1989 Toyota 4Runner SR5 review from North America

The head gasket blew on the 4runner 3 litre V6. Sure, it is an old vehicle. But these are notorious for blowing head gaskets.

I phoned Toyota Canada and they say there is not recall on this engine. The person I spoke with could not tell me why some 1990s are recalled while others are not. She basically acted as if she did not know that Toyota had ever had a problem with head gaskets. This is an early 1990, built before the end ot 1989.

So, what did Toyota do - just arbitarily pick a date after which they would cover head gasket repairs? I doubt if there are any differences between the block, heads, and gaskets used on early or later 1990 V6s.

Has anyone managed to obtain the free repair from Toyota for a 1990? If so, could you tell me the manufacture date of your vehicle?

Is this engine worth fixing? Or is it a waste of money; can this again happen at any time?

(My other Toyota V6, a 1993 T100, was covered by a recall.)

Toyotas may be nice, but it seems that many have serious weak points. Once Toyota recognizes the problems, the company should stand behind their products. I have bought a few new Toyotas, but am not sure that I would do so again, especially after talking to the so-called "Customer Service" rep.