1997 Toyota 4Runner Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.64/5 Average
90 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Toyota's SUV receives minor changes. The most noticeable is the addition of the 2WD Limited to the model lineup. SR5 models receive new interior fabrics.

Pros:
  • Great looks and ground-pounding performance make the 4Runner an ideal choice for people who love the great outdoors as well as those who just want to look like they do.
Cons:
  • Steep price and choppy highway ride temper our enthusiasm for this otherwise outstanding truck.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 90.00
  • Great car. - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I just recently had a unfortunate traffic incident where an ignorant woman ran a light ad hit my back end. i have a small dent in the body work no larger than a football. however her car was cremated her hood is screwed lights smashed wheel arches bowed out. good safe strong reliable car and not to bad on gas either.

  • Greatest SUV EVER - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I had been looking for a car for a while, and one day while driving down the street with a buddy I spotted one that I decided to test drive, to see if they were actually as good as I read about. I ended up going home in that same one. That says it all, best car Ive ever had. They also look great, and if you do some searching you can find a good deal on these cars. If a 19 yr. old guy who is an E-3 in the military can afford one anyone can!

  • My 2nd 4-Runner since 1990 - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    As long as the 4-Runner sold in the states is made in Japan, I will buy it.

  • 240k runs great! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Purchased this truck two months ago and am very satisfied with it. The highway mpg is 20 but city driving returns terrible mileage, at about 14. Hesitant before finally deciding to buy due to its high mileage, but after starting driving, it is very satisfying, particularly the engine. Some interior rattling over bumps but highway cruising is fairly pleasant. 4WD is noticeably more smooth and accelerate more powerfully than rear wheel drive, but probably consumes more gas. Perhaps due to its high mileage, when 4WD is engaged, the turning of front wheels cant reach maximum angle. I plan to drive until the truck dies - if gas price allows.

  • 1st SUV - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    This is the first SUV I have ever owned and I would have to say its a wonderful car, I previoulsy owned 2 Civics but I do really like this truck. Its not too big or too small for me being only 5 tall. Plenty of room for my 2 dogs and they do love sticking their head out the back window. Purchased it with 118k mi and its a little over 120k, have only owned it for 2 mo. The cupholders did keep my tea warm/hot for the 1/2hr drive to work. The original stereo (soon to be replaced) still has some kick to it. The front leather seats little tattered, think it was pretty beat up from the prev. owner. But awesome truck in all!!!!

  • Excellent Daily Driver - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    With 310,000 miles on the 4Runner, it has not had one problem with reliability. I did only routine maintenance and changed all fluids and oils regularly. This car has gotten me from coast to coast in the US with no worries about reliability. Ride is very comfortable for long trips, and this car is amazing to drive in harsh snow conditions. I have not been stuck once.

  • A truly great SUV - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    This is a great truck for the money.

  • Wouldnt Recommend - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Dont trust everything you read in Conumer reports about this SUV. I purchase my 1997 4runner in August 2002. Vehicle had 57,000 miles and was a Toyota "Certified" Used Vehicle. Two months later I noticed a heavy shimmy when I applied the brakes between 40 and 50 MPH. Then on cold mornings the transmission wouldnt shift into drive until the engine warmed up. Took it to my dealer, $800...!! to replace front rotors and rear brake drum which had cracked (still under Certified warranty but brake parts not covered). Tech couldnt figure out why the transmission wont shift when cold...

  • Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 42 years - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I paid $26,000 for mine new in 1997. I have over 198,000 miles now. The ride is a little unsettled, its better with a full load. Handling and steering is 2nd to none. I relocated the oil filter to the inner fender well with a bypass kit. I installed a hood deflector. I also installed a makeshift stainless steel screen inside the grill to stop damage to the radiator from road debris and bugs. The only repair Ive needed are the head gasket went out under the extended warranty. Also the front brake line cracked from fatigue after a mounting bolt rusted thru. Michelin LTX M+S are the tires of choice for this vehicle. I still have the original shocks, exhaust system, alternator, starter.

  • 4 Runner w/ 86K Rocks - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I bought this in with 36k miles on it. It has been outstanding. The only $$ spent outside regular service has been for shocks/struts. Driven from Charleston, SC to Cape Cod and back twice! Comfortable trip going and coming. Load up the dogs, the kayaks, the bikes and oh yeah, the wife, and hit the road!

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× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

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