About a month ago I bought this 97 4x2 4Runner to have fun with and play in the snow and for camping. My daily took a crap . So I’ve been driving this . A couple weeks ago just randomly I couldn’t get into reverse then all of the sudden it jerked back and proceeded to go in reverse. But then in drive it was very sluggish like it was starting in 2nd or 3rd . Pulled over . And it randomly went away . Reverse everything worked . Went ahead and changed fluids etc . Then about 2 days ago same problem but this time it isn’t going away . No jerk into reverse just won’t go into reverse and still starting off very slow ? Any suggestions?

 

Check to see if it looks like a new radiator has been installed.

Normally these automatics are pretty indestructible… except for 1 flaw that isn’t the fault of the trans. The radiator is also used as the trans cooler and are susceptible to failure pumping coolant into the trans. Commonly known as a “pink milkshake”. I fear this may have been in your trucks past and covered up and now you’re stuck holding the repair bag.