My '91 4Runner's A/C is just about dead. Compressor's bad. So is the evaporator and the control head. "Jill":http://livejournal.com/users/tigger54/'s Dad's shop quoted me $1700 to fix it. I called around and that price is more than fair. Unfortunately, the truck is only worth $1600 or so, according to "KBB":http://kbb.com/.
If the A/C was the only problem, I'd probably just fix it. But, the engine is burning oil. About 4 qts per 3,000 miles. It's gotten much worse since I've owned it. It needs a paint job really bad, and a new bumper. The clutch hydrolic line leaks, which is annoying, but probably an easy fix if I have the time and the right tools.
So, I'm in a pickle. Do I fix the 4Runner, buy another VERY used truck, buy a slightly used truck, or buy a brand spankin' new truck?
I'm still looking around for slightly used trucks that fit the bill. I don't see any point in buying another VERY used truck as, fixing the 4Runner would probably not only be cheaper, but, I know that many of the components in the 4Runner have been replaced (by me) so I know that it's probably more reliable.
It looks like, depending on how much we put down, a new truck is going to run about $500/mo. We can afford it but, I'm not exactly *nice* to the vehicles I own. As much as I like a new car, I'm going to abuse it, so sometimes I feel as thought it might be better to buy something that's already been abused a bit and safe a few bucks. But, it turns out I really don't save much.
So, right now, I'm looking for a slightly used truck, but tossing the new truck and fix a 4Runner ideas back and forth. Any input you have would be very appreciated. I don't fuck around and will, most likely, put the wheels in motion sometime today. So, if you have some advice… offer it quickly and soon.
