It happened to me. On the way to work this morning, the temperature gauge maxed out and I noticed white thick smoke (vapor) coming out of the exhaust. I checked the radiator coolant bottle and did see the infamous milky coolant. Then this afternoon I heard from the mechanic that it has blown headgaskets and it will cost between $800 to $1000 (parts and labor) to fix it and have it ready by this weekend.

Do you guys think this price range reasonable? Btw, the car is a '93 4Runner SR5 with 3VZE engine, and has 192,000 miles.

 

Call the dealership or toyota corporate (with you vin # ready) and see if you qualify for the HG recall.

 

That's what I thought of first thing. Called the dealership and received a verification that the recall service was performed.

 

Oh, that sucks. $800-$1000 sounds like a fair price to me.

 

That's a good deal. Be sure to stipulate using OEM Toyota HG.

 

I will surely ask him that. Thanks for the suggestion.

Btw, that price range includes timing belt and spark plugs replacements (also parts & labor).

 

yeah I would jump on that price, get it in a written estimate not just over the phone. plus it beats a new truck payment.

 

one could do it his self for A LOT less.

 

One did toil long and hard about this. However, with moving to a new house and new baby on the way, one just doesn't have time to do it one self.

 

Just checked with local Toyota dealer: $1,400 for parts & labor. This would be just for the head gasket replacement. No timing belt & spark plugs included.

 

understandable