I'm looking at buying a 97-98 SR5 4x4 4runner. The ones I'm looking at that I can afford will have some mileage on them. I'm just curious if there are any trouble areas or liabilites I should be looking for when buying. I know timing belt replacement/maintenance is one. Can you guys give me some insight on anything else I should keep my eyes peeled on besides obvious upkeep? Like recalls past due, etc. Thanks for the help.

Eric

 

Recently bought a 98 4runner 4x4 with 120K on. After one month, had to repair/replace alternator, both rear wheel bearings, rear brakes, starter contacts and changed all fluids. Runs great now.

 

Eric,
If you are looking for a 97 make sure that either the head gasket recall has been done or if it is even part of the recall. They changed the hg in mid 1997, so the late 1997 models were not affected. Mine was built in June 1997 and was not part of that recall.

The 1996-1998's had a recall on the rear springs. Toyota states that on the 4X4 models, it is a "ride issue".

Other than that, just make sure the maintenance has been done on it. I have replaced the T-belt, water pump, all fluids replaced. The only that needed to be fixed was the rear axle seals.

 

Might as well start looking for a 99+ console now. The 97 cupholders are good for nothing more than being a nice high place to maximize spillage over a wider area.
Mechanically I would flush the trans and refluidize the diffs. Something also rattled in my lift gate. Then two weeks later someone ran into and I had it replaced, so problem gone. If you are going to lift it, I wouldn't worry about the rear spring thing, when I had the recall done, all I got was new hollow coils they called them and new rubber stops. Basically just more rubber to toss. I realize refluidize is not a real word.

 

Thanks guys. I'll try to lookup the 4runners recall list online somewhere.

FSUdave, did all that stuff go wrong at once or what?

I did a search and noticed quite an unusual number of posts on rear axle bearings and seals and other weird things from the back. How many miles are you guys getting out of them? When they start going bad, do they squeak, leak, or both?

It'll be nice to be able to own a vehicle that something as silly as a cupholder could be cause for concern...seriously. I own a beat-to-hell 87 big Bronco and I spend every waking moment of my life working on it and need something newer and stone cold reliable. Hopefully, a newer 4runner is it. And no this vehicle will stay as stock as possible while I own it.

 

Dont even worry about the 99+ cup holder either. I've riden in 99+ and I like my 98 style console much better. Its easy to use and the cup holder isnt that bad. I dont know why everyone thinks the 99 style is so awesome.