1994 Toyota 4runner problems

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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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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.

1994 Toyota 4runner

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Common 1994 Toyota 4runner problems

The Toyota 4Runner, first introduced in 1984, has a reputation for reliability and durability. However, like any other vehicle, it is not immune to issues, especially as it ages. This article will focus on the 1994 Toyota 4Runner and common problems reported by owners.

  • Transmission Issues: Transmission problems, such as rough shifting and loss of power, have been reported by some 1994 4Runner owners. These issues can be caused by faulty shift solenoids or throttle position sensors, both of which may require replacement to resolve the problem.

In conclusion, while the 1994 Toyota 4Runner is known for its reliability and durability, it is not immune to issues, especially as it ages. Regular maintenance and inspection of the vehicle's components can help identify and address these issues early on, ensuring the longevity and performance of the 4Runner.

1994 Toyota 4runner engine

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 year is the best rated Toyota 4Runner?

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.

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.

Is the 4Runner engine good?

The Toyota's 4.0-liter engine might be reliable, but it also reliably consumes fuel at an alarming rate. The truck's interior has plenty of passenger and cargo space, but its cabin materials are drab. On regular roads, this truck-based SUV drives like, well, a truck: its handling feels loose, and its ride is uncouth.

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.

1994 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
  • Steering problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1994 Toyota 4runner

The NHTSA has received 80 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Toyota 4runner. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1994 Toyota 4runner vehicles.

2021-04-28

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-12-05
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JT3VN29VXR0
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: MY VEHICLE WAS IN A ACCIDENT ON THE PASSENGER QUARTER PANEL THE DAMAGE CAUSED A ELECTRICAL OUTAGE TO ALL THE BLINKERS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE AND BOTH MY PASSENGER SIDE DOOR LOCK ACTUATORS THEY LOCKED UP AND STOPPED WORKING AFTER THE ACCIDENT. WITH THE DOOR LOCK ACTUATORS NOT WORKING MADE MY VEHICLE UNSAFE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE.
2013-04-07

POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-02-15
  • VIN: JT3VN39W8R0
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: A COUPLE OF YEARS AFTER PURCHASING THIS TOYOTA 4-RUNNER THERE WAS A RECALL DUE TO FAULTY HEAD GASKETS. THEY LEAKED. A RECALL WAS (SUPPOSEDLY) DONE. 100,000 MILES LATER THE SAME PROBLEM HAD TO BE FIXED AGAIN. I CONTACTED TOYOTA AND WAS INFORMED THAT THEY WERE ONLY RESPONSIBLE FOR ONE FIX. THAT WOULD BE NICE IF THEY HAD ACTUALLY FIXED IT. A (FIX) IMPLIES THAT IT HAS BEEN REALLY FIXED. HEAD GASKETS ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO LEAK . . . EVER! SO I AM WONDERING OF THEY REALLY ACCOMPLISHED A FIX THE FIRST TIME. OBVIOUSLY NOT SINCE IT COST ME $2000 TO GET IT FIXED AGAIN FOR THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. IF THEY DID ATTEMPT A FIX THEY CERTAINLY MUST HAVE USED INFERIOR OF DEFECTIVE PARTS SINCE THE SAME PROBLEM NEEDED TO BE FIXED AGAIN. I THINK THERE OUGHT TO BE A LAW THAT IF A RECALL (FIX) FAILS AND NEED TO BE DONE OVER THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD BE LIABLE FOR THE REDO. THANK YOU *TR
2012-03-22

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-03-20
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: JT3VN39W5R8
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A POPPING SOUND FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED AN ABNORMAL ODOR OF OIL. THE CONTACT STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND UPON EXITING, NOTICED A FLAME UNDER THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND REPORTED TO THE SCENE. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S HOME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS OR REPAIRS. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
2011-02-07

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-02-05
  • VIN: JT3VN39W9R0
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 TOYOTA 4RUNNER . THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED, WHICH HAS CAUSED THE CONTROL ARM TO FALL OFF. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED OR INSPECTED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 291,000.
2010-04-08

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-04-07
  • VIN: JT3VN39WXR0
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THIS IS A FAILURE THAT HAS NO EVENTS LEADING UP TO IT . I OWN A 1994 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER WITH 4 WHEEL DRIVE. THE HARMONIC BALANCER HAS BROKEN MORE THAN 3 TIMES ON THIS VEHICLE. IT SEEMS THAT THE KEY THAT FITS INTO THE SLOT ON THE CRANK SHAFT IS TOO SHORT. THE KEY THAT FITS INTO THE SLOT ALSO KEEPS THE HARMONIC BALANCER IN PLACE AS IT ALSO HAS A SLOT FOR THE KEY TO FIT INTO. WHEN THIS HAPPENS IT IS SUDDEN AND GIVES YOU LITTLE OR NO TIME TO REACT. ALL OF THE INSTRUMENT LIGHTS COME ON AT ONCE AND THE STEERING AND BRAKES FAIL CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL. I HAVE SPOKEN WITH DOZENS OF MECHANICS AND TOYOTA OWNERS AND THEY ALL SAY THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE. THIS IS NOT ONLY A SAFETY HAZARD BUT ALSO A COSTLY REPAIR. THIS HAPPENED TO MY CAR AGAIN FOR THE FOURTH TIME RECENTLY. *TR
2010-03-09

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-03-08
  • VIN: JT3VN29V6R0
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE BLOWN HEAD GASKET CAUSED WATER TO LEAK INTO ENGINE CAUSING ENGINE FAILURE. TOYOTA REPAIRED UNDER RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO. NOW THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED AND NOW IT WILL COST ME $1,900.00 TO REPAIR THEIR POOR QUALITY, OR CRAFTSMANSHIP. WHY CAN'T WE GET TOYOTA TO WARRANTY THIS PROBLEM FOR THE LIFE OF THE CAR. I HAVE READ HUNDREDS OF POSTS REGARDING THIS MATTER, AND WE CANNOT GET FAIR RESULTS FROM ANYONE. MY FRIEND HAD TOYOTA OFFER HIM $500.00 TOWARDS THE PURCHASE OF A NEW TOYOTA, PRETTY FUNNY OFFER. *TR
2009-05-17

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-05-16
  • VIN: JT3VN39W9R0
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: BLOWN HEAD GASKET ON 1994 TOYATA 4RUNNER. 98K ON ENGINE. *TR
2008-09-17

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-08-30
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: I BOUGHT 1994 TOYOTA 4RUNNER USED. THE OUTFIT NEEDED NEW TIRES WHEN I TRIED TO REMOVER THE WHEELS I COULD NOT GET THEM OFF THE VEHICLE AFTER ALOT OF WORK THEY FINALLY CAME OFF. WHEN I REINSTALLED THEM I USED ANTI-SEIZE AND HOPE TO NEVER HAVE THIS PROBLEM AGAIN. *TR
2007-02-21

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-06-09
  • VIN: JT3VN39W1L0
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* - THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 TOYOTA FORERUNNER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN HE TRIED TO MAKE A TURN OR STEER THE VEHICLE IT WOULD NOT WORK. THE CONTACT HAD THE STEERING COLUMN FIXED. THE STEERING COLUMN PROBLEM WAS CONSISTENT AND KEPT GETTING WORSE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE BOTH 83000. *AK
2006-10-30

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-02-03
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JT3VN39W0R0
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: MY WIFE WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK AT ABOUT 8:00 AM AND THE SUV SLID TO THE LEFT ON ICE, SHE THEN TURNED TO THE RIGHT AND THE STEERING WOULDN'T STRAIGHTEN UP AND AS A RESULT SHE WENT DOWN AN INBANKMENT AND THE SUV ROLLED ALL THE WAY OVER AND BACK ON ITS WHEELS. THE VEHICLE SINCE HAS BEEN TOTALED AND PARTED OUT BUT I'M THINKING THIS RECALL MAY HAVE CAUSED THE ACCIDENT. *JB
2006-10-11

STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-11-27
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JT3VN39W4RB
  • Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: 1994 4 RUNNER 4 WD STEERING CONTROL LOCKED UP WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER. *TS ***NAR*** THE CONSUMERS WIFE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND SUBSEQUENTLY THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER AN EMBANKMENT INTO A STREAM. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED TOTALED. *JB
2006-09-27

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-09-20
  • VIN: JT3VN39W2R0
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: I OWN A 94 TOYOTA 4RUNNER WITH A 3VZ-E MOTOR. THE HEAD GASKET WAS REPLACE UNDER THE RECALL IN 1997 WHEN THE VEHICLE HAD 45000 MILES. THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP JUST REPLACED THE HEAD GASKET AND NEVER RESURFACED THE HEADS. ON SEPTEMBER 20,2006 HEAD GASKET BLOW AGAIN.IT IS WELL KNOWN ABOUT THE DESIGN FLAW IN THIS MOTOR AND TOYOTA SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR TO BE DONE CORRECTLY. MY VEHICLE ONLY HAS 90700 MILES ON THE MOTOR.I CALLED TOYOTA AND THEY TOLD MY THAT THEY ONLY FIX IT ONE TIME. I ADVISED THEM THAT THEY NEVER FIXED THE FIRST HEAD GASKET CORRECTLY AND THEY SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR MAKING THERE RECALLS CORRECTED IN A PROPER MANNER.I WOULD LIKE TO SEE A CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT AGAINST TOYOTA IN REGARDS TO THIS ISSUE. *NM
2006-05-08

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-02-04
  • VIN: JT3VN39W4R8
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: I OWN A 94 TOYOTA 4RUNNER AND A 94 TOYOTA SR5 PICKUP TRUCK. BACK IN '98 I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE I BROUGHT BOTH MY VEHICLES TO FRED ANDERSON TOYOTA IN RESPONSE TO THE RECALL. THEY REPLACED THE HEAD GASKETS ON BOTH VEHICLES. RECALL NOTICE: A 3VZ-E HEAD GASKET REPLACEMENT JUNE 26, 1998 VEHICLE: TOYOTA TRUCK 4X4MILEAGE: 46,623 JULY 17, 1998 VEHICLE: TOYOTA 4RUNNERMILEAGE: 38,037 THE BEGINNING OF FEBRUARY 2006 OF THIS YEAR, MY TOYOTA PICKUP TRUCK BLEW A HEAD GASKET WHEN I CRANKED IT UP ONE AFTERNOON. DENSE SMOKE AND RADIATOR FLUID FLOWED FROM THE TAILPIPE AND THE ENGINE WAS VIBRATING.LESS THAN 12 HOURS AFTER THE HEAD GASKET BLEW IN MY PICKUP TRUCK, THE VERY NEXT MORNING I STARTED MY WIFE'S 4RUNNER TO MAKE A TRIP INTO TOWN. IMMEDIATELY WHEN I STARTED IT, DENSE SMOKE AND RADIATOR FLUID FLOWED FROM THE TAILPIPE AND THE ENGINE WAS VIBRATING EVEN WORST THAN BEFORE. I IMMEDIATELY TURN THE TRUCK OFF. TOYOTA OPENED A CASE# 200602060829. I WAS TOLD THEY WOULD CALL CHAN COLEMAN AT SANFORD TOYOTA AND TRY TO GET A SPECIAL PRICE. I CALLED CHAN AND WAS TOLD I WOULD NEED TO SPEAK WITH SOMEONE IN HIS SERVICE DEPARTMENT. HE TRANSFERRED ME TO SERVICE AND WAS QUOTED A PRICE OF $1,600 PER VEHICLE TO REPAIR. I HAD BOTH VEHICLES TOWED AND REPAIRED BY A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP. BELOW ARE THE DATES AND MILEAGE FOR THE REPAIRS. FEBRUARY 16, 2006 VEHICLE: TOYOTA TRUCK 4X4 MILEAGE: 120,000 FEBRUARY 4, 2006 VEHICLE: TOYOTA 4RUNNER MILEAGE: 102,000 I WAS TOLD BY THE MECHANIC AT THE LOCAL REPAIR SHOP THAT THE REASON THE HEAD GASKETS WERE BLOWING WAS BECAUSE OF A CASTING DESIGN FLAW WITH THE ENGINE HEADS AND NOT THE HEAD GASKETS. THE HEADS HAD DIMPLES WHICH OVER TIME WOULD CAUSE THE HEAD GASKET TO BLOW. THE HEADS ON BOTH MY VEHICLES HAD TO BE RESURFACED TO REMOVE THE DIMPLES. I CALLED TOYOTA WITH THIS INFORMATION BUT WAS TOLD THEY SHOW BOTH MY VEHICLES WERE FIXED IN ACCORDANCE TO THE RECALL AND IT IS A ONE TIME FIX ONLY AND THE OWNER NEEDS TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AT SOME POINT. *NM
2006-01-24

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: CONSUMER IS CONCERNED ABOUT THE 1994 4-RUNNER STEERING ROD. *TS THE CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL 05V389000 REFERENCING A STEERING ROD. THE CONSUMER WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION ON THE RECALL ESPECIALLY SINCE HIS FATHER, WHO ALSO OWNED A TOYOTA 4RUNNER, WAS KILLED FOUR YEAR AGO WHEN HIS VEHICLE VEERED OFF A FREEWAY. *NM
2005-07-19

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-07-19
  • VIN: JT3VN29V8R0
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 TOYOTA RUNNER SR5. HE ALMOST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE FROM A PRIVATE PARTY, AND HE WENT ON TO THE WEBSITE TO OBTAIN A CAR FAX REPORT. THE REPORT WAS SHOWING AN ODOMETER READING OF 147124 ON SEPTEMBER 18, 2004. NOW THE CAR IS SHOWING AN ODOMETER READING OF A LITTLE MORE THAN 98,000. THIS HAS NOT BEEN REPORTED TO THE POLICE BECAUSE THAT UNIT WAS OUT AT THE TIME. HE DID LEAVE A MESSAGE FOR THEM TO CONTACT HIM BACK, BUT THEY HAVE NOT DONE SO AS OF YET.*AK
2005-04-06

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-01-16
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JT3VN39W0R0
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: LEFT REAR WHEEL BROKE OFF THE VEHICLE AT 65 MPH. THIS CAUSED THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL, AND VEHICLE FLIPPED OVER THREE TIMES.*AK THE LEFT REAR AXLE BROKE CAUSING ACCIDENT. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED ROAD RASH TO LEFT HAND AND ARM WHICH RESULTED IN PERMANENT SCARING. *NM
2004-11-08

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-07-07
  • VIN: JT3VN29V5R0
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: DAYTON TIMBERLINE A/T, P235/75R15, DOT#VDHLTD3110.CONSUMER THAT THE SIDEWALLS BLEW OUT. THE TREAD WEAR ON THE TIRES WAS LESS THAN 10,000 MILES. RIGHT REAR TIRE WENT OUT FIRST. FOLLOWED BY LEFT FRONT TIRE WHICH EXPERIENCED THE SAME DEFECT AS THE RIGHT REAR TIRE.*AK
2004-02-19

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: PROBLEM WITH 5 CYLINDER ENGINE ON 1994 TOYOTA 4-RUNNER. *PH *MR
2004-02-10

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-11-28
  • VIN: JT3VN39W2R8
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: IN SHORT, I BROUGHT A 1994 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER WITH A WARRANTY BACK IN JUNE 2002 FROM POTAMKIN SPRINGFIELD AUTO WORLD. IN NOVEMBER 2003, THE TRUCK WAS DEEMED UNSAFE TO DRIVE BECAUSE THE HEAD GASKETS BLEW. I HAD THE REQUIRED MAINTENANCE DONE PLUS OTHER REPAIRS AND TOOK THE TRUCK TO BE SERVICED WHENEVER THERE WAS A PROBLEM PRIOR TO THIS SITUATION. I COMPLAINED TO THE DEALERSHIP ABOUT THIS BECAUSE THIS WAS A COSTLY REPAIR AND OF COURSE THE WARRANTY DID NOT COVER THE PART. I PAID OUT OF POCKET FOR THE REPAIR NOT KNOWING THEN THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR DEFECTED HEAD GASKETS ON THIS MODEL. I HAD THE HEAD GASKETS REPLACED BUT WITH NO GUARANTEE THAT IT WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN AND GUESS WHAT, I'M STILL NOT ABLE TO DRIVE THE TRUCK. I DON'T KNOW HOW MANY TIMES THIS MAY OF HAPPEN BEFORE ME BUT I KNOW THE DEALER KNEW OF THIS PROBLEM WHEN IT WAS SOLD.*AK
2003-11-25

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-11-18
  • VIN: PLEASE FILL
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH THE SPARE TIRE CABLE BROKE WITHOUT WARNING AND AS A RESULT THE TIRE FELL OFF INTO ON-COMING TRAFFIC. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NLM
2003-09-04

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-06-02
  • VIN: JT3VN39W4R0
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: UNDER TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN# 54015, THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE ON 5/15/2002 FOR THE SECOND TIME. ONE YEAR LATER THE ENGINE DIED. THE DEALER STATED THE ENGINE FAILED DUE TO THE OIL NOT BEING CHANGED. THE CONSUMER SAYS THE VEHICLE WAS REGULARLY TAKEN FOR MAINTENANCE. *PH THERE WAS ENGINE NOISE. *SCC *JB
2003-04-18

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-03-15
  • VIN: FULLFILL
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STALLED WHICH MADE IT DIFFICULT FOR THE DRIVER TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. *NLM
2002-10-21

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-10-20
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION WILL INTERMITTENTLY DROP OUT OF 1ST AND 3RD GEAR. WHEN AT A DEAD STOP, TRANSMISSION WILL DROP OUT OF 1ST GEAR WHILE ACCELERATING, CAUSING LOST OF POWER. ALSO WHILE ENTERING THE FREEWAY, TRANSMISSION WILL DROP OUT OF THIRD GEAR, CAUSING LOST OF POWER. THIS PROBLEM HAS HAPPENED AT ABOUT 40, 000 MILES AND AGAIN AT ABOUT 99,000 MILES. DT
2002-09-30

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-09-20
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: THE TIRES I HAD REPLACED BECAUSE 3 OUT OF THE FOUR TIRES WERE DEFECTIVE. MR
2002-03-23

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-03-20
  • VIN: JT3VN39W5R0
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK

1994 Toyota 4runner recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1994 Toyota 4runner.

2009-04-07
  • Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
  • Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2006-05-24
  • 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.
2006-03-23
  • Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN 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: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
2005-09-06
  • 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 1994 Toyota 4runner car reviews

  1. Otho VonRueden 2024-09-05

    I am confident that this will be my last Toyota. Unfortunately, I have had some issues with my previous Toyota, which had a cracked head and had to be sold at a loss due to a recall. My current Toyota has had some issues with fumes in the cockpit, which made me sick on two occasions before I figured out the problem. The dealer has informed me that the fuel injectors need to be replaced, which will cost over $400 each. Additionally, the clutch has gone out, which is the second or third time this has happened. I have also experienced several gear problems. Given the cost of repairs, I have decided not to invest any more money into this car. I recently spent $1611 on a tuneup and am wondering if there are any recalls for these issues.

  2. Zachery Murazik 2024-02-25

    Avoid purchasing this vehicle. The engine and other components have failed, and the ride is extremely uncomfortable with poor acceleration. In my experience, this was my worst purchase ever.

Positive 1994 Toyota 4runner car reviews

  1. Ari Hettinger 2025-01-01

    My grandma bought me a 1994 Toyota 4 runner about a year ago for my first car it had 202,000 miles on it now it has 211,000 miles on it and runs amazing but sucks very bad in the hills or up any hill unless your like off-roading and your going up a hill slowly in 4x4.. The brakes do suck i need to have my rooters turned. Had problems with rear window switch. The two back passenger window motors are almost done working i think they go pretty slow up after you put them down all the way.. Leaks oil but with those kind of miles its expected. Oh and how its bad in the hills is that when your going say, 65 mph and you start going up a little or a big incline you will loose speed very quickly and

  2. Elroy Mertz 2024-11-25

    Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with Toyota trucks. I've actually owned two of them! The first one was a 1987 model, and I drove it for an impressive 257,000 miles before I had to sell it because the body was falling apart. But let me tell you, that drive train was indestructible! So of course, I had to buy another one - a 1993 model. I put 119,000 miles on it before trading it in for my 4-runner. When I bought it in 1999, it had 73,000 miles on it, and now it has 135,000. I absolutely love my Toyota and I will always own one. All I've had to do is regular maintenance and put gas in it. I use it for camping and other outdoor activities, and it's been a reliable companion. Thanks Toyota, you really do make great vehicles!

  3. Noah Carter 2024-09-16

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I've had my 4Runner for 8 years and it has been an absolute joy to own. I'm currently in the process of deciding whether or not to sell it, but I wanted to let you know that it's in great shape and has been a fantastic vehicle for my family. It only has 115,000 miles on it, so it still has plenty of life left in it!

  4. Jaylin Bednar 2024-09-01

    I have owned four Toyotas and have generally been satisfied with their performance. However, I am currently experiencing some issues with my 4runner's transmission at 100K miles. Despite being the second owner, I am disappointed with the quality of this particular Toyota. Additionally, the rear window defrost is no longer functioning. Despite these setbacks, I still love my 4runner and it has served me well in various activities such as snowboarding, camping, and hauling various items. Overall, I remain confident in the capabilities of my Toyota.

  5. Joel Rodriguez 2024-08-12

    This vehicle is truly built with toughness and style. You can put it next to a newer model and it still looks presentable. If kept in good maintenance, it will run forever!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1994 Toyota 4runner problems:

1994 4runner 3.0 problems - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest ...
1994 4runner 3.0 problems - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest ...
https://www.toyota-4runner.org/classic-t4rs/131881-1994-4runner-3-0-problems.html

Dec 30, 2012 ... Just a heads up, you may have issues with the fuel filter. Spray the nuts with LOTS of penetrating oil first. Are you using a stock battery?

1994 Toyota 4Runner Problems and Complaints - 25 Issues
1994 Toyota 4Runner Problems and Complaints - 25 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1994-toyota-4runner/problems

Top 1994 Toyota 4Runner Problems · Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages · Car Won't Start Due to Worn/Corroded Solenoid Contacts in ...

2nd Gen Problem Areas? - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest ...
2nd Gen Problem Areas? - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest ...
https://www.toyota-4runner.org/classic-t4rs/40767-2nd-gen-problem-areas.html

Jun 15, 2013 ... I work at a Toyota dealership, and I was asking the other techs about a 1994 4runner I was looking at getting (and still looking at getting.) ...

any opinions on a 1994 Toyota 4Runner SR5 4x4? - The Town ...
any opinions on a 1994 Toyota 4Runner SR5 4x4? - The Town ...
https://www.stripersonline.com/surftalk/topic/70018-any-opinions-on-a-1994-toyota-4runner-sr5-4x4/

Jul 30, 2001 ... They said "Common problems on this vehicle are failures of the Cylinder Head Gaskets and the Oxygen Sensor Wire Harness, and occasional problems ...

Thoughts on 1994 Toyota 4Runner : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
Thoughts on 1994 Toyota 4Runner : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/10j0y5j/thoughts_on_1994_toyota_4runner/

Jan 23, 2023 ... Check for rust literally everywhere. The body panels rust from the inside out so it can look nice, but be cancer in the tailgate, in the doors, ...

Other years of Toyota 4runner

toyota 4runner 1995 photo
4runner 1995
Toyota

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4

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toyota 4runner 1996 photo
4runner 1996
Toyota

182

5

26

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toyota 4runner 1997 photo
4runner 1997
Toyota

270

4

21

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toyota 4runner 1998 photo
4runner 1998
Toyota

267

4

24

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toyota 4runner 1999 photo
4runner 1999
Toyota

335

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toyota 4runner 2000 photo
4runner 2000
Toyota

494

2

25

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