Overview & Reviews

Not much has changed this year for Toyota's truck-based 4Runner SUV. The SR5's optional Sport package has gained a front skid plate, floor mats and new tube step-up bars (optional). Handsome 15-inch alloy wheels are now standard, there's a new chrome package available, and Golden Pearl has been added to the Limited's selection of exterior colors.

• Great crash-test scores, roomy interior, truck-tough underpinnings, power-down hatch glass, standard stability and traction control, brake assist system.

• Hard to climb into and out of, dated dashboard design, weak V6 engine, truck-like ride quality and handling.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 109.00

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  Noisy Relays/ABS Actuator Pump - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Safari3006 - August 3 - 2:00 am

  This truck has a major flaw. You will hear the 3-clicking noise when you first start it in the morning even if you do not step on the brake. Drive the truck for 10 minutes and make a complete stop, and after a few seconds you will hear the clicking noise again for 3 seconds as if something is engaging and disengaging. The local dealer and the District Office of Toyota Motors informed us that the noise we hear is the ABS Actuator Pump and it is normal so Toyota would NOT replace it. This persistent noise can be really annoying so buyer beware...

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  Interior Improvements - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Teresa - June 30 - 7:40 pm

  I adore the look of this vehicle and the ride as well. Its the interior design that I feel needs some changing. I have a 1999 SR5 on a 3 year lease. The seats, compared to other vehicles, such as the Explorer and the Jeep Grand Cherokee, are very small and uncomfortable. Also, the material used on the SR5 is very hard & scratchy.

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  Time to Redesign - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By whatsup - June 15 - 1:06 am

  Has this design been around for what seems like 15 years now. For todays standards, this SUV is underpowered. The interior is very tight especially the width and lack of rear legroom. The ride is rough. Unless you offroad, forget it.

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  relay switch - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Gianna - June 1 - 10:00 am

  I was quite disappointed with my new 2002 Toyota 4 Runner. I have always wanted one and since now I can afford it my husband bought it for me. Now I am not happy with it as the vehicle make a click sound in which I was told by the dealer shop that it is a relay switch in which is in all the 2002 Toyota 4 Runners. I did not test drive it as I have test driven other before in hopes of one day getting one.

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  Toyota Money pit - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mike Engler - November 18 - 8:26 am

  This is a well built, solid car. At 165,000 it is free of rattles and squeeks. That is the only good news about this vehicle. Mine is a mechanical nightmare. I have driven an average of 47000 highway miles per year since 1989, and usually keep my vehicles until they hit 150000-17500 miles. A list of previous cars: 1989 Taurus, 1992 T-bird, 1995 T-bird, 1996 Jeep cherokee, 1999 Grand Cherokee. Never had to replace a Transmission in any of those. The Toyotas lasted 80000 miles. Other firsts: Radiator fan and water pump at 100000 miles, 4 wheel drive Actuator(s) at 165000 miles (another $1900). Average trip to the dealer costs $1000. Ill be trading this fine vehicle ASAP. Buyers beware

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  Enjoyed my used for 2 years, would not buy another - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Parker - February 13 - 3:50 am

  I purchased a 2002 2wd SR5 from the original owner. Had 150k miles. The SUV was excellent utility-wise for what I use (trips, camping, sleeping, biking, kayaking, dirt roads, etc). However to say this vehicle was reliable is a bit over-statement. The previous owner replaced the transmission at 5 years. I also replaced it. His list of repairs was fairly lengthy, though most of them routine type stuff. I had to do a lot of suspension work, which I guess is OK for a car this age. Could tow a few thousand pounds, but wouldnt go above that due to the power lacking. Awesome sunroof. Gas mileage was decent on the highway (~22). My main gripe with this vehicle was that it just wasnt comfortable at all. As is the problem with Tacomas and 4runners, the seats are low to the ground. Thats fine if youre short, but for me I found on long trips it really wore me down. I purchased mine used for $5k, but spent $6k on it in repairs. Honestly, I felt it was a waste of money for a used middle-of-the-road vehicle. I wouldnt buy one again just based on the comfort-factor alone. Sure if youre someone that drives cars to 400,000 miles then you say toyota but if youre like me and dont do high mileage but might take long trips occasionally, you are definitely going to want a vehicle that is comfortable to be in for those long hours.