 I stumbled upon this car because I needed an SUV after moving to Chicago (very hasty purchase).  We had just purchased a house, had a baby and my wife was not working.  I drove Honda ( till it was stolen), and 5 german vehicles prior.  This 4runner was 15 years old with 126000 miles and affordable ($4K out the door after trading in my Audi A4).  I went straight to my mechanic and Replaced the Timing/drive belts, gasket, fuel filter, plugs, battery, and wires.  I also poured sea foam into the gas tank and vacuum lines.  I also replaced the rear front rotors, pads, rear drums and cable lines (a year later).  All in all, $2500 in preventative/replacement maintenance work and $1000 on Dura-trac tires (5).  It has been a very dependable, low maintenance vehicle.  The only problem I have is an intermittently working digital clock (and If you have ever owned European vehicles, this is laughable or even "cute" problem...REALLY!)  I had very little expectations of they vehicle and Toyota in general as I (honestly) snubbed the brand.  This truck/runner has been a true winner and worthy vehicle.  The 3rd generation build is simple, and ruggedly handsome per-se and I have truly come around to appreciate it greatly (just like Glocks!).  I was so impressed that  I purchased a 2011 Toyota Highlander for my wife, which we later traded for a Lexus GX 470 (we preferred the body-on-frame V8 - a superb vehicle based on the 03-08 4runner).  Back to the subject.  What makes this a superior vehicle is the simple design!  It drives like it is new, no squeaks or rattles.  I will not hesitate to drive this thing to the ends of the earth (literally because parts are readily available world-wide).  The engine is amazing!  It is not sluggish like the older 4runners/Land Cruiser 80, nor is it as peppy as its modern V6/8 counterparts but It is ample at best.  The best thing about the engine is that it is a "non-interference engine" which means that if the TIMING BELT breaks, your engine will just STOP and NOT BE DAMAGED!! I really love this truck and have decided to have the frame sand blasted and undercoated to extend the service-life (what's the point of a 500,000 mile engine when the frame succumbs to rust right?)  My mechanic and I have come to the conclusion that my only future repairs will be the bearings/bushings (whenever it goes), regular maintenance and wear replacements.  As the blue book value drops, one be sure that this vehicle can command a higher value given the condition.  I will most probably never let go of this gem and simply pass it down/on.