YotaTech Forums - 1997 4Runner Rear Suspension Recall Story

I bought the 1997 4Runner in March of 2003. After reading posts on YotaTech, I called the closest dealer (100 miles) to check if there were any recalls needed to be completed on my 4Runner. They said the Rear Suspension recall needed to be done. That initial call took place in March 2003. I get a card from them two weeks ago that the parts were in and please call for an appointment to have them installed. It took almost a year for them to get the parts and get back to me.

I called last week and scheduled the appointment for today at 9:00 A.M. (April 6, 2004). I got up and drove the 2 hours to Pueblo Toyota and gave them my 4Runner. They said it would take 1 to 1.5 hours to do the install. After hanging around for about half an hour, the service tech comes to me and tells me the parts that were on hold for me had been sold. However, he did say they located the parts at another dealer 50 miles away. He had sent someone for them and there woudl be a delay. I asked for a car so I would not have to spend time in the customer lounge. They gave me a 2003 Corolla to drive around for a few hours. Not a bad little car but, it was no 4Runner.

When I returned to the dealer, I was told I had to replace the gas in the car that I had used. I looked at the service guy and just stared at him. For several minutes it was a "who is going to blink first" contest. He finally said, "You do not think you should refuel the car." I just nod my head yes. He waited a few more minutes and then said, "Well since you didn't blink forget it." :D

I got in my 4Runner and drove home. I could not tell any difference in the ride. The only difference I noticed in the 4Runner was I now have 2 shiny black rear springs and 2 long conical bump stops inside the springs. I plan on putting on OME springs this summer but all it cost me was a little time.

Another day Dealing with a Dealership.

:D