Toyota 4Runner problems?

245

Comments

  • balfred1balfred1 Member Posts: 2
    I have a 97 4runner and whenever I brake on rough surfaces, the ABS system creates a extremely loud chattering sound and takes a while to come to a stop. In one instance on dry pavement I hit the brakes and continued on when I know all other systems would have stopped well before. I am taking this back to the dealer to get checked as this has been happening for a while. I have 60K on the truck now. Does anyone else notice this problem?
  • jlutes7jlutes7 Member Posts: 1
    I had a rattling noise that at first I thought was in my transmission area. It was annoying because it wasn't consistant and would only happen at speeds in excess of 50mph. I narrowed it down finally to the area in front of the passenger door but could not find anything causing the noise. I even took the glove box out to see if that was the cause...it wasn't. After three trips to a dealer, they finally discovered that the plastic insert in the front wheel well had broken loose in a couple of places and the wind was catching it and rattling. I've finally got it fixed...but unfortunately, the part was $90 for a flimsy piece of plastic...ouch!!
  • wallingfordwallingford Member Posts: 6
    I have a 2000 4Runner that has a vibration that can be felt in the floor as well as a loud drone type noise that occurs around 2700-2900 RPM. It has done it since new. The factory technical rep took a ride in it and said "that's the way they are". Some do it more than others even though I driven others and not experienced the problem at all. The problem is an engine vibration (unbalanced crankshaft) that is transmitted through the exhaust system. To fix the problem he's recommending installing some kind of weight to the exhaust system to reduce the vibration and noise, basically trying to mask the real problem. He's fixing the result, not the cause. I'm not happy with Toyota and this jury-rig fix. I'm just wondering how many others are experiencing this same problem. The part was ordered last Thursday but hasn't shown up yet. Do you suppose it's coming from Japan? I'm going ahead with the CT Lemon Law cause I don't think this is a permanent fix - I think Toyota is trying to BS me but it won't work. Shame, shame. I've bought Toyota since 1976 but I'm calling this one my last. lasheted@amsworld.com
  • skins54skins54 Member Posts: 7
    Hey everyone how 'bout this one. 500 miles, 3 weeks old and I love it.Gas seems to be just fine, cd skipped for about 2 weeks then just fixed itself,no vibrations as of yet. This truck has 16" wheels and a 4:10 rear (runs great)and getting around 17 mpg.in the city.Now for my NEW issues - I hear a twang noise from the passenger front every morning whenever I start to pull out or back up out of my driveway. At first I thought I hit a low tree branch with the antenna(that's the kind of sound it makes) then realized I didn't have the radio on and I don't have any branches low enough to hit even my house. Also this only happens when the truck is cold or sitting for atleast 8 hours. The tires are also losing approx. 2# of air a week. What do suppose Toyota is going to do to those nice rims when they break the tire off the rim to reseal the tire to the rim. I THINK NOT. Any info on the noise I have will be helpful before I take it in to have looked at and I will keep you all posted on the outcome of the tire issue. STAY TUNED!
  • toy444antoy444an Member Posts: 2
    Hello,

    I recently purchased an 1987 4x4 Toyota 4-runner
    with the 2.4L engine. It had been running great
    until it suddenly stopped. I was about to leave
    from work and the truck was running for about 3
    minutes when it suddenly stopped. The engine light
    illuminated as it stopped. It would not start
    after
    this. I have checked for spark and it is ok, I
    have taken the spark plugs out and put gas in the
    cylinder, put the spark plugs back in and started
    the engine and it ran for about 2 seconds. I've
    checked the main EFI relay and the other circuit
    relay and both are fine. I'm down to the fuel
    pump/filter and the ECU for the fuel injection.

    Has anyone had this problem and would anyone know
    what the likelyhood is of the ECU being faulty.
    Also what would be the best way to check the fuel
    pump for proper operation.

    I thank anyone for their help.

    Elias
  • pat455pat455 Member Posts: 603
    In a duplicate topic, toy444an received this response:

      #1 of 1: I'd put money on the chip being (obyone) Sat 16 Sep '00 (01:55 AM)

      the problem. Being thirteen years old, its about due.
    Pat
    Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
  • wallingfordwallingford Member Posts: 6
    Does this twang noise only happen when the vehicle is moving? If so, it might have something to do with steering or brakes. If it does it standing still, it's engine related. Do as much diagnosing yourself before you bring it in. These Master Technicians can turn a wrench but can't logically diagnose a problem.

    You say you're losing air in all 4 tires? Very strange problem. I've heard of one tire losing air because of a valve stem problem or sealing problem but it's unusual to have all the wheels have this problem with sealing. Use a little spit on the valve stems and check for bubbles. Use the same air gauge each time to check the air pressure - you'll lose some each time you check so don't check'em too often.
    Lastly, I hope they don't have to break them down and seal them. Makes me nervous too. They're going to have to rebalance them after and this is critical on Toyotas with big tires. Goodyear tires have been a big problem with shimmy problems but Toyota won't openly admit it. Toyota has a special wheel balancer because they say the alloy wheels aren't machined so they're not true. Good luck!
  • freecellfreecell Member Posts: 1
    My new 2000 4Runner Limited has a few annoying problems: Wheel shimmy with the Goodyears that I've already read about; and, an automatic gear selector that rattles when I accelerate. The gear selector rattle is especially noticeable when I am accelerating over a bumpy road. It is not a big deal, but as much as I paid for the truck and the fact that it is otherwise a very quiet ride, this is irritating. Anyone else have the same problem?
  • skins54skins54 Member Posts: 7
    Well the "twang" noise is coming from the area beneath or around the antenna. I believe the ABS system is mounted on the inner fender if I'm not mistaken.Could it be that it runs a check on it's self to monitor for errors? Also my Runner came equipped with Dunlop tires which are a very nice ride.You know the weather changed very rapidly here in northeast Ohio from very warm to very cold and then back again when I last checked for proper air pressure.Thanks for the reply and will continue to inform you of results.
  • 94tercel94tercel Member Posts: 1
    I've wanted a 4-runner since I was about 12 years old. (1986) They've changed so much since then that they're not even the same vehicle, but I've watched them and saved money all the while, and I am still going to buy one. If you want to read about people having real problems, I suggest you go take a look at the postings for the Chevy Blazers and count your blessings.
  • ruperthruperth Member Posts: 1
    Hello, I have a 1988 4Runner with 149K v6, automatic, SR5. Lately, it doesn't seem to want to start right away, especially when cold. I turn the ignition and just get a click. It doesn't even turn over. The battery is fairly new. The way I get it started is by taking it out of gear a few times and shaking the shifter a few times. Then it starts right up with no problem and I don't have a problem after that until it gets cold again. Is there some sort of switch in the shifter that could be bad? Because, the same thing happens when I put it in drive (D) and attempt to start it. Seems like there must be a switch that prevents a car from being started in drive. And, if there is, could mine be bad? Any help would be appreciated.
    Thanks
  • eddie81eddie81 Member Posts: 6
    Hi everybody. I read the problems posting's above and i will be alert to any problems that may come up. I'm excited cause im picking up my 4runner this friday 9/29/00.Thanks for the info and i will post any problems i may have. cya
  • wallingfordwallingford Member Posts: 6
    The dealer attached a weight(vibration damper) to my exhaust in front of the muffler. This part does not fit a 4Runner. The Field Technical Specialist probably bought it out of a J.C.Whitney catalog. They attached it using 2 radiator hose clamps and strapped it around the exhaust pipe. It looks like someone attached a bomb to my truck. They'd be doing me a favor if they did. Needless to say it did not fix the vibration and drone noise problem at all. Toyota says they're done - don't know what else to do. I'm filing for the CT Lemon Law next. I'll keep you posted.
  • 4runnerblues24runnerblues2 Member Posts: 1
    I recently purchased a `97 4Runner 4x4 Limited and up until tonight, have been very happy with the SUV. My problem is with the 4WD system. I engaged it tonight on dry pavement to see how it felt but now, no matter what I have tried, it won't go back to normal 2WD. It's like it is permently stuck in 4WD.

    Any suggestions before I take it into the shop tomorrow? Thanks
  • eddie81eddie81 Member Posts: 6
    Well it's day one with my 4runner and all is well. I kept alert for the vibration mentioned earlier in a posting. Nothing felt or heard yet. My 4Runner has Dunlop tires. I think a lot of 4runners actually came with Good Years. All looked good at delivery except a piss poor detail job. I complained about it and they threw me a couple of free oil changes for my displeasure. I waxed it myself today and it looks way better. Doesn't hurt that I used to detail cars for a living.
  • skins54skins54 Member Posts: 7
    Anyone ever check their dashpad and notice bubbles on the top of the pad? I found about 10 or so on my 2000 model. Had it to the dealer today and they told me they never seen anything like it but it would be under warranty for 3 yrs. so keep an eye on it. They really came across like it will be ok and you really don't see it anyhow.YA RIGHT! I looked at used runners before buying this new one and I noticed a few 97's to 99's had little cuts on the dash figuring someone scraped the dash with something or whatever but now I'm convinced these vehicles had bad dashboards and the bubbles (over time)cracked. Factory rep. will see me Oct.12th and is going to advise me of the problem. The dealer said what a job if they have to replace the dash pad and I told them "Ya, your right and make sure you put it back together as tight as it is now or you'll do it over again until it IS right". I like this truck and I won't settle for anything less than perfect. If anyone has had this problem let me know if not go out and run the palm of your hand over the top of the dash and also the front by the airbag and see if you have this problem.Thanks
  • bardyjbardyj Member Posts: 1
    I've got a 1996 4Runner 4-cyl Auto that runs pretty smooth except that the ride is quite bumpy. I mean, speed bumps are murder for the back passengers and the freeway is no fun if your on it more than 15 minutes. Has anyone experienced anything similar? I was under the impression that SUV's were supposed to handle a little better. Is there a commonly known fix to smooth out the ride?
  • wallingfordwallingford Member Posts: 6
    I'm glad to hear you don't have the vibration and drone noise I have in my 2000 4Runner that the factory rep says is NORMAL. You should really listen around 2500 to 3000 RPMs (manually shift to 1st or 2nd and try it) Also with the lockout button pushed so no O/D, at 60 to 65 MPH the noise is constant along with vibs. The dealer sent me a certified letter Saturday with an altered work order from Sept. 22 when they installed the hockey puck weight to my exhaust with hose clamps. In the altered work order they stated they temporarily installed the part and if it helped they would permanently install it or take it off if it didn't help. This is after I told them I was seeing my attorney on Wednesday. They're covering their butts.

    I haven't noticed bubbles in my dashpad, but I'll look now that you mentioned it. Maybe the vibrations made them disappear. The factory rep will BS you into keeping an eye on them which you really want to do, right, but if they fix it, you will be one unhappy person forever with this vehicle. They're guaranteed to screw something up bigtime worst than the problem with the bubbles, believe me. You will have problems with rattles, etc. and they'll damage something else too. If you can't live with it, by all means have them fix it, but I've been there before and what they are telling you is they've never done this before, don't know how to do it, and don't want to do it. On top of this, the guy that's going to do it doesn't care cause he's driving a junker and can't afford a vehicle like yours.

    Good luck everyone.
  • eddie81eddie81 Member Posts: 6
    I checked my 4Runner for any possible bubble's. I found 1 lump on the dash. There was no air in it. It was an actual lump from excess material in the dash. It seem's that when they made the dash it was not completely smoothed out and then they put the covering over it. I would not have ever noticed it until i actually looked for it. Doesn't worry me right now but i will definetly keep an eye on it. Thanks for he tip.
  • kmmunroekmmunroe Member Posts: 1
    I have a 2000 Toyota 4-runner SR5, and occasionally seems as though there is air in the brake lines and vehicle hesitates to stop. I have read that this has happened to others, so I am bringing it in to get checked.
  • copper346copper346 Member Posts: 1
    I have a 2000 Toyota 4-Runner (4 cylinder) that has almost 15,000 miles on it. Since the beginning (a year ago), two things have been happening (of course, not all the time). First, when I accelerate either from a standstill or to get extra pep from the engine, there is a cranking noise in the gears (I don't know if that is called a knock or not). Brought it in for repairs and they said to use a higher grade of gas. I did that for awhile, and it still did it.
    Is it a transmission problem? Second, when I come to a stop, after a few seconds the vehicle lunges forward. I was told that the air wasn't out of the brakes (or some excuse like that). I find that unacceptable since I have owned about 5 cars and that has never happened before. Naturally, that doesn't happen all the time either. What gives? Thanks for your help!
  • toyman67toyman67 Member Posts: 1
    Could any of you point me to a discussion group that talks about the first generation 4Runner, from 1984 - 1989? Many thanks for your help.
  • pat455pat455 Member Posts: 603
    I don't think Town Hall has a topic devoted to that group of 4Runners. Do you have maintenance or repair issues that you want to discuss? If so, can talk about them here if you like, or if you'd rather, you can create a new topic. "1st Generation 4Runner '84-'89" (or something like that) would be a great name.

    Or if you want to talk about things other than maintenance/repair type stuff, our SUV Conference would be the best place either in an existing topic, or a new one named similarly to what I suggested.

    Pat
    Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
  • marti_01marti_01 Member Posts: 1
    I purchased 2000 Toyota 4-runner Aug 11. It had
    124 miles on it. Noticed it looked crooked while
    parked in my driveway. Took it to Toyota . The
    master mechanic came back with his findings listed
    below after putting an identical 4-runner next to
    mine. Wheel arch moldings have significantly
    different clearances to bumper ends. Tailgate fit
    to body and taillights different from side to
    side.Lower finish panel
    under right headlight does not fit as well as
    left.Rear bumper ends to quarter panel fit varies
    from side to side. Headlight movement compared
    to other new vehicles is excessive. Toyota
    customer service in portland wanted me to take it
    to a body shop for three days and have them "FIX"
    my car. And extend the warranty to 60 months
    or 60,000 miles. I said this was unexceptable as
    my car was NEW or suppose to be. Sent Toyota in
    Torrence , CA a certified letter. I requested a
    buyback or replacement vehicle. Toyota has not
    been cooperative at all and it was their master
    mechanic that came up with the findings. I also
    contacted the dealer which was City Chevrolet-
    Toyota in Great Falls, Mt. and they wouldn't help
    me. NO service after the sale. Has anyone ever
    heard of this problem? Any advice on what to do?
    Two people with Toyota said they have never seen
    such a car. I questioned Toyota about Quality
    and they have been terrible. We had a 94 Toyota
    4-runner that we traded off that had only 49,000
    miles on it and loved it. HELP!!!!
  • newgradnewgrad Member Posts: 25
    Hello...Does anyone have a 2000 4Runner (or
    earlier) with Bridgestone Dueler H/T Tires (P265
    70R16)? These tires would be part of the Sport
    Package. Anyways, I was reading an article in my
    local newspaper and it stated that Toyota had found
    "small cracks" in these exact model of tires which
    they were placing on new Tundras and Sequoias...I
    called Toyota and they said I shouldn't be
    concerned because this only affects those other
    vehicles...still with everything that has been
    going on with Bridgestone and Firestone, it has me
    worried. What should I do?

    Thanks...
  • birdlady8birdlady8 Member Posts: 1
    Here's my car history.....53 chevy, 59 studebaker, 80 tercel, 83 toyota(first year), 86 900 Turbo Saab, 87 300TDT Mercedes diesel wagon, 99 Camry XLE.

    I'm looking for an interesting fun ride, but feel weight and safety underneath me. I drove the 2001 4 runner 4wd today, and liked it alot. I have now read all these horrow stories, and am frozen as what to do. This is a $35M car(truck). I sure don't want problems before I start. Any suggestions?
  • eddie81eddie81 Member Posts: 6
    All vehicles have horror stories. True i have read some bad one's here.The 4Runner is a top choice quality vehicle overall. I have a new 2000 and have yet to experience any problems. I know about 5 people with 4 Runners who haven't had any problems either. Consumer Reports recomends the 4 Runner. It's a pricey vehicle when compared to others in it's class but your paying for quality not quantity here. But still 35k sounds like a the dealer is asking for. TIP: Request an invoice slip from Consumer Report's. They breal down the total price of a car plus calculate the hold back , incentives and other discounts for you that might be available at the time. You can get into a 4 Runner way under 35k. I got a 4Runner/SR5 with. (rh,jz,sr,gk,wl,r1,c7,gf,fl,) If you got to kbb.com it will explain what the letters relate to options for the 4 runner. I got it for 30,000.
  • rward99rward99 Member Posts: 185
    The 'crack' was as deep as a fingernail scratch, according to Toyota and Bridgestone. An employee on the line in Indiana reported the 'crack' and Toyota immediately began using Dunlop tires on the new Tundras and Sequoias while they investigated the problem.

    Bridgestone says that it was a 'venting' problem in the mold and in no way affected the safety or performance of the tire. Toyota continued using the tires. There have been zero complaints or incidents involving this tire.

    If you own a new Tundra or Sequoia you can request your dealer replace the tires with Dunlops. There is no recall since there is no problem.

    I wouldn't worry about it. I've used Bridgestone tires on my Toyota truck since it was new in '89. I've never even had a flat in over 151,000 miles.
  • wallingfordwallingford Member Posts: 6
    Toyotas are fantastic unless you get one with a problem. Then you're on your own. The dealer washes his hands of it, doesn't even want to talk to you about it, says it's a Toyota Sales Corp. problem. The Toyota Field Technical Specialist comes out and by the way, they're well trained in lying and deceit - they're not nice guys -, says "that's the way they all are" and you've just been had for $34,000. Once they have your money, it's instantly your vehicle and your problem which you usually have to live with.

    I've noticed lately the body fit on 4Runners is terrible - doors stick out from body at top or bottom - liftgate in back has poor fit around taillights - large gaps - bumpers are installed crooked. You can write the President of Toyota (real waste of time), call their 800 number (I'm surprised they don't laugh in your face), talk to their Customer Relations Person at the dealership (a wasted position cause they only want to hear good things and can't help you one bit),threaten to sue, but all this will get you no where. The lemon law in your state may help if you vehicle has a major use problem but don't expect any results if the body fit is bad. Marti (#76 - crooked car) should have his vehicle checked by a body shop to see if it was in an accident or had major body work done, yes, even though it was new when he purchased it. If it has, then sue the dealer and Toyota.

    I'm telling you all this from real experience, believe me. Good luck and remember, never get hung up on buying a new vehicle where you fall in love with one. It can cost you much money and happiness!!!
  • cbsoftballcbsoftball Member Posts: 1
    bought 2000 4runner (demo) 8-22-00 with 5800 miles. have been extremely happy with it - except for one thing. I have noticed a lurch, or jerk, upon deceleration. This seems to happen only when on a slight incline, and slightly accelerating, (i.e., the engine is under a load or in the highest gear -OD-) & I quickly let off the gas. If the cruise control is on & I tap the brake under these circumstances, the vehicle seems to jerk or lurch. This happens at speeds of 55, 65, 75mph. I notified my salesman (a friend of 20+ years) who went for a ride with me. We were also accompanied by the sales manager. Neither had ever heard or noticed the problem before. They did acknowledge that something was "not quite right". Neither could identify the problem. Guesses were: Almost feels like a u-joint is bad (although he was referring to former trucks he had owned & replaced u-joints), something to do with the overdrive, needs adjusting or tightening. Salesman stated, "you can feel it in the seat of your pants", (he rode in the back seat - so he felt it was directly beneath him?) A few days later, I returned to take a tech for a drive to show him the problem. The dealership kept the car for a day (& overnight), made a couple of adjustments, contacted the toyota hot-line & test drove another 2wd 4runner like mine with 14K miles. This vehicle exhibited the same symptoms, so the verdict is: "a characteristic occurance with 2wd models with 5k or more miles". In other words, "NORMAL OPERATION". Is this normal for you other 4runner owners? Do you have any recommendations for me? The service mgr says that there is a solid rubber mount (for what?) & with time it becomes more "pliable", thus causing the symptom, but it won't get worse. The movement I'm experiencing is the "drive-train".
    I am anxiously awaiting a more reasonable response.
  • dokrikdokrik Member Posts: 1
    Hi-

    I just bought a 2000 4runner limited. Let me get to the point, the sales person is great. But once you deal with the finance people (AMOS) bunch of lies. Also, dont ever deal with the service guy (Todd the redneck) his the manager. Bunch of lies and BS. Just a warning, spent $40,000 for a truck, but you get no service after you buy it. Dont get me wrong, I love my 4runner.
    I agree with willingford (#82).
  • pat455pat455 Member Posts: 603
    There are some posts here asking and giving information on purchasing a 4Runner. I just want to remind everyone that in Town Hall better information will be obtained on that subject if you use the Topic Search feature on the left side of the page to find existing 4Runner topics over in our SUV conference.

    This topic exists for the sole purpose of discussing maintenance or repair issues our members may be having with 4Runners that they have already purchased.

    Pat
    Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
  • random17random17 Member Posts: 2
    I have recently noticed a high-pitched whine; it sounds like some sort of electronic interference, on my 2000 4Runner. It's a SR5 2WD with the Sport/Highlander package.

    It may have always been there; I've had it about 6 monthes. I just noticed it about a month ago when I was driving with the stero off. It happens whether the radio is on or off. A/C is on or off. I took it into the dealer and they didn't have time; told me to bring it back another day -- gotta love thta Toyota service, huh?

    Anyway -- I had the factory security system installed after I bought the truck; wondering if that may be the problem. It does not happen continuosly. I notice it mostly when I'm accelerating for a extended period of time -- like getting up to speed when entering a freeway.

    Does this sound familiar to any one. I'd like to have some direction when i take it back to the service department.
  • henmobilehenmobile Member Posts: 13
    I have the same "electronic interference" noise in my 6 month old 2000 SR5. But, I have determined that the noise is definitely coming from the radio, primarily AM, A/C on or off, regardless of acceleration (I don't have a security system). Of course, the dealer has not heard of the problem and "could not duplicate it." So, I'm also looking for some direction. Ideas anyone?

    My bigger complaint has been a "kick" or "jerk" at around 12 mph. when accelerating from a stop, i.e. the vehicle is not shifting smoothly (certainly not as smoothly as my '97 did). Once again, two dealers said that they have not heard of the problem and were "unable to duplicate it." The dealers did not have any 2000 automatics left in stock for comparison. It's really annoying. Help!

    By the way, the gas gauge problem and two bumps on the dashboard don't bother me and I'm getting anywhere from 17 mpg (city) to 22 mpg (highway), which I'm very satisfied with.
  • newjetskinewjetski Member Posts: 1
    Anyone got any insight ???

    I'm enjoying my newly purchased 97 SR5 4X4 !! Seems like when the clutch is fully depressed, the clutch pedal is extremely close to the steel housing where the steering shaft runs. There's a flexible plastic boot around the housing.

    I'm bonkin' my left foot against the steel every time I shift. Ouch !! My feet are about normal size. Seems like any overhang at all on the pedal would result in this. What's going on ??

    Any thoughts ??

    Thanks !!!!

    -Steve
  • selig1selig1 Member Posts: 8
    I am considering buying a 91 v6 5 sp r runner. can anybody tell me things to look at that generally were problems with this truck. thanks, als
  • tucattucat Member Posts: 2
    I just purchased a 2000 4runner LTD 4WD. I noticed a bad vibration when braking as well as a very jiggly, rough ride over bumps. I took it back to the dealership, and they found that the rotors where out of round from being overtightened at installation. They have been replaced and the braking vibration is gone. However, they didn't fix the jiggly, rough ride. (They let air out of the tires to improve the ride!) I test drove another 4runner and the ride wasn't at all jiggly. I'm looking for answers if anyone has any.
  • wallingfordwallingford Member Posts: 6
    4Runners don't have the greatest ride. I own a 2000 and it's much firmer than the 90 I owned. If you travel over a rough road, it's going to toss you around. More air in the tires will make it handle better but ride rougher. Less air will give you a slightly better ride, but handling will suffer. Brand of tire will make a difference. Goodyear has been having a balance problem with their tires on 4Runners. Unless there's something broken, I think you'll find and I hate to say this - that's the way they are.
  • eddie81eddie81 Member Posts: 6
    My 2000 4Runner came with Dunlop tires. I haven't had any problems with vibrations or rough rides. I'm going to the dealer this weekend to have my vehicle seviced. I'll ask why Toyota switched brands. I'll let you guys know what they say.
  • coffeebizcoffeebiz Member Posts: 13
    Does anyone know the 1-800 # for Toyota's HQ here in the U.S.? I'm trying to verify if there is indeed an incentive being offered.

    Thanks.
  • javazoomjavazoom Member Posts: 6
    I recently purchased a 00 SR5, and thought the ride was not as stable and smooth as it should be. I noticed that the front was very stiff and the back was very bouncy (this is how they all are stock), not the best combo for truck, unless you are hauling several hundred pounds in the back. I replaced the shocks\struts with Bilsteins, now the ride is excellent. The replacement firmed up the back and relaxed the front a bit, and the handling improved a lot. Ride height was unchanged. I chose Bilsteins because this is what Toyota TRD uses. Hope this helps
  • javazoomjavazoom Member Posts: 6
    After reading your post I checked my dash and also noticed two bumps or air pockets in the dash on drivers side, very small, about 1/4" in size. I was going to take to dealer to have looked at, but like somebody mentioned earlier in this forum, the dash will probably never fit right again. So I went and checked out other 00' 4Runners at the dealer, of the six I checked, all had these bumps, some worse then mine. I guess the bumps are better then a loose dash.
  • eddie81eddie81 Member Posts: 6
    I've noticed many 4Runners with it's rear lower than the front of the vehicle. Looks like a plane taking off. My 4runner doesn't look like that but will it? Is this due to towing?
  • tucattucat Member Posts: 2
    I would expect a firm ride in my 4runner, but mine has more of a jiggle. With every little bump, or even when it shifts gears, it shimmies (kind of jello-like) reverberating through the whole vehicle. Is that suspension, or tires, or what?
  • packmulepackmule Member Posts: 1
    I am interested in buying a used 4runner, '98 or '99 and have found the town hall chat to be helpful in providing information. As I look at used 4runners particularly those with some age on them often they look to be sagging in the rear. I'm not certain if this is from worn shocks, abused springs or just normal for this vehicle. I have not seen this addressed before and would like to know if this is anything to be concerned about or if there is any fix should I consider buying one that has this problem
  • erisareperisarep Member Posts: 16
    Can the factory security system be installed by the dealer in a 4Runner that did not come so equipped from the factory
  • raymond12raymond12 Member Posts: 1
    I own a '99 2WD 4 Runner and have experienced the jerk or "kick" on an incline.
    I came to this site and found others having the same problem.
    I tried cleaning the fuel injection system with a cleaner like Techcron and noticed an improvement.
    Hope this is the solution.

    To those having problems balancing the wheels, I had a serious case with my former 96 Camry. With the regular balancing machines I still had a vibration after several times.

    I found a place, a Butler Tire dealer, who had a wheel balancing equipment that balances the tires
    mounted on the car. This way wheels are balanced under real road conditions and it definitely solved my problem.

    The car had a few hundred miles and I asked for a refund to the dealership. It took them three months and many callas to get the refund ($70)

    Hope this can help someone
  • mstoermstoer Member Posts: 3
    I too have a 97' 4Runner. I made tried to make a u-turn in someone's wide packed gravel driveway entrance and the ABS engaged while I was doing less than 15 km/h (10mph). It felt like someone stuck a 2x4 under the brake pedal. Instead of stopping, I went straight into the ditch and hit a large pole, crushing the bumper. 4x4 mode got me out again. The dealer could find nothing wrong and now I am fighting Toyota Canada to have them pay for my bumper and disable the useless ABS. Since then I have two other incidents where the ABS engaged while I was stopping on dry (clean) pavement at a traffic light. I was nearly stopped as it was and the ABS engaged at less than 10 mph again. I went a few more feet into the intersection than I should have. It was good no-one else was ahead of me.

    I reported my problems to Transport Canada (who are investigating) and also posted a complaint on the NHTSA website. I encourage everyone else to do the same. Toyota's opinion is that this is an isolated incident. From what I have read here and elsewhere, it is not. Please let them know about your problems.

    Marcell
  • jac9rjac9r Member Posts: 1
    Has anyone had a problem with their rear window where the channel/track that moves it up and down has rotten and rusted completely? I have a '95 4runner and the channel/track that operates the window has completely rusted to nothing. The dealership is telling me it will cost $500 to repair. Please let me know if anyone has come across this problem. e-mail = j_cucci@hotmail.com
  • seansterseanster Member Posts: 1
    Hello, I have a 96 4runner with a supercharger. We have recently experienced stalling. The 4runner has 70000 miles on it. This happens about once a month and has occurred three or four times. It only stalls when slowing down or stopped (engine at idle). The dash lights will illuminate and the car will stall. I have to pull over, put the car in Park and start it again. After started it runs great. It is an automatic Limited. We took it in on warranty but it is intermittant. The dealer can't troubleshoot the problem when it is working.
    PLeeeease help Sean at hsburg@sisna.com
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