Why NOT to Buy an FJ Cruiser - Watch this before purchasing! - FJ Issues and Problems
Hey everyone! Welcome to another episode of LET'S FJ! This isn't exactly a video I ever wanted to make but since I have highlighted the GOOD about FJs in a video I did recently, I have to show the flip side of that coin and show the BAD. This video has all the things I could think of or find that people have issues with when it comes to the FJ Cruiser, so hopefully if you're in the market for one this video helps you out.
Here is a list of links for things mentioned in this video:
Why to Buy an FJ - • Why the FJ Cruiser is ...
FJ Cruiser Changes by Year - • Which FJ Cruiser Year ...
Car Care Nut FJ Video: • Customer states my Toy...
FJ Cruiser Colors Video: • Every FJ Cruiser Color...
FJ Cruiser Rear Door Mod: • FJ Cruiser Rear Window...
Offroad Hub SAS FJ Off-roading: • Sand Hollow Plan B // ...
Let me know if there's something about FJ Cruisers that you don't like, especially if I don't mention it in the video. But please like the video if it was helpful for you, and share it with those who may be looking at buying an FJ.
And a huge thank you to Sunburst Auto Sales for letting me film their showroom FJ Cruiser, it worked out perfect and if you're interested in a pristine 2014 Cement Grey 6MT FJ, this is the one for you! www.sunburstautosales.com/
Even with all the reasons to not buy an FJ Cruiser, I’ve found more reasons to own one. I’ve owned three so far and currently both my wife and myself drive 2014 models. The advantages outweigh the disadvantages for us. I personally love the looks of the FJ and can spot one a mile away. They always catch my eye. Love them or hate them, they are still a great vehicle with lots of reliability and longevity and versatility. Not for everyone but they are right for me. (Every dentist needs at least one).
Love mine too! Thanks for sharing! Definitely worth it 😃
totally agreed with you. I have discarded my Wrangler and Defender after I bought a FJ Cruiser. Low in maintenance , easy to maintain, no headache related to electronic and the chassis is definitely designed to test the off road
So very true, I may pay for higher gas prices, but when I sleep in my FJ, I am already saving $100 to $300 per night at the places I ride. Just checkout the nightly rates at Moab, Utah - or anywhere near Arches National Park. I have saved thousands of dollars just moon docking in my FJ on BLM lands.
@@ironhorsegladiator5034 nice, one day I will have one also.
My wife wants us to get a second one as well!
My 2007 FJ just hit 300k and the only issues ive ever had were the ignition coils like clockwork failing at every 100k miles, its never had any engine or trans issues. It does take skill to drive but its by far the best vehicle i have ever owned. i plan on doing minimal maintenance and look forward to 500k miles. My only real issue is trying to find good front seats to replace the ones ive worn out after 300k miles and driving all over the country. I paid 12k in 2012 for mine and it still appraised for 11k best investment in a vehicle ive ever made.
All those things are true about the FJ but I love mine as I said previously. Best vehicle Ive owned.
Exactly! I do too!
You must have owned really bad ones 😂
@@bernardbernabe7733 Not at all...love my FJ
Wow! A courageous spot on assessment of the bloated Goochie body of the remake of the timeless FJ. When a company in New Hampshire can find and rebuild old style FJs and sell them for $40,000 that proves the old style is worth using. No one at Toyota is listening to that, sadly.
As the original owner of a 2007 Voodoo Blue FJ with the automatic transmission and part-time 4 wheel drive, and here are the problems I have encountered. Mine has a build date of Feb 2007 and came with the UR Upgrade package 2 so it has the rear diff lock and A-trac. It currently has about 140,400 miles on it. I've had all the maintenance and service done at my local Toyota dealer based on the schedule that came with it and opted for the extended warranty of 6-years/100K. The extended warranty didn't help me much because it expired long before I got to 100K on it. Anyway, the water pump started leaking at about 70,600 miles and this was the first major thing to happen, about a month after my 6-year warranty ended. I was able to convince Toyota to replace it, because it had clearly started leaking before the warranty expired, but they hadn't caught it when doing the previous oil change at 70K and I only just noticed it by dumb luck. My alternator died at 108,8460 with no warning while I was running errands, leaving me stranded in a Target parking lot with groceries. My rear differential start growling quite loudly a couple of months later and needed to be rebuilt at 109,450. Toyota doesn't do rebuilds, so I took it to transmission specialty shop. At about 120K, the lift mechanism for the drivers seat broke when I hit a really big pothole causing the seat to drop from the highest up position to the floor while I was driving. I like to drive with the seat up as high as it will go and it would slowly sink over time (i'm not the skinniest person on the planet) so every couple of weeks, I'd have to give the handle a couple of pumps to raise the seat back up. I've also had problems with the outer side bolster and seat cushion wearing and getting holes from sliding in and out of the car, as well as the rubber weatherstrip on the driver-side suicide door wearing through because I must be hitting it when I climb in. I am tall so I have the driver's seat positioned as far back as it will go and in that position I must be rubbing against the weatherstrip, although I never feel it. What else? Mostly minor maintenance things like both front outer CV boots developed small holes and cracks around 130K. I replaced the PCV valve at 133K because the original was leaking. Replaced the windshield twice. I'm having some paint issues with pealing of the clear coat on the front plastic cowl above the grill. I've noticed this on quite a few older Voodoo Blue FJs and I think it might be because of the engine temps affecting the plastic? That's just a guess. Also I don't like how badly the headlight covers have frosted over with age and even though I've restored them a couple of times, it doesn't seem to last. I never had issues with the blind spots because I'm used to driving a VW camper with tons of blind spots, so with a 3-inch round spot mirror installed on each outside mirror, that seems to work for me. I also installed the side sun visors. This is a very simple install with almost no modification needed to add them to the earlier FJs and I highly recommend them. I love my FJ and hope to keep it until I can't drive anymore. Please keep posting these great videos!
When you restore the headlights take the time to put a few coats of 2k clear on them and you will NEVER have to restore them again.
nice writeup. thanks for your time
I know this is a old post but i just had this happen to my 07 FJ. I don’t live in a rust belt and have very little rust on the undercarriage of mine so this dangerous occurrence surprised me. Just before taking a rough road trip I looked under the rig and discovered the rear retainer strap on the gas tank had rusted and snapped the tank was sagging. I would recommend checking this when vehicle shopping or on every one that owns one and drives the roads. The dealer wants $200 for the pair but they can be purchased for as little as $50 a pair.
I bought my first FJ in 2007 (Black Cherry) and drove it over 250,000 miles all over America. I modified the FJ into an overlanding design and it allowed me to see and camp in places that few other vehicles could. I sold I my FJ in 2021 and purchased a 2008 (Sandstorm) in 2021 with only 45,000 miles on it. As an optimist, I keep my eye open for a 2014 Trail Team Edition with low mileage for sale. While the FJ may not be the first choice for most people, it has been my favorite since 2007. All of the problems are true but I have learned to adapt and actually tolerate most of the flukes and quirks. In my 50 years of driving, the FJ is the only vehicle that I have driven, where complete strangers will ask me questions about it and/or comment on the FJ. I have found it to be a real love hate relationship for most people and I have experienced very few neutral responses.
Another great video! Appreciate the tips on frame rust. Hoping I never need to use them. The FJ is totally worth all of the little drawbacks. Definitely smiles per gallon.
We sleep in the FJ perfectly and are 6ft1 to 6ft4. And a simple blow up air matters in the back with out anything else. Makes it perfect, you can not feel the raise to the front. And if you think you do. You can always but a towel under your legs. As that where it dips anyhow. Not a big deal when Traveling a sleeping in the FJ. we did an 8000+ mile Road trip around the United States and it was perfect!
Love my 2014 ttue manual. It’s epic. She is pampered now and hope she won’t get sick like some of the ones above. Awesome video. ❤thank you so much. And agree with that rust proofing. It’s vital.
Love my 2014 FJ, however be aware that if the starter battery is flat that you cannot open the rear door or window. Very frustrating if your jump starter pack is in your rear drawer and thus inaccessible. Keep up the great work, greetings from Australia 🇦🇺
Hey everyone! Thanks for checking out the video! Hopefully despite the flaws you still find yourself loving your FJ and can get one if you don’t have one already! If you want, follow me on my new Instagram account! Just search for FJX2000! You can send me messages and photos possibly of your own rig if you don’t mind seeing it in a future video!
Hi, how much was it to fix your actuator for locker..looking at one with same issue
I was always attracted to these cars. Never understood the "ugly" claim, it think they look great, like a big toy. My concern as I shop for one is the windshield. I've read this a few times but I haven't seen many people who say it's been an actual problem cracking from pebbles on the road
LOVE my FJ!! Great video! I wish I had watched this video before I bought my FJ but it appears that the FJ gods were watching over me when I decided I wanted an FJ. I am the proud driver of a 2012 4WD FJ (cavalry blue) with low miles, no rust, and so far (knock on wood), none of the bad stuff you mention. Thanks again for these videos!!
Own two. A 2008 Iceberg and a 2014 Cement Grey. My wife loves the ‘14 since we left it stock. I have done some minor mods on the ‘08 including: lift, aux fuel tank, rear bumper, a Rhino Rack, Method Wheels, and some misc lights.
Now you've just made the fj a cult favourite thank you 🙏❤️
Too late...I purchased a 2014 Army Green two days ago 😮😮😮
Congrats! That’s great!
It is fabulous. Thanks for all the great videos you make 👍
My Brother found one and B O U G H T it last week.
I bought my 2014 in mint condition green last week. I smile every time I look at it. I Love it!
Same me, I love my 2012@@user-jf2cq6rt3t
I'm 6'5", and I found it very comfortable to sleep in with an air mattress in the back. Getting out was a small chore, but nothing too challenging. Also, thanks for pointing out the rust. Mine is starting to show some rust here and there. It has me slightly concerned.
Yet another great video Hayden! Only thing I can think of that you might have missed is the clunky steering wheel shaft: Bush move out of its place. Pressing it will help solve but will eventually come out of its place again. Not sure why but locally in the UAE most FJ's suffer from loose body mount bolts. Tightening is a must for those who dune bash on monthly basis. BTW my Sun Fusion 07 NA FJ was a base model, I upgraded it to meet most features offered on high trims locally, most of it was plug and play. Like the -The compass was easy to install (just cut the dash and plug some cables in) FJ forums has a great how to article -High pitch horn out of an 08 4runner fits perfectly and the connection for it was already there on the inner RH fender -Fog lights after market -Rear speakers OEM just plug them in (make sure you buy the plastic covers as well off of a scrap FJ, plug and play -Steering wheel controls were plug and play, didn't have to swap out the Clock Spring off of a scrap FJ, plug and play -A-track button off of a scrap FJ, plug and play -Subwoofer with its button off of a scrap FJ, plug and play (YES! all wiring is there for it from factory) -Reverse camera OEM mount (paired it with a JVC 7" HU) Needs wiring harness and a PAC controller for the steering wheel controls
This is a great criticism list. It does have a CD player though, plus in my book.
19:40 I’m looking to purchase my first Fj in 3 min!!! Thank you so much for video. I found both pro and con videos informative, fairly unbiased, and attentive. 😊
Glad it could help out!
What a nicely put video. Thank you. I think or have experienced that for younger children the fact that they can't open the rear windows or doors is a plus safety wise. The visibility in the rear seats ain't really good but at least the child car seats place them higher and a bit forward so it aids them to look through those rear side windows. I have traveled with my 3 kids and do they go quite ok.
Ryobi has this accessory for pressure washers called the Ryobi Pressure Washer Water Broom. I live in the Northwest Region of the US and our roads get salted whenever the freeze is in the forecast. The FJ Cruiser is a real fun vehicle to drive and make donuts in the snow or driving in the mud to pick pumpkins for Halloween. The water broom appears to knock all the salt and mud from under the chassis because I have little to no rust. Just hook it up to your pressure washer and it has wheels so you just push it under the carriage and watch all of that stuff collect under your vehicle. I'm very happy with my FJ even after having a bit of a scare when I turned the key to start the engine and absolutely nothing happened. No crank no clicks no nothin. Went to Costco bought a new battery and I'm back in business. I guess soon I'll just change the alternator to avoid getting stuck anywhere. I've enjoyed owning and receiving compliments ever since I got it for my birthday back in 2014. Anyone will absolutely love owning this vehicle if not for the fun factor alone.
Thanks for this video!!!
I have that same after market radio you showed. Love that model, especially since you can run the back up camera through that screen making it much more useful
I need to get a backup camera setup so I can utilize that feature. It would be great! Plus you can do a front camera as well!
What model is it?
@@raminolta an Alpine iLX-W650 I got from Crutchfield
I could not smash the like button any quicker. Great video as always.
You’re the best 😂😁
Speaking about windshield wipers. I personaly use Denso's hybrid wipers wich I gess was factory installed on my 2012 trail teams FJ. I assumume it is the best wipers I ever had. And I've tested it on other cars I've owned. It's a bit higher price, but it worth it. It showed very good percormance in any wether and season. Highly recomend. And keep in mind that clear windshield it is your safety on the road!
Great informative video). I wished links were provided in the description for the suggested accessories and mods such as clips (for the windshield trims), FJ convex mirror replacements, button for opening the back door from inside), etc..
Great idea! Thanks for sharing, I will have to add those.
At the age of 77 my 2010 FJ is the best vehicle I have ever owned. Because I always drive with my mirrors I have never had a problem with the blind spots. Being single with grown children the back seat is seldom use, instead the drivers side is alway folded down to allow my doggies to jump in and out which brings me to the door arrangement which I prefer in access to the back for loading groceries and doggies etc. As for maintenance I had to replace the rear end housing , shocks, stabilizer bar, and rear breaks assembly as a result of rust in the vehicle's 12th year. Last year I also upgraded to BF Goodrich KO2 285 75R 16 tires. With all maintenance and various add ons the FJ has cost me $.41 Canadian per KM to date. (133,000km) Regarding the headlight and mirror light I have upgrade to LED, the mirrors were a simple bulb replacement, I did break one tail light some time ago and replaced it and added tail light guards. I am rigorous in regards to maintenance, serviced the transmission at 75000km, repair and replace as soon as noted and required. I do not see myself ever owning another vehicle, it is just the best.
So it's not as bad as people say for the blind spots. I'm a short girl and really want to buy one of these.
Superb video! Thanks!
Thank You for this video..... I was about to purchase one locally for only $8,000.oo. The rust issue, gear teeth issue and weak suspension and rear axle were enough to pour cold water on my interest. OF course on the out side it looked like new... but rusting frames are not worth the bother. Just also viewed a You Tube for a Tacoma with only 35,000 miles and the frame was rotted and unsafe. Not worth the risk.... for sure. No wonder there are shortages of used Toyota 4x4's. They rot away if you use them as a truck.
In my Humble Opinion, the FJ and the Four-Runners were the Best Bullet Proof Vehicles ever made. Every Owner that I have Talked with has told me the Exact same Words...
Great video, Hayden! You should make videos like this for a living! Excellent work, my friend!!!
Thanks! I do enjoy it for sure!
Archaic lights do make some beautiful and high end headlights and taillights. Look great and work well. LEDS are awesome on it.
Plus, they’re top-heavy, so they roll fairly easily, and as well, heavy winds are a battle. Happy with mine.
Wow... Guess we are luckier in Australia to have the better sorted, better standard equipment later models. Absolutely Love my 16 FJ. The part about the 'looks' is relevant; they are polarising one way or the other in looks.
Very useful video. I'm now thinking as a potential buyer, there's a lot more to consider than I initially anticipated. It seems like you really have to be in love with the car to make it your full time hobby and money pit to make this work. Most people want to enjoy the concept but feel like the car is servicing the owner more than the other way around. I might pass. I need a daily driver that doesn't make me feel stupid in comparison to so many other more practical options out there
Excellent information
Own a 2007 for the last 13 years, still love it like day one
i was own one before 10 years and now i just get one 2023 last production im really happy with it.
What some call 'flaws' others call 'character'.....note..Fluid Film the undercarriage, it works!
Love my 31,789 mile 2007 FJ. Great vehicle that I undercoated properly.
I Love the FJ Doors! They are very usefull! One of the main reason I bought it!
Hello there are reviews from owners that the 1grfe motor has problems with the intake manifold. the manifold bolt falls into the 6th cylinder of the engine and the engine fails. do you know about this problem? Sorry for my English (
I've had my FJ 2013 since new....Ill never sell it.
For both my son and i, who are 6' tall, we've hit our head on the rear door latch receiver when both doors are open a few times. I think my FJ even has a mild lift. It's quite painful.
The visiblity isn't as bad as they say. The mirrors cover a lot. I do have a rounded blindspot mirror. Mine rides very nice and smooth. No lift kits. My wife who drives newer lexus rx 350 says it takes bumps better than hers. I drove her car and it felt cheap after driving the FJ Crusier. I don't like the fake bumper they have in front. The look is fine but it does nothing. The real bumper is behind it. Looks flimsy to me. Back doors are kinda cool. I have no problem with them. It wasn't made to be slept in. Beds are for that. Buy a camper if you want that.
I like how they got a lot of kinks worked out towards 2010 as far as common fatigue areas/components.
So true, a big reason to stick with a 2010 or newer model for sure 👍
@@FJX2000_Productions so 2008s are bad? 😮
@@BoiseTDI I have a 2008 and the only issue I’ve had is the fender cracks, but it doesn’t cause any problems, it just looks bad 🤷♂️
Canada here. There are lots of reasons not to buy an FJ; like there is a lot of reasons not to buy any type of vehicle. I like mine because it is a dependable, fun to drive vehicle that is different than most others.
Way to look at the positives!
When we say the frame rust in the salt belt are we comparing it to other vehicles in the same location in the time period with the same care given to the vehicle? Steel will rust if the right catalyst are emplace . I have a 2013 FJ and live in an area where it was never subjected to road salt and the frame Is great condition . I definitely think that it’s more an environment and care issue rather than a manufacture thing. If u let salt sit on your steel frame for months what do we expect will happen ?
Had my FJ for 13 years, BEST VEHICLE EVER! A reason to buy one, how 87% retained value!
I get positive comments daily on my sun fusion FJ. I enjoy driving it as an alternative to putting so many miles on my Duramax/Silverado. Everything I own is 4x4 even my tractors so getting where I am going and making it back are never an issue. There will always be little things that arent quite perfect in any vehicle so dont throw away the 80% that is right because of 20% that is not right. The next thing you get will be 80/20 too but the new 20% might be things that you already got use to. BTW....marriage follows this as well. The grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence.
One more negative, really applicable to wet freezing climates is that the drum in a hat style parking brake freezes and locks up! I mostly don't use the parking brake / e-brake when its below freezing or sitting level in my garage, just out of caution. I had mine freeze up after a car wash just sitting in the garage! Managed to get it off in 4-Lo going forward and reverse. I've heard on forums that I'm not the only one that this has happened to!
I havent experienced that ,Im in New England and I use it every time I park w mine being a 6 speed
I haven’t heard that one! Wow!
@@FJX2000_Productions Maybe because its being used so often?
Not really, its relatively low mileage and few mods, but I was surprised when it happened! So I posted on the FJC forum, and sure enough, a couple of Canadian veterans responded and said they had the issue driving in salty, wet and freezing snow that froze up at night! I do use the hand brake typically, and LOVE my FJ !!!
I have a 2021 FJ, its really an awesome reliable strong vehicle like no other. I do agree the blind spots issue is a pain in the ass and also, the uncomfortable front seats .However I believe I can resolve this by getting aftermarket seats .
they stopped manufacturing them in the USA in 2014, are you from overseas?
Im in toronto how much u get yours for? Looking to buy one in black blue white maybe red
The author is right about front end vibration problem. - it could be one more reason why they discontinued it could be because the SUV is very sensitive to the way tires need to be balanced. Front-end vibration at high speeds is a common problem, and the mechanic in the tire shop needs to be very skilled to fix it. And vibration might come back pretty soon after driving a few thousand miles, as some guys complain on internet forums. When I tested a couple of them at the dealer both of them were vibrating at the steering wheel. One of them (2014 FJ) was starting to vibrate at 60 mph. The good tire shop guys fixed it, it's a good ride up to 80 mph now, so I bought it, and will see how long a smooth ride will last.
If the vibration is in the steering wheel, it’s usually front tires/balance. You can rotate tires front to rear to see if it changes, if the vibration gets worse or better you know it’s tires. If the vibration underneath the seat, probably rear tires. Choppy tires main culprit front or rear. If not tires/balance you check front end balljoints and tie rods
Great videos man! I have 2007 FJ and I love it, I wanted to trade it to 4x4 FJ but wife won't like the idea because its sentimental to use. Do you think its good idea to convert to 4x4? Is that even possible?
It’s best to probably just get a new 4x4 FJ. I’m sure it can be done but the parts and labor involved probably aren’t worth it 🤷♂️
Will prob cost you and arm and a leg to convert it. Just trade it in for a 4x4
Discontinued in 2014 in America but you still can buy a New One in European Countries-Africa but steering wheel will be on right side--New Ones cost around $40,000...
I'd like to see videos of FJ Cruiser in action on some overlanding trips.
Iv just bought my first fj from Japan I always wanted one but hope its OK after seeing this video its a 2011 model
I have 2 FJ. 2012 &2014, all trail team 😊
I have a 2010 with an OME lift. Love it! Got it after resurrecting the FJ40. Also have a 2012 GX460 all stock. Love it , too! Differences are indeed noticeable. The GX seems more solid and visibility is certainly better. The V-8 of the Lexus gets close to 20 MPG and if I don't drive with a heavy foot, I can get that with the FJ. But for just tooling around Town I have a 2001 SWB Tacoma 4x4,as it, too, has advantages and better MPG.
One thing about the FJ I love it has a CD player. Which on long trips is Awesome. As I get Free Audio Books from the Library Books. Endless Story Telling on those long drives is awesome! Oh, ya FJ also plays music and you can play song list off your phone if you like as well. Im more of a CD guy. But it all works.
Same here, I'm addicted to podcast... just plug the aux cable and I'm good to go.
Love it 🥺🥺
Looking to buy an FJ Cruiser. Currently looking at a 2007, but have heard that year is very prone to the transmission shudder issue due to bad torque converters. Do you happen to have any idea how common this is? What to do / avoid to not experience this issue? Are 2007's better to just stay away from since I haven't purchased one yet?
Usually with maintenance and fluid changes, the shudder can be avoided or remedied from what I’ve heard, but I haven’t experienced it myself.
@@FJX2000_Productions Thank you very much for getting back to me. We just pulled the trigger on an FJ this morning in fact! After all the tranny shudder stories I saw online about the 2007, we ended up going with a 2011 "NSSE" with 45k miles on it. It was $31k and that seemed like a good deal based off of what I was seeing out there across the nation. Your videos really helped me to make a VERY informed buying decision. Thank you so much for all the hard work you are putting into your amazing channel and I hope to see you out there one day on the trails! Greetings from Grants Pass, Oregon!
@@sauceainttheboss congrats! That’s so exciting to hear! Great deal for a low mileage FJ!
Anyone bought an FJ with seized rear locker actuator? I'm looking at one now but reluctant...
I have an extra large blue light reducer clip-on mirror that’s REAL glass. Anyone who’s experienced the difference in the mirror being glass or not understands the difference it makes. However, most after market clip-on’s in the states are not able to be marketed as real glass for “safety” 🙄 . However, in short- Point being : the clip on XL mirror is amazing and I won’t drive it or any vehicle without it! Might I say this has been second most coveted belonging I have in comparison to FJ in whole lol
None of those ”problems” are not a problem to me. I love many of those things (body style with all of it’s downsides, huge pillars, 3 wipers etc.). Technically it’s very solid, no real problems with my 2/2006 and 180k miles. I’ve owned this 11.5 years now.
Glad to hear it! Congrats!
yup, it just depends what you're used to drive... Yeah, rear visibility isn't the best, but if you're ever driven a cargo van or a pickup with a cab it's a non-issue... and you'll quickly learn to backup into parking spot (and letting your rear passenger get out, before backing in) Rust? I'm in Canada, all vehicle will rust... that's why you have them treated with anti-rust treatment. MPG? Yeah, it likes fuel... but still better than my friend's Wrangler... and my '12 is long paid off... so putting gas is still cheaper than making payments! Only thing that bugs me are the headlight... Compared to the amount of light being put out by the wife's Outback... the FJ feels like it's a dimmer switch on.
It is interesting that you pointed out the door trim pieces rattle with the beat🤣. any solutions to fix that? It annoys me a lot
If you remove the entire door panel, you can then remove just that colored trim piece, and you can put padding or dampening material behind it that will keep it from vibrating 👍
@@FJX2000_Productions you are a treasure for the fj community for sure!
good stuff
😂 "Backing up is an act of faith"😅 Yeah, the back up camera is almost worthless. I love mine, though! 2011
Im buying a 2012 fj. Base model, tan w/white top and a roof rack. Nothing special. Its a 400mile trip but worth the deal. I decided on it since ive been running my 1998 rav4 for forever and the fj looks exactly how i always pictured a modern rav4 (instead of how they ended up as a soccer mom looking crossover). Im rambling. Anyway, my rav4 will probably hit 400k miles at the end of the trip, a good point to retire it in place of its much larger twin. First thing im gonna do to it after purchasing... Install aftermarket mirrors with blindspot coverage.
Damn. This video is about 16 years too late. But I don't regret buying my 07. Sometimes I do regret not selling it years ago. At this point it's just an on going project.
Meanwhile, they are still going for $40K to $50K for an average odometer reading of 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
So true 😵
I still love it.
A lot of hate in the comments. NO, I don't own an FJ, but several other vehicles of different brands. I noticed, in general, that electrics / electronics issues with cars before 2005 are not so common (with the exception of the 93-95 Mercedes 'ecological' wire loom deterioration), while with my newest vehicle I'm constantly at the dealership for stuff that I can't even fix or clear with an ODBC computer. For offroading or any classic car you want it as simple as possible. As for pros and cons - rust and mechanical issue will hit any vehicle with sufficient mileage or age, so I wouldn't want to make that a decisive factor. In the end it is just like the photographer says: "The best camera is the one you have in your hands". Are you enjoying the scenery, the experience? Then you can be happy in a 80s Suzuki sardine can.
I have Yaris 2007 toyota . And someone asked me if I could exchange it with his Fj 2007 . Is that a good deal for me? Both of cars are in good shape
Run! Don’t walk to take that deal!!
2008 tt sandstorm 150k miles, I bought mine from NJ and brought it down to West florida and the rust is pretty annoying to deal with
Hopefully you can keep your frame in good shape!
I have FJ 2014 ... whin I use the Hi 4-wheel drive. there is no light on the dashboard show that I am on 4 wheel. ?? is this normal??
Some sort of light should come on, are you sure you are engaging the 4WD correctly?
8:00 It’s not hydraulic pump, it’s mechanical lever/mechanism.
Should I change the transmission oil? 5 speed auto 235K original soft driven miles, no towing.
At that high mileage, and assuming no issues, i would steer clear of changing the fluid, especially a flush. Flushing could potentially cause built up debris to circulate around and clog up other parts of the trans. If it was changed around the 100k mark and still have seen no issues up to this point, a simple drain and fill would be the safest option in my opinion and the opinion of my mechanic who rebuilt my 02 Rav4 trans a year ago (different car different issue).
Note: I've had my fair share of transmission issues over the years. It's never fun, but I've learned a lot along the way. Awesome to see yours is still going strong at 235k.
@@TheMistermike87 Thanks for the advice, was told by several dealers it was no service item. I believed them unfortunately. It's a 2007 2x4 and a daily driver.
I am currently contemplating a 2007 FJ currently have a 1995 YJ. Love the YJ but want more room for wife and fur babies.
hahah, walked out of an Olympia, Washington dealership with a 2014 FJ Cruiser. Even if I had watched this KZhead before going to the dealership, I would have laughed at the "negatives" in this KZhead.
I loved mine. Wish I'd kept it, but you really can't drive with the windows down. The air blast is your ear is unbearable. Also I left my Aunt in the back seat on a hot day for a few minutes. She couldn't get to the door handle to get out. Luckily we weren't gone too long.
2012 FJ best vehicle we have ever owned, we also have other Toyotas.
The blind spots are the worst but something you can adapt to
Agreed!
“Get out there and get and FJ anyway!” Best line!
If you love it you love it!
Sports cars have worst blind spots, but the id*ots don't complain about it! Most people don't focus in those areas while driving! I got 4 of these bad boys and it's been great zero issues! Planning to get another 2!
Fj is the best track I ever heard
My 2007 FJ is almost to 300,000 miles. :)
I’m thinking of getting my first FJ. There is one in town it’s a 2011 with 133k miles. It’s going for 25k. Y’all think that’s a good buy ?
I would compare it to other similar year and mileage FJs in your region and see how they compare price-wise, so you know if it's a good deal or not. Modifications can also play a role in their pricing.
My daily mule for over 15 years now is 310,00+ KM
All, I may buy a 2008 FJ with 400.000km on it. Would all those km be too much? The car looks good. Just worried about so many km
If the price is right it may still be worth it. FJs have long lifespans if they’re taken care of
Personally (as a long time FJ owner) I think the $ they are selling for used is kind of crazy. You could get a same year 4Runner for less money, and it's more practical. - As far as the mileage, if the vehicle comes with the maintenance record and a mechanical inspection shows it to be sound... Why not (if the price is right)
I have one i love it so much best car ever made
I’ve just moved to USA and the company I work for lent me one until I buy my own car, and man it’s the most annoying car I’ve ever had. Why couldn’t they just put normal doors on it. At small intersections you can’t even see if the light is green or red.
I love my fj❤
Everyone says there are blind spots. Did your daddy ever teach you how to use your mirrors properly when you were learning to drive? Everyone always mentions the same thing. The only valid point here is rust, which can be prevented. The cabin can be updated with a computer, as mine is, but I like the material made for the inside since it’s easy to clean when off-roading.
I've owned mine since 2008 and I've beat the crap out of it the whole time and this thing has never broken down, left me stuck, or disappointed me in any way. It's proven reliability mutes out any flaws completely. I still only have 125k miles on it.
Love to hear that! They are durable that's for sure!
Love my FJ.
It has a lot of issues against the the popularity of the vehicle 🚗 is ugly so I’m going to buy one to have te experience 🤣👍🏼