1994 Toyota 4Runner SR5 3.0 EFI V6 from North America

Summary:

Awesome

Faults:

Starter went at 230,000; no big deal.

Rotors replaced twice, only caused by miles off roading.

Calipers replaced same time as the rotors.

Had to replace bottom ball joints, steering stabilizer, and new front and rear shocks and rear springs.

Clutch is starting to go 254,000kms. Would have lasted longer, but I have over 10,000 kms in the bush since I bought it in 08.

Other than the basic things, it's gotta be the best vehicle I have ever owned.

General Comments:

The 4 runner is a bit slow in getting up to speed, but it makes up for it in torque, no problems climbing hills.

Fuel economy isn't the best, but this ride has so many qualities, I don't mind spending a few extra dollars in fuel.

Handling is average for a SUV; bit of body roll and not the smoothest off road. Kinda feels like it's built like a little tank once you get on the trails.

The seats are made with a high quality fabric, very durable. Gauge cluster is perfect, easy to read and all controls are in easy reach.

The back seats are really easy to fold down.

Off road, all I have to say is WOW. Extremely strong. My vacuum front diff was replaced with warn lockers and my traction is unreal. 4 low is excellent, and for crossing creeks, you're able to go as deep as your headlight without flooding the motor. The suspension and front end is very strong...

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th September, 2010

1994 Toyota 4Runner SR5 3.0 Liter V6 from North America

Summary:

Total waste of money, I am done with it

Faults:

Nothing has really gone wrong with it, minus basic maintenance items like a battery and A/C.

General Comments:

I am really disappointed at the truck. It is mainly because I either needed something to haul well, or to get decent mpg.

I avoided the 10-12 mpg SUVs like the Expedition, and figured that 3500 lbs towing capacity was enough in trade for 18 mpg, which is what I assumed it would get. That's not necessarily the truck's fault, but I was thinking a 3.0 liter V6 would get me at least 18 mpg, considering my old ES300 would get 32 mpg on the same engine. I guess I was wrong.

Instead I ended up with a 11.5 mpg pile that can't tow anything upwards of 2500 lbs. It's really a dog when put under a load. I took it to a mechanic and cruised forums to see if what I was getting was normal, and, unanimously, 10-14 mpg was normal for everyone. I guess I should've read more carefully before I bought it.

It's frustrating to burn gas so quickly on such a slow and rather small SUV. Sadly, I had been wanting to get one for a while because I enjoy the way it looks, and that it's a step up from the CRV's and Rav4s. But, it feels like a total waste when I drive it, so first chance I get, I am ditching it for a different truck.

It is very comfortable though, very easy to drive the stick, and looks pretty nice too. But the gas is really a deal breaker here, and I am sad to say that I am very disappointed in my favorite car manufacturer now because of this truck. Never looking at another one again.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th January, 2010

25th Feb 2010, 10:17

I have the same truck with about the same mileage, and average between 14, and I have gotten as high as 23 mpg. You should go through your truck, and check your air filter, timing, and make sure you have a fresh oxygen sensor. As much as you might not want to, this truck likes to be wound out a bit. Don't be afraid to have it in the mid 3k's when pulling a grade, you will find your foot not as close to the floor when you do.

For the record, here are the mods that I have done:

- Cat-back 2.25" exhaust with a Flowmaster 50 series

- K&N filter

- Timing is set at 10* (factory setting I think)

- I also have 31" studded mud tires that I run in the winter months, and 31" A/T that I run between April and August. The best I have gotten with the muds is 19 mpg, and with A/T I get between 20-23.