1995 Toyota 4Runner

1995 Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is one mid-size SUV that is stylish for its time and drives off-road like a champ. It offered a variety of engine options, including a 2.4L, 3.0L, and 3.4L V6, as well as 3 and 4-speed automatic transmissions. The 4Runner became popular for its rugged and reliable nature, but it also has some common problems that owners should be aware of.

Engine

2.4L I4

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Coolant or oil leaks, engine overheating
• Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Recalls: None Found
• Blown head gasket: Coolant or oil leaks, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
• Solution: Replace head gasket
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
• Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Timing belt failure: Engine stalls or makes a clicking noise, loss of power
• Solution: Replace timing belt
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Recalls: None Found
• EGR valve failure: Engine runs rough, stalls, or idles poorly
• Solution: Replace EGR valve
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Recalls: None Found

3.4L V6

• Valve cover gasket leaks: Oil leaks from the top of the engine
• Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Recalls: None Found
• Water pump failure: Coolant leaks, engine overheating
• Solution: Replace water pump
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic

• Solenoid failure: Transmission not shifting properly, slipping
• Solution: Replace solenoid
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Recalls: None Found
• Torque converter failure: Transmission slipping, overheating
• Solution: Replace torque converter
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
• Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Input/output shaft bearing failure: Transmission noise, vibration
• Solution: Replace bearings
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Recalls: None Found
• Valve body assembly failure: Transmission not shifting properly, slipping
• Solution: Replace valve body assembly
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
• Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension ball joint failure: Steering feels loose, clunking noises from front end
• Solution: Replace ball joints
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
• Recalls: None Found
• Rear leaf spring breakage: Sagging rear end, rough ride
• Solution: Replace leaf springs
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per side
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Battery not charging, dimming headlights
• Solution: Replace alternator
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure: Engine won’t start, clicking noise from starter
• Solution: Replace starter
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear window motor failure: Rear window won’t open or close
• Solution: Replace rear window motor
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Recalls: None Found
• Door lock actuator failure: Doors won’t lock or unlock
• Solution: Replace door lock actuator
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per door
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC blend door failure: Heater or air conditioner not working properly
• Solution: Replace blend door or actuator
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Recalls: None Found
• Power window switch failure: Power windows not working
• Solution: Replace power window switch
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per switch
• Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1995 Toyota 4Runner is a generally reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues that owners should be aware of. The most severe and expensive issues are engine and transmission problems, such as intake manifold gasket failure, blown head gaskets, timing belt failure, and transmission slipping. However, many of these issues can be avoided with proper maintenance and regular inspections. The 4Runner also has some minor electrical and interior problems, such as rear window motor failure, door lock actuator failure, and HVAC blend door failure. Overall, the 4Runner is a solid SUV that is capable of handling both on-road and off-road challenges, but it is important to be aware of its potential problems before buying one.