1995 Toyota 4Runner SR5 review from North America
"Bought it for about $18,500 used. would I buy it again? Oh yeah"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Engine check light came on, but it was my fault. I pulled a connection loose that I shouldn't have and it threw the computer off. That cost me $45 bucks to reset.
Head gasket was covered under factory recall. This was an on going problem with Toys because of the temperature difference between the cast iron block and the aluminum heads. They finally solved it with about the seventh generation of gaskets.
General comments?
Solid 4-wheeler, will climb trees if needed!
3.0 a bit underpowered, but can be improved with minor modifications.
For starters, lose the stock muffler and open up the exhaust from the converter back. I went with a dina max muffler and a 2.5 exhaust pipe to the rear.
Next put in a K&N air cleaner.
Gap the plugs about three thousands over stock and you will be amazed at the difference.
Keep it tuned, and don't forget the all important valve adjustment at the specified time. The "Hockey Puck" adjustment must be done by a trusted pro. I wouldn't recommend a dealer. I had mine done by a trusted friend who has been a pro mechanic for years. When he was done with it, the performance blew my mind. It runs like a pup with 106,000 miles.
Recommended reviews
| It's a Toyota, enough said |
| Love the vehicles, lost confidence in Toyota's reputation |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1995 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0V-6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 48000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 102000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 9th December, 2003 |