4 Star Reviews for 1997 Toyota 4Runner

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 1 through 10 of 90.00
  • Good Bye to a Great Old Car - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    It has been great to drive this car around! Bought it with 104K miles on the teller which today stands at 145K. This is farewell and a tribute to a great car which drove us without letting us down even once! Regular oil changes and a tire change were the only maintenance activities ever done to it! It is going to a new owner after having it replaced by a Honda Pilot.

  • 1997 4Runner - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Unparalleled quality and reliability No major repairs required in 11 years Best all weather vehicle available. Exceptional. Used in states ranging from AK, KS, CO, SC, SC, IL, VA, LA and everywhere in between. I would not hesitate to take it anywhere with 235,000 miles on it today.

  • Very Satisfied - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    We bought it used from a reputable dealer. My wife has put about 55,000 miles on it and she has done nothing but have the oil changed. I believe it has the same engine as the Lexus. We wouldnt get rid of it but we need to get another pickup to haul hay for the horses. Now that Ive said all these good things, it probably wont start in the morning.

  • 4-RUNNERS EXPERIENCE - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Solid SUV, stable, good traction. The brakes are excelent although I heard a lot of bad comments regarding them. I only had 2 problems: the glove compartments lock got broken and the rear double cup holder got broken too. The tapestry doesnt appear enough resistant to endure many years. The engine is awesome, as well as the transmision. In 5 years I spent: $150 on the lock, $200 on the cup holder and $ 90 in an original batery. That are the reasons that are making me considering buying another 4-big-runner

  • Love it! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I bought my 4Runner brand-new in 1996. Granted, I dont put many miles per year on it, but I have spent NOTHING on this SUV other than routine maintenance. It provides a sure, dependable, fun driving experience every time. The vehicle was well thought-out by Toyota -- other than the beverage holders. Theyre located in front of the AC vents and have to be one of the worst designs in automotive history. If this one ever wears out, I plan to buy another Toyota SUV. Thats about the best recommendation I can think of.

  • 4 runner I hate to leave - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Absolutely no problem with the enginnering of this 4 runner. Very reliable and safe. Drawbacks are perhaps the choppy ride over bumps due to the truck frame it is built on. The power antenna broke and is expensive to repair. The 4 runner does about 17-19 mpg and is very powerful and smooth. A true joy to own.

  • 135,000 miles and still going strong! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Im the second owner of this awesome SUV, and its been a pleasure to own. My wife and I purchased the vehicle with 98k miles, drove it across the US to California, and since then its taken us on many a trip on the west coast. Great off road (excellent ground clearance). Sometimes wish for more power, but the gas mileage is great so I cant complain too much. Great vehicle!

  • Great Ride - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    This SUV remains a great ride with over 174K miles on the odometer. Clutch replaced at 144K miles and just swapped-out the shocks within the last month. I stand a 62" and fit and picked this vehicle because it drove well and I fit in it. Overall design and reliability of the vehicle is really outstanding and has withstood the test of time. No plans to trade this in for something newer as it is a pleasure to drive. 4-wheel drive has taken me up some advanced trails into the mountains, but its a daily driver.

  • Great SUV - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I purchased this with 111000 miles. It is now at 196,000 miles. Ive only replaced timing belt, $900 brakes often (due to oversize tires and going up and down the mountain) otherwise just oil changes. One small problem lately is check engine light comes on when gas gauge shows around a quarter of a tank. Mechanic said it could be just the gas cap. Ive been told the ride in the back seat is rough but I havent replaced the shocks nor do I know if they had been done before I bought it. For the last year I have had the roof and hood area start to peel but I have never had it waxed either. I will probably end up painting these areas when they get worse.

  • 4runner - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    In 75,000 mi have only had to buy tires and do the 60,000 mi maintenance(timing belt, plugs, etc.). Otherwise noservice was needed except the oil & filter changes. Have some problems with the trailer lighting hook up module and have had it replaced three times.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× 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.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area