1985 Toyota 4runner 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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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 1985 Toyota 4runner problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Toyota 4Runner 1985, several common problems have been reported:
- Sagging Suspension: One of the most common issues with the 1985 Toyota 4Runner is a sagging suspension. This problem was attributed to Toyota's failure to upgrade the rear springs during the conversion from the Pickup to a Highlander. The sagging suspension can affect the vehicle's handling and stability, leading to a less comfortable ride for passengers.
- Head Gasket Leaks: The 3.0-liter V6 engine in the 1985 Toyota 4Runner is notorious for head gasket leaks. This issue has been a significant concern among owners, with online forums filled with complaints about this specific problem. The head gasket leaks can result in engine overheating, loss of coolant, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Rust and Corrosion: Rust and corrosion are common issues reported by owners of the 1985 Toyota 4Runner. These problems can affect the structural integrity of the vehicle, especially in regions with heavy snow and road salt usage. Rust on the body, frame, and undercarriage can compromise the durability and longevity of the 4Runner if left untreated.
- Worn-Out Parts: Owners have also reported issues with worn-out parts in the 1985 Toyota 4Runner. Components such as suspension parts, brakes, and drivetrain elements may experience premature wear and tear, leading to reduced performance and safety concerns. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn-out parts are essential to keep the vehicle running smoothly.
- Leaks of Various Types: Another common problem with the 1985 Toyota 4Runner is leaks of different kinds. Owners have reported leaks in various systems, including oil leaks, coolant leaks, and fluid leaks. These leaks can indicate underlying issues with gaskets, seals, or components, requiring thorough inspection and repair to prevent further damage to the vehicle.
Addressing these common problems in the Toyota 4Runner 1985 is crucial to ensure the vehicle's reliability, safety, and longevity. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and addressing issues promptly can help mitigate these concerns and keep the 4Runner running smoothly for years to come.
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 Toyota 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 engine is in a 1985 4Runner?
1985 is arguably the most desirable year for first-generation 4Runners as it was the only year with both the fuel injected 22R-E engine AND a solid front axle.
How long do old 4Runners last?
Expect a 4Runner to Last Close to 200,000 Miles, with 4.1% of the SUVs Reported to Reach the Mileage Milestone. Toyotas are known for their reliability, and the 4Runner is no exception. The Toyota 4Runner is one of the brand's most reliable vehicles, with many 4Runners living to see as many as 300,000 miles.
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 Toyota 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 engine is in a 1985 4Runner?
1985 is arguably the most desirable year for first-generation 4Runners as it was the only year with both the fuel injected 22R-E engine AND a solid front axle.
Are 4Runners high maintenance?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Toyota 4Runner is $514, compared to an average of $573 for midsize SUVs and $652 for all vehicle models.
1985 Toyota 4runner car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota 4runner problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Toyota 4runner complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Toyota 4runner.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1990-10-10
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1985 TOYOTA FRAME RUSTED BEYOND REPAIR?? *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT4RN61D5F5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, AT APPROX. 50MPH, MADE ATTEMPT TO SLOW VEHICLE, WHEN CAR JUMPED OUT IN FRONT, REAR BRAKES LOCKED, RESULT ROLLOVER INTO AN EMBANKMENT. TT
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1985 Toyota 4runner problems:
Shopping for a 1st gen 4runner, any tips, problems to look for ...
Sep 2, 2009 ... Toyota: Tacoma, 4Runner, FJ, Tundra and Lexus GX ... Most other brands and vehicles were ruled out because i want something common/easy to get ...
22R Common Problems?
Common problem? Started by Confederate13 Toyota Pickup/4Runner Tech 1979-95. 2 Replies 1359 Views, Last post Nov 29, 2009, 10 ...
Common problems/mistakes when replacing the timing belt ...
Mar 7, 2013 ... I picked up this kit Timing Belt Kit Toyota 4 Runner 1996 to 2002 3.4L 5VZFE V6 : Amazon.com : Automotive and I'm gonna try and replace the ...
Toyota 4Runner Years to Avoid: Good SUVs with Bad Model Years ...
Apr 14, 2021 ... 1985 4Runner - Photo by ... However, one of the most common problems was a sagging suspension. ... The most common complaint with the Toyota 4Runner ...
Known problems with 3.4l? - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest ...
Sep 9, 2011 ... i have had several 22re and still have two 85 trucks that have them in them, one is a stroker motor from LCE and the other is just one that ...
Other years of Toyota 4runner
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