1990 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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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 1990 Toyota 4runner problems
The Toyota 4Runner, known for its ruggedness, reliability, and versatility, has been a popular SUV among off-road enthusiasts since its inception. However, like any vehicle, the second-generation Toyota 4Runner (1990-1995) has its share of common problems that owners should be aware of. This article will discuss some of the most prevalent issues experienced by Toyota 4Runner second-generation owners, along with potential causes and solutions for each problem.
Sagging Rear Suspension
The Toyota 4Runner's second generation features a four-link rear coil suspension, staggered gas-filled shock absorbers, and a stabilizer bar as standard equipment. Over time, this setup can deteriorate, causing the car's rear end to sag due to inadequate accounting for the additional weight of the rear compartment in the SUV's body. This issue existed in the first generation model, and while Toyota made efforts to fix it in the second generation, the problem persisted.
Replacing the rear shock absorbers and struts is the best course of action for this issue. It is suggested that you choose an upgraded aftermarket component offered by various off-roading experts rather than the OEM part. After 80,000 miles of moderate use, this issue may not be as frequent, but if the powertrain of the Toyota 4Runner is subjected to excessive overheating, it can become a problem.
Engine Issues
The 3VZ-E 3.0-liter V6 engine in the Toyota 4Runner may experience starter contact issues, where the contacts, also known as starter solenoids, wear out with use. Although the parts are reasonably priced, this issue can still be frustrating for owners.
Power Steering Problems
Power steering problems can arise in the Toyota 4Runner, with the power steering pump being a common culprit. The power steering pump can leak or fail, causing difficulty in steering the vehicle. Regular maintenance and replacement of the power steering pump when needed can help prevent this issue.
Transmission Problems
Transmission problems are common in the Toyota 4Runner, particularly in the 1990-2016 models. These issues can result in rough shifting and loss of power. The culprit is often a faulty shift solenoid or throttle position sensor, both of which require replacement to fix.
Rust and Corrosion
The 4th-gen 4Runners, particularly those from 1990 to 1995, are susceptible to rust and corrosion damage, which can appear around 150,000 miles. Owners have reported that their 4Runners ran fine until a shop visit revealed that the frame and suspension were badly rusted or corroded. Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent or mitigate this issue.
Dashboard Issues
Sticky, melted, or cracked dashboards were a common complaint with 2004 4Runners, particularly those exposed to direct sunlight. This issue not only looks unsightly but may also prevent airbag deployment.
In conclusion, while the Toyota 4Runner has a reputation for reliability, certain model years and components can experience issues. Regular maintenance, inspections, and timely repairs can help prevent or mitigate these problems, ensuring the longevity and performance of your Toyota 4Runner.
Are 1990 Toyota 4runners reliable?
Most helpful consumer reviews
I have put 224000 miles on my 1990 Toyota 4-Runner with virtually no problems. It still runs like new. It is truly an amazing vehicle.
How long do 90s 4Runners last?
With proper care, you should expect at least 200,000 miles with your 4Runner, though some will make it up to 300,000 miles with meticulous care. It will last a decade or more if you're a patient and attentive driver and care for issues before they develop into pricey faults.
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 older 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.
Are 1990 Toyota 4runners reliable?
Most helpful consumer reviews
I have put 224000 miles on my 1990 Toyota 4-Runner with virtually no problems. It still runs like new. It is truly an amazing vehicle.
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.
How long do 90s 4Runners last?
With proper care, you should expect at least 200,000 miles with your 4Runner, though some will make it up to 300,000 miles with meticulous care. It will last a decade or more if you're a patient and attentive driver and care for issues before they develop into pricey faults.
1990 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Structure problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1990 Toyota 4runner
The NHTSA has received 85 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Toyota 4runner. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Toyota 4runner vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-19
- VIN: JT3VN39W3L8
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL BRACKET BROKE/CRACKED AFTER PRESSING THE CLUTCH PEDAL. WAS ORIGINALLY DIAGNOSED AS A BAD CLUTCH AND ALMOST PULLED THE PLUG TO GET THE CLUTCH REPLACED. WOULD HAVE BEEN A LOAD OF WASTED MONEY ON A POOR DIAGNOSIS. PEDAL BRACKET CRACKED WITH CLUTCH PEDAL WAS PRESSED TO START THE CAR. HEARD LOUR CRACK, CAR STARTED, BUT WOULD NOT GO INTO GEAR.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-08
- VIN: JT3VN39WXL8
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THIS SPECIFIC TOYOTA FORERUNNER MODEL HAD A RECALL FOR GASKET FAILURE. WE HAD IT REPLACED AT APPX 74,000 MILES DONE BY TOYOTA AS A COURTESY RECALL. THIS TRUCK CURRENTLY HAS VERY LOW MILEAGE CONSIDERING THE AGE OF THE TRUCK, ABOUT 148,000 MILES. IT RECENTLY ALMOST CAUGHT FIRE OVERHEATING AFTER ANOTHER GASKET FAILURE. WE FEEL THAT EITHER THE ORIGINAL REPAIR WAS NOT PROPERLY COMPLETED OR ANOTHER FAULTY GASKET WAS INSTALLED. IT'S AMAZING THAT BOTH TIMES THE GASKET FAILED AT AROUND THE SAME MILEAGE, 75,000. THIS CAR HAS BEEN EXTREMELY WELL MAINTAINED AND GARAGED WITH A SINGLE OWNER.
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-03
- VIN: JT3VN39W9L0
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1990 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRACKET SUB-ASSEMBLY THAT HELD THE CLUTCH AND BRAKE PEDAL WAS FRACTURED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL OR THE CLUTCH. THE DEALER REPAIRED THE FAILURE AT LEAST THREE TIMES IN LESS THAN ONE YEAR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE WHO OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. ..UPDATED 11/14/12 *BF UPDATED 11/14/12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-14
- VIN: JT3VN39WXL0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FAN BLADE DISINTEGRATED AT HIGHWAY SPEED. DENTED HOOD, CRACKED BATTERY, RUINED SHROUD AND ALTERNATOR BELT. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-29
- VIN: JT3VN39W2L0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE. THE WELDS ON THE REAR SUBFRAME OF THE VEHICLE POPPED AND FRACTURED WHICH CAUSED THE READ END TO FALL OFF. THE WELD DID NOT FRACTURE, BUT INSTEAD POPPED AWAY FROM THE REAR END WHICH HELD THE REAR SWAY BAR ONTO THE AXLE. THE WELDS POPPED ON BOTH SIDES. THE TRUCK HAD NEVER HAD A HITCH OR CARRIED A HEAVY LOAD ON THE VEHICLE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-22
- VIN: JT3VN39W8L0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I BROUGHT MY TOYOTA TO THE REPAIR SHOP,THE REPAIRMAN TOLD ME MY CAR HAS A DEFECTIVE HEAD GASKET AND TOLD ME TO CALL THE TOYOTA DEALER FOR REPAIR. I CALLED THE DEALER THEY TOLD ME THAT THE HEAD GASKET HAD BEEN REPAIRED. THEY WILL NOT PAY FOR IT AGAIN. I THINK THAT IS NOT FAIR FOR A CONSUMER TO PAY FOR A DEFECTIVE ENGINE. KEEPS BLOWING HEAD GASKET BUT ONLY REPAIR ONCE IS NOT ENOUGH. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT3VN39WXL8
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 1990 4 RUNNER WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WHICH OCCURRED DUE TO FAULTY STEERING RELAY ROD. *TS THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL FOR THE STEERING RELAY ROD SEVERAL YEARS AFTER THE COMPONENT HAD ALREADY FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A SINGLE CAR ACCIDENT IN WHICH THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER. CONSEQUENTLY THE CONSUMER SUSTAINED SERIOUS INJURIES AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALLY DESTROYED. THE CONSUMER NOW REALIZES THAT THE ACCIDENT WAS LIKELY DUE TO THE STEERING RELAY ROD PROBLEM MENTIONED IN THE RECALL. *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-18
- VIN: JT3VN39W0L0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET FAILURE NO EVENTS WERE PRESENT LEADING UP TO THE FAILURE OF MY CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET ASSEMBLY. WHILE APPROACHING A STOPLIGHT IN TRAFFIC I DEPRESSED MY CLUTCH PEDAL IN ORDER TO GEAR DOWN FOR THE STOP. WHILE DEPRESSING THE PEDAL I HEARD A LOUD SNAP - THE SOUND OF THE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET BREAKING. WITH THE BRACKET BROKEN THERE WAS NO ACCEPTABLE WAY TO DISENGAGE THE CLUTCH AND GET THE VEHICLE OUT OF GEAR TO STOP FOR THE STOP LIGHT. I SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES AND BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO A STOP (WHICH STALLED THE VEHICLE) BEFORE REAR ENDING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. ONCE THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN I HAD TO USE THE STARTER WITH THE VEHICLE IN GEAR TO CLEAR THE INTERSECTION. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TOWED TO MY RESIDENCE SO I CAN DECIDE HOW TO FIX THIS. IT SEEMS TOYOTA KNOWS OF THE PROBLEM AND OFFERS AN "UPGRADED" BRACKET AT A PREMIUM PRICE ALONG WITH A PREMIUM INSTALLATION FEE. AFTER BROWSING THE INTERNET IT SEEMS AS IF THIS PROBLEM IS VERY COMMON AMONG TOYOTA TRUCK, 4-RUNNER AND T-100 OWNERS ALIKE. THIS TYPE OF PROBLEM COULD BE LIFE THREATENING! *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-01
- VIN: JT3VN39W1L8
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HEAD GASKET PROBLEM. VALVE PROBLEMS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-10
- VIN: JT3VN39W0L0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONSUMER NOTICED FLUID LEAKING FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR AN INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE CONSUMER THAT THE HEAD GASKET WAS CRACKED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-15
- VIN: JT3VN39W2L0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I PURCHASED MY 4RUNNER USED IN 1998. THE MILEAGE AT PURCHASE WAS ONLY 30K, AS IT HAD BEEN USED PRIMARILY FOR DRIVING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER. THE ORIGINAL OWNER INFORMED ME THAT A NOTICE HAD BEEN SENT BY TOYOTA REGARDING HEAD GASKET FAILURES (TSB #97121797017), AND THAT TOYOTA WOULD HONOR THE REPAIRS (IF NECESSARY) UP TO 100K MILES, REGARDLESS OF TIME SINCE ORIGINAL USE. THE TSB, HOWEVER, STATES THAT THE EXTENDED WARRANTY LASTS UNTIL 8 YEARS FROM ORIGINAL USE OR 100K MILES, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST. SINCE OCTOBER 2000, I HAVE EXPERIENCED INTERMITTENT LOW ENGINE IDLING (AND STALLING) AFTER DRIVING AT HIGH SPEEDS. ON AT LEAST FIVE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS, I HAVE ASKED THAT THE VEHICLE'S IDLE SPEED BE ADJUSTED AND THE THROTTLE PLATE BE CLEANED TO RESOLVE THIS PROBLEM. I DID NOT REALIZE UNTIL JUST RECENTLY THAT THE SOURCE OF THIS PROBLEM IS A LEAKY HEAD GASKET. THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP I GO TO HERE IN GLENDALE, CA REPORTED THIS DIAGNOSIS AFTER I QUESTIONED THEM ON WHY THE VEHICLE NEEDED REPEATED IDLE SPEED ADJUSTMENTS. THE CURRENT MILEAGE OF THE VEHICLE IS 99K. I HAVE APPROACHED TOYOTA CUSTOMER SERVICE TO INQUIRE IF THEY WILL AUTHORIZE A HEAD GASKET REPLACEMENT FOR THE VEHICLE FREE OF CHARGE SINCE THE PROBLEM IS A PROBLEM THAT THEY HAVE BEEN AWARE OF AND PREVIOUSLY ISSUED AN EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERING IT. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE. I FEEL THAT TOYOTA SHOULD AUTHORIZE THE REPAIR IN THIS CASE DESPITE THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE, AS THE ENGINE BEGAN EXHIBITING SYMPTOMS OF THE HEAD GASKET PROBLEM WELL BELOW THE 100K MILEAGE REQUIREMENT THAT TOYOTA ORIGINALLY STATED THAT THEY WERE WILLING TO REPAIR IN THE TSB. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT FURTHER I CAN DO REGARDING THIS MATTER, AND WOULD APPRECIATE ANY HELP THAT CAN BE PROVIDED.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-27
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TOTAL LOSS OF BRAKING FUNCTION. WIFE AND GRAND DAUGHTER IN CAR. NO ACCIDENT OCCURRED. EMNERGENCY BRAKE STILL FUNCTIONED. ROOT CAUSE WAS DUE TO LONG-TERM WEAR ON LEFT REAR METAL BRAKE LINE BY ANIT-LOCK-BRAKES CONTROL ARM. THIS ACTION RESULTED IN THE METAL BRAKE LINE INTEGRITY FAILURE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-01
- VIN: JT3VN39W2L0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I PURCHASED MY 4RUNNER USED IN 1998. THE MILEAGE AT PURCHASE WAS ONLY 30K, AS IT HAD BEEN USED PRIMARILY FOR DRIVING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER. THE ORIGINAL OWNER INFORMED ME THAT A NOTICE HAD BEEN SENT BY TOYOTA REGARDING HEAD GASKET FAILURES (TSB #97121797017), AND THAT TOYOTA WOULD HONOR THE REPAIRS (IF NECESSARY) UP TO 100K MILES, REGARDLESS OF TIME SINCE ORIGINAL USE. THE TSB, HOWEVER, STATES THAT THE EXTENDED WARRANTY LASTS UNTIL 8 YEARS FROM ORIGINAL USE OR 100K MILES, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST. SINCE OCTOBER 2000, I HAVE EXPERIENCED INTERMITTENT LOW ENGINE IDLING (AND STALLING) AFTER DRIVING AT HIGH SPEEDS. ON AT LEAST FIVE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS, I HAVE ASKED THAT THE VEHICLE'S IDLE SPEED BE ADJUSTED AND THE THROTTLE PLATE BE CLEANED TO RESOLVE THIS PROBLEM. I DID NOT REALIZE UNTIL JUST RECENTLY THAT THE SOURCE OF THIS PROBLEM IS A LEAKY HEAD GASKET. THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP I GO TO HERE IN GLENDALE, CA REPORTED THIS DIAGNOSIS AFTER I QUESTIONED THEM ON WHY THE VEHICLE NEEDED REPEATED IDLE SPEED ADJUSTMENTS. THE CURRENT MILEAGE OF THE VEHICLE IS 99K. I HAVE APPROACHED TOYOTA CUSTOMER SERVICE TO INQUIRE IF THEY WILL AUTHORIZE A HEAD GASKET REPLACEMENT FOR THE VEHICLE FREE OF CHARGE SINCE THE PROBLEM IS A PROBLEM THAT THEY HAVE BEEN AWARE OF AND PREVIOUSLY ISSUED AN EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERING IT. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE. I FEEL THAT TOYOTA SHOULD AUTHORIZE THE REPAIR IN THIS CASE DESPITE THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE, AS THE ENGINE BEGAN EXHIBITING SYMPTOMS OF THE HEAD GASKET PROBLEM WELL BELOW THE 100K MILEAGE REQUIREMENT THAT TOYOTA ORIGINALLY STATED THAT THEY WERE WILLING TO REPAIR IN THE TSB. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT FURTHER I CAN DO REGARDING THIS MATTER, AND WOULD APPRECIATE ANY HELP THAT CAN BE PROVIDED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-15
- VIN: JT3N39W3L00
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE VEHICLE HEAD GASKET HAS FAILED. DEALER NOTIFIED. *PH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT3VN39W3L8
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE HEAD GASKET WAS REPLACED UNDER THE OWNER NOTIFICATION WARRANTY, BUT BLEW OUT 5000 MILES LATER.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT3VN39W1L0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS MAKING A BANGING NOISE IN THE ENGINE. WHITE SMOKE, AND FIRE IN THE ENGINE. VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-17
- VIN: JT3VN39W4L0
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: I WAS LOCKED INSIDE THIS VEHICLE AND UNABLE TO GET OUT. I ENDED UP SMASHING THE WINDOW AFTER 45 MINUTES AND CRAWLING OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THE DOOR LOCKS WERE "ENERGIZED" AND HOLDING THE LOCK LEVERS DOWN. MECHANIC IS UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND WHAT HAPPENED AND THE LOCK SOLENOIDS ARE STILL IN THIS SAME SITUATION. THE LOCK ARMS HAVE BEEN DISCONNECTED.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-17
- VIN: JT3VN39W4L0
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS LOCKED INSIDE OF HIS VEHICLE AND WAS UNABLE TO GET OUT. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. TS. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-08
- VIN: JT3VN39WXL0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1990 TOYOTA 4-RUNNER INTERMITTANTLY JUMPS IN AND OUT OF OVERDRIVE AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MILES PER HOUR OR HIGHER WHEN HIGHWAY DRIVING, CAUSING INCREASE IN GAS MILEAGE AND HIGH RPMS ON THE ENGINE. IN 2001 I WENT TO TOYOTA FOR THIS PROBLEM AND THEY TOLD ME I WOULD NEED TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION SO I SHOULD DRIVE THE VEHICLE UNTIL I COULD NOT DRIVE IT ANYMORE. AT THAT POINT I SHOULD HAVE THE TRANSMISSION REPLACED. AFTER EXTENSIVE RESEARCH I LOCATED TSBS FOR THIS VEHICLE AND FOUND ONE THAT ADDRESSES THIS ISSUE (TSB ATRATB351 DATED JAN 96). THIS MONTH 1/2003 I RETURNED TO TOYOTA WITH THE SAME COMPLAINT AND THEY TOLD ME IT WOULD COST APPROXIMATELY $150.00 TO PERFORM THIS TSB. I TOLD THEM IF THEY HAD PERFORMED IT THE PREVIOUS YEAR WHEN I HAD THE HEAD GASKETS REPLACED IT WOULD NOT HAVE COST ME ANYTHING SINCE THE ENGINE WAS ALREADY APART FOR OTHER WORK. THE SERVICE MANAGER SAID HE COULD NOT ADDRESS THE RECOMMENDATION AND FINDINGS OF THEIR WORK FROM A YEAR AGO. I CALLED ANOTHER DEALER AND THEY SAID IT WOULD COST $71.00 FOR THE WORK TO BE PERFORMED. AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED SINCE A TSB HAS BEEN ISSUED IT IS BASICALLY ADMITTING THAT THE VEHICLE HAS A PROBLEM AND PROVIDES THE DEALER/SERVICE DEPARTMENTS WITH THE FIX, SO WHY ARE THE SERVICE MANAGERS RELUCTANT TO PERFORM THE CORRECTION, BUT INSTEAD RECOMMEND AN TRANSMISSION CHANGE?
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-01
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDERNEATH HOOD. THE DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-22
- VIN: JTVN39W9LOO
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE STARTING ENGINE REVVED A LITTLE AND COOLING FAN EXPLODED, PIECE OF FAN FLEW AS FAR AS 30 FEET AWAY, ALMOST INJURING A BYSTANDER. FAN PIERCED A HOLE IN BATTERY, ALLOWING ACID TO SPILL ONTO THE FLOOR. MECHANIC STATED THAT THIS WAS A POOR DESIGN IN COOLING FAN. AND A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-12-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE BLEW AT 13000 MILES AND VEHICLE STARTED HESITATING AND CUTTING OFF WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. DEALERSHIP WAS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT3VN39W1L0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS IN FOR OIL CHANGE 4 WEEKS PRIOR TO INCIDENT. ENGINE BEGAN TO MAKE A LOUD BANGING NOISE. STOPPED AT A JIFFYLUBE, AND FOUND OIL VERY LOW. FILLED WITH OIL AND WAS TOLD THAT IT SOUNDS LIKE I THREW A ROD, BUT IT SHOULD BE OKAY TO GET ME WHERE I WAS GOING (ABOUT 5 MILES UP THE ROAD). APPROXIMATELY 2 MILES LATER, WHITE SMOKE BEGAN COMING OUT THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE, AND THE BANGING STOPPED. THE SMOKE BECAME VERY BAD, AND I WAS ABOUT TO PULL INTO A GAS STATION WHEN SOMEONE PULLING OUT YELLED TO ME THAT IT WAS ON FIRE (IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT). I GOT ME AND MY 2 SMALL BOYS OUT, AND CAME HOME THAT SAME NIGHT TO THE HEAD GASKET RECALL NOTICE IN THE MAIL. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED TOYOTA, WHO SENT SOMEONE OUT TO INVESTIGATE, BUT THEY SAID THAT THE INVESTIGATION CONCLUDED THAT THE CAUSE WAS NOT KNOWN, AND IT WAS NOT THEIR RESPONSIBILITY. I WAS READING MORE HORROR STORIES ABOUT THIS ON YOUR SITE. WHAT CAN BE DONE? MY VEHICLE WAS PAID FOR AND MY INSURANCE DID NOT COVER FIRE. WHY DID IT TAKE THEM SO LONG TO GET THE HEAD GASKET RECALL NOTICE TO ME? IT APPEARS THAT THIS WAS AN ISSUE FOR SEVERAL YEARS. I BASICALLY DROPPED THE ISSUE FOR SEVERAL YEARS FIGURING I WAS FIGHTING A LOSING BATTLE, UNTIL I DISCOVERED THIS SITE. THANKS.*AK
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-14
- Crash: 1
- VIN: FILL IN
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED BUT TURNED ON, HAD JUST SHIFTED INTO REVERSE WITH FOOT ON BRAKES WHEN IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED BACKWARDS. HIT 2 PARKED VEHICLES. NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. HAVE NOT CONTACTED DEALERSHIP.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-02
- VIN: JT3VN39W5L0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: PASSENGER'S SIDE EXTERIOR MIRROR WOULD SEVERELY VIBRATE WHEN TRAVELING AT 30MPH OR MORE. THIS CAUSED POOR VISIBILITY. DEALER NOTIFIED, AND WAS UNWILLING TO ASSIST ON THIS MATTER. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION ON THIS PROBLEM.*AK
1990 Toyota 4runner recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Toyota 4runner.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:ROD:RELAY:CONNECTING
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, IF THE STEERING WHEEL IS REPEATEDLY TURNED UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS WHERE HIGH STEERING EFFORT AND POWER ASSIST ARE REQUIRED, FOR INSTANCE, WHEN FULLY TURNING THE WHEEL WHILE THE VEHICLE IS STOPPED, A FATIGUE CRACK MAY DEVELOP IN THE STEERING RELAY ROD.
- Consequence: IF THE VEHICLE IS CONTINUED TO BE OPERATED IN THIS CONDITION, THE RELAY ROD MAY FRACTURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING RELAY ROD. THE RECALL BEGAN OCTOBER 5, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Negative 1990 Toyota 4runner car reviews
Positive 1990 Toyota 4runner car reviews
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Due to the gutless feeling, I never took it over 60 mph until my wife drove it about 3 years ago. However, it has proven to be super dependable, very tough, and almost never breaks down. With 170k on one engine, it is still going strong. Although it may not be the most exciting car, it looks nice and has never stranded me. At 43, I don't think anyone will be having a mid-life crisis in this vehicle.
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Your 4runner is amazing! It keeps going with little problems and still manages to look good.
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You're in for a treat with this vehicle! We've been the proud owners since 1995, and we're only the second owners. We've had no unusual repairs throughout the years, and it's been a reliable companion. We're only considering parting ways with it now, at 230,000 miles, because it needs new seals. It's geared for 4WD, so it may not have as much power at higher speeds as you'd like, but it still has better gas mileage than the new models!
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Big Red has been a trusty companion for over 290,000 miles since I was 17! She's perfect for both short trips around town and long hauls. Despite the original radiator-pin leak on top (which we fixed at 220,000 miles!), we've never had any problems from defects. We've only had to replace the timing belt twice, clutch and brakes once, and do minor tuneup tweaks. Keeping the fluids clean has really paid off! Safety is top-notch too. Once, while stopped in traffic on the freeway, we were rear-ended at 53 mph. Thankfully, everyone was fine in the truck. The tire on the rear took the force, but even though the tire bracket was bent into the truck, the window still went up and down fine.
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I bought my 1990 4Runner 3 years ago with less than 100k miles on it and have never looked back. It's my daily driver in spite of having a 2002 Rav4. Its classic look still turns heads after a good wash and wax. Although its engine is a bit under-powered, I still love it. I will soon be buying an FJ but my 4-Runner will always hold a special place in my heart.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Toyota 4runner problems:
Any known problems with a 1990 4 Runner? - Toyota 4Runner Forum
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Are you having problems with your 1990 Toyota 4runner?
Marty Sporer 2024-01-26
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with a Toyota dealer. I purchased a vehicle from them when it had just under 100,000 miles. Unfortunately, I found that it didn't have enough power and the 4WD system never worked right. Additionally, there was always a loud banging sound and a lurching when the 4WD was disengaged, even after only 5 minutes of driving. The passenger cab was also a bit cramped. After about a year and 10 to 12 thousand miles, the engine blew a rod. I was a bit disappointed because I thought Toyotas were supposed to last forever, or at least 150,000 miles. However, I've owned Chevy, Acura, VW, and Toyota, and I've learned that it doesn't matter what you buy, you may or may not get lucky. Thanks for listening to my story!
Jacinto Raynor 2024-01-05
Good car for smaller people, although I would love more leg room. I have had mine for 5 years now, bought used. I have had some major repair bills, mostly with the A/C and fuel injectors. However, it is still a great looking car and built like a tank. I have been rear-ended 3 times with no damage! I feel very safe when I can keep it running....