I've been part of the forum for a couple of years now and am happy to report that I bought a used 2005 4Runner SR5 V8 4x4 on Saturday. It only had 33k on it.
I traded a 1996 Mercedes SL500 for the 4Runner and it's been interesting comparing the two. I mean, the vehicles are worlds apart in some ways but I've been impressed that the transition has been so easy. The truck definitely has power and though a little heavier to steer at slower speeds it handles really well.
Let's see, this SR5 must have had some options installed because mine has leather trim,
running boards, towing package, 17" rims and 3rd row seating. No hood scoop or color coordinated mirrors.
I didn't notice until yesterday that my sunroof was not stock. It is an inalfa sunroof. Reading this forum, the sunroof was the only issue some people had so maybe this isn't a "bad" discovery. I also noticed that my windshield wasn't Toyota glass so it must have been replaced. Not a big deal and preferred over having a crack. I believe Toyota did use special glass on their windshields but it isn't a factor of safety since the 4Runner's structure is ladder in lieu of unibody.
Two things I have noticed. There is minor feedback in the steering wheel while accelerating. Having fulltime 4WD is probably the reason why. Anybody else noticed this? Coming from a mercedes where I didn't feel anything (and being rear wheel drive), this is probably something normal that I'm still getting used to.
The other item I have noticed is in the brakes. They are great with no warps, but when softly applied, there is some minor feedback in the pedeal until fully applied where I don't feel anything in the pedal. Any ideas?
It's a different vehicle than the Mercedes but I'm really happy with the change. I'm looking forward to keeping this SUV for a long, long time.
Russ