1998 Toyota 4 runner problems
The Toyota 4Runner is an SUV manufactured by the Japanese automaker Toyota and marketed globally since 1984, across five generations. In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009. The original 4Runner was a compact SUV and little more than a Toyota Hilux pickup truck with a fiberglass shell over the bed, but the model has since undergone significant independent development into a cross between a compact and a mid-size SUV. All 4Runners have been built in Japan at Toyota's plant in Tahara, Aichi, or at the Hino Motors (a Toyota subsidiary) plant in Hamura.
The name "4Runner" was created by copywriter Robert Nathan with the Saatchi & Saatchi advertising company as a play on the term "forerunner". The agency held contests to invent new names for Toyota's forthcoming vehicles. According to Toyota, the "4" described the vehicle's 4-wheel drive system while "Runner" was a reference to its all-terrain capabilities and how it could "run" off-road.
For some markets, the Hilux Surf was replaced in 2005 by the similar Fortuner, which is based on the Hilux platform.
As of 2021, the 4Runner is marketed in the Bahamas, Bolivia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, Peru, the United States and Venezuela. Many markets that did not receive the 4Runner, such as Europe and the Middle East, instead received the similarly designed Land Cruiser Prado, another SUV that shared many of the same components.
The 4Runner came in at number five in a 2019 study by iSeeCars.com ranking the longest-lasting vehicles in the US. The 4Runner had 3.9 percent of vehicles over 200,000 miles (320,000 km), according to the study.
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Common 1998 Toyota 4 runner problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1998 Toyota 4Runner, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Rust and Corrosion: The 1998 Toyota 4Runner, like many other model years, is prone to excessive rust and corrosion, especially on the undercarriage. This problem can lead to structural integrity issues and affect the vehicle's overall longevity. Owners have reported significant repair costs associated with addressing rust problems, making it a crucial issue to monitor and address promptly.
- Braking System Problems: Brake system issues have been a concern for Toyota 4Runners, including the 1998 model year. Owners have experienced issues such as brake failure, temporary lock-ups, and premature wear on brake components. These problems can compromise the vehicle's safety and require immediate attention to ensure proper braking performance.
- Transmission Issues: The 1998 Toyota 4Runner, like other model years, has been associated with problematic transmission systems. Owners have reported rough shifting, loss of power, and transmission failures. These issues can impact the vehicle's drivability and may necessitate costly repairs or replacements of transmission components.
- Dashboard Damage: Another common problem reported by owners of the 1998 Toyota 4Runner is dashboard damage, including issues like sticky, melted, or cracked dashboards. Exposure to direct sunlight has been linked to these problems, which not only affect the aesthetics of the interior but can also interfere with airbag deployment, posing a safety risk.
- Airbag Deployment Failure: Some complaints have highlighted concerns regarding airbag failure to deploy during accidents. This safety issue can significantly increase the risk of injuries in the event of a collision. Addressing any potential airbag malfunctions promptly is crucial to ensure the vehicle's safety features are functioning correctly.
- Engine Performance: Owners have reported various engine-related problems with the 1998 Toyota 4Runner, including misfires, poor acceleration, and overall engine performance issues. These issues can impact the vehicle's reliability and drivability, requiring thorough diagnostics and potential repairs to restore optimal engine function.
By addressing these common problems promptly and proactively maintaining the 1998 Toyota 4Runner, owners can mitigate potential issues, ensure safety on the road, and prolong the vehicle's lifespan.
How many miles will a 1998 Toyota 4Runner last?
Built in Japan - these SUVs just run and run
other owners say they go 350,000-400,000 miles before engine replacement, then go again.
What is the most common problem with a Toyota 4Runner?
6 Common Toyota 4Runner Problems
- Bluetooth Echos During Calls. What's the point of hands-free calling if you can't have a conversation without an annoying echo getting in the way? ...
- Toyota Truck Frame Rust. ...
- Musty and Moldy A/C. ...
- Rodents Chew Soy-Coated Wires. ...
- Toyota Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
- Melting Dashboards.
Are old 4Runners reliable?
A: Historically, the Toyota 4Runner models from the years 1999-2000, 2008-2009, and 2017 to the current fifth generation have been praised for their reliability.
What is the best years for Toyota Four Runner?
The best used Toyota 4Runner years according to generation are as follows. The fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner received the least complaints from 2017 to 2021. In 2017, the complaints from customers dropped out of the double-digit range, and in 2021, only one complaint was lodged against it.
What is the most common problem with a Toyota 4Runner?
6 Common Toyota 4Runner Problems
- Bluetooth Echos During Calls. What's the point of hands-free calling if you can't have a conversation without an annoying echo getting in the way? ...
- Toyota Truck Frame Rust. ...
- Musty and Moldy A/C. ...
- Rodents Chew Soy-Coated Wires. ...
- Toyota Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
- Melting Dashboards.
How many miles will a 1998 Toyota 4Runner last?
Built in Japan - these SUVs just run and run
other owners say they go 350,000-400,000 miles before engine replacement, then go again.
Are old 4Runners reliable?
A: Historically, the Toyota 4Runner models from the years 1999-2000, 2008-2009, and 2017 to the current fifth generation have been praised for their reliability.
Is a Toyota 4Runner a good car?
It's built tough for off-roading, but otherwise the 4Runner falls short of most midsized SUVs. The powerful but rough-sounding 4.0-liter V6 is thirsty, delivering just 17 mpg overall. The ride is unsettled, and handling is clumsy, with noticeable body lean while cornering.
1998 Toyota 4 runner complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Toyota 4 runner.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Toyota 4 runner problems:
Common Problems - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum
Jan 16, 2010 ... The only real common issue is rear axle seals which tend to go around 100k miles and really has become more of a maintenance item as most ...
1998 Toyota 4Runner Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
Top 1998 Toyota 4Runner Problems · Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages · EVAP System Fault Due to Failed Charcoal Canister · Car Won ...
3rd Gen with 200,000+ Miles. Any issues or major problems ...
Feb 16, 2016 ... At that price, that car should be completely up to date with everything. You shouldn't have to do any of the stuff I did. 2002 Toyota 4Runner ...
Shoukd I buy a 98 4runner with 213k miles? : r/4Runner
Nov 8, 2021 ... 4WD m/t with a locker. Previous owner took perfect care of it, no rust, damage, or any issues. It does require some maintenance at that mileage ...
3rd Gen 4Runner Buyer's Guide | Toyota 4Runner Forum [4Runners ...
Jun 2, 2015 ... Post 2- Known Issues & Red Flags, Maintenance Items. Post 3- Transfer case differences, E-locker, TRAC/VSC, 5-speed, 4Cyl information. Post ...
Other years of Toyota 4 runner
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