1997 Toyota 4Runner SR5 review from North America
"Probably the best SUV on the road"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The rear axle seals went out at 42,000 miles and were replaced under the warranty. They failed again at 51,000 miles and the mechanic found that the Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve on the differential was installed back-wards causing pressure to build up and blow out the seals. Once this was corrected there has been no further problem.
The clutch pedal has developed an annoying squeak.
The power is not all it could be in two wheel high pulling steep mountain roads.
General comments?
A very reliable vehicle. It has never used more than a quart of oil between oil changes at 7,500 miles using synthetic oil. I have used Slick 50 every 20,000 miles.
The turning radius is really great.
In 4-wheel low it will go anywhere you want. I have pulled several Ford Explorers and Nissan Pathfinders out of holes with it.
This is an Alaskan vehicle that was bought from an Alaskan Pipeline contractor who uses nothing, but Toyota 4-Runners because of their reliability.
It is a great car for traveling. Our family of four has taken several very long trips in it, including an 8,000 mile journey through Central America.
It has traveled the Alaskan Highway four times, once in the dead of winter at 40 below zero with 1,800 miles of blizzard conditions.
Recommended reviews
| Reliable and predictable |
|
| 200K here I come - Reliable SUV |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.4L V6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 22000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 101000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Supra |
| Date of Entry | 1st October, 2003 |