known for.
100% I agree. Up in Canada we have a product called Krown that's very similar. Always oil spray, and avoid any undercoating. Oil spray it every year and it will be fine.
I use Fluid Film all over my RV - it's seriously the ONLY thing that truly prevents rust.
@@curtisjordan9210great tips here - thank you all - but what does "oil spray it" mean?
They need to protect this thing or it'll be a goner after a few midwest winters.
@@OverlandOrangenot the only thing. Plenty of good rust preventing coatings.
Such a beauty. 20 years from now the 5th Gen could possibly get this kind of reaction.
i love the way you speak!!! Nice video! Well done 👍👍👍
I live in Greece, at a small town near Athens
Love your enthusiasm. Although German I drive a 45 year old Land Cruiser and really appreciate the quality of this car.
I just hit 356k miles over the weekend on my 2000 4Runner with no rust, towing a double axel trailer for 4 hours in the Appalachian mountains.
Another great video from the Bob Ross of TH-cam auto mechanics. Keep up the great work and content Amd
Cars like this are extremely rare to find... 42K miles on a 17 year-old beast of a car? It'll last 50 years easily! Wish I had one of these for my travels! 🤩
What a beautiful TRUE STORY! AMD>>You are the BEST! Thank You for sharing this! You were BORN to be a TEACHER! So good & clear! THANK YOU! I had a 1997 4Runner with 5-speed, Factory rear locker and 4 x 4. What a dream car! I towed it perhaps 30,000 miles behind my Motorhome & it was ALWAYS ready to rock & roll the minute we got to our destination. Never ever gave me any problem. Back in those days, I did all my own fluid changes; engine, gear box, differentials, PS. Never a leak, never a CV boot, no PS problems>>You said it> A TANK! It was MY TANK! May The Good Lord Bless and Keep you & you have yourself a WONDERFUL day, Ahmed!
I love my 3rd gen 4runner. I runs and drives like it's brand new. I took it on a major road trip this summer to Alaska. 11,500 round trip from NY. Not one problem, except dirt from off-roading clogged up the power antenna.
Toyotas from the 2000s and up have a special place in my heart, specifically this generation 4runner. My father had a 2001 4runner SR5 which he bought new exactly like the one in the video but in the champagne gold color. As the family grew, he traded it in for a 2004 Toyota Sienna LE in the navy blue color which currently sits at 228K miles. He passed away last year and I still have his Sienna. It still runs even tho it has some battle scars and needs some engine maintenance. It currently needs an alternator, which is a simple fix plus some suspension parts. It's not my primary car, so I'm not in a rush to get it fixed but overall it still runs. I can never get rid of it, whether selling or junking it. It's been in the family for 20 years and many memories with it. I still can remember the new car smell in both the 4runner and Sienna. My father was a very clean person, who never smoked. He never ate food in his cars. He occasionally wore cologne. Everytime I open the doors to his van, it still has a very slight new car smell like the day he got it new. I always wonder where his 4runner ended up. I wonder if it's still on the road or ever got into a serious accident where insurance junked the vehicle. I would love a 4runner from that generation in the same champagne gold color my father's 4runner was, but they're very hard to find with no rust. I'm not really concerned with mileage cause most 4runners from that time if driven by the average American, will have roughly 200-250k miles. Overall they're great vehicles and any Toyota from the 2000s, even the 80-90s are amazing. The reliability, quality, how simple they are and built in Japan is what makes Toyota the best. My father had the 4runner, Sienna and my older sister had a 2004 Corolla LE. I currently have a 2008 Ford Crown Victoria P71 police interceptor with 227k miles and still running. One of the few cars Ford engineered that can get up to a Toyota in terms of reliability but the day her wheels fall off, best believe a Toyota from that generation will be my next car, besides still owning my father's 04 Sienna.
Love this guy, only one I trust. About to drive to his shop from Cali just for an oil change. Lol
Hope you are trying to be funny. Just do oil changes yourself. Best to take your car to him when other mechanics can't solve the issue.
That is an amazing 4 Runner and with only 42K that is unheard of. I would love to own it . And after reading some of the comments I agree with you guys Amd is one of a kind ! I love watching his videos ! I have learned so much from them . He truly is a God sent to us car buffs . As I stated in the pasts I wish I lived near to his shop he would be the only one to work on my Toyota trucks . Amd God bless you and your business!! 🙏🙏
I love cars from that era, but this 4Runner Generation is my dream. I did not believe there is a possibility to find a car like this. I have seen many of them, even looking to buy one, but you do not see something like this anymore. If I found this car on sale, I buy it, period. I will make sure it will keep this same condition for another 24 years. Love it. Thank you for this great video, like all the other in your channel.
Ah! my first 4Runner was a 2000. It was black just like this one, but 4-cylinder and 5-speed manual. I drove it all over western US states and sold it with 400K miles. Great memories.
My mom has the same 4runner. My dad is not to most mechanically inclined but that car still is running well
I've owned my 1997 gen 3 for 23 years. 158k on it and after it was done being kid hauler, it's a garage queen that gets out for about 1k miles per year. Still untouched by a mechanic. But the power steering rack leaks a little bit... I'm keeping it to drive when I retire.
Love the 4Runner content. What a gem!
Greece has rocky soil. When it gets wet and dries then it becomes a sort of concrete. Very hard to remove.
Great car in great shape!
I can watch as much of your content as I want and one of the things that stands out is every move you make with a car, even something as simple as lifting the hood and installing the prop rod is done with care and patience. I feel I could trust you with literally anything and I know it would be done to the very best of your ability.
I just picked up a 2000 4runner from the original owner, with 170k, I'm super excited to refresh it.
Hello from Greece. This white stuff you see is dust mixed with sea salt from staying near the sea a lot. That is why it also has SOME surface rust. I have a 2001 MR2 with 50k miles and since it does not park near the sea, it looks even better underneath. Some of our cars are desirable from collectors from northern Europe since they struggle to find rust free examples.
I absolutely love this generation of 4 runners Total Toyota built rock solid! I am going to Greece next week can't wait for my vacation!
I have a beige 1997 Toyota 4Runner with 51k miles. It has the same tan interior. The previous owner barely drove it and I’m glad to find a gem.
Long term Toyota's do tend to become part of the family. And because of the importance of this one to the family that owns it, they took it to the best car doctor around to give it a check up- because they knew he appreciates it as much as they do. Great video.
One more "Hello from Greece" from me😊! Greatest car channel on yt!!!
Former 1997 LTD owner, traded it in on the first year Sequoia. It was bullet proof, probably still on the road today.
We got a 2006 diesel land cruiser that we use for summer vacations. Not in Greece but on the other side of the Aegean Sea, in Turkey. I love this episode.
I enjoy watching you can tell you really enjoy your job you give excellent detail of your work
This vehicle is a time piece. Enjoy your channel AMD.
Brings back memories. in 2000 I bought my first toyota and first new car. I was 21. a reg Cab Tacoma 5speed and I remember the 4runners in 2000 the one model had a scooped hood and I always wanted to put that hood on my tacoma but it was slightly different and wouldnt fit.
Ahmed,
Fantastic video. I enjoyed every minute. These silly trucks are special to me - I purchased my '01 new, have done all maintenance & repairs myself since day one, and now have 568,000 miles on it. Original engine, transmission, starter & injectors. Love it.
I have one 4Runner 2000 diesel(1KZT-E motor) in Brazil for 6 years i bought it in 2009 with 100 k miles and sold it 5 years later with 200 k miles, just keep the maintenance in track, oil filters etc..... never broke, i miss it so much, what lovely SUV. I bought another Toyota truck after it, an Fortuner diesel 2010, unfortunately Toyota don't bring it to America, this is another precious stone, I keep it there in Brazil on my older brother house, maybe in 6 years i can bring it to my house in America. Congrats Ahmed for the beautiful job !!!!!!
That is a beauty! I have an '03, not much younger, but it is a gen 4.
I have a 03 with 251k. I drive it everywhere.
4:32 "Cassette player...with some dust from Greece". Priceless.
Like brand new! Excellent! Greetings from Bulgaria 🇧🇬
I've been watching you a lot of time and you are a joy to watch and learn. As I am from Greece I have to make some points here. These cars never been sold in Greece and probably the parts needed for a correct timing belt change (especially is some island that may the owner had the car) are not easily available. So let me make an assumption here.
They changed the timing belt (that they probably ordered some time before the actual maintenance) and the fact that they didn't put a metal gasket on the pump is because they removed it with sealant and they put it back as Toyota has assembled it with sealant.
Also noone knew that a radiator need to be changed and guess what? There wasn't any available radiator for this model anyway, So probably the timing belt was changed and the weather factor proves it more as the summer heat takes a lot of the timing belt's life in Greece and probably it would have cracked being there all these years.
You have a passion for cars like a true car nut. I'll sit here and watch you talk about ANY car. My dad has an '83 Mercedes 200 with a carburetor and 4-speed manual (W123 chassis) with about 36,000 km on it. I take good care of it during lazy times on vacation when bored. An oil change here, a coolant change there. We don't drive it much, but just can't part with it. The garage would be so empty.
Bravo to the mechanic, might be the most humble mechanic TH-camr 👏
If I ever come to Chicago I’ll stop by 🔧
Someday my 22 PRO will be on your show. Mark my word, lol. Over 2 years and 7 months, it just clocked over 2k miles. At this rate, 24 years later, it will be less than 30k miles and be all original, along with original paper work, seat plastic wrapped and all the Japanese tags
Hello from Greece! I dont expect many people from US know where Greece even is but its ok :) yes its true that our cars are rust free because of the climate here . an other great video . take care
Hello! A lot of Americans are into Greek mythology and the Spartans lol. It’s probably the only Balkan country we can point out😆
Yasou! 🇬🇷.
Πάντως είσαι ο 5ος Έλληνας που μέτρησα στα σχόλια :)
Greek army still uses same generation 4Runners. Our Brigadier General would often ride in one of these.
My sons own 3rd Gen 4 Runners with in excess of 230K and still going strong! They are the most reliable car made!
Hello from Thessaloniki, Greece. Rust is not an issue in most parts of my country, apart from the mountainous regions of northern Greece such as Pindos mountain range . What i find strange is the amazing condition of the car's paint, it is perfect for a 24 - year old car. It was probably kept in a closed garage. Greece is a country full of sunshine and most cars of this age have their paintwork faded away. The sand in the undercarriage is probably a remnant of many visits to the numerous beaches of my country!!
Hello from Canada. I can guarantee this car has been not been parked out in the elements for 24 years.
@@rightlanehog3151what does your Corolla matrix have to say about that
@@broseph7-7-06 Thanks for asking. My Matrix-in-disguise Pontiac Vibe agrees. After more than 19 years, it is in tremendous condition because it is always parked in a garage and it receives an annual application of high quality rustproofing.
Beautiful 4runner
Owner of a 98 T4R V6 4WD with 112k miles, Fully restored =)
I had 2 third gen 4Runners. The best!❤️
7 monts ago I find the same condition 200K kms Rav4 Mk1, short WB automatic!
Every sticker on it from the factory is on its place !
Purchased imediatly !
Just discovered your channel, due to the title of this video. I like your calm and clear way of speaking. Subscribed...and I have plenty of time to watch all your previous video
Greetings from Crete, Greece!
Ahmed, your outstanding knowledge is amazing!!
I am Greek American and have been to Greece several times. Greece is surrounded by Mediterranean and Adriatic Sea, which consists of salt water and most of the major cities in Greece are located along one of these two seas. I think a lot of this white stuff is dried salt.
it's usually pretty dry in terms of climate there, so even w/ salt it won't immediately rust. i also think that the "dust" is made up of salt or similar mineral
You are the very best. I found out many years ago that every toyota ever made was named after a star, just saying - all the best from new zealand.
That’s the way the Camry and Avalon was back in ‘97 when I started at Toyota K. There’s much to be said for simplicity! Soft-touch, monofoam dash . 😊
That’s beautiful. Thanks for sharing
Speaking of 2007-my son was born back then, and he’s 17 now. Funny how this video made me think of it all of the sudden.