1995 Toyota 4Runner SR5 review from North America
"A good vehicle for the money, just don't try to deal with a Toyota dealership"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Head gasket was replaced under the recall, but never actually failed.
A small oil leak has started from the driver's side of the engine. The dealer quoted a new rear main seal, not cheap.
Poor power from the 3.0.
Rear coil springs weaken after a short time causing the 4Runner "lazy butt".
Idler arm worn out at 80k.
Small electrical draw. Whenever there's a load (turn signal, head lights) the amp meter pulsates until the RPMS increase.
Annoying noise from the air intake cover. The flapper makes a vibrating noise with the RPMS from 1k to 2500.
General comments?
Overall the 4Runner has done well. I've spent money doing the typical maintenance, but nothing major yet. The rear main seal will end up costing a few dollars, but I will probably do the work myself. I do not baby this vehicle either. I've got a 4x4 for a reason and I intend to use it, from the beaches of North Carolina to the mountains of West Virginia. I plan to go another 100k or more before even thinking about another vehicle.
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| Bought it for about $18,500 used. would I buy it again? Oh yeah |
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| 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 | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 19000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 151000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet S-10 |
| Date of Entry | 6th January, 2004 |