My parents are looking at getting a FJC to replace their old '91 Explorer. Anything that existing owners would recommend asking the dealer about, options to avoid or get etc. It will most likely be a base model since the most off-roading it will see will be logging roads or forest service roads. Having lockers would probably increase the resale value however they plan to keep it for the long term so resale isn't a concern.
Anything One Should Know When Buying An FJC?
- Thread starter Canuck
- Start date
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Nah, not really. It's like buying any other vehicle. Make sure you get the options you want at the going price (or better).
base model with locker and a-trac and upgraded tires sound like a good combo to me.
- Thread starter
- #5
Toyota in Canada doesn't have the flexability in options as Toyota USA. You can only get the locker as part of a package, not as a stand alone option. 
It's a lot easier to spec the truck out in the States to get what you want.
It's a lot easier to spec the truck out in the States to get what you want.
Insurance
Get as low a deductible as possible for comprehensive. Windshield breakage due to rocks WILL happen. I read some postings here on this issue, and wrote on my Things To Do, contact the insurance company. My windshield was hit by a rock the next day and now have a 5 inch crack.
Get as low a deductible as possible for comprehensive. Windshield breakage due to rocks WILL happen. I read some postings here on this issue, and wrote on my Things To Do, contact the insurance company. My windshield was hit by a rock the next day and now have a 5 inch crack.
It's a utilitarian rig.
Not a heated, leather seated fancy pants wanna be 4x4!!
Oh--And if you have an addictive personality...don't read the forums anymore and see all the mods available!
Not a heated, leather seated fancy pants wanna be 4x4!!
Oh--And if you have an addictive personality...don't read the forums anymore and see all the mods available!
Get the six speed. It is super fun to drive, plus you get full time 4wd
For sure get some fisheye mirrors to stick on the side mirrors. This will eliminate the FJ's considerable blind spot. Don't waste your money on the factory skid plate. It is weak as a tin can. They might want to wait until the new reinforced fender aprons go into production so you won't have to worry about the fender bulge issue. Other than that get ready to have the sweetest rig you've ever driven. I didn't think it was possible to love an inanimate object so much.
For sure get some fisheye mirrors to stick on the side mirrors. This will eliminate the FJ's considerable blind spot. Don't waste your money on the factory skid plate. It is weak as a tin can. They might want to wait until the new reinforced fender aprons go into production so you won't have to worry about the fender bulge issue. Other than that get ready to have the sweetest rig you've ever driven. I didn't think it was possible to love an inanimate object so much.- Thread starter
- #10
I don't know about that. Maybe if they released a turbo diesel FJC it could compete for my affection with my BJ74.
I'm sure my parents will enjoy it. I think they've decided to go up a package for some of the options unavailable on the base trim.
Just ask for dealer invoice, got mine for $200 over, all depends on how your going to use it...it is true about windshield damage...I am on my second one...its only a year old...dealer wanted $1200...got it done for $435...but can not live without it...
Consider not buying it from Richmond Toyota. PM me is you need clarification
River Walker
River Walker
Just make sure they buy a 2008, so they don't get potential 2007 problems that Toyota has tried so hard to keep from making good on.
Make sure they test drive it, and that they aren't claustrophobic. Make them back up in it to park. See if they can adapt to the vision issues. If so, they'll love it. If not, they'll loathe it, and get rid of it in 3 months.
Hey ToledoFJ,
You sound like you know what's going on! Any thoughs on the high reverse gear ratio? Mine also seems tp have a lot of slop in the gears, and the high idle speed really makes it tough to back up slow! Obviously I have a MT6.
I agree it is a sweet machine. Just those few things bug me.
Please give me some good news!
Thanks, Woodeye
The factory roof rack is very ampractical so if you buy it without it the price of the truck will be less so you can save money at the end when you buy an after market one, if you want a more practical roof rack offcourse.
When I got mine I asked for the factory rack, just to have something up there til I got around to something else. The factory rack is weak, and you're better off keeping the $700 the factory rack cost and buying an ARB..... 
they did not charge me for my rack but now scared to try and remove it as i have heard so many damn horror stories of snapped bolts...leaks....damage...etc
If you're refferring to the engine bay fender apron bulges & cracks, that won't be rectified until the time 2009's start rolling out.