Hello Scotty, I have a 2001 4Runner, purchased new in August 2001. It now has about 67,000 original miles on it and I religiously have the engine oil changed every 2,500 miles or two times annually, whichever comes first. I noticed that my parking brake handle wasn't working properly and at my next oil change, I took it to my Toyota Dealer (they have ALWAYS done service on all my Toyotas). The technician said that the parts have all rusted and the repairs could cost only a few hundred dollars, which I don't mind paying OR it could cost as much as $3,000! I decided to do nothing at the time until I get some advice from an honest expert like yourself. What is your advice? Your YouTube videos are my car bible. Thank you.
I would take the car to an honest independent mechanic.