1986 Toyota 4Runner review from North America

The engine was somewhat oily when I bought it and I could smell coolant leaking. Later on, it turned out that the valve cover, oil pan, and head gaskets are slowly leaking.

There was some engine noise when I bought it, but it sounded minor. That noise turns out to be piston/cylinder wall wear, and probably worn valves. I may be able to adjust the valves myself.

The rear leaf springs have sagged a bit, but spring helpers have helped until I can find someone to replace them.

Alternator belt failed on the way home from purchasing it! The alternator tensioner pulley failed at about 210,000 miles. The replacement pulley was about $25.

Tires were the first real purchase. Four new BF Goodrich tires at Sam's Club were about $350.

I replaced the rear brakes at about the same time. Total cost for shoes, new drums, and hardware kit was about $100. Repair shop found the leaky wheel cylinders, which cost another $250.

The neutral/safety switch got gummed up with oil and dirt inside, and failed to work at all. The new switch was $319 from my favorite parts store, much more elsewhere. I ended up cleaning the one I had, and it works just fine again.

Front brakes are a work in progress. Even though I purchased new rotors, bearings (inner and outer), grease seals, and shoes (total of $150), I don't expect to actually need them all. Hopefully I can return the bearings and seals.

For all the smaller repairs & maintenance it's taken, this is still a very fun vehicle to drive.

This truck goes anywhere, never complains, and my wife and son like it, too.

It has lots of windows, sunroof, air conditioning, fold-down rear seat, on-the-fly 4-wheel drive, chrome Cragar wheels, and its ready for another Michigan winter.

I have had 3 offers to buy this 4Runner since I got it about 9 months ago, but I just laugh... and drive away.