1997 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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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 1997 Toyota 4runner problems
The Toyota 4Runner, a popular SUV known for its ruggedness, reliability, and versatility, has its share of common problems, especially in the 1997 model year. This article will explore some of these issues, their potential causes, and possible solutions, based on complaints from owners.
- Airbag Failure: Airbag failure can be a serious safety concern, and Toyota recalled over 900,000 vehicles, including the 2015 4Runner, to replace high-risk airbags with potentially defective front airbag inflators. If you're planning to purchase a 2015 4Runner, ensure that this problem has been resolved.
- Corrosion Damage: Corrosion damage, particularly in the solenoid contacts, can result in the SUV suddenly stopping or refusing to start altogether. Regular inspection and replacement of faulty components can help prevent these issues.
In conclusion, while the Toyota 4Runner is a reliable SUV, it's essential to be aware of these common problems and address them promptly to ensure the vehicle's longevity and safety. Regular maintenance and inspection of critical components, such as the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension, can help prevent many of these issues.
How many miles will a 1997 Toyota 4Runner last?
A Toyota 4Runner can reach 300,000 miles with meticulous maintenance but expect closer to 200,000 miles. The 4Runner is susceptible to Toyota's rust issues. Owners say rust and corrosion are common, and noticeable after only a few years on the road.
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.
What year 4Runner has the best reliability?
Here are the most reliable years for the Toyota 4Runner: 2017-Present Fifth Generation 4Runner. 2008-2009 Fourth Generation 4Runner. 1999-2000 Third Generation 4Runner.
What 4Runner is the best generation?
Here Are All the Toyota 4Runner Generations Ranked From Best to Worst
- 1996-2002 4Runner (Third Generation) ...
- 1990-1995 4Runner (Second Generation) ...
- 2010-present 4Runner (Fifth Generation) ...
- 2003-2009 4Runner (Fourth Generation) ...
- 1984-1989 4Runner (First Generation)
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 long will a 1997 Toyota 4Runner last?
A Toyota 4Runner can reach 300,000 miles with meticulous maintenance but expect closer to 200,000 miles. The 4Runner is susceptible to Toyota's rust issues. Owners say rust and corrosion are common, and noticeable after only a few years on the road.
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.
What generation 4Runner is 1997?
Third generation
Third generation (N180; 1995)
| Third generation | |
|---|---|
| Model years | 1996–2002 (US) |
| Assembly | Japan: Tahara, Aichi; Hamura, Tokyo (Hino) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Mid-size SUV |
1997 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:
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Toyota 4runner
The NHTSA has received 270 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Toyota 4runner. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Toyota 4runner vehicles.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-07
- VIN: JT3HN87R5V0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I have had this vehicle since 12/1997 and it had always been garaged. The body is in very good condition. I live in northern Wisconsin and road salt is prevalent during the harsh winters. At the first part od April I was driving on Hwy, 47 toward Minocqua and suddenly the steering felt vague. I moved the steering wheel slighlty and the vehicle went out of control, I managed to avoid oncoming traffic and pulled to the side of the road. I was still near home and drove very slowly to get home. Upon examining the cundercarriage at a local mechanic, we found that the frame was rusted and had broken where the rear trailing arm is attached, leaving the rear axle loose. I ended up giving the car to the mechanic. After driving it for 26 years it was a very sad moment since ran great and was my daily driver. I called Toyota and they told my vehicle was not included in the recall for
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-20
- VIN: JT3HN87R9V0
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PURCHASED A USED 1997 4-RUNNER WITH CA. 258000 MILES EARLY IN 2020. ENGINE AND WHOLE BODY WAS GOOD. HOWEVER, 6 MONTH LATER THE CAR STARTED TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY IN THE REAR AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS SWINGING LIKE A BOAT, WHICH I THOUGH WAS DUE TO A BROKEN SHOCK, SPRINGS WERE NEWLY INSTALLED IN 2020. I NOTICED THAT REAR STABILIZER ARM ON PASSENGER SIDE HAD BROKEN OFF DUE TO RUST. WHEN DRIVING TO REPAIR SHOP THE CAR REAR AXLE BROKE LOOSE, SHIFTED, AND THE REAR DRIVE SHAFT FELL OUT - I COULD PULL OVER IN 4 WHEEL DRIVE MODE. PLEASE KNOW THAT THE RUST AN EXTENSIVE FRAME ROT ON THE THE REAR FRAME ON BOTH SIDES WAS NOT VERY VISIBLE FROM OUTSIDE. REPAIRS FOR FRAME WELD WERE 2500 -3000 USD. THE 1997 4-RUNNER, V6 IS A VERY UNSAFE VEHICLE TO DRIVE!
TIRES,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT3GN87R1V0
- Components: TIRES,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY FIANCE AND I WERW DRIVING A BORROWERED 1997 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. WE WERE DRIVING AT 65 M AND ALL I REMEMBER JUST GETTIN ON THE FREEWAY.AND BLANKING OUT.. WHEN I WOKE UP I SADLY DISCOVERD THAT MY FIANCE LOST CONTROL AND VEERED TO THE RIGHT AND HIT A GUARDRAIL THEN A POST SIGN AND THEN RESTED ON A TREE..HE PASSED AWAY ON IMPACT. I SUFFERED A T1 TO T3 SPINE FRACTURE.MY LEFT WRIST FRACTURED.A BROKEN NOSE. AS I WOKE UP FROM MY 3 WEEK COMA. I REALISED HE PASSED AWAY. NOW THE TRUCK WAS BORRWED, NOT LENDED OR BOUGHT. THE DEALER GAVE US THE KEYS TO USE WHILE HE FIXED THE CAR WE RENTED .. NO PAPERS SIGNED NOR DOCUMENTS . EARLIER THAT DAY I REMEMBER HIM CALLING ME SAYING THAT THE TRUCK WAS MAKING WIERED NOISES. THE ACCIDENT HAPPEND ON 2/4/14 A 6.15.PM *DT *AS
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT3GN87R1V0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT WAS LOANED A 1997 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THE VEHICLE WAS LOANED FROM A USED DEALER (MCFARLAND AUTO SALES LOCATED AT 231 FRONTAGE RD MC, MCFARLAND, CA 93250). THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HER HUSBAND WAS DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE VEERED TO THE RIGHT INDEPENDENTLY CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, THE DRIVER CRASHED INTO A GUARD RAIL, A WOODEN POST, A FENCE AND CAME TO A STOP AT A TREE. THE CONTACT DOES NOT REMEMBER IF THE FRONT DRIVER AIR BAG DEPLOYED, BUT STATED THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DID DEPLOY. THE CONTACT STATED SHE SUSTAINED A FRACTURE NOSE, SPINE, LEFT WRIST, RIGHT LUNG WAS PUNCTURED, AND 3 FRACTURED RIBS ON HER LEFT. THE CONTACT STATED SHE WAS IN A COMA AND HOSPITALIZED FOR 3 WEEKS. THE DRIVER WAS PRONOUNCED DECEASED AT THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVE-ABLE AND WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT TOW LOT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE. *LN
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-20
- VIN: JT3HN87R7V0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR FRAM STABILIZER BRACE RUSTED OUT AND BROKE AWAY FROM FRAME, SO AXLE TO FRAME STALIZER DOES NOT STABILIZE REAR AXLE
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-26
- VIN: JT3HN86R5V0
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: VERY RUSTED OUT UNDERCARRIAGE. MY OTHER IS ONLY 3 YEARS NEWER AND HAS NOTHING LIKE THIS ON IT. I WAS ADVISED TO SELL IT BY A SUSPENSION SHOP THAT NOTED MY BROKEN, RUSTED OUT UNDERCARRIAGE, BAD SHOCK AND THE CONDITION OF THE REAR OF THE TRUCK'S FRAME IN GENERAL. THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE TRUCK OTHER THAN THIS RUST.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-01
- VIN: JT3HN86R4V0
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRAME RUST MAKES VEHICLE DANGEROUS WHILE DRIVING.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-04
- VIN: JT3HN86R0V0
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: HEY I HAVE A 1997 4 RUNNER I HAVE A PROBLEM OF THE FRAME GETTING RUSTED OUT. IT IS ON THE 4 LINK WHERE IT HOOKS TO THE AXLE IT COULD HAVE KILLED ME MY REAR AXLE ABOUT CAME OFF AND IT ALMOST GOT ME INTO A RECK. ALL I DONE IS HIT THE BRAKES THEN HURT POP AND REAR END WENT CRAZY. I WAS ON A BUSY CITY STEET WHEN IT HAPPENED
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-30
- VIN: JT3HN86R2V0
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. WHILE REVERSING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE SWAYED BACK AND FORTH. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED AND THERE WAS NOTHING SUPPORTING THE STABILIZER ARM. FOX TOYOTA (228 FOX FAMILY LN, CLINTON, TN 37716, (865)-494-0228) WAS CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 271,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-26
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME SNAPPED FROM RUST AS I WAS DRIVING
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-07
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE BOLTS AND NUTS THAT ATTACH THE FRONT SEATS TO THE CAR RUST OVER TIME AND EVENTUALLY BREAK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-11
- VIN: JT3HN86R1V0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME ON MY 4RUNNER IS RUSTING ALONG THE REAR AXLE CONTROL ARM MOUNT (THE PIECE WELDED TO THE FRAME THAT YOU CAN SEE WHEN CROUCHED DOWN LOOKING UNDER THE REAR DOORS). THIS SEPARATES AND CAUSES THE REAR AXLE TO FLOAT AROUND WHICH MAY CAUSE A VERY SERIOUS ACCIDENT. I HAVE SEEN COUNTLESS OTHER INCIDENTS WHERE PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS SEPARATE COMPLETELY WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY AND THEY WERE BARELY ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-04
- VIN: JT3HN87R5V9
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE FRAME IS ROTTING FROM THE INSIDE OUT. THE FRAME ROT IS LOCATED IN THE REAR ON THE DRIVERS SIDE WHERE THE REAR SUSPENSION BRACKET IS WELDED TO THE FRAME.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-22
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME WAS POORLY DESIGNED AND NOT ENOUGH RUST PROTECTION WAS APPLIED BY TOYOTA. WE RARELY GET SNOW AND STILL THE VEHICLE HAS RUSTED THROUGH. TOYOTA DID NOT MAKE A DRAIN HOLE SO THAT THE WATER IN THE FRAME WOULD EVAPORATE. THERE ARE A LOT OF THESE VEHICLES WHICH OTHERWISE LAST A LONG TIME. A LOT OF OWNERS HAVE 4RUNENRS WITH EXCELLENT ENGINE/TRANSMISSION BUT WITH RUSTED FRAMES. THIS IS A DISASTER WAITING TO HAPPEN ON UNSUSPECTING OWNERS.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-12
- VIN: JT3HN86R7V0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE BRACKET THAT ATTACHES THE REAR TRAILING ARM TO THE FRAME BROKE OFF FROM THE FRAME CAUSING IT TO SWERVE AND LOOSE STABILITY WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-01
- VIN: JT3HN86R2V0
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: MY TOYOTA 4RUNNER FRAME IS RUSTING TO THE POINT THAT IT'S A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE! I'VE ALREADY HAD THE RIGHT REAR SHOCKMOUNT AND BAR REPLACED, AND THE LEFT IS ON ITS WAY TO RUSTING COMPLETELY THROUGH. ON THE LEFT SIDE, HOWEVER, THE FUEL TANK IS MOUNTED UP, AND WHEN THE SHOCK MOUNT RUSTS THROUGH AND BREAKS, IT WILL VERY LIKELY CAUSE SOMETHING TO PUNCTURE THE FUEL TANK. THAT COULD BE EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS BECAUSE, SINCE I HAVE NO OTHER MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION, I MUST CONTINUE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. SO, IT IS LIKELY THAT IT WILL BE ON THE ROAD WHEN THAT HAPPENS. WHY IN THE WORLD HAS THIS VEHICLE NOT BEEN RECALLED WHEN YOU RECALLED THE TOYOTA TACOMAS FOR THE SAME ISSUE OF RUSTY FRAMES? THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS MATTER BECAUSE IT COULD CAUSE A HUGE ACCIDENT INVOLVING MANY PEOPLE IF THESE VEHICLES ARE NOT RECALLED AND TAKEN OFF THE STREETS!
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-21
- VIN: JT3HN86R6V1
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING HEARD A LOUD BANG AND VEHICLE GOT SQUIRMY AND OUT OF CONTROL WAS ABOUT A MILE FROM MY HOUSE LUCKILY. GOT HOME AND LOOKED UNDER VEHICLE AND REALIZED THE FRAME HAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AS COMPONENTS TO KEEP AXLE IN PLACE ARE ROTTED OUT. ISSUE WILL GET SOMEONE KILLED ONE DAY.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-12
- VIN: JT3HN86R5V0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RIGHT REAR UPPER SHOCK MOUNT RUSTED OUT AND SHOCK BROKE THROUGH FRAME WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET (BRACKET SUB ASSEMBLY REAR - RIGHT REAR). HAD TO REMOVE SHOCK SO IT WOULD NOT BUST THROUGH CAUSING RIDE INSTABILITY.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-26
- VIN: JT3HN86R6V0
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY 1997 4RUNNER HAS A LOT OF RUST ON THE CHASSIS FRAME. THE REAR SHOCKS CANNOT BE INSTALLED BECAUSE THE METAL WAS EATEN BY THE RUST.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-25
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRAME IS COMPLETELY ROTTED VEHICLE WELL KEPT AND IT JUST KEEPS ROTTING SO I DO NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO BUT I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND THEY TRAILER ARM BROKE OFF THE TRUCK ALMOST CAUSING ME TO WRECK.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-22
- VIN: JT3HN86R5V0
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN BRAKING ON A CURVE ON A COUNTY HIGHWAY {55 MPH} THE VEHICLE JUMPED AND HOPPED UNCONTROLLABLY AND ALMOST LEFT THE ROAD. AFTER SLOWLY GETTING IT HOME, I INSPECTED THE SUSPENSION AND FOUND THE MOUNT FOR THE REAR TRAILING ARM BROKE OFF THE FRAME FROM RUST. THE VEHICLE ONLY HAS 155,000 MILES AND THE REST OF THE VEHICLE IS IN VARY GOOD CONDITION. I BOUGHT THE TOYOTA FOR ITS KNOWN LONGEVITY AND DID NOT EXPECT THIS FROM TOYOTA. IF THIS HAD BEEN A STATE HWY {70 MPH} I'M SURE THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN A CRASH, INJURY AND POSABLE FATALITY.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-19
- VIN: JT3HN87R5V0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1997 TOYOTA 4RUNNER "REAR FRAME RUST AND HOLES" MY TOYOTA 1997 4RUNNER (CURRENT MILEAGE 139,035) HAS THE RUST AND HOLES ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE & DRIVER SIDE FRAMES. TOYOTA SERVICE CENTER MECHANIC SAID " DO NOT DRIVE BECAUSE IT IS VERY DANGEROUS." I BOUGHT THIS CAR AT $34,500 ON JUNE 1997. IT WAS VERY EXPENSIVE ONE. IT'S VERY RIDICULOUS THAT THIS EXPENSIVE CAR HAS THIS KINDS OF PROBLEM. LET ME HAVE RECALL SERVICE. I WILL APPRECIATE FOR YOUR COMMENTS. THANK YOU.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-12
- VIN: JT3HN86R1V0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MY 4RUNNER FRAME IS ROTTED OUT. CRACKED FRAME UNSAFE TO DRIVE.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-09
- VIN: JT3HN86R8V0
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: FRAME IS RUSTING FROM THE INSIDE OUT CONTROL ARMS FELL OFF THE CAR. FRAME BUSTED IN HALF.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-26
- VIN: JT3HN86R3V0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE STARTED SWAYING LEFT AND RIGHT. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE HOME. UPON PARKING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT INSPECTED UNDERNEATH AND FOUND RUST ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE FRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC OR DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT FOUND RECALLS FOR OTHER TOYOTA VEHICLES FOR FRAME RUST, BUT NOT FOR THE 4RUNNER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 190,000. *TT *TR
1997 Toyota 4runner recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1997 Toyota 4runner.
- 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.
- 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: 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.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: ON CERTAIN 2-WHEEL-DRIVE (2WD) AND 4-WHEEL-DRIVE (4WD) 4RUNNER SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, A COMBINATION OF HEAVY LOADING (SIMULTANEOUS LOADING TO REAR GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING AND GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING) AND SEVERE STEERING MANEUVERS COULD CAUSE THE 2WD 4RUNNER TO LOSE DIRECTIONAL STABILITY.
- Consequence: THIS MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF CONTROL AND COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE REAR SUSPENSION PARTS. ALTHOUGH THE 4WD 4RUNNERS DO NOT EXHIBIT THE HANDLING CONDITION, TOYOTA WILL RECALL THESE VEHICLES TO AVOID ANY PUBLIC CONFUSION AS TO WHICH VEHICLES SHOULD RECEIVE THE REPLACEMENT PARTS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 28, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Negative 1997 Toyota 4runner car reviews
Positive 1997 Toyota 4runner car reviews
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Approaching 300k miles, my 4Runner is still tight as a drum. Although there is a slight rattle coming from the interior of the driver's door, I have had ZERO maintenance done on the machine other than the Toyota recommended routine maintenance. I can't imagine a higher quality vehicle, especially after ten years. Routine maintenance events only cost me $70-$90, except for major tune-ups and timing belt replacement. In comparison, my old Ford Bronco II cost $600/yr in brake work alone. The 4Runner is truly an awesome vehicle!
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I've owned this car for the past 12 years and have spent less than $1000.00 total in repairs (excluding routine tune-ups, tires and oil changes). It's amazing, it never breaks down. With 140K miles on the clock, it's still going strong. It's been a great investment and provides a very comfortable ride.
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I bought my 4Runner brand-new in 1996 and it has been a reliable companion ever since. Despite not putting many miles on it each year, I have only needed to perform routine maintenance on it. Every time I get behind the wheel, I am reminded of the fun and dependable driving experience it provides. While the beverage holders could have been better designed, the vehicle as a whole was well thought-out by Toyota. If I ever need to replace it, I plan to stick with Toyota SUVs. That's the highest praise I can give.
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Even with 112,000 miles on my Forerunner, it still feels like new. It's a very reliable vehicle with excellent interior and exterior quality.
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Best vehicle you ever owned? That's fantastic! And 150,000 trouble-free miles is quite an accomplishment. I can understand why you can't part with it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Toyota 4runner problems:
1997 4Runner problems to look for? - YotaTech Forums
Jan 27, 2009 ... Rear axle seals are a common issue with our Runners. Steering rack and/or bushings should also be checked-inner tie rod wear is all related and ...
1997 Toyota 4Runner Problems and Complaints - 27 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Toyota 4Runner? Our list of 27 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Toyota 4Runner.
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 ...
What Years Have Rust Problems? | Toyota 4Runner Forum ...
Jun 22, 2020 ... 3rd gens have been known to be prone to serious frame rust....especially from up north. my '97 spent it's whole life..in the south...hence, ...
4th Gen Common Problems Question - Toyota 4Runner Forum ...
Aug 31, 2011 ... My primary concern is which engine is more reliable than the other, in conjunction with common problems outside of the engine.
Other years of Toyota 4runner
Are you having problems with your 1997 Toyota 4runner?
Dylan Rohan 2024-11-13
We purchased a used 4Runner with 75K miles from a dealership, with high expectations regarding the quality and reliability of a Toyota. However, at 146K miles, the transmission failed, which was disappointing. We opted to rebuild the transmission instead of replacing it, which cost around $1800.
Izaiah Batz 2024-07-18
The car has some room for improvement. The seating arrangement could be more comfortable, and the car could benefit from more power. There have been some minor issues with the car, such as wrinkling rubber on the running boards and a sticking sunroof, but these are typical for a Toyota. The cost of replacement parts can be high, such as the $120 ignition tumbler. The car can feel a bit unstable around corners, but overall it handles well. It may not be the best choice for off-roading, but it is a reliable car for everyday use. Ultimately, the decision to switch to a Suburban is a personal preference.
Cordelia Lemke 2024-06-29
Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 1997 4runner that I purchased in August 2002. While I love my SUV, I did notice a heavy shimmy when I applied the brakes between 40 and 50 MPH, and on cold mornings the transmission wouldn't shift into drive until the engine warmed up. I took it to my dealer and they replaced the front rotors and rear brake drum, which had unfortunately cracked. Although the brake parts weren't covered under the Certified warranty, the dealer was able to fix it for $800. While I can't say for sure, I wouldn't trust everything you read in Consumer reports about this SUV. Hope this helps!