Im in the market for a budget offroader, and after seeing the famous 'Top gear' episode where they try to destroy a 4runner, I think thats what im looking for. My budget is only enough for a 1st or 2nd gen 4runner, so im wondering what I should look for. Is there much of a difference in reliability between the 4 and 6cyl's? What are some known problems that these vehicles have? Please be blunt, dont sugar coat it because this is a 4runner forum. I need to know what im getting into, if I buy one of these things. Obviously I expect some things to break, because I will be using it for light offroading. How many km's is too high for either of those engines? Thanks for your help

 

Hi Kawana,

Opinions are going to vary a great deal here... but I like the 2nd generation 4Runners, specifically ones with the V6 engine. For serious off-roading, a lot of people like the 1st generation because they have what's called a "solid" front axle. 2nd gen has independent front suspension, which may not perform as well in serious 4-wheeling, but it's a much better ride the rest of the time. (Less stiff.)

The biggest problem I am aware of with either 1st or 2nd gen is something called a head gasket in the V6 models. Yes, I prefer that engine, but it's notorious for the head gaskets failing. So, for slightly better dependability and fuel economy, the 4-cylinder engine is the way to go. Plus, V6 models tend to go for higher dollars, so you might get a better deal on a 4. If you have a friend who is a good mechanic, don't let the head gaskets scare you; these engines would often go nearly 100,000 miles before the gaskets failed.

Otherwise, these are awesome vehicles. Little things will go wrong; the rear windows are another item that will fail on 2nd gen; if the window won't go down, you can't open the rear door. The best fuel economy I've gotten so far is in the low 20's on the freeway. Expect 12-15mpg around town, depending on whether or not you have an automatic transmission or the manual. (Manual get better economy, but I like automatics for heavy traffic.)

There are probably additional "common" issues that other members may know about, but those I listed above are the ones I have any experience with. I have owned four of the 2nd gen 4Runners so far. At this time I have a `91 and a `94. I also like the 2nd gen because most of them are 4-door models; the 2-doors are tougher if you actually haul a lot of people around. And, I think they still look really good. Good luck with your choice and welcome to the world of 4Runners!

 

I missed your part of the question about how many km's is too many... Ideally, the lower the better, which is true for ANY vehicle. Both of my current 2nd gen's have over 200,000 miles (330,000 km) but they have both had new engines and transmissions done at some point in their lives. If the vehicle you're looking at has never been touched in a major way mechanically, then I would try to stay under 220,000 km. Or, get a good enough deal that you can handle replacing the engine or transmission. Let us know how your search goes!

 

Hi Kawana. I'm a new guy in here and wanted to comment on your choice to own a 4runner. I love my 1st gen. I'ts a bunch of fun and really reliable. The only thing I would change is the trans. I thought an auto. tranny would suit me well and it has for the most part, but now that I'm looking at maybe having it rebuilt (@$2000.00), I think I should have held out for a manual. I also would have preferred a solid axle, but I do spend most of my time on the highway and like the smoother ride. Oh well. I guess nothing's perfect. But toyotas of any year or make are pretty close. For off roading you can't go wrong. Slip a locker in the rear axle and go anywhere. Put one in both axles and you're unstoppable. Do a lot of research before you buy. There's lots available. Make sure you get what you want before you lay your money down.

 

In reply to your question I would say the 1st gen 4runner. I own an '88 with IFS and have had only very minor problems. The motor is the 22RE 4 cyl and it just turned 200,000, about 20,000 miles ago I changed all the fluids in the drivetrain and found suprisingly little wear and metal shavings. It has never had a rebuild and still runs great. The 1st gen is easy to work on and the IFS version comes pretty cheap. As far as room just take off the topper and hop in. Hope this helps and remember to check all your options.