Mid-life crisis intervention or enablement

[apocalypsegrrrl]

My husband is itching to test drive an FJ Cruiser at the dealership today. My Passat just blew the head gasket for the second time at 110,000, so we're done with German engineering, and we do need a new car. In all honesty it will be mainly a DD with some weekend trips to the mountains/hunting, etc. He really hearts the FJ, but we're still considering the 4Runner and the Xterra. The FJ may not be the most sensible rig, but, D@*N, it's cool! So I'm thinking this is a mid-life crisis with something in it for ME.

Anyway, here are my questions:

1. Standard or Automatic?
2. Best package? We're not into bling in the shiny sense, but in the RAWR! sense, yes; so is the Trail Team package cool enough to justify?
3. Best way to buy?
4. What to do about all the rock chips we'll get on the straight up and down front window?
5. Must have accessories?
6. Should we do this, or should we go for the perhaps more practical 4Runner? Or even the Xterra?
7. Best aftermarket kid bling for the back seat (DVD systems, etc.), because their friends all ride in mini vans and their still young and impressionable enough to think that's ok if there's a nice entertainment system?
8. Should we chill till the 2011s come out?

(I've read all the stickies, but remain curious about the above questions.)

Thanks!

 

[apocalypsegrrrl]

11:26 PST: heading to the dealership...

 

[Mtbcoach]

Sorry to hear about your Passat. My wife loved her diesel Passat until a 16 yr old hit her in the passenger front (later to be known as the "sweet" spot) going less than 25 causing over $15k in damages.

My husband is itching to test drive an FJ Cruiser at the dealership today. My Passat just blew the head gasket for the second time at 110,000, so we're done with German engineering, and we do need a new car. In all honesty it will be mainly a DD with some weekend trips to the mountains/hunting, etc. He really hearts the FJ, but we're still considering the 4Runner and the Xterra. The FJ may not be the most sensible rig, but, D@*N, it's cool! So I'm thinking this is a mid-life crisis with something in it for ME.

Anyway, here are my questions:

1. Standard or Automatic?

Unless you really need full time 4 wheel drive, I'd go with the Automatic. They are much easier to wheel in challenging conditions...

2. Best package? We're not into bling in the shiny sense, but in the RAWR! sense, yes; so is the Trail Team package cool enough to justify?

I upgraded the radio myself (putting in a Kenwood DVD/Garmin GPS) and think its best to get the stock set up (I upgraded for keyless entry and rear locker only) because you will probably want to upgrade things. Doing it after you leave the dealer will give you better and probably, less expensive options. The Trail Team edition is badging, if you like that, you'll pay for it.

3. Best way to buy?

I'd look for a used one instead of paying the new car price. There are a whole bunch of deals to be found if you don't mind buying something used. I would avoid the "early" FJC's (those built before ~Oct '06) which MAY have questionable ring and pinion gears. We do know that if Toyota was smart, they would have built the FJC with a stronger rear diff, but I digress.

If you want new, shop around. There seems to be some markets that are getting sticker where other's report multiple units on the dealer lot. I'd try to be patient and I know that can be difficult to do...

4. What to do about all the rock chips we'll get on the straight up and down front window?

Stop tailgating the car in front of you. I got over 3 years on my first windshield and only had to replace it due to a rock off a passing truck hitting right in the driver view. Don't let the internet information scare you too much. There are now many options available for front windshields, techs have had a chance to probably replace one before your's and it was an overblown issue IMHO...

5. Must have accessories?

Rear locker, even if you don't plan to wheel it, get it. It will make for easier resale. That is assuming you are getting the 4X4. Only other must have for me is the keyless entry...

6. Should we do this, or should we go for the perhaps more practical 4Runner? Or even the Xterra?

If by practical, you mean 4 real doors, maybe. In all honesty, with small kids, you might go that direction from the start. My 2 daughters have lived in the back of mine the past 4 years. Getting into the back seat means the corresponding front door needs to be opened (and closed) so all kids get in on one side and slide over if its a one parent operation.

The lack of 4 real doors on the FJC may give you good reason to look at the 4Rnr...

7. Best aftermarket kid bling for the back seat (DVD systems, etc.), because their friends all ride in mini vans and their still young and impressionable enough to think that's ok if there's a nice entertainment system?

Mine preferred personal DVD players that they hung on the back seat. Not bling, just function. With the Kenwood in the dash, it was easily visible from the back seat and they watched mostly on that although its it illegal since its visible to the driver (ooops)...

8. Should we chill till the 2011s come out?

IF they do come out. I'm sure you've read the rumors, guestimations and general misinformation regarding the demise of the FJC in America. Its official that it will be released in Aus but who knows in the US. I'd start looking for sure and see what you can find and if it fits your needs/budgets/desires...

(I've read all the stickies, but remain curious about the above questions.)

Thanks!

11:26 PST: heading to the dealership...

Have fun with the test drive...

 

[swampthing]

Jerry has some good advice - I'll pretty much echo what he says.

1 - I like my auto, and also like 4WD (vs 2WD) - but it's up to what you like

2 - Sub & TT badging is over-rated IMHO - If you aren't going to upgrade your factory system go for the first pkg upgrade (I believe this is the one that includes the FJammer Radio, Locker, ATRAC & Tilt Gauge console)

3 - There are lots of good used ones out there...

4 - chips are inevitable - like Jerry - mine lasted a long time til a big freaking rock hit my windshield going about 80 - no windshield would have made it...there is lots of talk on the windshields...but that's mainly it - talk. If you do have to get it replaced, make sure the tech brings replacement clips for the plastic they have to remove (I've lost a corner plastic piece because they reused the clip - they break easy)

5 - Locker, ATRAC is cool - I also like my rubber factory mats & passenger armrest (I bought both off ebay for cheap), the roof-rack looks cool, but that's about it - skip that option and buy an aftermarket one that is much more functional (about the same price as OEM), the factory sliders are an option - but I like the aftermarket options as well (again close to the same price). I don't have the sub - most seem to say it's not that great, but I can't truly comment.

6 - Not having 4 real doors is one of the biggest downside of the FJC (for my lifestyle), getting 4 large adults in there can be a challenge - especially when parked close to another vehicle! But it's also one of the trademark features...I thought the suicide doors were awesome on the lot, in real life...more like having an extended cab truck.

7 - My boys are too small to worry about DVD etc so can't speak to that

8 - I'd give used a good look...lots of well modded ones out there too

Hope that helps a bit...feel free to ignore any of it! ha!

 

[apocalypsegrrrl]

Going with the crisis...

Thanks for your feedback. We drove a 6 speed yesterday & liked it. A lot. We want the AT package. Does one of the upgrades have the blue tooth stereo and steering wheel controls? I forgot to ask the dealer. Website and literature are inconclusive. Which aftermarket roof rack do you like? Trying to decide whether to get factory rock rails and front skid plate or go aftermarket. We already decided to go aftermarket on the roo bar, because we didn't like the factory one. We like the black steel wheels too. Iceberg White!

They want $2000 for the headrest dvd system!!! Probably go aftermarket on that too.

 

[hman913]

If you feel you're going to use/need rock rails and skid plates, save your money and go aftermarket. They will both be stronger and more useful than oem parts.

 

[Kazuma Cruiser]

i just bought a 2010 and love it. The wife and the kids love it also. I got automatic, rear locker, roof rack, and dealer installed leather. Great truck......so far. I have already learned to back into parking spaces so I can pull out straight.....I have already almost thumped a couple of cars and people.

 

[Mtbcoach]

Thanks for your feedback. We drove a 6 speed yesterday & liked it. A lot. We want the AT package. Does one of the upgrades have the blue tooth stereo and steering wheel controls? I forgot to ask the dealer. Website and literature are inconclusive. Which aftermarket roof rack do you like? Trying to decide whether to get factory rock rails and front skid plate or go aftermarket. We already decided to go aftermarket on the roo bar, because we didn't like the factory one. We like the black steel wheels too. Iceberg White!

They want $2000 for the headrest dvd system!!! Probably go aftermarket on that too.

I'd agree with not going with the stock rack, the ARB is very stout, Baja Racks makes a nice one also for much less.

The factory skid plate is nothing more than a "bash guard". There are many other options available that will actually protect your rig instead. I prefer Budbuilt because they are exceptional in strength and designed to protect the rig.

Same with the factory rock rails, the aftermarket offers much stronger, more functional and wider options. My preference is Demello hybrid sliders, again, other strong options available also: Budbuilt would be my next choice.

I'd still encourage you to look around at the used market. I've seen a couple very well built '07's and '08's for under $25k as well as some dead stock units closer to $20k.

Good luck and be sure to post pics once its in your driveway...

 

[nevadaesh]

Aftermarket sliders. I got the Trail Gear and really like them cause you can use them as a step to get up and into the FJ.

What I didn't know at the time is that they are built in China. I would not have bought them if I knew at the time. BUY AMERICAN

Look for a slider that can be used by the little guys as a step.

Good luck in your search. BTW, if you buy one you'll never regret it.

 

[Kosmo]

If I didn't love driving a stick, I'd get the auto.

My kids hate the backseat, but also realize how cool the FJ is. (boys, 11 and 8) No entertainment there either.

I have only had one chip in the windshield in 70k miles.

If you're going to modify it, buy as little as possible from Toyota. Buy USA made aftermarket. Lots of people here make really great stuff to bolt on.

The stereo needs to be replaced, don't pay Toyota for it. Put in headrest DVD if you must but do it aftermarket.

Lastly, if the kids comfort is your main concern, get a 4runner or LC or Seqouia. I'm 36...crap...37 and I am loving it. Maybe a midlife crisis thing but it's lasted two years and the kids are with me.

 

[apocalypsegrrrl]

He Drove Home In It Today!

He's out in the garage staring at it with a beer in his hand right now. Iceburg, offroad package, with a roof rack (couldn't easily find one without). Now the wish list: trailer hitch set up, rock rails, roo bar, real roof rack. Sigh. I'm sure glad he didn't go for some Italian sports car!

As for the entertainment system, it's just as cheap to get a couple of ipads and the proclip headrest mounts. DVD is so last decade!

If you're in the Northwest, Campbell Toyota in Hermiston was great to deal with. About $250 over invoice, no BS.

 

[Mtbcoach]

Congrats.

Pics are necessary...

 

[apocalypsegrrrl]

No off road pics until we get the insurance formalized...

 

[Mtbcoach]

No off road pics until we get the insurance formalized...

Oh, they look so cute all fresh and new...the FJC not your lovely girls...