Buyer's checklist: Original Toyota FJ Cruiser (2007–2014)

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

Free while the site is being tested. Every line comes from the dossier and keeps its source, and the dossier itself stays free.

Look for 6

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Bulging or cracked inner fenders and door openings2007–2008Look at the upper inner fenders and the front of the door openings for bulges, tears or cracks.¹
Weak rear differential on early trucks2007In tight, slow turns with light throttle, listen for clicking, groaning or popping, and feel for binding.¹
Water insideAll yearsFeel for wet or moldy carpet, and look for silt behind the low door seals and stains low on the carpet.¹
Frame rust or cracksAll yearsLook at the frame for rust and cracks, above all under the engine.¹
Sagging seatsAll yearsNotice on the test drive whether the seat sinks toward the floor.¹
Faulty off-road electronicsAll yearsTry A-TRAC and the rear locker. A blinking light on the dash means a fault.¹

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

Modified or hard-used trucksNon-factory wheels, tires or suspensionThe same review says to avoid trucks with non-factory wheels, tires or suspension, and any that have been used hard off-road.¹