1999 Toyota 4Runner Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.61/5 Average
115 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 4Runner receives a number of upgrades this year, starting with a new and improved four-wheel-drive system equipped with a center differential and featuring a full-time 4WD mode in addition to the current two-high, four-high and four-low modes. New exterior features include a front bumper redesign, multireflector headlamps and an enhanced sport package with fender flares and a hood scoop on the SR5 model. Inside, a new center console/cupholder design will improve beverage-carrying capacity of the 4Runner and an automatic climate control system will be featured on the Limited models.

Pros:
  • Powerful and reliable with more luxury options than ever before.
Cons:
  • These things cost bucks! The new Grand Cherokee is even more rugged and still offers plenty of luxury for less money.

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 80 of 115.00
  • Scotts 4-runner - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Overall - excellent vehicle. Could use more horse power and torque to handle the weight.

  • Venerable 4runner! - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I stumbled upon this car because I needed an SUV after moving to Chicago (very hasty purchase). We had just purchased a house, had a baby and my wife was not working. I drove Honda ( till it was stolen), and 5 german vehicles prior. This 4runner was 15 years old with 126000 miles and affordable ($4K out the door after trading in my Audi A4). I went straight to my mechanic and Replaced the Timing/drive belts, gasket, fuel filter, plugs, battery, and wires. I also poured sea foam into the gas tank and vacuum lines. I also replaced the rear front rotors, pads, rear drums and cable lines (a year later). All in all, $2500 in preventative/replacement maintenance work and $1000 on Dura-trac tires (5). It has been a very dependable, low maintenance vehicle. The only problem I have is an intermittently working digital clock (and If you have ever owned European vehicles, this is laughable or even "cute" problem...REALLY!) I had very little expectations of they vehicle and Toyota in general as I (honestly) snubbed the brand. This truck/runner has been a true winner and worthy vehicle. The 3rd generation build is simple, and ruggedly handsome per-se and I have truly come around to appreciate it greatly (just like Glocks!). I was so impressed that I purchased a 2011 Toyota Highlander for my wife, which we later traded for a Lexus GX 470 (we preferred the body-on-frame V8 - a superb vehicle based on the 03-08 4runner). Back to the subject. What makes this a superior vehicle is the simple design! It drives like it is new, no squeaks or rattles. I will not hesitate to drive this thing to the ends of the earth (literally because parts are readily available world-wide). The engine is amazing! It is not sluggish like the older 4runners/Land Cruiser 80, nor is it as peppy as its modern V6/8 counterparts but It is ample at best. The best thing about the engine is that it is a "non-interference engine" which means that if the TIMING BELT breaks, your engine will just STOP and NOT BE DAMAGED!! I really love this truck and have decided to have the frame sand blasted and undercoated to extend the service-life (whats the point of a 500,000 mile engine when the frame succumbs to rust right?) My mechanic and I have come to the conclusion that my only future repairs will be the bearings/bushings (whenever it goes), regular maintenance and wear replacements. As the blue book value drops, one be sure that this vehicle can command a higher value given the condition. I will most probably never let go of this gem and simply pass it down/on.

  • Decent, but Overrated SUV - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I have 79K mi. on my 4Runner and its been somewhat reliable, but not what I was expecting from a Japanese vehicle. The MAF sensor had to be replaced at 65K and Ive had to replace the front brake rotors several times due to warping. The seats are horrible on long road trips as theres no thigh support at all. The rear suspension is too soft and it wallows and pitche with even one person in the back seat. Replacing the springs/shocks with an aftermarket set VASTLY improved the handling/ride. Acceleration is OK but highway passing could be better. The ground clearance and 31" tires are great. Fuel economy is OK for an SUV-21mpg highway.

  • Put the - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    The thing I love about my 4Runner is that is drives more like a sports car than an SUV. It has tight, responsive suspension and steering.

  • Excellent - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Excellent car. What else do you want me to say.

  • Watch out for the weather! - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I love this car daily but beware in wintery, icy, and wet conditions! If this car is not in 4WD it may be the worst on the road. I have had two accidents one I slid on ice going very slow on the highway and the other a person slid in snow into me (I tell you this one bc ironically it was a 99 4-Runner). In regular conditions and straight snow it is great, but any thing else, it will slide all over!

  • Awesome - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Bought the car in 04 to upgrade from my Tacoma (needed more room inside). Very happy with the car. No maintenance cost, goes anywhere, Ive driven it through 2-3 feet of snow w/ no problems, just keeps going. Overall, I think its a very good choice.

  • only the best - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Why cant the American vehicles be built as well?

  • 4Runner 4ever - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    The most reliable vehicle I have owned! After 10 years, my 4Runner is as solid as the day I drove it off the lot. I think I will pass it on to my grandson who is currently 9 years old.

  • Toyota Quality - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Ive had my 4runner for almost 4 years and love every second of it. Its a classy suv with the ruggedness that most suvs lack. This is the most reliable vehicle ive owned..Best $38k that i spent on a vehicle.

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