need 4x4 for Daily Commute and Light Off-Roading

[Venkat]

Hi everyone,

Thank you for allowing me to post here. I'm based in Ontario, Canada, and I'm in the market for a reliable 4x4 vehicle with a budget of $20,000 CAD. I've been looking at options like the Toyota 4Runner, Sequoia, Lexus GX460, and FJ Cruiser, but most of these seem to be priced high, often with nearly 300,000 km on the odometer in this price range.

I'm looking for a vehicle that can serve as a daily driver and handle light off-road trails, as well as all-weather conditions. Could you please recommend any vehicles that would be reliable for both daily commutes and slight off-road use? I’d appreciate your insights and suggestions.

Thank you!

 

[eljefino]

If you could compromise size, maker, mileage, or price, which would you be willing to give up something on?

 

[Venkat]

If you could compromise size, maker, mileage, or price, which would you be willing to give up something on?

thank you so much for the reply here,
If I had to compromise, I'd prioritize reliability and functionality over other factors. I’d be willing to:

Compromise on Size- A slightly smaller 4x4 could work if it still offers decent cargo space and off-road capability.
Compromise on Maker- I could explore options from brands other than Toyota or Lexus, provided the vehicle has a strong reputation for reliability, I even looked at Nissan Armada
However, compromising on price might be tough, as I want to stay within my $20K CAD budget or max 25k

 

[Delta]

3rd Generation Nissan Pathfinder. They were produced from 2005-2012 and feature a full body on frame like the Frontier of the time. True 4WD system and the 4.0V6. Earlier models did have an issue with the radiator cracking internally causing coolant to mix with the transmission fluid. Timing chains were also an issue on earlier ones. It'll sound like you have a supercharger revving up the engine. You can usually pick them up for way under a Toyota offering.

I am a Toyota guy, but based on your budget you will find well worn examples and probably tons of rot.

 

[benjy]

like the frontiers certain years pathfinders with AUTOMATICS had the radiator issues, NOT the manuals!!! the 4.0 is a great engine + decent mpgs IF it was taken care of. check the vehicle specific forums if interested, good luck!!

 

[Venkat]

3rd Generation Nissan Pathfinder. They were produced from 2005-2012 and feature a full body on frame like the Frontier of the time. True 4WD system and the 4.0V6. Earlier models did have an issue with the radiator cracking internally causing coolant to mix with the transmission fluid. Timing chains were also an issue on earlier ones. It'll sound like you have a supercharger revving up the engine. You can usually pick them up for way under a Toyota offering.

I am a Toyota guy, but based on your budget you will find well worn examples and probably tons of rot.

Thank you so much for your insights and since you have mentioned you are a toyota guy, I saw few vehicles in marketplace ,4runner, sequoia and gx470 around 2008 model or so for 15k to 20k CAD with 280000 to 300000 kms run, is it worth to buy those?

 

[Venkat]

like the frontiers certain years pathfinders with AUTOMATICS had the radiator issues, NOT the manuals!!! the 4.0 is a great engine + decent mpgs IF it was taken care of. check the vehicle specific forums if interested, good luck!!

Sure il check on those , i have researched about only Armadas so far and never searched for a Pathfinder, but will do now and are those reliable?

 

[02SE]

Thank you so much for your insights and since you have mentioned you are a toyota guy, I saw few vehicles in marketplace ,4runner, sequoia and gx470 around 2008 model or so for 15k to 20k CAD with 280000 to 300000 kms run, is it worth to buy those?

I developed an appreciation for Toyota, when I worked at a Toyota dealer. I really appreciated them when I worked at independent shops that worked on all makes and models.

Some of their very recent offerings, and the issues they have been having, are disappointing. But since you're not considering brand new vehicles, that shouldn't be an issue.

Anyway, the 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, and Lexus GX, are all the same platform. Obviously some differences in drivetrain, interior, and sheetmetal.

The reliability of anything with 280-300k kms, will depend on it's current condition, and how it was maintained. Toyota commands a premium in the marketplace, because all things being equal, they have proven to be more reliable. Inspect any used vehicle thoroughly, before buying.

Nissan has never been quite as reliable in my experience, and the marketplace reflects that.

 

[Sequoiasoon]

Also do you need a body on frame version? Does it need locking center differential or other front/rear lockers? What kind of off roading? How much clearance?

There was thread here where a guy in a Subaru did one of the trails in a state park and they ticketed him AFTER he completed the trail because he didn't have true as defined 4WD with low range gear.

My old Sequoia was good off road but did not have locking or even limited slip rear or front differentials. It did have a locking center diff and low range but used the brakes as "virtual" lockers until ABS pump overheats. I tried a snowy in hill in RWD with good winter tires only and was stuck on the hill. Clicking/buzzing going nowhere until I used 4WD. 5 minutes later in my dads Chevy Express conversion van, same winter tires as Sequoia, RWD only. Stopped on the hill, started and drove right up, rear wheels spinning some (both of them). A little fishtailing but drama free.

My '19 AWD Pilot has mud and sand modes that reduce the nanny controls and uses clutch packs in rear differential then. I goes on beach, rock/gravel/mud to hunting cabin. Downside is lack of clearance but I did a skid plate also to protect. I skipped multiple newer family SUV's at that time as there was no locking options or sand/mud/snow in Durango/Traverse and some others.

 

[Delta]

Thank you so much for your insights and since you have mentioned you are a toyota guy, I saw few vehicles in marketplace ,4runner, sequoia and gx470 around 2008 model or so for 15k to 20k CAD with 280000 to 300000 kms run, is it worth to buy those?

300K KM is about 187K in freedom units so that isn't too terrible for a Toyota. However, it is how the previous owner(s) took care of it. Toyota's are only as reliable as the maintenance it has received, unlike what people say. They can take some abuse, but it will start little annoying nick-knack stuff that gets insane. I spent a bunch of time and money on catching up on maintenance on my old 2009 Tacoma for it to just wind up with a bad frame.

The undersides of all 3 are very similar and are unfortunately known to rust, especially the FJ's. I know not everywhere in Canada is known for rust, so you might have to look out of providence if you live in one that uses salt.

 

[slacktide_bitog]

A Subaru Forester can probably handle what you plan to do with it

If you want something bigger, there's the Tribeca.

If you still insist on a big SUV, there's the Armada/QX56/QX80. Mitsubishi sold the Montero Sport until 2008.

 

[AdmiralYoda]

When you say "light off road trails", what exactly do you have in mind? Somewhat well maintained fire roads, not-so-well maintained gravel and dirt roads? Or are we talking about crawling over small logs and rocks while truly off road?

 

[Venkat]

Also do you need a body on frame version? Does it need locking center differential or other front/rear lockers? What kind of off roading? How much clearance?

There was thread here where a guy in a Subaru did one of the trails in a state park and they ticketed him AFTER he completed the trail because he didn't have true as defined 4WD with low range gear.

My old Sequoia was good off road but did not have locking or even limited slip rear or front differentials. It did have a locking center diff and low range but used the brakes as "virtual" lockers until ABS pump overheats. I tried a snowy in hill in RWD with good winter tires only and was stuck on the hill. Clicking/buzzing going nowhere until I used 4WD. 5 minutes later in my dads Chevy Express conversion van, same winter tires as Sequoia, RWD only. Stopped on the hill, started and drove right up, rear wheels spinning some (both of them). A little fishtailing but drama free.

My '19 AWD Pilot has mud and sand modes that reduce the nanny controls and uses clutch packs in rear differential then. I goes on beach, rock/gravel/mud to hunting cabin. Downside is lack of clearance but I did a skid plate also to protect. I skipped multiple newer family SUV's at that time as there was no locking options or sand/mud/snow in Durango/Traverse and some others.

Thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences—this is incredibly informative and helpful!

I do have a follow-up question, if you don’t mind. If I’m considering a 4Runner, would you recommend the SR5 with its full-time 4WD system or the TRD Off-Road for light off-roading, snow, and trails? My budget likely won’t stretch to a TRD Sport, so I’m curious if the SR5 is capable enough for my needs.

As someone new to this, I’d appreciate any advice or explanation about the differences between these trims, especially when it comes to their off-road capabilities and handling in snow or light trails. Thanks again!

 

[Venkat]

When you say "light off road trails", what exactly do you have in mind? Somewhat well maintained fire roads, not-so-well maintained gravel and dirt roads? Or are we talking about crawling over small logs and rocks while truly off road?

Thank you for the reply! I’m based in Ontario, where we get a fair amount of snow. My primary concern is having a vehicle that won’t get stuck on gravel or dirt roads, especially in snowy conditions. That’s the main reason I’m looking into a capable 4WD vehicle.

That said, if the vehicle can handle some light crawling over small obstacles, I’d love to explore off-roading occasionally. It’s not a priority, but having that capability would be a nice bonus. Appreciate your advice on this!

 

[Venkat]

300K KM is about 187K in freedom units so that isn't too terrible for a Toyota. However, it is how the previous owner(s) took care of it. Toyota's are only as reliable as the maintenance it has received, unlike what people say. They can take some abuse, but it will start little annoying nick-knack stuff that gets insane. I spent a bunch of time and money on catching up on maintenance on my old 2009 Tacoma for it to just wind up with a bad frame.

The undersides of all 3 are very similar and are unfortunately known to rust, especially the FJ's. I know not everywhere in Canada is known for rust, so you might have to look out of providence if you live in one that uses salt.

Yes, they definitely use a good amount of salt here during snowy days, which is always a concern. If I’m looking at a used Toyota, what would you recommend as the key points to check during an inspection? I’d like to make sure I’m catching any potential red flags early on.

Also, if I’m considering a 4Runner or a GX within a $20k budget, are there particular model years you’d suggest I focus on for a good balance of reliability and value? Thanks so much for your guidance, it’s really appreciated!

 

[Venkat]

A Subaru Forester can probably handle what you plan to do with it

If you want something bigger, there's the Tribeca.

If you still insist on a big SUV, there's the Armada/QX56/QX80. Mitsubishi sold the Montero Sport until 2008.

Indeed Subaru forester looks so good too, I was actually looking into the Armada, and I really like its size and presence. However, I’ve seen quite a few people on Facebook groups mentioning reliability issues, which has me a bit concerned. That’s making it hard to decide.

Do you have any insights on how reliable the Armada really is, especially for someone planning to use it in snow and occasional light off-roading? Would you recommend it, or should I consider something else in a similar size range? Thanks!

 

[AdmiralYoda]

@Venkat When I think off-roading I think Jeep Wranglers crawling over big rocks and digging through mud. Since you live in snow country I'd think anything with AWD or 4WD would be great obviously, but some ground clearance would be most beneficial.

As others have said a Subaru Forester or Outback would work. A Jeep Grand Cherokee would also be a great option. But just about anything with AWD and a bit of ground clearance and good tires will get you where you want to go.

I live in New England and see plenty of salt, which I'm sure you do as well (probably more). My main focus aside from being mechanically sound would be rust and rot.

 

[Delta]

Yes, they definitely use a good amount of salt here during snowy days, which is always a concern. If I’m looking at a used Toyota, what would you recommend as the key points to check during an inspection? I’d like to make sure I’m catching any potential red flags early on.

Also, if I’m considering a 4Runner or a GX within a $20k budget, are there particular model years you’d suggest I focus on for a good balance of reliability and value? Thanks so much for your guidance, it’s really appreciated!

I'm more familiar with Tacoma's, but key points on all are frame rails towards the front beside the catalytic converters is a big one. Salt gets inside the boxed portion and the cats heat up the salt mixture which makes everything rust from the inside. Keep a small ball pein hammer handy and tap those areas. Front body mounts like to rot off the frames. Rear front shackle mounts along the frame can also be problematic.

Your budget for say 4Runner is probably going to be 2005-2012ish years which compose of two different gens. Earlier ones had a 4.7V8 option that was solid, but is a timing belt engine. Most have the infamous 4.0L V6, which while not a speed demon is a solid and reliable engine. 2005-2006 4.0V6's can develop head gasket issues in the higher mileage range. If you see one with green coolant be very suspicious. You have the typical front timing cover leak, which honestly most of them just seep. Not uncommon to see those engines humming along 400K miles. 500K people start to have to replace timing chains. But honestly a salt belt truck never makes it to that mileage. The A750 5 speed automatic in those trucks have been known for a shudder if not serviced properly. I want to say it starts in the torque converter and then tears up the input shaft of the transmission, someone with more transmission knowledge will know more about it. Most just add an additive and it really helps if not solves the issue. Front wheel bearings are a 100K miles wear item. Rear wheel bearings similar.

 

[edyvw]

Hi everyone,

Thank you for allowing me to post here. I'm based in Ontario, Canada, and I'm in the market for a reliable 4x4 vehicle with a budget of $20,000 CAD. I've been looking at options like the Toyota 4Runner, Sequoia, Lexus GX460, and FJ Cruiser, but most of these seem to be priced high, often with nearly 300,000 km on the odometer in this price range.

I'm looking for a vehicle that can serve as a daily driver and handle light off-road trails, as well as all-weather conditions. Could you please recommend any vehicles that would be reliable for both daily commutes and slight off-road use? I’d appreciate your insights and suggestions.

Thank you!

So, I just got Sequoia, but I am NOT using it as daily, as city mpg is 12-13mpg. SO, be aware of that!
Also, 4X4 is meaningless in off roading if you don't have two things:
1. Really capable, or more precisely, puncture resistant tires.
2. Clearance.

For light off roading, 8" clearance is good, and tires, you can always put good off roading tires on any vehicle.
IMO, if those vehicle is daily, shop unibody AWD vehicle that have capable suspension and AWD. The new Honda Pilot TrailSport has a seriously capable AWD with underbody steel protection. Some of the more capable AWD vehicles are the Dodge Durango, JEEP Cherokee, BMW X5/7, Audi Q7, MB ML, GLE, GL, and GLS.

 

[02SE]

Thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences—this is incredibly informative and helpful!

I do have a follow-up question, if you don’t mind. If I’m considering a 4Runner, would you recommend the SR5 with its full-time 4WD system or the TRD Off-Road for light off-roading, snow, and trails? My budget likely won’t stretch to a TRD Sport, so I’m curious if the SR5 is capable enough for my needs.

As someone new to this, I’d appreciate any advice or explanation about the differences between these trims, especially when it comes to their off-road capabilities and handling in snow or light trails. Thanks again!

The TRD Off-Road is a 5th gen (2010 to present) model, which has a locking rear diff, and other effective traction aids.

An SR5 with full-time 4wd, would be a V8 4th gen (2003-2009). The V6 4th gen had a multi-mode transfer case which had 2wd, full-time 4wd, and 4wd high and low range with the center diff locked, which is then effectively a part-time 4wd system when the center diff is locked.

But no locking rear diff in any 4th gen, except for the 2009 Trail model we got in the States. I'm not sure whether it was available in Canada.

All things being equal, the 5th gen TRD Off-Road would be more capable on a 4wd trail.

The TRD Sport is also a 5th gen model, but is part-time 4wd only, with no locking rear diff available. It's basically a 5th gen SR5, with some styling differences, including the 20" wheels from the Limited, which are a disadvantage off-road, compared to the 17" wheels on other 5th gens. More sidewall is better off-road.